SNUGPAK Sleeka Elite Reversible

So in all the new kit and innovations that are out there we seem to forget the staples of what we use. And before Arc'Teryx or Triple Aught Designs (TAD) or Blackhawk produced anything there was a company called Snugpak. Snugpak has been producing Sleeping Bags, Rucks and Clothing to suit the Military and Outdoors enthusiasts long before most of us were even around. I can remember about ten years back watching my buddy with some time in (TI), pulling out a small green ball from his ruck and then producing a green jacket from it that looked really warm. Mean while I was freezing and wet and just wanted to get it over with.

Two weeks later after a shower and some dry clothes I found myself one of those Softie Jackets. I'm now on my fourth Snugpak Jacket thanks to him. The new SNUGPAK Sleeka Elite Reversible that I recently picked up is a true staple for operating in cold weather. This Softie offers a few interesting updates and old school go to go (G2G).

Lets look at what's the same first. The nylon used to enclose the warmth of the gods is as it has been for years, thick enough to provide a resilient shell. I be honest, it's not really water prof but it dose hold out for a bit depending on the degree of water shed. Now the Elite is rated for comfort at -5 C and an extreme of -10 C. That said I've been wearing it in -20 to -30C with little issue.

One of the things I love about Snugpak is they use a light bungee cord and locks on the collar and waist to keep in the warmth. This allows the openings to move with you while maintaining a seal and offering adjustment for a personal comfort level. Additionally they continue to put an elastic tape on the cuffs which doesn't interfere with watches or gloves. I like them in comparison to some of the bulky velcro used by other companies.

Something else I love about Snugpak is the heavy zipper they use. I know this sounds like a little thing but having a zipper that just operates no matter what and dose so with ease, more especially when your hands are frozen, ice bitten and on the edge of frost bite. To me that's a big, little thing.

One of the newer things that Snugpak has been doing is adding a thicker nylon to the shoulders and top of the sleeves. This adds a more ruggedized component to the jacket and a stylized look for those who like to wear it in places other then just the field. On the alternate side which is black there is also a chest pocket which is big enough to hold a small note pad.

All in all, this is one of the staples for me and the boys. You can get an operators jacket or fleece and try to use them in cold weather. It just won't work the same or offer the longevity that a Snugpak can. Sure I'm on my fourth Softie, but I sold my first one when I thought I wouldn't be a field guy any more. Melted one during arctic warfare and the last one just met with enough CARNAGE to require a replacement.

Construction 9/10: The materials used and the quality are what we have come to expect from Snugpak. The Nylon is tough enough and the insulation is more then adequate.

Design 3/10: Well no offence to the guys at Snugpak but the design of the Elite is nothing new. It for the most part is the same thing they have been doing for years. That being said, you don't spend $150.00 CND on one for it looks, you do it because it's utilitarianism.

Durability 6/10: I haven't had one last longer then three years yet. Now in general that would be a long time but when comparing Military Gear this is kind of a below a baseline. I

Over All Impression 8/10: I won't lie, the little updates and changes in material which aren't things you'll really notice, are not enough to keep anyone interested. There's no velcro on the shoulders for patches or pockets covering every surface of your arms and chest. If you want to hide a comms set in your jacket, bring tape and don't forget to shave. However, the consistency in quality and construction, the dedication to making a product that won't let you down, these are things that keep people coming back year after year and hold interest. I won't tell you to go out and buy one right now or that a Snugpak jacket is the end all and be all. What I'll say is try one, borrow it from a buddy and see what happens. You'll thank yourself for it. And don't forget the compression bag they come with, makes it easy to pack.