From a former USAF Ssgt and Eagle Scout, I must say that your channel is one of the VERY few I have come to rely on for brutally honest gear reviews! I applaud you for telling Helikon to go Jump in a Lake as far as the "Review Contract" goes. The ability to buy and rate just about anything honestly for Outdoor gear has me checking your channel often for what you have reviewed next- You and your Wife do EXCELLENT videos, so please do keep up the Great Work and Happy New Year, Good Sir!
I not only have to say a heartfelt Thank You 🙏 for your service, but congratulations on achieving Eagle Scout ! My dad was a boy scout troop leader for more than 20 years in Brooklyn New York. Good Citizenship meant a lot in my family. Again, thank you. Healthy and happy New Year to you and your family. Frances
Always stand your ground, and do things in an honest manner. Love the review, and comparison with these two jackets. Sometimes more money for a higher quality product is definitely worth it.
Hi Luke! New subscriber here, loving your content so far. I'm now a huge fan boy of Helikon-Tex thanks to your reviews! With that being said, can you please review the Helikon-Tex Summit Backpack? I was looking for a pack and that caught my eyes and it being a Helikon-Tex. It's almost a no brained for me. I'm just holding off because I don't really know how good it is yet. Thank you good sir!
This was the first time I caught one of your reviews. I thought it was excellent and I really appreciate your honesty here, too. I'm going to pass on both fleeces, btw, and hope that H-T comes out with a v2 with better sewing before I pull out the Visa. Thanks again for a very helpful review.
I own a couple of the Helikon jackets and, other than the placement of the front pockets, can't fault them. However, I also own 2 pairs of Helikon's CPU trousers and agree that their quality control team needs a kick up the backside. Many of the buttons were barely attached to the trousers and required me to re-sew them before wearing.
I am happy to see there are still people lie you and Matthias on youtube who are honest transparent and give your opinion / review of product without any bias
This is definitely a nice fair compo review. I suppose I’d say the Chinese one would make better sense for urban casual rambling while the other one would be a choice for overnight or 3-day hiking in the spring or fall.
From my perspective, both are urban or homestead use. They are just too heavy, too warm and too bulky. Very hard to use such stuff in layering. Very limited temperature rating, especially that this is mae specifically for colder regions, and in colder regions temperature can easily vary in 15C..20C degrees during the day, like +15C day time, 0C at night.
@@norincofan1949 I have softshell version it's not heavy at all. I recently did 16mile mountain hike it was perfect kept me warm in harsh cold wind no problems.
Just got the wolfhound hoodie jacket from helikon, no complaints, it’s well made compared to that patriot. Don’t like the offer they made you at all, I like honesty and ownership over mistakes like those loose threads. The Velcro patches are too big and I don’t like those hard things at the end of the sleeves, would prefer thumb holes. Great review!!
Luv the tone, the details n precise explanation. For most youtubers, the tone will seem hard, but it works here.. But a gentler softer tone might work better.. Great job.. 👍
As a Marine veteran, I'm used to Irish pennants. As long as the seams are tight, not a turn off for me. I do agree about the placement of the chest pockets though.
Thanks for this review! I also greatly appreciate your warning on how Helikon treats its reviewers and content providers. I did wonder about the differences in the seams, particularly in the shoulder and arm attachments. Beyond the loose thread issue, it appeared that the seams were more substantial in the Helikon? I assume that the placement of the seams was pretty much the same? And I assume that the "lining" was the same, terms of material used and in terms of amount of coverage?
I really like Helikon too! Sad to see their QC has gone down. I'm personally not a fan of jackets with lots of zippers and pockets, although i do like fleece jackets. My favorite piece by them is their Helikon-tex Level 7 hooded jacket in multicam or camogrom as they call it lol. Awesome jacket! Warm with 2 giant interior pockets. Comes with a stuff sack too. Can be used as a stand alone jacket or as a mid layer under a gortex parka. Better than our militaries Gen 3 Level 7 jackets in my opinion. Most run big so size down if you buy. Just a heads up. I also like their dragon egg and ghost packs they did with direct action, kryptek mandrake camo being my favorite. They came with source bladders too very nice! Lastly their fire kit pouches are really nice! Thanks Luke always great content! Hike on!
Had a Patriot . Could not stand FEELING the pit zips . Gave it to a relative . Loved the adjustable hood though ! Very done , as always . Be safe out there folks .... gubs
I have 2 of the Heli Patriot Fleece Jackets and absolutely second what you are saying about the loose threads. The airflow is a must in my opinion and the pockets could be lower.
love your piont when the big company ask you to make some review of they produce to you . and you just be yourself,use your own money that you can making your own view !
Unlike many past reviews this time it is really just a budget thing, it is simply 40 or 90 dollars you wish to spend. I do not like company tries to control what a reviewer can/cannot talk about, yet I feel Luke is a little bit harsh on superficial loose thread this time. Perhaps the contract thing tickled the wrong spot, still, as always thank you for the review 👍👍👍
What a great non bias review. A Polish jacket versus a Chinese jacket.? NOT US comparison? Excellent job Outdoor. Sometimes quality requires additional expense. But great that you offer price and quality. And I admire your integrity.
Loose threads can be easy and fun. If they are synthetic (Test loose one with lighter and see if it Balls Up) go around and clip with scissors and leave one inch tail and make a Ball so it can not unravel the seam. If cotton threat you can tie a single or double knot close to the seam and trim off excess thread. Just be very careful not to burn your jacket...
I have two Patriots in different colours. Great jackets, neither jacket had the loose thread issue. More money, yes, but as a wise man once said "buy once cry once". Good review by the way, nice to see some people are still independent of corporate bias. Keep up the good work, and QC should have picked up on the threads. Possibly a victim of their own success. Helikon is becoming very popular and lines sell out quick. Perhaps in the rush to get product out there QC has been let slip. Take care Luke.
Hey Luke, the higher pockets tend to make the jacket more pack friendly overall as the pockets now become more accessible when wearing a harness or backpack. The lower, more comfortably placed pockets, are great when you are more casually rambling around. But, if you wear a pack or harness, the comfy pockets are less accessible.
It's these little details makes me wonder just how much he does test it otherwise he would know that with any jacket. Too bad he never reads the comments. All about the views, just like the gate thing how he's fu*king up people's fences the way he climbs over them.
@@jtaylorb88 I think you misunderstood the reason I made my comment. Assuming for a moment you are correct, my purpose in commenting was to merely point out the stated fact. Not to, as you seem to do, attack Luke in any way nor make it appear he has no knowledge of that which he speaks about.
their quality control may have worsened in the few past years, mine - bought 7 years ago - never had loose threads and still looks like new after that many years of use every winter.
Nice review Luke. I would probably get the lighter version. I like to layer up and down my clothing. So a fleece like that would probably go under a thin down jacket or a rain shell.
I’ve owned a patriot fleece since they came out, must be 10 years ago and it’s still going strong very well made. That being said I’ve had issues with their gunfighter softshell jackets delaminating and wrinkling up, I sent one back to them and about 6 months later they sent it back, no replacement, no explanation nothing. Terrible customer service
Do the BEARSkin one next. PLEASE I like when they leave the threads long. In the Army they taught use that its best to burn down the ends of threads. It leaves the threads locked down.
Yo dawg, I heard you like zippers so I put a zipper on your zipper! 😂 This is two zippers away from being a fleece version of the Michael Jackson Beat It jacket. Thank you as always for the great and honest reviews! Stick to your principals. That is what sets you apart from so many other channels.
A tip for making your zippers run smoother and last longer: Run the point of a pencil up and down the full length several times. The pencil ‘lead’ is actually graphite, which acts as a superb lubricant on both metal and plastic zips.
Just found a Chinese brand "carwarnic" selling this on Amazon, with adjustable hood, adjustable cuffs and pit vents, only £38 (uk). After seeing this, i decided to buy it. Was looking for this type of jacket because i watched your last video on them, thank you
One of the two problems with the Chinese fleece jacket is that the pocket on the arm is attached too low, making it uncomfortable to bend the arm. Most similar-shaped jackets have Velcro in the pocket of the arm, but the china fleece jacket with a pocket attached below the Velcro and the pocket is almost located on the elbow. And another problem is that fleece fabric is too rough. Because the yarn is not thin, the fleece's unique fur is not soft and its thermal insulation performance is inefficient for weight.
I wish the us army fleece had a hood , that would be a good choice for layering , because of the awsome breathability it has , I am longing for such a product , I love the hood , something alittle thicker than the patagonia RI
Good on you for refusing their terms! The loose threads are a trend with this brand sadly, I was disappointed seeing the same with several pieces I bought back in 2011-13 but they have held up pretty well despite that. Thanks for an honest review!
You need to add background music when you're spinning around.... Maybe "I'm sexy and I know it!....wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle yeh!"..... Just an idea. Excellent video man.... Helikon all the way.
Yeah, not surprising, pretty much everything is these days, even formerly great quality Made in USA / Made in Canada products are now all farmed out to China.
@@floyd2386 Yeah, he's probably right. I know at Canadian Tire (Canada) they had a great line of decent quality work boots manufactured by a company either in Canada or US. Then, the quality diminished and I found out the manufacturer had moved production to China. It's disappointing, not that we are buying more Chinese products, but that these manufacturers don't seem to care. They want maximum profits and spew out inferior products. Who cares if you only buy from them once as long as they made a few extra bucks by having it made in China eh?
Helikon are expensive but their quality is very good. I'm wearing helikon clothes I bought 7 or 8 years ago (fleeces, trousers, jackets) and they're still perfect
Helikon Tex products are usually always overprized if you compare them to their Chinese 'knockoffs'. Over 200 dollars for their foldable chair for example while the knockoff is only a fraction of the prize and performs just as good....and its like that fleece jacket..the quality control is bad with Helikon. Its not my company anymore for outdoor gear. Tactical gear yeah maybe but for camping gear its become very expensive. Love the review, dont let that company mess around with you and tell you what to review and what not to say. Agenda free rules. Always! Request: some UA-camrs are promoting the Swedish brand RevolutionRace big time and they are pushing their products. And the company does big discounts as well. Would love to see your review on their products one day 👍🏻
The higher pockets are probably for use with a harness. Generally designers will place the pockets higher so that they are not fouled by a climbing or rucksack harness i.e. you can easily access them whilst wearing a harness.
I purchased the Chinese OD Green version in 2016 (pains me to say this as a freedom-loving vet) but I'd still pick it over the more expensive brand after this review. Great review by the way. I'm hard on my gear and the Chinese version has held up surprisingly well, with no wear in the elbows and even the cheap zippers have not failed me yet. I use my jacket as a standalone and layer it under the 5.11 Insulator Jacket (in a larger size). Hate the left zipper design, no idea why both jackets have this. I actually like the larger bill on the hood, perfectly paired with a beanie. To each, their own thought I'd share.
One of the fist things I look for are strong well made zippers that won't snag. Also nylon zippers will melt in the dryer. Always use proper care instructions. A weak zipper is a worthless garment.
Had Htex for 8 years now in Coyote. I had a lot of experience with that jacket both in military and civilian use. Here’s my thoughts: Pros: fleece is very heavy duty Chest pockets are big and you can warm them up with chest carrier over top. Pit zips are 100% going to be used 70% of the time. You can put a windbreaker under the jacket or used as modular layer system. Cons: Adjustable Velcro on wrists are joke and will go bad after few months of usage( use “glue on” velcro to mediate that.) Those fabric pieces on zippers gotta go. They are useless and get in the way. Adjustable hood went caput after a year. Overall best jacket I ever owned and comes in many colors for Military, ems and police and “contractors”. Good stuff
I do not mind paying more for a good jacket, but in my mind if the jacket has loose threads that tends to indicate an inferior made product. So even if they are charging $90 for the jacket, if it the quality looks crappy, then I will always go for the cheaper product that looks better made even if it is not. Kind of like when my S.O. worked for Weiners department store, I did not mind buying their silk shirts even though they did not hold up well, because they looked good even though they was just junky shirts. And that was because the thread they used was cheap, and would pop extremely easy. So even if it looks well made, it could be made with cheap inferior thread that pops thus causing it to have loose threads.
I've sold Helikon-Tex. Great products. Never noticed the quality control from them. ie. rappel ropes dangling of the clothing. The sizing runs me up the wall. I have a 54 inch chest. 2XL US. But depending on the product with HT. Could be 2Xl or 3XL. My only problem with the Patriot Jacket. is it's too heavy, and think. And I have to get such a large size to fit my arms and chest. that the sleeves are too long. But the quality is very good.
I watched your review of the the jacket which shall not be named and was wondering how it compared to the H-T one. I was surprised at the H-T being poor in the QA and also with their review contracts. I ordered one of the Chinese one to see for myself. It is literally on a slow boat from China as I write this. :)
Sure the cheaper one you could always probably add the side pit zipper & probably do something to adjust the hood like the more pricey one.. Myself I'd go with the cheaper one looks better, looks more comfy & arms not so bulky looking
higher pockets were designed to allow access when using a pack with a hip belt. The hip belt would cover the pockets on the chinese jacket...preventing access.
Though I don't agree on all the thing you review since I have many of them and never had/have the issues you seem to, I did actually enjoy this comparison. I have the China brand for winter (although I just don't think North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, & South Carolina get cold enough for it), but do use it when out west. Thx
I know you dont like the higher chest pockets on the helikon however thats usually a good thing for use with plate carriers which is probably why that particular design choice was made. Helikon is a military design company and that choice would make sense to me as long as it actually cleared a cumberbun. Just .02
You missed / didn't mention that the Helikon Tex jacket looks like it had cinch cords on the hood - a major advantage over the other jacket, which looked like it didn't. Try wearing one of those floppy monk hoods in a wind: forget it.
I have both the Helikon-Tex shark skin version and the Chinese shark skin version. The price difference was about the same as you mentioned. The Chinese one is not bad at all for the price and I would definitely recommend it but the Helikon one just feels better and tougher when you wear it. If you can afford the Helikon one then definitely get that one but if you're on a budget then get the Chinese one, you won't regret it. Basically the Chinese one is a respectable copy cat of the real thing.
Helicon is a mixed bag unfortunately, a pair of shorts I had were utter garbage , Pilgrim Smock had loose threads everywhere and a lot of bad stiching. The tarp they do i had no issues. Out of 2 the jackets I would just get the cheaper one.
I have a "tactical ??" Fleece but never found a need for the pockets.Fleeces keep you warm ,but they not Windproof at all,so wear them with a Windproof.Pockets that hold nothing more than a bus ticket are silly.Had mine for 15 years now, replaced the zip after 10 years, Chinese one is 3 times as thick as anything else I've ever seen. Wash in soap, with no softener/conditioners and it will be soft and not itchy.
I like the larger bill on the hood of the chinese fleece. Also, pit zips without a wind shield behind them gives you airflow even when you don't want it, not to mention the irritation against your skin. Better hood, better pockets beat out poorly executed pit zips.
Honestly if the only downside to the Chinese jacket is that I can't run it over with a truck I'd still probably lean on it. I can buy two and still have beer money left over vs the HTex
Interesting that you notice the thread issue. I have Chinese molle pouches and American made ones and noticed the same issue. Threads hanging everywhere. Chinese, neat and tidy. Whats up with that?
For an everyday beater jacket, or to just wear out and around the house, I'd take the Chinese jacket. But, I would take the Patriot jacket out into the field. Thanks, great and fair review.
Love the honesty and all the reviews, Great DEDICATION to your channel. As far as loose thread's that can be a quality control issue, I do like the extra features of the helikon as far as price 75 would be a good range with all the little imperfections. I think I will wait to purchase too see if they improve on the loose thread's and pit zip feature. EXCELLENT review as always👍👍
I’ve just ordered a Chinese fleece as a dog walking jacket. I await to see if fit for purpose, at less than £20 GBP I hope so. If not I’ve lost less than a round of drinks.
I've had one chinese and three us versions. Never Ever gonna buy another chinese fleece it was worst of worst. Helikon-Tex ones are damn nice in Estonia winter weather.
It's best to assume all reviews are under contract until proven otherwise. True for outdoor gear, true for tools. Very few truely independent reviewers out there. Thanks Luke
Most people I know that review things don't do it on a as paid basis. They will only review (positively) the things they like and the things that work, getting paid for it is irrelevant. There are times when people will say this is a paid review many guys I know who are in the outdoor industry will not recommend stuff that's garbage.
From a former USAF Ssgt and Eagle Scout, I must say that your channel is one of the VERY few I have come to rely on for brutally honest gear reviews! I applaud you for telling Helikon to go Jump in a Lake as far as the "Review Contract" goes. The ability to buy and rate just about anything honestly for Outdoor gear has me checking your channel often for what you have reviewed next- You and your Wife do EXCELLENT videos, so please do keep up the Great Work and Happy New Year, Good Sir!
I not only have to say a heartfelt Thank You 🙏 for your service, but congratulations on achieving Eagle Scout ! My dad was a boy scout troop leader for more than 20 years in Brooklyn New York. Good Citizenship meant a lot in my family. Again, thank you. Healthy and happy New Year to you and your family. Frances
Lol nerd
Only issue is of it's made in china you already know the rest id be shocked if it lasted beyond 2 weeks
@@globalfamiliesfirst Hey, you forgot to lick his boots and sniff his holster too!
@@vitruvianprotection6725 Are you gonna run a gun in the forest and wrestle bears, so it will only last you two weeks, you suburban dolt?
Always stand your ground, and do things in an honest manner. Love the review, and comparison with these two jackets. Sometimes more money for a higher quality product is definitely worth it.
There’s a good chance the HTex pockets are positioned to be accessible while wearing a pack with waist belt.
Also...they're easier to access while wearing body armor.
Both true. They do more casual jackets, if those are not things you require.
I started buying Helikon-Tex a few years ago. For the money (back then), they're a hell of a buy. Thanks for the review!
No draw string on the hood is a deal killer for me . Happy trails
I've had the Chinese jacket for a couple of years and carry it on almost every hike along with a light windbreaker. It still looks like new.
Hi Luke! New subscriber here, loving your content so far. I'm now a huge fan boy of Helikon-Tex thanks to your reviews! With that being said, can you please review the Helikon-Tex Summit Backpack? I was looking for a pack and that caught my eyes and it being a Helikon-Tex. It's almost a no brained for me. I'm just holding off because I don't really know how good it is yet. Thank you good sir!
This was the first time I caught one of your reviews. I thought it was excellent and I really appreciate your honesty here, too. I'm going to pass on both fleeces, btw, and hope that H-T comes out with a v2 with better sewing before I pull out the Visa. Thanks again for a very helpful review.
I own a couple of the Helikon jackets and, other than the placement of the front pockets, can't fault them. However, I also own 2 pairs of Helikon's CPU trousers and agree that their quality control team needs a kick up the backside. Many of the buttons were barely attached to the trousers and required me to re-sew them before wearing.
I’ve mentioned that on other Helikon clothing reviews, I’ve had some great products from them, but others that failed at the worst time.
Probably the reality is there both manufactured in China?
I am happy to see there are still people lie you and Matthias on youtube who are honest transparent and give your opinion / review of product without any bias
This is definitely a nice fair compo review. I suppose I’d say the Chinese one would make better sense for urban casual rambling while the other one would be a choice for overnight or 3-day hiking in the spring or fall.
From my perspective, both are urban or homestead use. They are just too heavy, too warm and too bulky. Very hard to use such stuff in layering. Very limited temperature rating, especially that this is mae specifically for colder regions, and in colder regions temperature can easily vary in 15C..20C degrees during the day, like +15C day time, 0C at night.
I have the Chinese one it's a brilliant jacket and wouldn't swap it for anything. It's warm and comfortable and built really well. 👍
Way too heavy for backpacking
@@norincofan1949 I have softshell version it's not heavy at all. I recently did 16mile mountain hike it was perfect kept me warm in harsh cold wind no problems.
Just got the wolfhound hoodie jacket from helikon, no complaints, it’s well made compared to that patriot. Don’t like the offer they made you at all, I like honesty and ownership over mistakes like those loose threads. The Velcro patches are too big and I don’t like those hard things at the end of the sleeves, would prefer thumb holes. Great review!!
Luv the tone, the details n precise explanation.
For most youtubers, the tone will seem hard, but it works here..
But a gentler softer tone might work better..
Great job.. 👍
As a Marine veteran, I'm used to Irish pennants. As long as the seams are tight, not a turn off for me. I do agree about the placement of the chest pockets though.
Thanks for this review!
I also greatly appreciate your warning on how Helikon treats its reviewers and content providers.
I did wonder about the differences in the seams, particularly in the shoulder and arm attachments. Beyond the loose thread issue, it appeared that the seams were more substantial in the Helikon? I assume that the placement of the seams was pretty much the same?
And I assume that the "lining" was the same, terms of material used and in terms of amount of coverage?
I really like Helikon too! Sad to see their QC has gone down. I'm personally not a fan of jackets with lots of zippers and pockets, although i do like fleece jackets. My favorite piece by them is their Helikon-tex Level 7 hooded jacket in multicam or camogrom as they call it lol. Awesome jacket! Warm with 2 giant interior pockets. Comes with a stuff sack too. Can be used as a stand alone jacket or as a mid layer under a gortex parka. Better than our militaries Gen 3 Level 7 jackets in my opinion. Most run big so size down if you buy. Just a heads up. I also like their dragon egg and ghost packs they did with direct action, kryptek mandrake camo being my favorite. They came with source bladders too very nice! Lastly their fire kit pouches are really nice! Thanks Luke always great content! Hike on!
Had a Patriot . Could not stand FEELING the pit zips . Gave it to a relative . Loved the adjustable hood though ! Very done , as always . Be safe out there folks .... gubs
I have 2 of the Heli Patriot Fleece Jackets and absolutely second what you are saying about the loose threads. The airflow is a must in my opinion and the pockets could be lower.
The high position of the hand warmer pockets is intended to deconflict them with a pack hip belt.
I appreciate that your always honest.
love your piont when the big company ask you to make some review of they produce to you . and you just be yourself,use your own money that you can making your own view !
Unlike many past reviews this time it is really just a budget thing, it is simply 40 or 90 dollars you wish to spend. I do not like company tries to control what a reviewer can/cannot talk about, yet I feel Luke is a little bit harsh on superficial loose thread this time. Perhaps the contract thing tickled the wrong spot, still, as always thank you for the review 👍👍👍
“Nobody tells me what to do”. Excellent
What a great non bias review. A Polish jacket versus a Chinese jacket.? NOT US comparison? Excellent job Outdoor. Sometimes quality requires additional expense. But great that you offer price and quality. And I admire your integrity.
Loose threads can be easy and fun. If they are synthetic (Test loose one with lighter and see if it Balls Up) go around and clip with scissors and leave one inch tail and make a Ball so it can not unravel the seam. If cotton threat you can tie a single or double knot close to the seam and trim off excess thread. Just be very careful not to burn your jacket...
I have two Patriots in different colours. Great jackets, neither jacket had the loose thread issue. More money, yes, but as a wise man once said "buy once cry once". Good review by the way, nice to see some people are still independent of corporate bias. Keep up the good work, and QC should have picked up on the threads. Possibly a victim of their own success. Helikon is becoming very popular and lines sell out quick. Perhaps in the rush to get product out there QC has been let slip. Take care Luke.
You always have the best agenda free, honest and detailed reviews!!
As far as I know Helikon-tex is a Polish company, manufacturing their stuff in China. I wouldn't expect a lot of difference in price & quality.
I got the Patriot jacket, didn't notice the loose threads since I bought the black colour. 😆
I'm glad you won't sellout for us. Thanks luke.
Hey Luke, the higher pockets tend to make the jacket more pack friendly overall as the pockets now become more accessible when wearing a harness or backpack. The lower, more comfortably placed pockets, are great when you are more casually rambling around. But, if you wear a pack or harness, the comfy pockets are less accessible.
It's these little details makes me wonder just how much he does test it otherwise he would know that with any jacket. Too bad he never reads the comments. All about the views, just like the gate thing how he's fu*king up people's fences the way he climbs over them.
@@jtaylorb88 I think you misunderstood the reason I made my comment. Assuming for a moment you are correct, my purpose in commenting was to merely point out the stated fact. Not to, as you seem to do, attack Luke in any way nor make it appear he has no knowledge of that which he speaks about.
their quality control may have worsened in the few past years, mine - bought 7 years ago - never had loose threads and still looks like new after that many years of use every winter.
Nice review Luke. I would probably get the lighter version. I like to layer up and down my clothing. So a fleece like that would probably go under a thin down jacket or a rain shell.
I’ve owned a patriot fleece since they came out, must be 10 years ago and it’s still going strong very well made. That being said I’ve had issues with their gunfighter softshell jackets delaminating and wrinkling up, I sent one back to them and about 6 months later they sent it back, no replacement, no explanation nothing. Terrible customer service
Great review. I was considering the Chinese jacket due to advertisement. I know better now. Thank you.
Do the BEARSkin one next. PLEASE
I like when they leave the threads long. In the Army they taught use that its best to burn down the ends of threads. It leaves the threads locked down.
The helikon pockets are higher because its designed so thst when you wear a rucksack and use the waist belt you still have acceess to the pockets.
So many versions of the original Triple Aught Design Ranger Hoodie.
Yo dawg, I heard you like zippers so I put a zipper on your zipper! 😂 This is two zippers away from being a fleece version of the Michael Jackson Beat It jacket. Thank you as always for the great and honest reviews! Stick to your principals. That is what sets you apart from so many other channels.
Honesty is the best policy.
Thank You Luke.
A tip for making your zippers run smoother and last longer: Run the point of a pencil up and down the full length several times.
The pencil ‘lead’ is actually graphite, which acts as a superb lubricant on both metal and plastic zips.
Just found a Chinese brand "carwarnic" selling this on Amazon, with adjustable hood, adjustable cuffs and pit vents, only £38 (uk). After seeing this, i decided to buy it. Was looking for this type of jacket because i watched your last video on them, thank you
one up for the UK
One of the two problems with the Chinese fleece jacket is that the pocket on the arm is attached too low, making it uncomfortable to bend the arm. Most similar-shaped jackets have Velcro in the pocket of the arm, but the china fleece jacket with a pocket attached below the Velcro and the pocket is almost located on the elbow. And another problem is that fleece fabric is too rough. Because the yarn is not thin, the fleece's unique fur is not soft and its thermal insulation performance is inefficient for weight.
I wish the us army fleece had a hood , that would be a good choice for layering , because of the awsome breathability it has , I am longing for such a product , I love the hood , something alittle thicker than the patagonia RI
Thank you for the honesty. It is so refreshing to have some one telling the truth for a change.
Good on you for refusing their terms! The loose threads are a trend with this brand sadly, I was disappointed seeing the same with several pieces I bought back in 2011-13 but they have held up pretty well despite that. Thanks for an honest review!
You need to add background music when you're spinning around.... Maybe "I'm sexy and I know it!....wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle yeh!"..... Just an idea. Excellent video man.... Helikon all the way.
Attention to detail is important. If a company lets something obvious slide then what else are they cutting corners on? Great review.
As far as I can remember, Helikon's products are also made in China ...
Yeah, not surprising, pretty much everything is these days, even formerly great quality Made in USA / Made in Canada products are now all farmed out to China.
Luke alluded to that when he mentioned them possibly being made in the same factory.
@@floyd2386 Yeah, he's probably right. I know at Canadian Tire (Canada) they had a great line of decent quality work boots manufactured by a company either in Canada or US. Then, the quality diminished and I found out the manufacturer had moved production to China. It's disappointing, not that we are buying more Chinese products, but that these manufacturers don't seem to care. They want maximum profits and spew out inferior products. Who cares if you only buy from them once as long as they made a few extra bucks by having it made in China eh?
Helikon are expensive but their quality is very good. I'm wearing helikon clothes I bought 7 or 8 years ago (fleeces, trousers, jackets) and they're still perfect
Thanks for the review! Good to know!
Helikon Tex products are usually always overprized if you compare them to their Chinese 'knockoffs'. Over 200 dollars for their foldable chair for example while the knockoff is only a fraction of the prize and performs just as good....and its like that fleece jacket..the quality control is bad with Helikon. Its not my company anymore for outdoor gear. Tactical gear yeah maybe but for camping gear its become very expensive.
Love the review, dont let that company mess around with you and tell you what to review and what not to say. Agenda free rules. Always!
Request: some UA-camrs are promoting the Swedish brand RevolutionRace big time and they are pushing their products. And the company does big discounts as well. Would love to see your review on their products one day 👍🏻
The higher pockets are probably for use with a harness. Generally designers will place the pockets higher so that they are not fouled by a climbing or rucksack harness i.e. you can easily access them whilst wearing a harness.
First thoughts just visually were the high set pockets on the helikon jacket. Didn’t like that.
I purchased the Chinese OD Green version in 2016 (pains me to say this as a freedom-loving vet) but I'd still pick it over the more expensive brand after this review. Great review by the way. I'm hard on my gear and the Chinese version has held up surprisingly well, with no wear in the elbows and even the cheap zippers have not failed me yet. I use my jacket as a standalone and layer it under the 5.11 Insulator Jacket (in a larger size). Hate the left zipper design, no idea why both jackets have this. I actually like the larger bill on the hood, perfectly paired with a beanie. To each, their own thought I'd share.
Google just translated the crows that are always stalking you every video. They are saying “ Hey guys, this fucking guy is talking to himself again!”
One of the fist things I look for are strong well made zippers that won't snag. Also nylon zippers will melt in the dryer. Always use proper care instructions. A weak zipper is a worthless garment.
Had Htex for 8 years now in Coyote. I had a lot of experience with that jacket both in military and civilian use. Here’s my thoughts:
Pros:
fleece is very heavy duty
Chest pockets are big and you can warm them up with chest carrier over top.
Pit zips are 100% going to be used 70% of the time.
You can put a windbreaker under the jacket or used as modular layer system.
Cons:
Adjustable Velcro on wrists are joke and will go bad after few months of usage( use “glue on” velcro to mediate that.)
Those fabric pieces on zippers gotta go. They are useless and get in the way.
Adjustable hood went caput after a year.
Overall best jacket I ever owned and comes in many colors for Military, ems and police and “contractors”. Good stuff
I do not mind paying more for a good jacket, but in my mind if the jacket has loose threads that tends to indicate an inferior made product. So even if they are charging $90 for the jacket, if it the quality looks crappy, then I will always go for the cheaper product that looks better made even if it is not. Kind of like when my S.O. worked for Weiners department store, I did not mind buying their silk shirts even though they did not hold up well, because they looked good even though they was just junky shirts. And that was because the thread they used was cheap, and would pop extremely easy. So even if it looks well made, it could be made with cheap inferior thread that pops thus causing it to have loose threads.
I've sold Helikon-Tex. Great products. Never noticed the quality control from them. ie. rappel ropes dangling of the clothing. The sizing runs me up the wall. I have a 54 inch chest. 2XL US. But depending on the product with HT. Could be 2Xl or 3XL. My only problem with the Patriot Jacket. is it's too heavy, and think. And I have to get such a large size to fit my arms and chest. that the sleeves are too long. But the quality is very good.
I watched your review of the the jacket which shall not be named and was wondering how it compared to the H-T one. I was surprised at the H-T being poor in the QA and also with their review contracts. I ordered one of the Chinese one to see for myself. It is literally on a slow boat from China as I write this. :)
Helikon-Tex factory is near me ;p I have version of this jacket without hood and no loose threads ..
Must be nice to get prime selection! Rub it in!!! Just kidding but seriously, if you could just find me a large with nice threads;)
Sure the cheaper one you could always probably add the side pit zipper & probably do something to adjust the hood like the more pricey one.. Myself I'd go with the cheaper one looks better, looks more comfy & arms not so bulky looking
higher pockets were designed to allow access when using a pack with a hip belt. The hip belt would cover the pockets on the chinese jacket...preventing access.
Though I don't agree on all the thing you review since I have many of them and never had/have the issues you seem to, I did actually enjoy this comparison. I have the China brand for winter (although I just don't think North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, & South Carolina get cold enough for it), but do use it when out west. Thx
I know you dont like the higher chest pockets on the helikon however thats usually a good thing for use with plate carriers which is probably why that particular design choice was made. Helikon is a military design company and that choice would make sense to me as long as it actually cleared a cumberbun. Just .02
ty for the agenda free vid. it means a lot to me.
You missed / didn't mention that the Helikon Tex jacket looks like it had cinch cords on the hood - a major advantage over the other jacket, which looked like it didn't. Try wearing one of those floppy monk hoods in a wind: forget it.
Can you review the baerskin hoodie review, ads are all over UA-cam and it looks legit,
I have both the Helikon-Tex shark skin version and the Chinese shark skin version. The price difference was about the same as you mentioned. The Chinese one is not bad at all for the price and I would definitely recommend it but the Helikon one just feels better and tougher when you wear it. If you can afford the Helikon one then definitely get that one but if you're on a budget then get the Chinese one, you won't regret it. Basically the Chinese one is a respectable copy cat of the real thing.
Thank you for the review Luke.
Great Work as always, Greetings from Germany.
Loose threads will definitely start causing problems...and no pockets for your hands? Cmon, lol
Helicon is a mixed bag unfortunately, a pair of shorts I had were utter garbage , Pilgrim Smock had loose threads everywhere and a lot of bad stiching. The tarp they do i had no issues.
Out of 2 the jackets I would just get the cheaper one.
Great review!
Excellent! Thanks man 😎
I appreciate you too.
Hey Luke! Thanks for the comparison! Also, do you plan on making a draft of products?
There is no damn way in hell that I am paying $100.00 for a fleece jacket.
I have a "tactical ??" Fleece but never found a need for the pockets.Fleeces keep you warm ,but they not Windproof at all,so wear them with a Windproof.Pockets that hold nothing more than a bus ticket are silly.Had mine for 15 years now, replaced the zip after 10 years, Chinese one is 3 times as thick as anything else I've ever seen. Wash in soap, with no softener/conditioners and it will be soft and not itchy.
I wouldn’t buy Chinese if it was gold laced 👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎
Been looking at these for awhile on Amazon I bought the rain jacket version
Great review
Interesting..Thanks Luke...I have always thought pretty highly of Helicon-Tex as well...Maybe that opinion is slightly misplaced.
I like the larger bill on the hood of the chinese fleece. Also, pit zips without a wind shield behind them gives you airflow even when you don't want it, not to mention the irritation against your skin. Better hood, better pockets beat out poorly executed pit zips.
Honestly if the only downside to the Chinese jacket is that I can't run it over with a truck I'd still probably lean on it. I can buy two and still have beer money left over vs the HTex
If you don’t like the Bioclesen company name, is there a fleece from Sundick?
Perhaps that can be their next model name : the Bioclesen Sundick.
I'll just stick to my surplus fleece jackets and bdu's.
Helikon-Tex is made in China for a Polish company.
Interesting that you notice the thread issue. I have Chinese molle pouches and American made ones and noticed the same issue. Threads hanging everywhere. Chinese, neat and tidy. Whats up with that?
For an everyday beater jacket, or to just wear out and around the house, I'd take the Chinese jacket. But, I would take the Patriot jacket out into the field.
Thanks, great and fair review.
How good are the zippers on both jackets? Thats an important point cause a lot of jackets get useless because the shitty zippers break after a while.
Love the non bias review. Keep up the great work. I go with the Chinese fleece.
Love the honesty and all the reviews, Great DEDICATION to your channel. As far as loose thread's that can be a quality control issue, I do like the extra features of the helikon as far as price 75 would be a good range with all the little imperfections. I think I will wait to purchase too see if they improve on the loose thread's and pit zip feature.
EXCELLENT review as always👍👍
I fucking love your authentity when making these video's!
Probably ordered from the same manufacturer with small adjustments.
I’ve just ordered a Chinese fleece as a dog walking jacket. I await to see if fit for purpose, at less than £20 GBP I hope so. If not I’ve lost less than a round of drinks.
The HTex should be better if it's over twice the price! It's like comparing a Benz to a Chevy...
I've had one chinese and three us versions. Never Ever gonna buy another chinese fleece it was worst of worst. Helikon-Tex ones are damn nice in Estonia winter weather.
It's best to assume all reviews are under contract until proven otherwise. True for outdoor gear, true for tools.
Very few truely independent reviewers out there.
Thanks Luke
Project Farm does great independent reviews on various tools. Highly recommend
Most people I know that review things don't do it on a as paid basis. They will only review (positively) the things they like and the things that work, getting paid for it is irrelevant.
There are times when people will say this is a paid review many guys I know who are in the outdoor industry will not recommend stuff that's garbage.