5.11 Rosser Jacket is a lightweight, unlined tactical utility jacket. It is constructed of 8.3 oz. 97% cotton/ 3% elastane canvas with an, enzyme wash. Photo courtesy 5.11.
Utility jackets have carved out a niche for themselves as a versatile and practical wardrobe staple. With their origins in the military, utility jackets were designed for durability and practicality, featuring robust materials and multiple pockets for carrying essential gear. Over time, these jackets have transitioned from their functional military role into mainstream fashion.
Utility jackets have transcended their roots to become a symbol of effortless style and functionality. They’ve become a favorite for their blend of ruggedness and style, offering a balance between casual and put-together looks. They often come in neutral colors like olive, khaki, or navy, making them easy to pair with various outfits.
Their adaptability to different weather conditions also adds to their appeal. Many utility jackets are lightweight enough for a cool summer evening yet can be layered during colder months. This transition from a specialized garment to a fashion staple reflects a broader trend of military-inspired fashion influencing civilian clothing.
Today, utility jackets are not just about function. They’re a statement of effortless style that doesn’t compromise on practicality. They cater to a wide audience, from outdoor enthusiasts to fashion-forward individuals, proving that a piece of clothing can evolve while retaining its core characteristics.
New for 2024, the 5.11® Rosser Jacket from 5.11 Tactical is a lightweight, unlined tactical utility jacket that combines style, comfort, and functionality. It’s designed for those who need a reliable, versatile outerwear option that is capable of handling a variety of settings. It also makes a great cover garment for concealed carry. In case you’re wondering, the jacket got its name from the 2023 crime thriller Muzzle. In the film, actor Aaron Eckhart portrays a disgruntled police officer named Jake Rosser, who’s in charge of a K9 named Ace.
Design and Features
The 5.11 Rosser Jacket features a fold-down collar that adds a touch of sophistication to its rugged design. The center front boasts a 5.11 RAPIDraw™ snap placket that allows for quick access to holstered firearm. It allows the jacket to be ripped open for quick breakaway and easy clearing of the garment. The jacket also comes with an adjustable snap cuff and waist, allowing you to customize the fit to your liking. This feature not only enhances comfort but also adds to the jacket’s overall versatility.
One of the standout features of the 5.11 Rosser Jacket is its generous pocket configuration. It comes loaded with seven pockets — six external and one internal. The top entry double chest pocket on the wearer’s right provides easy access and ample storage space. Additionally, there are top entry patch pockets with snap closure, offering secure storage for your essentials. The jacket also features side entry hand pockets set under the patch pockets, providing additional storage and warmth for your hands during colder weather. The jacket also has an internal zip secure stash pocket, perfect for storing valuable items. There is subtle [+]® embroidery at the right back side seam and a discreet 5.11 [+]® flag label at the wearer’s left-hand pocket.
Material and Care
The 5.11 Rosser Jacket is made from a 97% cotton and 3% elastane blend 8.3 oz canvas, which is considered a medium weight canvas. This combination of materials ensures the jacket is not only durable but also comfortable and flexible. The jacket undergoes an enzyme wash, enhancing its softness and giving it a worn-in feel from the first wear.
Canvas is a plain-woven fabric renowned for its strength, durability, and heavy-duty nature, is woven in a simple pattern. The etymology of the word “canvas” traces back to the 13th century, originating from the Anglo-French “canevaz” and Old French “canevas”. These words are believed to have evolved from the Vulgar Latin “cannapaceus”, signifying “made of hemp”. This Latin term is rooted in the Greek word “κάνναβις” (kannabis), translating to “hemp”. This reflects the historical use of hemp in the production of canvas. Over the centuries, the term “canvas” has come to denote a robust fabric now typically made of cotton.
Cotton, making up the majority of the blend, is renowned for its breathability, softness, and durability. It’s a natural fiber that’s comfortable to wear and easy to care for, making it a staple in the fashion industry. The addition of 3% elastane (also known as spandex or Lycra®), a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity, introduces a degree of stretch to the fabric. This enhances the comfort and fit of the garment, allowing it to adapt to the wearer’s movements. The blend results in a canvas that is not only robust and comfortable but also has a slight stretch, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. The combination of these two materials provides the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and flexibility.
The fabric blend should maintain its color reasonably well, especially if you follow proper care guidelines. However, like any fabric, it may experience some fading over time due to wear and exposure to light. Any fading will be more noticeable with darker colors than lighter colors.
Seasonal Comfort
An 8.3 oz unlined canvas jacket, such as the 5.11 Rosser Jacket, is typically suitable for mild to cool weather conditions. Depending on where you are this could include:
Spring: The jacket’s lightweight nature makes it ideal for the fluctuating temperatures of spring. It can provide a comfortable layer of warmth during cooler mornings and evenings, while not being too heavy for warmer afternoons.
Cool Summer Nights: On summer nights when the temperature drops, this jacket can provide a comfortable layer of warmth.
Fall: In fall, temperatures start to drop, making this jacket a great choice. The canvas material can help protect against wind and light rain, common in this season.
Mild Winter Days: For milder winter climates or days, this jacket can be a good option. However, it might not provide enough insulation for very cold temperatures or heavy snow.
Of course, everyone’s tolerance to cold is different, and these are general guidelines. Layering with other clothing can also extend the range of temperatures in which this jacket can be comfortably worn. The 5.11 Rosser Jacket is easy to layer.
Summing Up
The 5.11 Rosser Jacket blends aesthetic appeal with high functionality, comfort, and flexibility. It is both practical and tactical, living up to the excellent construction and quality that 5.11 is renowned for. It is available in either black or elmwood colorways and comes in sizes small (S) to double extra-large (2XL). Regular length only. MSRP is $98.00.
Source
5.11
511tactical.com
Material Disclosure
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.
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