First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s
The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s is more than just a fleece pullover; it’s a thoughtfully designed piece of kit that aims to bridge the gap between comfort and functionality for those who work or play in demanding environments. 5.11 Tactical has a reputation for building durable, practical gear, and this job shirt looked promising from the get-go with its water-repellent overlays and tactical-minded pocket configuration. This shirt aims to provide warmth and protection without sacrificing utility, which is a tricky balance to strike.
I needed a mid-layer garment that could handle light precipitation and provide some abrasion resistance while working outdoors. My existing fleece jackets soaked up water like a sponge and lacked the convenient pocket layout I often require for carrying small tools and gear. The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s seemed like it could address both of these issues.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the weight; it felt substantial without being overly bulky. The fleece material felt soft and comfortable against my skin, while the water-repellent overlays on the shoulders, yoke, and collar gave the shirt a more rugged appearance. The stitching appeared clean and robust, and the placement of the pockets seemed well-considered.
I also considered the Condor Tactical Fleece Pullover and the Tru-Spec 1/4 Zip Combat Shirt, but the 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s won out due to its dedicated pen pocket, right chest drop pocket, and the overall reputation of 5.11 Tactical for quality. The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s offers more practical features compared to some similar garments. Initially, I was excited about the potential of this shirt to become a reliable part of my work and outdoor wardrobe.
Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s to the test during a day at the shooting range followed by an evening of setting up camp. The weather was overcast with occasional light drizzle, perfect for evaluating the water-repellent capabilities. I was able to keep small tools and my phone in the pockets for quick access.
The shirt performed admirably in the light rain, with the water-repellent overlays effectively shedding moisture. The fleece kept me warm without overheating during periods of exertion. The mic clip pockets proved useful for securing my radio while at the range, and the pen pocket kept my writing implement readily accessible.
There were no immediate issues, although I did notice that the collar felt slightly stiff at first.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in various conditions, including hiking, fishing, and general outdoor work, the 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s has held up remarkably well. The fleece has retained its softness, and the water-repellent overlays continue to function effectively, although the DWR finish has diminished somewhat with repeated washing. There is minimal pilling on the fleece, and the stitching remains intact.
The shirt is easy to care for, requiring only a standard machine wash and tumble dry on low heat. It hasn’t shrunk or faded noticeably after multiple washes. Compared to previous fleece jackets I’ve owned, the 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s offers superior durability and functionality, particularly in wet conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s
Specifications
- The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s is constructed from 80% cotton and 20% polyester fleece, weighing in at 10.5 ounces. This blend provides a balance of comfort and durability.
- The overlays are made from 100% polyester jersey 3L, weighing 5.0 ounces, and treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. These overlays offer 8K/5K waterproof and breathable protection.
- The ribbing on the cuffs and waistband hem is made from 96% cotton and 4% elastane 2×2 rib, weighing 11.8 ounces, with a non-fade finish. This provides a snug and comfortable fit.
- It features a right chest breakthrough pocket with a hook-and-loop divider, a left upper sleeve pen pocket, and on-seam hand pockets. These provide ample storage options.
- Additional features include mic clip pockets set into the left and right shoulder seams, a locker loop, and a pull-over design with a zipper closure. These enhance the shirt’s utility and convenience.
These specifications are important because they dictate the shirt’s performance in various conditions. The water-repellent overlays protect against light rain and splashes, while the fleece provides warmth. The pocket configuration allows for convenient storage of essential items.
Performance & Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s performs its intended job exceptionally well. It provides warmth, protection from light precipitation, and ample storage space. The water-repellent overlays effectively shed water, preventing the fleece from becoming saturated.
The right chest breakthrough pocket is particularly useful for storing a cell phone or radio, while the pen pocket keeps a writing implement readily accessible. The mic clip pockets are a valuable addition for those who use radios or communication devices. The main weakness is the DWR finish will eventually need to be retreated.
The shirt meets and exceeds expectations for a mid-layer garment designed for tactical and outdoor use.
Design & Ergonomics
The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s boasts a well-thought-out design that balances functionality and comfort. The fleece material feels soft against the skin, and the water-repellent overlays do not restrict movement. The fit is comfortable and allows for layering underneath.
The pocket placement is intuitive, and the overall design is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The shirt is user-friendly and requires no learning curve. It’s simple to put on and take off, and the pockets are easily accessible.
Durability & Maintenance
The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s appears to be built to last. The fleece is durable and resistant to pilling, and the stitching is robust. With proper care, this shirt should provide years of reliable service.
The shirt is easy to maintain, requiring only a standard machine wash and tumble dry on low heat. The DWR finish may need to be retreated periodically to maintain its water-repellent properties.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s does not come with any specific accessories, but its design allows for compatibility with various tactical and outdoor gear. You can easily attach a radio or communication device using the mic clip pockets.
The shirt is compatible with MOLLE pouches and other accessories that can be attached to the loop fields commonly found on 5.11 Tactical bags and packs. While there are no specific customization options for the shirt itself, its versatile design allows it to be easily integrated into any tactical or outdoor setup.
Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s
Pros
- Excellent water repellency: The DWR-treated overlays effectively shed light rain and splashes, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- Functional pocket configuration: The right chest breakthrough pocket, pen pocket, and hand pockets provide ample storage for essential items.
- Durable construction: The fleece and overlays are made from high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Comfortable fit: The fleece is soft and comfortable against the skin, and the shirt allows for layering underneath.
- Versatile design: The shirt is suitable for a wide range of activities, from tactical operations to outdoor recreation.
Cons
- DWR finish requires periodic retreatment to maintain water repellency.
- Collar can feel stiff initially.
Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s?
The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s is perfect for law enforcement officers, first responders, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a durable and functional mid-layer garment. It is particularly well-suited for those who work or play in wet conditions.
Individuals seeking maximum water proofing should skip this product. They should consider a fully waterproof shell instead.
A must-have accessory is a DWR retreatment spray or wash. This will help to maintain the water-repellent properties of the overlays.
Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s
The 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s is an excellent piece of gear that combines comfort, functionality, and durability. Its water-repellent overlays, ample pocket space, and robust construction make it a valuable addition to any tactical or outdoor wardrobe. The price of $85.99 to $104.00 is justified given the quality and features offered.
I would personally recommend the 5.11 Tactical Water-Repellent Job Shirt 2.0 – Men’s to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile mid-layer garment. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference that 5.11 Tactical quality can make!