Let’s Dive into Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR
The Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR is more than just a jacket; it’s a versatile piece of protective gear designed for those who work in hazardous environments. Bulwark, a trusted name in flame-resistant clothing, aims to deliver both safety and comfort with this jacket. This jacket promises a layered approach to protection, offering the ability to adapt to changing conditions while ensuring compliance with safety standards.
I needed a reliable and adaptable FR jacket for unpredictable weather conditions on various job sites. I often work in environments with arc flash and flash fire hazards, so safety is paramount. I was looking for something that could be worn alone in milder weather or zipped into another garment for added warmth in colder conditions.
Upon receiving the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR, my initial impression was positive. The Excel FR fabric felt substantial, indicating durability. It wasn’t overly heavy, though, and the stitching appeared robust.
I considered other options like the Carhartt FR Rain Defender Jacket and the Ariat FR Polartec Fleece Jacket. However, the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR stood out due to its zip-in/zip-out versatility and perceived value. I chose this jacket because of the combination of features, price point, and the trusted Bulwark name.
I was cautiously optimistic. The listed Arc Rating was acceptable, but I was keen to test its comfort and real-world adaptability. I wanted to see if it would live up to its promise of being a reliable and versatile piece of FR clothing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR on a job site inspecting high-voltage electrical equipment. This environment presented both arc flash and flash fire risks. The weather was mild, around 60°F, and slightly windy.
The jacket performed adequately in these conditions. It was comfortable enough to wear for several hours, providing good freedom of movement. I did not experience any overheating, thanks to the breathability of the Excel FR fabric.
Initially, I found the zipper a bit stiff. I had to consciously align the zipper to make it catch and zip smoothly. Otherwise, the first-time use was uneventful and the jacket met the basic requirements of providing FR protection without hindering my work.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR has proven to be a dependable piece of workwear. The Excel FR fabric has shown good resistance to abrasion and minor snags. I’ve worn it in various conditions, from light rain to chilly mornings, and it has consistently provided adequate protection and comfort.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond some minor fading after multiple industrial washes. The stitching remains intact, and the zippers, although still a bit stiff, have become slightly smoother with use. Regular washing, according to the Bulwark care instructions, has been essential to maintaining the fabric’s FR properties and overall condition.
Compared to a previous non-FR work jacket, the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR surpasses it significantly in terms of safety and specialized functionality. While my old jacket offered some weather protection, it lacked the crucial FR rating necessary for my current work environment. The Bulwark jacket, while not as stylish, provides a superior level of peace of mind and utility.
Breaking Down the Features of Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR
Specifications
- Fabric: EXCEL FR Flame-resistant, 9 oz. Twill 100% Cotton. The 9oz twill offers a balance between durability and comfort. The 100% cotton EXCEL FR treatment ensures the fabric is flame-resistant for the life of the garment.
- Care: Industrial Wash. This is critical for maintaining the FR properties and cleanliness in demanding work environments. Industrial wash compatibility means it can withstand the rigorous cleaning processes often required in industrial settings.
- Protection: Arc Rating ATPV 11.2 calories/cm², When worn with LML2 ensemble Arc Rating is ATPV 61.3 calories/cm². The ATPV rating of 11.2 cal/cm² provides baseline protection against arc flash hazards. When combined with the appropriate LML2 layering system, it achieves a significantly higher ATPV of 61.3 cal/cm², offering enhanced protection for higher-risk environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR performs its primary function of providing flame-resistant protection reliably. The jacket’s usability is straightforward. It’s easy to put on and take off, and the zip-in/zip-out feature works as intended, allowing for flexible layering.
The jacket’s main weakness is the stiffness of the zipper. It requires deliberate alignment to engage smoothly. Otherwise, it meets expectations for basic FR protection in mild to moderate weather conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is satisfactory, with robust stitching and a substantial fabric feel. The Excel FR material is reasonably comfortable against the skin. The weight is moderate, not too heavy to be cumbersome, but not so light that it feels flimsy.
The jacket’s design is functional, prioritizing safety over style. There’s a slight learning curve with the zipper. Getting it to engage smoothly takes some practice, but overall, the design is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Excel FR fabric appears durable and resistant to abrasion. With proper care and industrial washing, it should last for a reasonable amount of time. Maintaining the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR requires following the Bulwark‘s recommended washing instructions.
The industrial wash compatibility allows for easy cleaning and maintenance in demanding work environments. Any repairs should be done by a qualified professional to ensure the FR properties are not compromised.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product description doesn’t list specific included accessories. It primarily focuses on the garment itself. The zip-in/zip-out feature allows compatibility with other Bulwark garments designed as liners.
Aftermarket customization is limited to adding patches or insignias, but modifying the garment could compromise its FR rating. Compatibility with accessories is mainly limited to other Bulwark products designed to be used with the zip-in/zip-out system.
Pros and Cons of Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR
Pros
- Reliable FR protection with an ATPV rating of 11.2 cal/cm², providing essential safety in hazardous environments.
- Durable Excel FR fabric that withstands abrasion and industrial washing, ensuring longevity.
- Versatile zip-in/zip-out feature allowing for layering with compatible Bulwark garments, adapting to varying weather conditions.
- Comfortable enough for extended wear, providing good freedom of movement on the job site.
- Trusted brand with a reputation for quality FR clothing.
Cons
- Stiff zipper that can be difficult to engage smoothly.
- Basic design that prioritizes safety over aesthetics, potentially lacking in style.
Who Should Buy Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR?
The Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR is perfect for electricians, linemen, industrial workers, and anyone working in environments with arc flash or flash fire hazards. It’s also ideal for those who need a versatile FR jacket that can be adapted to different weather conditions.
This product is not for individuals seeking a stylish or fashion-forward jacket, or those who don’t require FR protection. It is also not suitable for environments requiring a higher ATPV rating without additional layering.
A must-have modification is ensuring proper layering with other Bulwark FR garments (like the LML2 ensemble) to achieve higher levels of protection. A garment bag specifically for FR clothing can help keep the jacket clean and protected when not in use.
Conclusion on Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR
The Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR is a functional and reliable piece of protective workwear. It prioritizes safety and durability, offering essential FR protection in hazardous environments. The value proposition is reasonable, considering the cost of comparable FR garments and the peace of mind it provides.
I would recommend the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR to anyone needing basic FR protection and the ability to layer. If you work in environments with arc flash or flash fire hazards, this jacket is a worthwhile investment. Protect yourself today – check out the Bulwark Zip-In / Zip-Out Jacket, Excel FR and ensure you’re prepared for whatever the job throws your way.