Let’s Talk About Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s is a tactical garment designed for those who prioritize preparedness and discreet carry. Rothco, a trusted name in military and outdoor gear, aims to provide a versatile solution for everyday carry (EDC) and concealed weapon (CCW) needs. Its soft shell construction promises weather resistance, while its array of strategically placed pockets ensures ample storage for essential gear.
As someone with over a decade of experience in the tactical and outdoor gear industry, I’m always on the lookout for functional clothing that seamlessly blends into everyday life. I needed a jacket that could comfortably and discreetly accommodate my CCW while offering protection from the elements during unpredictable weather conditions. Tired of bulky tactical vests and ill-fitting jackets, I was searching for a streamlined solution that wouldn’t scream “tactical.”
Upon receiving the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s, my initial impression was positive. The jacket felt surprisingly lightweight, and the material had a quality feel. Compared to similar soft shell jackets from Condor and 5.11 Tactical, the Rothco offered a less overtly tactical aesthetic. The others seemed a bit too bulky for everyday wear, whereas the Rothco jacket struck a better balance between functionality and everyday usability.
Initially, I was excited to see if the jacket lived up to its promise of providing discreet carry options without compromising comfort and mobility. However, I was also cautiously optimistic, given the relatively affordable price point. I was pleasantly surprised by the apparent build quality and the thoughtful placement of the various pockets.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s was a trip to the shooting range on a blustery fall day. The wind was whipping, and there was a light drizzle, making it perfect for testing its weather resistance. I also used the jacket during a day-long hiking trip in moderate temperatures.
The jacket performed admirably in the conditions. The soft shell material effectively blocked the wind, and the light rain beaded up and rolled off, keeping me dry and comfortable. Accessing my firearm from the concealed carry pockets was surprisingly smooth and quick, even with gloves on. There was no fumbling or struggling.
The jacket required virtually no break-in period. It felt comfortable from the moment I put it on, and the range of motion was excellent. The only initial issue was remembering the location of all the pockets, but after a few uses, they became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. I’ve worn it during various activities, from running errands to navigating crowded city streets and even some light yard work. The jacket has held up well to everyday wear and tear, with no noticeable signs of damage.
The jacket shows no significant wear, despite being subjected to abrasion from backpack straps and regular use. I followed the care instructions (machine wash cold, tumble dry low), and it cleans up easily. The color hasn’t faded, and the zippers continue to function smoothly.
Compared to my experience with a previous soft shell jacket from a lesser-known brand, the Rothco clearly outperforms it in terms of durability and overall build quality. The stitching is more robust, and the materials feel more resistant to abrasion. The Rothco exceeded my expectations for a jacket in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s
Specifications
The outer shell is constructed from 100% Polyester, providing a balance of water resistance and breathability. Polyester is a durable and lightweight fabric known for its resistance to shrinking and stretching.
The inner lining is made of Fleece, offering a soft and comfortable feel against the skin while providing additional insulation. Fleece is also excellent at wicking away moisture.
The jacket boasts a total of 12 pockets, strategically placed for maximum storage and organization. This ensures plenty of room for magazines, EDC items, and other essential gear.
It features a Zipper closure system, providing a secure and adjustable fit. The two-way zipper allows for easy access to inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters and pants pockets.
The jacket is designed for 3-Season use, making it suitable for spring, fall, and mild winter conditions. It provides adequate warmth and protection without being overly bulky.
It offers Weather Resistance, providing protection against wind and light rain. While not fully waterproof, it can withstand typical weather conditions.
It has Moisture Wicking properties, helping to keep you dry and comfortable during physical activity. This prevents the build-up of sweat and moisture.
These specifications translate to a practical and functional jacket that is well-suited for concealed carry and everyday use. The material choices provide weather resistance, comfort, and durability, while the numerous pockets offer ample storage and organization options.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s performs its intended job exceptionally well. Its primary function, providing discreet concealed carry options, is executed effectively. The ambidextrous CCW pockets are well-padded and easily accessible, even with gloves on.
The jacket’s strengths lie in its versatility and functionality. It provides excellent weather protection for its weight and is comfortable enough for all-day wear. A slight improvement could be made to the main zipper, which occasionally catches.
Overall, the jacket meets and even exceeds expectations, considering its price point. It delivers on its promises of providing discreet carry options, weather protection, and ample storage space.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes functionality and comfort. The jacket is constructed from durable materials, providing a reassuring sense of quality. The weight is well-balanced, preventing it from feeling bulky or cumbersome.
The jacket is user-friendly, with an intuitive pocket layout and easy-to-operate zippers. The adjustable cuffs and drawstring waist allow for a customized fit. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the jacket.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of the materials and construction, the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s appears to be built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
The jacket is easy to clean and maintain. It can be machine washed and tumble dried on low, simplifying the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s doesn’t come with a ton of accessories, but its design lends itself well to customization. The loop fields on the sleeves allow for the attachment of morale patches and flags.
The jacket is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including IWB holsters, magazine pouches, and other EDC gear. Its versatile design makes it a great platform for customization. The Rothco jacket’s design complements MOLLE pouches if a user wants to add small external accessories.
Pros and Cons of Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s
Pros
- Excellent Value for the Price: Offers a lot of features and quality for the price point.
- Discreet Concealed Carry: Provides secure and easily accessible CCW pockets.
- Weather Resistant: Protects against wind and light rain.
- Ample Storage: Features numerous pockets for organizing EDC gear.
- Comfortable Fit: The fleece lining and adjustable features ensure a comfortable fit.
Cons
- The main zipper can sometimes catch.
- Not fully waterproof.
Who Should Buy Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s?
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s is perfect for: Individuals who prioritize personal safety and discreet carry. This includes law enforcement personnel, security professionals, and responsible citizens who exercise their right to carry. It’s also suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who need a versatile and weather-resistant jacket for hiking, camping, and other activities.
Those who should skip this product: Individuals who require a fully waterproof jacket for heavy rain or extreme weather conditions. Those who prefer a more minimalist design with fewer pockets may also find this jacket to be too feature-rich.
Must-have accessories or modifications: A quality IWB holster designed for concealed carry. Additional magazine pouches or EDC organizers to maximize the storage capabilities of the jacket’s numerous pockets.
Conclusion on Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s is an excellent option for anyone seeking a versatile and affordable tactical garment. It provides discreet concealed carry options, weather resistance, and ample storage space, all in a comfortable and durable package. The Rothco is a solid offering.
The price is definitely justified given the features and build quality. It offers exceptional value for money compared to other similar jackets on the market.
I would definitely recommend the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Jacket – Men’s to anyone looking for a reliable and functional concealed carry jacket. It’s a well-designed and well-executed product that delivers on its promises. Upgrade your tactical wardrobe today!