5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 Review

First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0

The 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 arrives as a welcome addition to the tactical apparel market, promising a blend of warmth, weather resistance, and functional design. Marketed by 5.11 Tactical as a versatile piece suitable for both layering and standalone wear, its key features include a water-resistant nylon overlay and hidden utility pockets. This jacket aims to bridge the gap between comfortable fleece and practical tactical gear, a combination that immediately piqued my interest.

I’ve long struggled to find a mid-layer that offers sufficient warmth without sacrificing mobility and weather protection. My search has been for a garment that can easily transition from a chilly morning hike to a damp evening patrol. Many fleeces I’ve owned either soaked through at the first sign of rain or felt too bulky for active use; I was hoping that the 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 would solve these issues.

Upon unboxing, the fleece felt substantial and well-constructed. The anti-pilling fleece was soft to the touch, while the nylon overlay provided a contrasting texture that felt durable. The weight was reassuring, suggesting a quality build without being overly heavy.

Compared to my existing fleece jackets from brands like Patagonia and Kuhl, the 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 stood out due to its more tactical appearance and additional features like the hidden pockets and radio loops. While my Patagonia fleece excels in comfort and packability, it lacks the durability and weather resistance needed for tactical applications. The Kuhl jacket offers better weather protection but feels less comfortable for extended wear.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 seemed to strike a good balance between comfort, durability, and tactical functionality. I was eager to put it through its paces in real-world conditions to see if it lived up to its promises.

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Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 during a weekend training exercise at a local law enforcement training facility. The conditions were ideal for testing its capabilities: a mix of light rain, cool temperatures hovering around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, and varied terrain ranging from open fields to dense woodland. I wore it as an outer layer during drills and as a mid-layer under a softshell when the rain intensified.

The fleece performed admirably in the damp conditions, the water-resistant nylon overlay effectively shedding light rain and preventing the fleece from becoming saturated. The hand warmer pockets were a welcome addition during periods of inactivity. I experienced no issues in mobility; the fit allowed for a full range of motion during tactical maneuvers.

No significant issues arose during the initial use, although I did notice that the side zippers could snag slightly if not carefully aligned. The warmth provided was sufficient for the conditions. I found the hidden pockets useful for storing small items like a notepad and pen, keeping them readily accessible without adding bulk.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a multi-day hiking trip, the 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 has proven to be a reliable and versatile piece of gear. The anti-pilling fleece has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear despite frequent use and washing. The nylon overlay has resisted abrasion and maintained its water resistance.

I’ve worn the fleece in a wide range of conditions, from brisk fall mornings to snowy winter afternoons. It excels as a mid-layer under a waterproof shell in colder temperatures, providing excellent insulation without restricting movement. The fleece is easily cleaned and maintains its shape and performance after multiple washes.

In comparison to my previous experiences with similar fleeces, the 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 outperforms them in terms of durability and tactical functionality. While it may not be the lightest or most packable fleece available, its combination of warmth, weather resistance, and practical features makes it a valuable asset for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile mid-layer. I find the hidden pockets to be a game changer when you need to conceal important items quickly.

Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0

Specifications

The 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and functionality. It is made with anti-pilling fleece for warmth and comfort and has a 100% water-resistant nylon upper-body overlay for weather protection. The jacket is compatible with 5.11 Tactical’s 3-in-1 parkas, making it a versatile layering option.

Other specifications include:

• Streamlined fit for comfortable performance.
• Hidden utility pockets for storing essential gear.
• Internal chest pockets for additional storage.
• Side zippers for ventilation and access to gear.
• Adjustable front hem with shock cord system for a customized fit.
• Hand warmer pockets for added comfort in cold weather.
• Radio loops for attaching communication devices.
• Badge tab kit for displaying identification.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the jacket’s performance in various conditions. The water-resistant nylon overlay provides protection from light rain and snow, while the hidden pockets offer convenient storage for essential items. The side zippers allow for ventilation during high-output activities, preventing overheating.

Performance & Functionality

The 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 performs its job exceedingly well, providing a comfortable and functional mid-layer for a variety of activities. Its primary strength lies in its versatility, transitioning seamlessly from everyday wear to tactical applications. The warmth provided is adequate for moderately cold conditions, and the water-resistant overlay offers sufficient protection from light precipitation.

One area for potential improvement is the side zippers. While they offer ventilation, they can sometimes snag when zipping up or down quickly. The fleece meets my expectations for a tactical mid-layer. Its durability and functional design exceed similar offerings on the market.

Design & Ergonomics

The 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The materials used are of high quality. The fleece is soft and comfortable against the skin. The nylon overlay is durable and resistant to abrasion.

The jacket’s weight is appropriate for its intended use, providing a sense of substance without feeling overly bulky. The streamlined fit allows for a full range of motion. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the fleece. The design is intuitive and user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 is built to last. Its high-quality materials and construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in demanding environments. The anti-pilling fleece resists wear and tear, while the nylon overlay provides added protection against abrasion and the elements.

Maintenance is simple. The fleece is machine washable and dries quickly. Regular washing does not appear to degrade its performance or appearance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0 comes with a badge tab kit. This allows for displaying identification or patches. Customization options are limited. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories designed specifically for this fleece.

However, the jacket’s compatibility with 5.11 Tactical’s 3-in-1 parkas expands its versatility. Users can integrate it with other compatible apparel and accessories from the 5.11 Tactical ecosystem. The radio loops are also an integrated accessory that adds to the functionality of the jacket.

Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Tactical Fleece 2.0