Choosing the Best Duty Jacket
Whether you live in an area that reaches a low of 40 degrees in winter and never sees snow or an area that sees negative temperatures and daily snowstorms – everyone is impacted by weather while on duty. Finding something that will keep you warm is obviously the main goal when searching for a jacket, but maneuverability and function are equally as important and is what separates regular jackets from duty jackets. Can you do your job safely and effectively with added bulk that isn’t designed with your duty belt in mind? You shouldn’t have to choose between warmth and maneuverability, and many tactical brands have kept your needs and safety in mind while designing jackets specifically for duty. Check out the list of duty jackets below for some tried and true suggestions and features to look for in your next duty jacket.
As simple as it may be, the more options and features there are in a jacket, the more likely you are to be prepared for any inclement weather. Because of this, a 5 in 1 jacket is one of the best options for duty, as it can be configured 5 different ways, giving you the flexibility to alter the jacket to fit your needs. These jackets are great for those who live in areas with unpredictable weather or for those who are looking to have more options in a jacket. Most, if not all, 5 in 1 jacket feature waterproof outer shells to keep you dry in rain and snow, and fleece liners to keep you warm when the temperature drops. The LA Police Gear 5 in 1 jacket features zip off-off sleeves and a removeable roll-up hood to give you even more configuration options, as well as chest pockets on both the outer shell and the fleece liner jacket to keep you organized. One of the most important features for duty use, the side zippers, allow for ventilation and firearm access – allowing you to quickly and comfortably retrieve your firearm without the added bulk of your jacket getting in the way.
Do you like the concept of a 5 in 1 jacket but want less bulk? The 5.11 Tactical Valiant Duty Jacket was built on 5.11’s 5-in-1 jacket and features a modular design with zip off sleeves and a vest option, allowing you to adapt and customize your duty jacket to your environment and needs. It has a removable softshell liner that can be worn with the outer shell or on its own, and the softshell liner has zip off sleeves that allows the jacket to convert to a vest. This jacket is fully waterproof and seam-sealed to keep you dry and the outer shell is Blood Borne Pathogen resistant. It features a side seam Quixip system for internal access and venting and articulated sleeves with adjustable cuffs for comfort and mobility. All the features come with a higher price point, but the investment in your comfort and protection is worth it.
If you are more of a “less is more” person or are looking for a warm jacket without the bulk, the LA Police Gear Duty Fleece Jacket provides plenty of warmth and utility. The length of this jacket is perfectly sized for duty use and access to your duty belt and, like the 5 in 1 jacket, has side zippers with elastic snaps for ventilation or firearm access. The jacket is 100% Polyester Fleece with a 100% Moisture Wicking Nylon-Polyester Fabric on the chest and shoulders to wick away water while keeping you warm. This jacket also has mic clips at the shoulders, hidden chest pockets and hidden interior pockets to keep you organized and prepared.
Elbeco is the approved brand of jackets for many departments, and with good reason. The Elbeco Shield Duty Combo Jacket, for example, is approved and utilized by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and is a 3-in-1 jacket system. It features two-way stretch fabric that offers enhanced range of motion, quick release side zipper vents, and 6 functional pocket storage options. This jacket is machine washable, accepts embroidery and silk screening, and has a no-pill fleece-lined body and collar for longevity and to maintain a professional appearance. The outer shell is 100% polyester mini-Ripstop with a windproof, waterproof, breathable Hydrotech membrane on nylon taffeta substrate, designed to keep you protected against all weather.
The LA Police Gear Rendition Jacket is a great option for those looking for a less bulky duty jacket option. The waistband and hood come with pull-cords so you can sinch them to prevent cold air from coming in and warm air getting out. The armpits are vented to allow airflow for when the temperature begins to rise. It has a full-zip front zipper with a full storm flap and large zippered pockets on each arm. It has a breathable laminated membrane for a 5000mm waterproof rating and 3000 m2 breathable rating and features built in elbow pads, kangaroo pouch back pockets, hidden inner chest pockets, and a hood that can be stowed and zipped into the collar.
