FREE SOLDIER Men's Waterproof Soft Shell Hooded Tactical (Style 6JX8)

In this review of the FREE SOLDIER Men's Outdoor Waterproof Soft Shell Hooded Military Tactical Jacket, the bottom line is simple: it is a practical, midweight shell for anyone who needs a warm, water-shedding outer layer with tactical storage. The jacket's standout quality is its combination of a waterproof/breathable outer (10,000mm/3000g/m^2/24Hr) and a thick Polar fleece liner that keeps heat in without feeling bulky, so it performs well on damp, cool days and as a layering piece for more strenuous activity.

Key Features

• Waterproof & breathable: A durable water repellent finish and specified waterproof and permeability indexes keep the wearer dry while allowing moisture to escape during activity.
• Warm fleece liner: The Polar fleece thermal liner provides insulation and moisture-wicking comfort for mild to cold conditions.
• Functional pocket system: Up to seven pockets, including chest, shoulder, forearm and back storage, offer organized space for EDC items and outdoor gear.
• Windproof construction: Articulated elbows, adjustable hook & loop wrist cuffs and drawstrings at the waist and hood block wind and retain heat.
• Ventilation where it counts: An axillary ventilation system with zipper helps release excess heat and sweat under the arms during activity.

Who It's For

This jacket is aimed at outdoorsmen and active users who need a versatile, weather-resistant midweight shell for hiking, camping, fishing, cycling, or general work in cool, wet conditions. Its tactical pocket layout suits people who want multiple dedicated pockets for tools, phone, and small accessories without carrying an extra pack.

People who need an ultralight rain shell for heavy downpours or a heavy winter parka for subzero temperatures should look elsewhere; this jacket is best as a warm, breathable softshell for moderate cold and wet weather or as a layering piece in colder climates.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective waterproofing and breathability for wet-weather use without overheating.
• Comfortable Polar fleece lining that balances warmth and moisture management.
• Thoughtful pocket layout with multiple specialized pockets and headphone jack access.
• Adjustable features and articulated elbows improve fit and wind protection.

Cons

• Some users report the pocket sizes are tight for larger tactical items, so capacity is limited for bulkier gear.
• A few customers found zipper robustness mixed; zippers work smoothly for most but are not the heaviest-duty hardware available.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The FREE SOLDIER soft shell hooded jacket is a strong value for outdoor users who want a warm, breathable, and water-shedding midweight jacket with many pockets and adjustable fit. It excels for hiking, camping, and everyday outdoor work; buyers who need very large tactical storage or extreme heavy-duty zippers should consider that limitation, but for most users it delivers reliable protection and comfort at a fair price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this jacket fully waterproof?
The jacket has a DWR finish and a 10000mm waterproof index which repels rain effectively for most conditions, though it is a softshell rather than a fully taped-seam raincoat.

Can I layer under this jacket?
Yes. The jacket is midweight with a fleece liner and a roomier fit that accommodates base layers or a light midlayer for colder weather.

Are the pockets suitable for tactical gear?
The jacket offers up to seven pockets including internal EDC and shoulder pockets; they are handy for smaller tools and electronics, but some tactical users find larger items may not fit comfortably.