Defense Mechanisms Helion - Mid-layer Patrol Jacket

Taking a look at the Helion, the first thing that will surprise you when it shows up is just how light it is. The insulation material is a synthetic insulation that mimics the properties of down while still being able to keep in heat, even when wet.

The Helion comes in three different selections with the Helion, Helion B, and Helion B pullover. The Helion standard comes with two Polartec side slits that work to off-gas heat when you’re active. The slits are designed to relieve extra heat through the cummerbund when worn with a plate carrier. Having the elastic Polartec sides also allows for a more form-fitting overall shape of the jacket.

The Helion B removes the slide to add a tiny bit more cold protection but removes the ability to off-gas additional heat. The bottom of the jacket can also be cinched closed using the pulls located in the pockets of the jacket.

Lastly, the Helion B pullover keeps the design of the Helion B but then adds a large pocket on the front of the jacket, covering the lower zipper portion.

As both the Helion B and Helion B pullover have the bottom retention cord, they have a more boxy style of fit when compared to the standard Helion.

But the most notable thing about the Helion jacket is how well it fits and is designed to fit full size individuals. The sleeves seem longer to keep your wrists covered along with a drop tail and longer overall length to keep your body covered even when you’re active….or you bend over.

The Helion’s insulation materials also work great to use in combination with a plate carrier and your duty gear. Since the insulation can be compressed down, you can wear the Helion jacket without having to make any modifications to the sizing of your plate carrier.

Looking at the hood of the helion, it can also be compressed down to be placed under a helmet without having to make any changes to the pads or sizing of the helmet.

Also included on the Helion are very large side pockets that easily fit in a gloved hand. These side pockets include zippers to keep the contents secure and the center of the jacket also includes a center locking zipper. Then you don’t have your jacket opening up the moment you start moving around.

Another great feature of the Helion is the tension around the sleeves of the jacket. This allows you to wear gloves or larger watches and the wrists form fit around your wrists or other objects to still keep the heat retained within the jacket.

Overall the Defense Mechanisms Helion really surprised me as to what a jacket could do and the expectations I should have when it comes to quality gear.

Hopefully, this video was helpful in your purchasing decisions

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