FREE SOLDIER Men's Waterproof Soft Shell Hooded Tactical (Style 81WN)

In this review of the FREE SOLDIER Men's Outdoor Waterproof Soft Shell Hooded Military Tactical Jacket, the bottom line is simple: this jacket is for active outdoor users who need weather protection, warmth and functional storage without excess bulk. The reviewer found it to be a solid midweight shell with a comfortable fleece liner and practical pocket layout, making it a reliable choice for hiking, camping or fieldwork where windproofing and breathable waterproofing are priorities.

Key Features

• Waterproof & breathable: The shell uses a Durable Water Repellent finish with a 10000mm waterproof index and 3000g/m^2/24Hr permeability to keep rain out while allowing moisture to escape.
• Warm fleece lining: A Polar Fleece thermal liner provides insulated warmth and moisture-wicking comfort for cold-weather wear without feeling overly bulky.
• Adjustable fit and windproofing: Drawstrings at the waist and hood plus hook-and-loop wrist cuffs and an articulated elbow design block wind and improve mobility.
• Axillary ventilation: Underarm zippers let the wearer dump heat quickly during activity while maintaining windproof performance when closed.
• Multiple secure pockets: Up to seven pockets, including chest pockets with internal EDC slots, shoulder pockets and a forearm zipper, keep essentials organized and accessible.

Who It's For

The jacket is best for outdoorsmen and workers who need a multifunctional shell that performs in wet, windy and cold conditions: hikers, hunters, anglers and field technicians will appreciate the waterproof rating, fleece liner and tactical pocket layout. It also suits anyone who likes to layer under a durable outer with stretch for mobility.

Those who should look elsewhere include users seeking an ultralight packable shell for warm-weather-only use or those who need a technical mountaineering shell with very high breathability for prolonged aerobic activity; this midweight jacket balances warmth and weather protection rather than pure ultralight performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very good weather protection with a high waterproof index and DWR-treated shell.
• Warm and comfortable Polar Fleece liner that allows layering without restricting movement.
• Well thought-out pocket system for secure storage including EDC pocket and D-rings.
• Ventilation zippers and articulated elbows improve comfort during activity.

Cons

• Some customers find pocket sizes mixed in usefulness, with a few feeling certain pockets are smaller than expected.
• Because it is a midweight fleece-lined shell, it is heavier than minimalist rain shells and not ideal for ultralight backpacking.

Specifications

Waterproof index	10000mm
Permeability / breathability	3000g/m^2/24Hr
Shell material	94% Polyester, 6% Spandex with DWR finish
Lining	100% Polyester Polar Fleece thermal liner
Pockets	Up to 7 pockets including chest, shoulder, forearm and back pocket
Adjustability	Waist and hood drawstrings, hook & loop wrist cuffs

Our Verdict

The FREE SOLDIER soft shell is a practical, value-oriented waterproof jacket for outdoor users who want a warm, breathable and pocket-rich option for cool, wet conditions. Its combination of a DWR shell, fleece liner and tactical storage makes it a strong choice for hiking, hunting or work where durability and organized carry matter more than ultralight weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this jacket warm enough for cold weather?
The Polar Fleece thermal liner provides good insulation for cool to cold conditions and allows room for layering, but extremely low temperatures may require additional insulated layers.

Are the ventilation zippers effective?
Yes, the axillary ventilation zippers help release heat during activity while keeping overall windproofing when closed.

How many usable pockets does it have?
The jacket offers up to seven pockets, including two large chest pockets with internal EDC slots, two zippered shoulder pockets, a forearm zipper pocket and a back-connected pocket for larger gear.