Helikon products recommended by SpecShop.pl

Both in our stationary store and on various communication channels, we hear questions about which model of tactical pants or softshells to choose. Usually, we try to advise you so that the model best meets your expectations - it corresponds to the nature of the place and activity in which it will be used. However, we thought that we could also inspire you by presenting a few, in our opinion, very well thought-out and universal models of clothes. Today we will focus on our native Helikon and show you some products that we subjectively consider worth attention.

Let's also briefly tell about the producer himself. Helikon-Tex is a Polish company whose history dates back to the 1980s. The initial offer was based on military surpluses, also popularly known as surplus. In 1995, the company started its own production, creating clothing for military and paramilitary applications. One of such projects was the SFU uniform, which in 2020 reached the level of 500,000 copies sold. The following years of development brought a huge extension of the offer, the creation of a shooting team and the division of the offer into thematic product lines: Urban, Range, Patrol, Outback, Bushcraft, Morale, Medical and Surplus created according to military specifications.

Our tip for the most interesting products from Helikon's offer is:

• Urban Tactical Pants
• Softshell Gunfighter
• Polar Alpha Tactical
• Anorak Woodsman
• Winter Merino Beanie

Helikon Urban Tactical Pants

The Urban line, due to its versatility and everyday use, is extremely popular, which is why most of the products that we will discuss today come from it. We will start with one of our favorite products and, what's more, a model that the manufacturer places on its timeline as a milestone - so it must have this something. Urban Tactical Pants are urban tactical pants that can probably be described colloquially as cargo pants. Comfortable, but not too wide cut, the pants combine comfort with a discreet, urban look. Their form, however, is so well thought out that they are also perfect for dynamic shooting sports.

Pants are made of a mixture of polyester and cotton, and equipped with a rip stop mesh. As a result, they combine high abrasion resistance, and at the same time, unlike cotton, they drain moisture well and dry quickly. The arrangement of pockets and seams is also noteworthy. Both cargo and standard pockets guarantee convenient access and are sewn in a way that prevents them from sticking out when they are not full. The seams were routed in such a way that they ensured a high range of leg movement and were not critical points of the structure. Perfect for long daily wear as well as for fast runs between the apertures on the track. We will also not find other pants that would be so popular among our crew.

Helikon Softshell Gunfighter

The Urban line often proves that it is suitable not only for the city. A perfect example is a softshell jacket equipped with a membrane called Gunfighter. In theory, of course, a traditional softshell jacket is a well-breathable jacket without a membrane. In this, however, as in many other cases, the manufacturer decided to put a windproof membrane in the jacket. As it turns out, this is an excellent treatment when it comes to the usability of the jacket - despite its small thickness, it perfectly protects against the wind, and in combination with an appropriate insulation layer, it can protect us against really low temperatures. On the other hand, large, zippered openings under the arms allow for easy and quick temperature regulation.

In the city, however, the jacket works perfectly in everyday configurations. The camouflage versions are of course not very discreet, while the models in Olive Green or Shadow Gray will perfectly complement our everyday wardrobe, ensuring the functionality of the "off-road" model. It must also be admitted that the back, the so-called "poaching pocket" is surprisingly often useful in everyday situations - gloves, hats and other items can be comfortably carried there without the effect of stuffing the jacket. Gunfighter is our definite choice for the entire fall / winter period when it shows its best features. For warmer temperatures, it is worth equipping yourself with a thin Trooper softshell - a similar, comfortable form, definitely lighter material.

Helikon Alpha Tactical Fleece

As we mentioned in Gunfigther, a reasonably constructed insulation layer would be useful for lower temperatures. In our opinion, the most universal and at the same time well-thought-out choice will be the Alpha Tactical fleece. It is thin enough to be a comfortable complement to your everyday outfit. Its aesthetics are definitely more discreet than most military-grade fleece, and the sweatshirt itself is just pretty. However, this is not its only advantage. The model remains an excellent choice for applications with increased activity.

First of all, what distinguishes it - the Grid Fleece structure. The characteristic cube applied to the fleece has been designed to effectively retain air, with a limited weight and thickness of the material. Alpha exhibits such properties when combined with an external windproof layer, for example the previously mentioned Gunfighter or Trooper. In combination with the former, it can create a really solid set for cold days, while with the latter, it will be perfect for trekking. In addition, its small thickness positively affects its packing. On warmer days, it can be used as a lightweight sweatshirt worn alone. Practically the same advantages and at a relatively low price.

Helikon Anorak Woodsman

However, Helikon's offer includes many less universal products, but perfectly adapted to the tasks they are to perform. One such model is the Woodsman anorak from the Bushcraft line. Anorak is a jacket with a specific cut with a limited zipper length, or originally with a laced collar. This is to minimize the area where the wind can blow through, while making the jacket easier to put on and take off. Anoraks have been encountered for hundreds of years in cultures living in harsh conditions. No wonder - an insulating layer is of little use without adequate wind protection.

Therefore, choosing the light Woodsman model as our outer garment for forest activities, we can expect, above all, good protection against the wind, despite the lack of a membrane. For effective heating, a fleece tucked underneath will certainly be useful - for example the aforementioned Alpha. An important feature of Woodsman, apart from the specificity of the structure itself, is the selection of materials used in it. The model is based on the successful Mistral jacket, made entirely of thin softshell. It is a comfortable, breathable solution, but not very resistant to abrasion and burning with fire sparks. For this reason, developmental Woodsman uses Duracanvas in its structure. The fabric based on cotton is remarkably abrasion-resistant and fights sparks quite well. I must admit that in a typical bushcraft context it is a considerable advantage. Some softhsell, however, remained in the jacket, arranged to facilitate movement - on the elbows and around the nape of the neck. While wearing only a jacket, it is difficult to appreciate this solution, however, wearing a thick sweatshirt underneath makes us realize how necessary their presence is.

Helikon Winter Merino Beanie

And finally, a small accessory - seemingly insignificant, but very happy. The Winter Merino Beanie is the absolute winner of the competition for the best price-quality ratio. The model is made of 100% merino wool - usually when we see this information, we expect to spend a bit on a hat or socks, not to mention a sweater. In this case, however, the rate requested by the manufacturer is as wallet-friendly as possible.

As for the design itself - it is based on the standard beanie layout, combining several advantages. First of all, the folded bottom edge of the cap allows you to easily adjust its depth. If our ears suddenly feel cold, we can easily bring it to the appropriate level. It also serves as a seal, additionally insulating the entire circumference of the head. The third and the biggest advantage, of course, is the material itself. Merino wool is famous for its thermal insulation properties and high breathability. From my own experience, I have to admit that the hat in question works perfectly in both respects. It heats up even in severe frosts, and with moderate physical activity all water vapor is effectively removed from the inside.

AP