Super lightweight, quite roomy, which is also a plus. Since it is thin, we can easily put additional layers underneath. It takes up little space - combined with its low weight, this helps with organizing things in a backpack. Overall, I am satisfied.
Helikon-Tex Trooper StormStretch Softshell Jacket MK2 IRR - wz.93 Pantera PL Woodland
Light Softshell jacket in wz.93 Pantera PL Woodland camouflage, designed for tactical operations and outdoor activities. Made from StormStretch fabric with a grammage of 145 g/m2, which ensures freedom of movement, protection against wind, and quick drying. The model is equipped with 4 pockets and a hydrophobic coating that limits the penetration of moisture and dirt, while the NIR/IRR properties reduce the contrast of the silhouette during observation in near infrared.
StormStretch fabric and hydrophobic coating
The jacket is made of StormStretch fabric composed of 98% nylon and 2% elastane and with a grammage of 145 g/m2. The lightweight fabric is resistant to abrasion and stretches in two directions, so it does not restrict freedom of movement during activity. The material shields against wind and light rain, does not easily absorb moisture, and dries quickly. The outer layer is covered with a hydrophobic coating that limits the penetration of moisture and dirt, making the jacket easier to keep clean.
The material used features NIR/IRR properties that reduce the contrast of the silhouette against the surroundings during observation with devices operating in near infrared. This solution supports camouflage when using night vision.
4 practical pockets
The jacket is equipped with 4 pockets, arranged to allow convenient access to the contents also when wearing a backpack, tactical vest, or hip belt:
- 2 chest pockets - fastened with zippers, equipped with internal mesh compartments that help organize small items
- 2 shoulder pockets - fastened with zippers, intended for carrying small accessories
The internal mesh made of 100% polyester supports ventilation when the pockets are open.
Adjustable hood and ventilation
The jacket is equipped with an integrated hood stowed in the collar, with a contoured visor and a drawstring that allows its width to be adjusted. The hood design provides protection against wind and light precipitation, while the extended back of the jacket reduces the riding up of the fabric when bending over and making dynamic movements. Elbow reinforcements increase the durability of areas particularly exposed to wear.
Under the armpits there are mesh ventilation openings that help dissipate excess heat during intense exertion. Velcro-adjustable cuffs and a drawstring at the bottom of the jacket allow the garment to be adjusted to the body shape and help limit the ingress of cool air.
Two-way YKK zipper
The jacket is equipped with a two-way YKK zipper that can be unfastened both from the top and from the bottom. This solution makes it easier to regulate ventilation and provides convenient access to equipment carried on the belt or under the jacket.
Velcro panels on the shoulders
Velcro panels are placed on the shoulders, allowing the attachment of identification patches, unit emblems, flags, and other markings equipped with a suitable fastening layer.
wz.93 Pantera PL Woodland camouflage
The wz.93 Pantera PL Woodland camouflage pattern is the camouflage currently in use by the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland - the first camouflage designed and introduced into widespread use in the Third Polish Republic. The 1993 pattern offers a combination of mimetic and deforming properties thanks to the use of irregular patches of different sizes. The color scheme based on green, brown, and black has been adapted to the conditions of Polish forests, making “Pantera” a fitting choice for operations in native terrain. Uniforms in this camouflage are also standard equipment for students of Military Uniformed Classes.
Main features
- wz.93 Pantera PL Woodland camouflage
- StormStretch fabric 145 g/m2
- stretches in two directions
- hydrophobic coating
- NIR/IRR properties
- 4 pockets
- hood stowed in the collar
- contoured hood visor
- underarm ventilation mesh
- adjustable cuffs and jacket bottom
- extended back and elbow reinforcements
- two-way YKK zipper
- Velcro panels on the shoulders
Militaria.pl is the official distributor of Helikon-Tex.
Helikon-Tex is a Polish company founded in 1983, specializing in the production of tactical, military, and outdoor clothing. It offers a wide range of products such as clothing, backpacks, bags, and tactical accessories, which have earned recognition among both uniformed services and outdoor enthusiasts. Its range includes standout lines such as: Bushcraft - dedicated to survival enthusiasts, Law Enforcement - designed for uniformed services, and Range - created for shooters. Helikon-Tex uses modern camouflage patterns such as MultiCam, ATACS, and PenCott, ensuring adaptation to different terrain conditions.
| Insulation | No |
|---|---|
| Clothing style | Tactical-casual |
| Color/camouflage | Camouflage |
| Material texture | Uniform (smooth) |
| Membrane | No |
| Gender | Men's |
| Number of pockets | 4 |
| Hood | Yes |
| Camouflage | wz. 93 "Pantera" / PL Woodland |
| Weight | 565 g (size L) |
| Waterproof | No |
| Velcro panel | Yes |
| Cut | Loose |
| Clasp type | Zipper |
| Season | Spring, Summer |
| Manufacturer code | KU-TRM-NI-04 |
| Brand | Helikon-Tex |
| Main material | Polyester |
| Additional material | nylon, elastane |
| EAN |
Materials with IRR (Infrared Reflective) properties are designed to maximize the absorption and minimize the mission of infrared radiation, which is important for camouflage and avoiding detection by observation devices such as night vision devices.
YKK zippers are high-quality zippers commonly used in clothing and accessories, manufactured by the Japanese YKK Corporation - one of the world's largest zipper manufacturers.
Lightweight softshell fabric that provides protection from wind and light rain. The fabric is stretchable and provides freedom of movement during various activities.
Reviews with photos
Review summary
Reviews describe this jacket as lightweight, compact, and comfortable, with stretchy fabric and a well-designed fit that allows easy movement and layering underneath. Users praise its strong wind protection, good breathability, underarm ventilation, practical roomy pockets, and solid build quality. It performs well for hiking, outdoor use, work, and everyday wear, and it usually handles light rain well, although it may soak through during longer or heavier rain, especially around the shoulders. Some buyers note differences from the previous version: some welcome the updates, while others prefer the older model because of the pocket layout, hood design, or easier zipper access. A few comments also mention the price, the unusual placement of some pockets, slight fabric rustling, and the fact that the jacket needs extra layers in colder conditions.
Number of reviews: 35
-
Size: S
-
A very good softshell. It is lightweight and takes up very little space when folded. It performs well in light rain and effectively protects against the wind. Combined with a fleece, e.g. the Patriot MK2, it makes a set suitable even for lower temperatures.
-
Someone might say it is exactly like the Blizard, and you could say that because it is similar, but: - the material is thicker - it has additional rubber straps in the pockets where you can attach something - shorter hood drawcords - no rubber patch with the manufacturer's logo on the chest pocket; instead, there is a print under the left arm panel So it is a little different, but the cut is the same 😀 As for the earlier version, a few things were removed, some were added, but whether that is a plus or a minus depends on us 😀
-
Size: L
The jacket is unassuming, light, and thin, yet very warm and comfortable at the same time. I haven’t tested how waterproof it is in the rain, but I can say that it retains heat very well, does not restrict movement, and at the same time does not look like a sack. I recommend it.
-
Size: XS
In the case of this jacket, I decided on the WILD WOOD version — firstly because it is the only camouflage that really suits me in the field, and secondly to add a bit of color variety to my collection of products in Taiga green :-) I chose it as a light insulating layer for trekking in changeable weather conditions, although so far I have not yet had the opportunity to test it in practice. On the plus side, I count the underarm ventilation and the very thin softshell, which fits the body well. I wear it as a second layer over a thin or slightly thicker functional shirt. I opted for size XS so that it would sit well over these light layers and not be too loose, because that kind of cut does not suit me. Thanks to the addition of elastane, movement is adequately unrestricted and the jacket does not press anywhere. Perhaps I would prefer the sleeves to be minimally longer, but the current length is also sufficient. I am 177 cm tall, weigh 75 kg, and have a 108 cm chest. The jacket fits exactly as I expect for my use. I also appreciate the very good packability — when rolled into a small bundle, it takes up very little space in the backpack, and its weight is practically unnoticeable. Nylon naturally rustles a bit, but I treat that as a small price to pay for the durability and resistance of the material. I am not a hunter, so it does not bother me at all. I recommend this product as an item at the level of quality that Helikon has accustomed me to.
-
Size: XL
I really like this jacket. It is lightweight, comfortable, and works well for hiking as protection against the wind. I bought it specifically with cooler days and protection from gusts in mind. I appreciate its flexibility and the underarm ventilation with zippers. Overall, I am very satisfied.
-
Size: XXL
I bought the jacket because of the camouflage - PenCott WildWood. I like this pattern. As for the jacket itself, this is the first time I’ve had this kind of material, not too thick, and I don’t know whether it’s a windbreaker or a rain jacket. We’ll see, I’ll take it mushroom picking. It’s good that it has a hood, it’s a pity that it’s hidden in the collar, but it’s always better to have one than not. At least the sleeves are a normal length and not too long. The pockets are strange, the zipper is on the other side, as if on the outside; when you want to put your hands in, you look for the zipper because it’s the opposite of what other jackets have got us used to. Maybe it’s just a matter of getting used to it, we’ll see.
-
Size: S
The Helikon-Tex Trooper StormStretch Softshell MK2 jacket made a very good impression on me as a versatile choice for the transitional season. It is lightweight, comfortable, and provides freedom of movement, which makes it great for walks, travel, or outdoor activities. The material feels pleasant to the touch, is slightly stretchy, and effectively protects against the wind. The cut is well thought out, and you can easily wear a T-shirt or a light fleece underneath. What I like most is that the jacket does not look bulky, while at the same time proving to be very practical for everyday use. The hood is comfortable, the pockets are laid out functionally, and the zippers work flawlessly. The Taiga Green color looks understated and pairs very well with outdoor clothing. It will not replace a proper membrane jacket in heavy rain, but it provides genuinely good protection from wind, light moisture, and cooler conditions. I am very satisfied with it, because it is one of those jackets you gladly take with you as often as possible.
-
I am very satisfied with this jacket – although it costs a lot, it stands out for its great quality. I haven't tested it yet in extreme conditions. It effectively protects against wind and light rain. During prolonged exposure to rain, the shoulders begin to absorb water, but it's not a big problem – its excellent breathability makes up for this minor flaw.
-
Very good jacket, which I use both on duty and off. It performs well in various weather conditions, provides good protection against wind, and is comfortable to wear for long hours. The material is durable, and the cut does not restrict movement, which is important at work and during outdoor activities. The practical pockets and solid workmanship are also a plus. After long-term use, I can confidently say this is one of the best softshells I've had the chance to wear. I definitely recommend it.
-
I think I still prefer the original version, although this one also has some nice aspects. Personally, I didn’t like the idea with the “flaps” on the zippers – it’s an extra step when opening the pockets, and I’ve never felt the need to cover those zippers; one movement and the pocket is open, now you have to dig for that zipper – and it’s even worse with gloves on [but maybe that’s just me using it in lower temperatures as an outer layer, so it’s subjective]. The black color gets dirty very quickly – just dragging your fingernail across it leaves a streak. On the other hand, the pockets are great – those front ones reach all the way to the armpit, so a map easily fits in. The small inner pocket is in a strange place – in the old version, it’s at hand level, now it’s kind of in front, on the side, at the edge of the chest. Overall though, it’s a very good jacket, I’ll probably come around and buy it in green after some time, but I’m not sure if improving an already great product was necessary.
-
The jacket is lightweight, looks nice, and is resistant to wind and water. As usual with Helikon-Tex, the workmanship is of a high standard. The material stands out for its durability, and the camouflage pattern is aesthetic. I definitely recommend it.
-
The windbreaker looks great and fits the figure perfectly, and there's enough room underneath for a fleece sweatshirt. It protects against strong winds. Thank you to the military stores for providing a discount code after purchase.
-
Light jacket, low weight. As always with Helikon, everything fits well and is well sewn. Thoughtfully designed pockets. Ventilation openings with zippers. Light water resistance. Good protection against wind. I definitely recommend it.
-
The Helikon-Tex Trooper StormStretch Softshell MK2 Black jacket is a lightweight and highly functional softshell that works great both outdoors and for everyday use. The StormStretch material provides good protection against wind and light rain, while also being flexible and comfortable. Its thoughtful cut and practical pockets make it a very versatile choice for active users.
No reviews