Parkas and smocks are less about thermal insulation and more about providing a practical outer layer with plenty of storage space. A10 Equipment from France present the Long Jacket, an overjacket that combines these classic elements with modern solutions. It had to take a lot of punishment in the Ranger test.
The Long Jacket from the Fighter range by A10 Equipment (-> We have already introduced you to the French company) offers a whole lot – despite its simple name: the bellows pockets on the outside and the inner pockets on both sides can hold more than you would normally want to carry in a jacket.
The DNA of a smock can also be seen at kidney height: a poacher’s pocket accessible from both sides holds gloves, a camouflage scarf or seat mats, which also have a heat-insulating effect in this position.
The very large patch areas, under which there are equally large upper arm pockets, are reminiscent of a service jacket. When open, they support ventilation, which can be very welcome in an 80/20 cotton-polyester blend. Further ventilation is provided under the armpits and under a flap along the upper back. Crawling creatures are kept out thanks to the dense, slightly elasticated mesh. A Velcro fastener in the hip area allows the jacket to be worn half-open. However, a counterpart at chin height would have been nice. But at least there is a chin guard there.
The IR coating will please business users. Teflon also makes the ripstop fabric more abrasion-resistant. The hood is practical for civilian applications. It is neither too big nor too small and can also be removed with a zipper. Very fine: the drawstring ensures a clear view even when moving your head sideways.
Perhaps a drawback for some: the seams are properly stitched, but not in Europe. The sewn drainage eyelets in the outer pockets and the reinforcements on the elbow area are rather simple solutions. If you also expect rain protection from the jacket, there is no getting around a wax treatment (-> We explain how to do this in Ranger Magazine #2 in Militär Aktuell 04/2024. Click here to subscribe.). The Long Jacket is cut like a normal parka. If you want it wider, you need to order (at least) one size up. In addition to olive, the jacket is also available in black, tan and French camouflage CE.
Ranger conclusion: The classic parka cut may not be ideal for very dynamic activities. Nevertheless, we can’t think of any activity in which the jacket could not be used. We assume that our model will be used for many more activities.
This test report first appeared in Ranger Magazine #1 (available here as available here as e-paper, print edition or with Militär Aktuell in the annual subscription), as a supplement delivered with Militär Aktuell 2/24 (available here as an e-paper).
