Fleece jackets have become a staple in outdoor and casual wear, known for their warmth, lightweight comfort, and versatility. A fleece jacket is an essential component of a complete layering system.
The story of fleece begins in the late 1970s when Malden Mills, under the guidance of chemist David Parkes, developed the first fleece fabric. This innovative material was designed to provide a lightweight, breathable, and insulating alternative to traditional wool. The fabric, primarily made from polyester, was a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts due to its moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties.
Fleece quickly found its place in practical outdoor gear, becoming essential for activities like hiking and skiing. Its ability to trap heat while remaining breathable made it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike wool, fleece doesn’t itch, making it accessible for everyone. It also resists pilling and retains its shape, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Technological advancements in fleece, such as the development of microfiber technology and eco-friendly materials, have further enhanced its comfort, functionality, and appeal. These innovations have allowed fleece to maintain its relevance in both fashion and performance gear.
Fleece transitioned from being a niche outdoor material to a widespread fashion choice. Its comfort and variety of styles made it popular among casual wearers and serious adventurers alike. The versatility of fleece means it can be easily layered, enhancing comfort during various activities.
Today, fleece continues to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. It remains a popular choice for outdoor gear and casual wear, with ongoing innovations in materials and sustainability. The future of fleece looks promising, with a focus on eco-friendly production and enhanced performance features.
A fleece jacket can function as either a mid-layer or an outer jacket. In colder conditions, it can be incorporated into a layering system, with a base layer underneath, the fleece in the middle, and a jacket or shell on top. In milder weather, it can be worn on its own as a standalone jacket.
5.11 Tactical HQ Tech Fleece Jacket
The 5.11 Tactical HQ Tech Fleece Jacket combines comfort, functionality, and ruggedness, making it an excellent addition to any wardrobe. The jacket features a hybrid construction that blends soft sherpa pebble fleece with hard-wearing nylon 6 (N6) overlays. This combination ensures both warmth and durability.
The body of the jacket is made from 100% polyester, providing a soft and comfortable feel. The overlay is made from 100% nylon, plain weave, with a weight of 3.66 oz/yd² and a durable water repellent (DWR) C0 finish.
The DWR C0 finish helps keep you dry during unexpected rain showers and prevents the fabric from becoming heavy and soggy. The “C0” designation indicates that the finish is free from perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), which are known for their environmental persistence and potential health risks. This makes the DWR C0 finish a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional DWR treatments that contain PFCs
The abrasion-resistant panels add an extra layer of protection, ensuring the jacket can withstand rough use. The N6 woven overlays at the lower back and sleeves, along with the N6 woven binding at the center front zipper and top edge of the collar, enhance the jacket’s durability and provide a sleek, stylish look.
Key Features
One of the standout features of the HQ Tech Fleece Jacket is its practical design. The jacket includes zippered hand pockets and a left chest pocket, providing ample storage for everyday carry (EDC) essentials. The hand welt zipper pockets and left chest welt zipper pocket are designed for easy access and secure storage. The exposed center front zipper adds to the jacket’s rugged aesthetic, while the shrink-wrapped and knotted zipper pullers ensure durability and ease of use.
The elastic binding at the sleeve openings and bottom hem edge ensures a secure fit, preventing cold air from entering and keeping you warm. The 5.11 [+] patch at the left chest and the [+] embroidery at the upper center back yoke add a touch of branding and style to the jacket.
Performance
The HQ Tech Fleece Jacket excels in providing warmth and comfort without compromising on durability. Its hybrid construction with soft sherpa pebble fleece and hard-wearing nylon overlays provides warmth and durability, making it suitable for layering under an outer shell in colder conditions or wearing on its own in milder weather. The zippered pockets offer convenient storage for small items, while the elastic binding ensures a snug fit. The jacket is ready for the mountains, city, or commute, and won’t hold you back from your goals.
Final Thoughts
The 5.11 Tactical HQ Tech Fleece Jacket is a high-performance jacket that offers a perfect blend of comfort, durability, and functionality. Its practical features and stylish design, The HQ make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and stylish outdoor and casual wear jacket. The HQ Tech Fleece Jacket is available in black and field green colorways. It has a MSRP of $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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