First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for reliable and versatile softshell jackets. The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt piqued my interest due to 5.11 Tactical’s reputation for durable, functional clothing designed for demanding environments.
I needed a jacket that could handle light rain and wind without sacrificing breathability during moderate activity. My current softshell was bulky and lacked the streamlined profile needed for tactical applications. Upon unboxing, I immediately noted the jacket’s clean lines and the promise of weather resistance.
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt felt substantial without being overly heavy. The material felt like it could handle some abuse. Compared to a similar softshell I own from Condor, which felt a bit flimsy, the Valiant exuded quality. Another jacket I considered was the Arc’teryx Atom LT, but it was significantly more expensive, and I wasn’t sure if the additional cost was justified for my needs. I chose the 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt because it seemed to strike a great balance between price, features, and expected performance.
I was excited to test its wind and water resistance in the field. My initial impression was positive; the jacket seemed well-made and fit my needs perfectly.
Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt during a weekend range trip in the late fall. The weather was overcast, with a light drizzle and a steady breeze. I wore it while conducting drills and zeroing my rifle.
The jacket performed admirably in the damp and windy conditions. The bonded polyester fabric effectively blocked the wind, and the light rain beaded up and rolled off instead of soaking in. I found the jacket comfortable to wear during periods of both high and low activity. There were no surprises, just solid performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including hiking, camping, and general outdoor activities, the 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. I have noticed minimal signs of wear and tear, even after several encounters with brush and abrasive surfaces.
The jacket has retained its water resistance and wind-blocking capabilities. It’s easy to clean – a quick wipe-down usually takes care of any dirt or grime. Compared to my older softshell, which lost its water resistance after a few washes, the 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt is holding up exceptionally well.
Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt
Specifications
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Wind-Resistant Fabric: This is perhaps the most crucial feature, keeping the wearer comfortable in blustery conditions. A wind-resistant jacket can significantly reduce heat loss.
- Bonded Polyester Construction: The bonded construction enhances durability and weather resistance without adding excessive weight. This is the backbone of the jacket’s ruggedness.
These specs translate to a jacket that can handle moderately adverse conditions without compromising comfort or mobility. The wind-resistant fabric ensures warmth, while the bonded polyester provides a degree of water resistance and abrasion resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt performs exactly as advertised. It provides excellent wind resistance and decent water repellency for light rain.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and functionality. The only real weakness I’ve found is that it’s not waterproof in heavy rain, but it’s designed as a softshell, not a rain jacket. The jacket easily meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt features a streamlined, tactical design. The build quality is excellent, with reinforced stitching and durable zippers.
The jacket is comfortable to wear for extended periods. There’s no significant learning curve; it’s a straightforward piece of apparel.
Durability & Maintenance
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt feels like it’s built to last. The material is abrasion-resistant, and the stitching is robust.
Maintenance is simple: machine wash and tumble dry low. I’ve had no issues with shrinkage or fading.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, its design allows for layering with other 5.11 Tactical gear.
It is compatible with most standard base layers and mid-layers. There are no specific customization options, but you can add patches to the loop fields on the sleeves.
Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt
Pros
- Excellent wind resistance.
- Durable bonded polyester construction.
- Comfortable for extended wear.
- Simple and functional design.
- Good value for the price.
Cons
- Not waterproof in heavy rain.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt?
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable and weather-resistant jacket for moderate conditions. It’s also well-suited for hikers, campers, and anyone who spends time outdoors in windy or slightly wet environments.
Anyone needing complete waterproof protection in torrential downpours should skip this jacket. A dedicated rain jacket would be a better choice. A quality base layer, like a merino wool shirt, is a must-have accessory for optimal comfort in colder conditions.
Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt
The 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt is a solid, reliable softshell jacket that delivers excellent wind resistance and decent water repellency at a reasonable price. The value proposition is excellent.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a durable and functional softshell for everyday wear or tactical applications. If you need a dependable softshell jacket that won’t break the bank, the 5.11 Tactical 5.11 Valiant Sftshell Jkt is an excellent choice.