If you are not familiar with softshell jackets, then let me introduce you to your new favorite kind of outerwear: the Condor Summit Tactical Soft Shell Jacket
The Condor Summit Tactical Soft Shell Jacket has been designed to provide the wearer with maximum usability without sacrificing comfort. Since it is a softshell, it is made with water-resistant fabrics that wick away moisture to keep you warm and dry. The three-layer integrated shell is all about breathability, with built-in underarm vents to help control your body temperature.
It’s also built to be tough, with heavy-duty stitching and reinforcement on the forearms. A concealable hood, plenty of nifty pockets, and a double zipper-pull in front show that Condor put a lot of thought into this piece.
About Condor
Condor, named after the largest flying land bird in the Western hemisphere, started out as a camping gear manufacturer with the goal of getting people outdoors. Over time, Condor developed its product line to include tactical style gear. Today, the company offers a wide range of well-respected tactical gear to “make our warfighters the most efficient they can be in whatever task they take on at theater or home.”
Condor Summit Tactical Soft Shell Jacket Overview
The first word that comes to mind when you pick up the Summit Jacket is “solid.” Every seam, stitch, and zipper looks secure and meant to serve a purpose. The second word that comes to mind is “tight.” While not 100% waterproof, you can tell just by looking at it that the jacket can tackle some serious weather.
The Summit Jacket is made from a four-way elastic stretch material with a polyurethane membrane. This means the jacket won’t feel restrictive while blocking wind and water to help you stay warm.
Summit Softshell Features
Condor went all out with the features of the Summit Jacket. First, there is the stow-away hoodie: there when you need it, out of the way when you don’t. It is easy to take out and easy to put back. It also has an adjustable drawstring.
The pocket setup is well done. There’s plenty of storage space throughout the jacket, including two shoulder pockets, two internal pockets, forearm pockets, and a double-zipper back pocket with tons of room. The pockets for your hands are located in the mid-chest area, rather than on the side, which takes a little getting used to.
Underarm vent zippers give you full control of your body temperature. If you have never had a jacket with this option, you’ve been missing out! It is incredible how much ventilation this feature provides, and it is very easy to adjust.
Adjustable wrist cuffs are another great feature of the Summit Jacket. Instead of a one-sizes-fits-all elastic cuff, it has easily adjustable velcro cuffs. This makes securing your gloves a breeze.
Speaking of breezes, when it is windy, you will definitely appreciate the double zipper pull-in front. It locks out the weather and ensures you stay warm.
One really cool touch is the headphone pass-through ports. This allows you to keep your phone or MP3 player in a safe inside pocket without having to worry about zipping around your headphones—if you still use wired headphones like I do.
How Did It Perform?
You will be hard pressed to find something the Condor Summit Tactical Soft Shell Jacket can’t handle. I tested it while doing outside work on a cold, windy, rainy day, a perfect situation for a piece of clothing that is supposed to withstand the elements without hindering your mobility.
The fit of the jacket is great, and the material is very comfortable. The inside is 150 g/m² 100% fleece with a nice cozy feel. Worn over a good base layer, the Summit Jacket kept me warm while I was active outside. One of the greatest things about a soft shell is that it is designed to allow for free movement and good ventilation. The Summit Jacket definitely lives up to these expectations. And with the underarm vent zippers, you have even more flexibility in regulating your temperature.
The waterproofness of the jacket is also impressive. While it won’t necessarily keep you 100% dry if you are exposed to a prolonged downpour, it does a fantastic job of beading up and shedding the water in light to moderate rain.
Is the Condor Summit Softshell for You?
The Summit Soft Shell Jacket is a perfect fit for a variety of people in a many different circumstances. However, it is obvious that the jacket is geared towards people who need tactical gear for their work. It provides both versatility and great mobility. If you need to regulate your temperature while working outside, this jacket is perfect for you.
The jacket comes in the usual men’s sizes (XS to XXXL) and in colors ranging from Olive Drab and Black to Tan, Navy, and Graphite.
Value for the Money
This jacket is priced at $103.95 (MSRP). With its solid construction, quality materials, and excellent versatility, you are getting a great value for your money.
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Bottom Line
When you are looking for a versatile jacket to keep you warm and dry during outdoor activities, and make you look great at the same time, look no further than the Condor Summit Tactical Soft Shell Jacket.
Buy the Condor Summit Tactical Soft Shell Jacket
Disclaimer: The content in this article is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of US Patriot Tactical.
