First Look: Soft Shell Jacket Provides Technical Performance, Tactical Appeal

Sometimes it’s nice to have a technical jacket that doesn’t make the wearer look like they are about to scale a mountain, and Triple Aught delivers a softshell with subdued, military-inspired looks that stands up to harsh weather and rugged use.

I tested the Triple Aught Stealth Hoodie ($359) during the past three months and have been impressed with the ability of the jacket to keep me comfortable in varied conditions and activities, from aerobic workouts on cool days to sitting on a ski lift.

This is a true multi-use jacket, a jack-of-all-trades that should do well at just about any outdoor application but probably won’t be the single best for any. It really shines in urban settings, where the technical nature and high-end materials are masked with non-flashy but timeless styling. Name-brand materials and North American manufacturing contribute to a high price point.

The Gear: Triple Aught Stealth Hoodie

Pirce: $359

Where To Test It: City to backcountry, this versatile jacket works well in both.

Who’s It For: Hikers, skiers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded jacket with tactical styling.

Boring But Important: Pockets galore! The Stealth Hoodie has two chest pockets with Media Ports, D-Rings with Inner Stash Pockets; two upper arm pockets with media ports and d-rings, one left forearm pocket, one double-entry “hunters pocket” across the back and brushed mesh pocket bags inside. All zippers are YKK and feature zipper garages. There is a velcro patch on both arms for custom patches.

Important Specs: The jacket is made of Schoeller 3-Layer 375 g/m2 softshell and is fleece-lined. It is treated with Nanosphere water repellent with a Schoeller c_change waterproof/breathable membrane.

Made In: Canada

Killer! The jacket has so many massive pockets that it can nearly take the place of a small backpack. Schoeller’s “c_change“ membrane is a windproof and waterproof barrier that adapts to the environment both inside and outside the jacket, with pores that open and constrict to help maintain a comfortable climate next to the skin.

Flaw: Pricey, but in line with other high-end softshells. The hood is not helmet-compatible and I wish it was for downhill skiing, ice climbing or mountaineering. As it is, the hood is limited for mountaineering or ski applications when a helmet is needed. It is nicely fitted though, great when a helmet is not needed and it can be stowed when not in use.

First Impressions: A well made, unique-looking jacket with lots of pockets that will work well, especially for city dwellers who want to head to the mountains or forest for the weekend. Muted colors and robust construction could make it a good option for foul-weather fishing and hunting.

Who Should Buy It: Those who want a technical but subdued-looking softshell during the week that doubles as a technical shell when they head to the mountains or forest for the weekend.

Contact Brand/More Beta: Triple Aught Stealth Hoodie

—Sean McCoy is a contributing editor. Our “First Look” column highlights new gear arrivals at GearJunkie.com. Photos © Monopoint Media LLC