Simply Excellent - Helikon-Tex Woodsman Anorak Jacket

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Over the last 6 months Helikon-Tex has continued to impress me with their value, good designs and functional gear/clothing/equipment and after much use, it is time to share my Agenda-Free review of the Woodsman Anorak Jacket.
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Agenda Free Link : www.helikon-tex.com/en_usd/ku...
Price : Retail $94
Weight : Around 1.7lbs for Medium size
Materials : 55% Polyester, 23% Cotton, 19% Nylon, 3% Elastane
Sizes : WX/Regular - XL Regular
Colors : Lots of Colors including numerous color combos which I really like
Features :
 Made of DuraCanvas® fabric
 Additional gussets made of StormStretch® fabric
 Large kangaroo pocket with internal organizer
 Adjustable hood
 Adjustable cuffs with hook&loops
 Ventilation zippers in armpits
 YKK® zippers
Based on the Mistral Anorak, Woodsman Anorak jacket is made of DuraCanvas® - the fabrics more suitable for outdoor and camping. The front is made of DuraCanvas® fabric, therefore it is fire-spark resistant and durable enough not to be damaged by sharp objects and branches. The back of the jacket was made of StormStretch® fabric, to provide higher breathability and better freedom of movement. The whole jacket is highly wind resistant. Woodsman anorak has three pockets, including one kangaroo on the front with internal organizer. Sides are fully zippered up to the arm pits to provide easy don and doff. The side zippers can also be used as ventilation. Additionally the jacket has adjustable, hood with visor.
Review Pros :
Top notch quality
Excellent design
Good Value
Excellent hood which is adjustable in all of the ways that it needs to be.
Material is excellent for blocking wind, keeping you slightly warm and is very breathable.
Material is also a little stretchy which makes it more comfortable for daily use and activities.
Zippers are excellent; they aren’t sticky, flow easily and don’t get caught.
Plenty of pulls to get the fit that you specifically want/need.
It layers very well with small insulative under layers - fleece sweaters, flannels, etc.
Chest pocket is excellent and offers a lot of space.
Size zips are awesome and make putting the jacket on easy; this is important, as a muscular guy, putting on some Anoraks can be difficult. The sides of the jacket zip from the hip all the way to the arms pits. Zips go from arm pit bottom of jacket.
The side zips serve three purposes:
Ease of putting it on and taking it off, ventilation and ease of access to belt warn items
The materials used in the Anorak are water and spark resistant which make it perfect for those who spend a lot of time next to a fire.
Water resistant, but not waterproof. It wouldn’t replace your raingear - Can be impregnated with wax but you will loose breathability. If you have never done this before, it can be a chore and I tend not to do it. For something to be made waterproof takes a lot of time and attention; miss a spot and you’ll get wet.
Kangaroo pocket features internal organization and a D-ring.
Review Cons :
Cons? Hmmm, there really aren’t any…
No hip pockets - this really isn’t a con but more a trade off; you forgo the hip pockets for the chest kangaroo pocket.
Summary :
I absolutely love this piece of clothing and it is perfectly suited for how I like to dress;
It makes for an excellent companion for a wide range of uses including hiking, camping, backpacking, bushcraft and in general daily life. I personally wear this jacket on a daily basis, I wear my Fjallraven Barent Trousers on a daily basis and if doesn’t matter where I am heading. The point being that such equipment is comfortable for the trail and life use.
I mentioned Fjallraven and I have to say that I have been a fan of their gear for a long time and finding a company who makes gear as good is difficult but Helikon Tex fits the bill. Their quality is just as good, their designs are even better in many ways and their prices, are fair more reasonable. If Fjallraven made this jacket, it would easily cost $300-$400+ or more. By the way, I say that because Fjallraven does make Anoraks and they literally cost that much.
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[@KimberlyGreen]

With the full side zips, it makes me think of "The Man With No Name" in _Fist Full of Dollars_ . Kind of expected a steel plate to be seen when you flipped it up.

[@jeanburk9539]

That would be the abs. I'm pretty sure he's bullet-proof.

[@AlexT-md9df]

Was thinking the same thing lol

[@paolochang4142]

helikon has quickly became my favourite brand of clothing for outdoor,airsoft and,why not,everyday use

[@shaneflickinger]

I was literally looking at this exact jacket about 10 minutes before I saw this video. Thanks very much for the review!

[@jonNH123]

WOW. That is quick likely the BEST designed anorak I've seen. AWESOME find. Thanks Luke!

[@charliepress6629]

Helikon-Tex is outstanding! I have purchased a number of things from them including their Pilgrim Anorak and couldn't be happier!! The deliveries from Poland are absolutely amazing...

[@Otis010707]

"JUST" placed my order on Amazon! CAN'T WAIT! Thank you for yet another piece of kit you've turned me onto!

[@alexandergutfeldt1144]

I've bought several pieces of gear from Helikon Tex in the last year. My favorites are - the Swagman Role - the Sumit Backpack - the Pilgrim Anorak I use them on every hike.

[@mike_outdoors4918]

I've been looking at one of these for a couple of months now, recently also got a pair of their pants, which are great. Also great to see a reliable review for this, thanks Luke, take care 👍🙂

[@DrAdrianTodd]

I was seriously considering buying one of these, but I had a few questions. You have just answered all of them. I am definitely getting one now. Many thanks, and God bless.

[@benstone1824]

Very impressed with the quality/price/design for the price. We need more products like this!

[@mr.waynes7555]

i like helikon, and been tossing around whether or not to pick up one of these jackets....you just made up my mind for me!

[@wynwilliams6977]

Any other channel I would assume anybody this enthusiastic about a product with this level of detailed review is taking a kickback under the table but with this guy? I trust his opinion a lot and when I next buy an anorak I know which one im buying :)

[@JapanScott1]

I agree with all you had to say about the anorak. I purchased it along with a pair of the hybrid pants. All of the Helikon gear I have is of very good quality. I have two of the Alpha Tactical fleece jackets and I've worn them almost every day from late October through late April for the past 3+ years. For the amount of use they get they are wearing very well. I am a big fan of their gear!!

[@royhurley7572]

Excellent review! You're one of the best channels, if not the best!

[@journeyman7189]

Luke. I picked up one in coyote brown/grey and it has become my favourite jacket. The ability to ventilate is a game changer for me. I run pretty hot and the full length zip is awesome. Thanks Nate

[@destinationbushcraft1833]

Hey, for sizing purposes - what size did you get and what's your height? If you'd dont mind me asking of course

[@journeyman7189]

At 5'3" I went with a medium. I had the sleeves shortened and the length is a little long but not to bad. I have big shoulders and chest and the small size stretched pretty tight limiting my shoulder mobility. To be honest I won't change anything else about it. I can completely unzip the sides and add layers without taking the Anorak off. Pretty cool feature! I don't think you can go wrong with this as a purchase.Nate

[@Ian..]

Brilliant timing again Luke - I had one in the basket waiting to checkout. If you like it, chances are around 100% that I’ll like it too 👍🏻

[@RedBoarOutdoors]

I have exactly same color, same jacket and using it from about 2 years. Wearing it nearly every time when outdoors all 3 seasons, for winter it needs some extra isolation for winter and you'll be good to go as well! Best jacket! Durable AF!

[@alexanderweaver7066]

Great review, Luke! I am a huge fan of Helikon Tex. Their products are superb. The colors of the anorak are perfect for my needs and on cold wintry days later it with a good fleece you'll remain toasty warm. It's worth the price.

[@JordanKav]

Does the anorak fit as it looks on website , sort of form fitting ?

[@p_serdiuk]

@@JordanKav Both sides have some elastan

[@margaretadler6162]

Outstanding I've been looking for sometime for an anorak at a reasonable price and thanks to you and your channel I think I've found it! Thank you, ATB Sam Adler

[@Bosker13]

Just bought one after watching your review , great jacket for the end of days👍

[@daniellee8565]

I have to acknowledge that I am also very happy with the Helikon Tex products that I have thus far purchased.

[@Lonewolfwildcamping]

Pretty awsome. I have been looking for a good anorak for a long time.🤙😊

[@garystillwell9650]

Love me some Helikon Tex! Been using the Foxtrot rig and the poncho for a while and they are both great pieces of gear.

[@leebornaman5508]

I too have gone nuts for their gear . Will be adding this. They do provide well thought out durable gear. Thanks.

[@Rugrat7211]

Great jacket, I’m gonna purchase 1. Thank you for the videos 👍🏻

[@lessharratt8719]

Great review Luke. Awesome price point for the product. Definitely on my wish list.

[@chuckzander9861]

I have been wanting an Anorak so I went to order one from your link and most of the sizes are sold out! I will probably need a large. Guess I wait. Good review by the way. I always enjoy your channel !

[@chrishill8608]

Great review Luke. I purchased the Swagmann Roll about 6 weeks ago and I couldn’t be happier with it. It’s so comfortable. It’s warm. Has multiple functions and has a huge chest pocket. Retail is $124 I believe.

[@kenwebster5053]

How warm, what temperatures to sleep in it instead of a sleeping bag?

[@steelsky78]

I'm a big fan of Helikon, they are an awesome company and awesome people. Their deigns are mostly clever and they ain't copycats, which for the price is incredible.

[@Will-Parr]

Excellent review. I like it. Thanks Luke

[@RoryVanucchi]

Good product. I've got swag an roll and look to get more of their products. Like the company. Good review as always.

[@m-a-d-d-i-e-s]

Watched your review last week, bought one last Saturday. Love it.

[@juliahaskett-smith977]

Is it waterproof?

[@m-a-d-d-i-e-s]

@@juliahaskett-smith977 No it isn't.

[@craigstratford5086]

Finally managed to get one of these early February from Woodland -Tactical in Poland . Outstanding anorak and well worth the wait . Can't wait to put much more mileage on it once we come out of lockdown.

[@scoutingfreegermany]

Great review! I'm a huge fan of Helikon Tex too, their stainless steel cook kit is awesome too! Cheers, Marc

[@lincspreparednessandoutdoo2648]

Mine arrives tomorrow, cant wait

[@alastairjones7359]

Hi Luke great review....I’ve had the Fjällräven singi anorak for 2 years now and it’s been fantastic... think it was £240 when I bought it...well worth the money I think if I hadn’t had purchased that I would have gone for this and in that colour you’ve got....the best IMO

[@robyndoby1722]

Hey Luke cool jacket hope y'all are well much love your way be safe have a wonderful coming in week

[@MeetMeOutside]

Just took delivery today! Largely based on this review, I’ve had my eyes on this for a while ! I’m already loving it ! Thanks !

[@stevedott715]

Where can you buy one!

[@MeetMeOutside]

@@stevedott715 eBay, Amazon

[@Xaphaniel7]

I have a few items of HELIKON and so far I haven't been disappointed I got a hooded fleece around 9 years ago plenty of space in it and the only thing that shows wear is one of the cuff straps glue came apart re glued and is still fine

[@Robert-yp9zs]

Simply Excellent!! I couldn't agree more. Based on your review, I bought one and have been thrilled with it. My cost, as of October 2022 was $127.84 US$ delivered. (Depending of where you buy it, consider the exchange rate of the local currency against the US dollar.)

[@24905116]

Just looking to buy this jacket and found your review. Well done, this is the best review I've seen. Some info on how it stands up to washing to get smoke out of it would have made the review perfect , but that's just me nit picking 😉 thanks for this, i think I'll be ordering one very soon👍

[@88woodbikes4]

Impressive jacket. Nice review Luke

[@arranwalker]

I've got this jacket in the red and grey. I've used it a few times and I would say that the side zips run slightly loose. The chest hand pockets don't present too much of a problem when wearing a rucksack, just pull the front of the jacket up a little. So in reflection I think it's a cracking jacket and I hope to get plenty of wear out of it. I've also got the pilgrim jacket, wish they did that in the red and grey.

[@mrghost3209]

I have this anorak and also the Pilgrim variation Helikon do. Both are amazing. I also highly recommend their Wolfhound hoodie and Level 7 winter jacket! Great review

[@vusj01]

Which one do you prefer, is one warmer or ?

[@Gutterfighting]

Great review. I really like Helikon tex gear. I'll get ordering this anorak soon. I hsve the helikon tex summit pack, foxtrot mk2, numbat, swagman roll and 2 general purpose pouches. Can't say enough about their gear.

[@shermanpatterson]

I just recently got the Pilgrim anorak/pants. I love them!

[@daven953]

Hahaha jonesin for some helicon tex. Haha. Well have fun with it Luke. It only benefits us all. And ya I see that little smirk when you talk about them. You do your homework and go the extra mile for us Luke, and we appreciate it. Have fun out there.

[@mathewhenderson5757]

I have it and also love it. I sprayed with a camp dry and sheds water now.

[@dannybaker4641]

Looks like an excellent jacket. That's definitely a steal at that price.

[@OneLifeOverland]

Great review, thanks. Am looking to get one myself.

[@Nina-hx5we]

Thank you for this review!

[@mark1966]

Another brilliant video! Cheers

[@Hikerhikeshikes19]

I’m about your size. I got an xsmall (Eu) small (US) and it’s great. Im 5’6, 175 lbs athletic build. Shorter torso, wide shoulders. I can base and mid layer underneath. Honestly I’ll probably Nikwax this Anorak just to help it out a bit. I also got the outback hybrid pants, the merino wool socks, and the Windrunner shirt. All solid products. If anyone is looking into buying Helikons products I suggest you really study that sizing chart and actually get a measuring tape to measure yourself and see what kind of fit you’d like. I really wanted the least baggy fit possible, without it being restricting.

[@marjiecleveland]

Definitely a quality anorak for a really good price. Love the olive/black!

[@praetor47]

nice review. if they continue this way, with Fjallraven's prices going up and quality going slightly down, they'll replace them as the number once choice for us outdoor adventurers in no time...

[@LordZiober]

I got Helikon tex Possum Waist pack. I thought what can be so special about waist pack but it is so useful and comfortable. Maybe not everyone gonna like the look and style but really possum model with black color can hide and noone will see u got one. U can easy chilling without pockets full of stuff. Can be use everyday or as an add pocket with backpack, can be strap to your belt. Lots of options, excellent product. Looking forward to try other stuff from that company. It is especially close to my hard cuz company as far as I know is from Poland.

[@5five6x45]

LOVE THE REVIEW!

[@vlodek-193]

Great review. 👍 Greetings from Poland!

[@ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors]

I've had one of these in my Amazon cart for a week, debating whether or not I should get it due to the cost vs cold weather being about over. I think you just convinced me to pull the trigger! I've got their H-harness, E&E pouch, Matilda pack, tactical top-cool lite tee shirt, and the Helikon-Tex polyester logo belt w/metal buckle that's only sold through their EU website.......So far it's all been made extremely well, is ridiculously durable and performs exactly as designed. I think they have some really awesome gear and clothing and will be around for a long time. DEFINITELY worth checking them out of you haven't yet! Excellent review brother, thanks! ~ Chesapeake

[@KimberlyGreen]

Hold out until summer, for two reasons: [1] possible price change because of the warm weather & [2] by summer, countries in the EU are really going to be struggling economically due to the effects of the current pandemic. The cash infusion will help them.

[@WoodyAndy]

Cool! I was looking at these a few weeks ago and wondering whether they might be any good. I love Helikon Tex gear. I reckon this is next on my list, thanks for the review, atb from the UK, Andy

[@piereb10]

Using helikon-tex alot. Cheap and awsome. Love pants and jackets they got. Im sold on their products. Im Lucky torsdag live in sweden so i can order it and within 48 hrs i got them to the door. Only negativ is their messurement tables. They are little bit bigger on pants.

[@bellicostevet1388]

The side zippers that go all the way up are also mainly for those that wear a rig whether its a vest or chest rig so you can access your equipment.

[@ronalddekoster8198]

HT gear is simply great. Nothing more, nothing less.

[@KrispyKrink]

I’ve had their Cumulus Fleece for a few weeks. Comfortable and warm. Recently ordered their Urban softshell but that’s coming from their main store in Poland. Given current events I’m not expecting to see it for quite a while.

[@mohamadqais392]

Thank you very, very, very much. I liked the previous video and wanted to ask you about it 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@jop714]

Perfect if waterproof. Especially for bug out situations.

[@benterwellen]

Finally found one in italy 3x good price.........Fabulous Anorak as is all their products, they are just hard to find without being price gouged...

[@MarcinBednarek22101979]

I'm using it as well.Next buy will be Pilgrim Anorak and Pilgrim pants from Helikon-tex. Very good stuff for Bushcraft,Camping and Outdoors. Pricing is also good for quality aswell. Fjallraven is a trademark but pricing is sky high level in comparison with Helikon.

[@SheepDogActual]

Thanks Luke.

[@Fedaykin8]

Haha I was just looking at this exact jacket/color on Amazon the other day and did some research on it! I held off getting it because I *just* dropped a pretty penny on a Fjallraven Vidda Pro jacket and I absolutely love the thing. Helikon-TEX is a great company though, they are super budget friendly and everything that I have gotten from them so far (various pants, a fleece and some bags) has been superb quality and design for the most part. I'm testing out one of their tarps right now actually!

[@spearheadnotary4271]

Great Video

[@oldskoolrncffup8300]

I like the jacket and the colors that's pretty nice.

[@chadwayne892]

I'm looking forward to the review on the pants. A lot of nylon hiking style pants do not lend themselves to carrying a concealed weapon - either pocket carry because the pocket material is weak or belt carry because the loops don't allow for a strong/wide enough belt.

[@bbqguy777]

The only negative thing I have to say is you’re wearing it and not me, LOL! Another great review as always!

[@ReasontoLiveAdventures]

Now that is super sweet anorak. For me, the best features are the side zippers. I only have about 30% feeling on the left side of my body(mini-stroke during brain surgery) and sometimes even putting a normal shirt on can be tricky. I’ll definitely be watching the pants review as I’m looking to buy a new pair of outdoor trousers soon. Your review of the TruSpec 24/7 pants led me to buy a pair and I love them, but it’s time to replace an old pair of 5.11’s.

[@marcusmckenzie9528]

Your review methodolgy should be considered Masterclass, very impressive Channel! Thank you for your time and best efforts!

[@trident1012]

It seems prety good!

[@dps2730]

I have the Mistral. It’s excellent. Well worth the money.

[@mikeyd5486]

I concur!

[@lmbraga]

I just received my Woodsman Anorak after being on back-order for 2 months. It is a great peace of gear. I saw many videos about it before committing to buying it and this was the video that convinced me. And it did not disappoint. Thanks! Will try the dwr treatment you recommended in the other video, so I can use it more in Portugal winter conditions.

[@archi-mendel]

Hey Luke, I was looking at exactly this jacket the whole previous week and was trying to give myself an answer to "should I buy it". Now it looks I don't have any choice :)

[@engineeredlifeform]

I'm quite a fan of Helikon Tex SFU pants, wore out one pair of the lightweight trousers, but then I have dogs and easily walk ~2000 miles per year, so I burn through kit. Got the heavyweight twill, and a new pair of lightweights. Heavyweights have taken a beating, only needed to re-sew a button here or there. Cannot fault them for the price, all the pockets are in just the right places, they are comfortable, durable, and tbh, a no brainer, just buy, and wear, they'll do the rest.

[@johnsole6847]

Hi Luke, try strapping the waist belt from your backpack through the pocket, that way you can still put your hands in there. Awesome channel by the way👍

[@nurse28707]

Like the look and design features...since it is great for wind resistance, how would you layer (what would you layer) for a rainy windy hike?

[@geruner]

Very comprehensive review. A versatile product. Would wonder about the spark resistance and beyond the canvas. Good starter item. What about cleaning it?

[@GeneralLee69]

Superb brand! I´m very pleased with the UTP pants and the hoodie. The Numbat also met all my expectations! No more Fjällräven for me, I just can´t see how they justify their pricing, compared to Helikon Tex...

[@achimgeist5185]

I can highly recommending the Fjällräven Anorak No.8, top quality and extremely durable 👍

[@achimgeist5185]

@Hendrik Garnkäufer Yes the Fjällräven Anorak No.8 is expensive, but believe me, the quality is absolute outstanding. I have my Anorak No.8 several years, was never spared (everyday life or outdoors) and my Anorak No.8 looks as good as new...

[@lonniet.2816]

I like this jacket alot!

[@WallyMerc06]

I bought some of their gear to go hunting in and it's been fantastic. Durable, buttons and zips work, comfortable etc. The only thing about helikon with clothing is the sizing. Be sure you look at the sizing charts or reference the reviews on amazon.

[@andreamaccanti2241]

how tall are you, what size did you get, are you EU or US?

[@americanclassicmetal7913]

Just got back from a 5 day hunt in the Utah Rockies. I wore the Helikon-Tex Pilgrim top and bottom. On the 4th day at 9000 feet in the Rockies, it was 15 degrees, blowing 40 mph with gust up to 60 mph and snowing sideways. My Helikon-Tex Gear preformed flawlessly. 2 thumbs way up.

[@JJ-JOHNSON]

I love my anorak from Helikon Tex.

[@deanmartin9358]

hey Luke enjoying your video's i'd love to have a go but we don't get winters like that here in the uk

[@SuperBlackheart99]

Hey Luke, since you seem to be liking the Helikon-Tex gear you've tried so far, I'd love to get your take on they're Pilgrim pants & see how they compare to the Fjallraven Vidda pros. Thanks & as always, great vid.

[@SuperNeutrophil]

Also purchased and love this jacket. Any suggestions on how to treat for waterproofing besides waxing?

[@gagetman69jeffhebert32]

I have two products from Helikon-Tex, the fox trot belt rig witch I love and their GI poncho, soon I will get the swagman bed roll for it . Love their products . I the Anorak wind proof, and how warm is it

[@Sturmer69]

bought it a year ago, and have been using it for hiking, mountainbiking, daily life and I even wear it when arresting criminals.

[@cliff8101]

I have ben taking notice of Helikon... i like the swagman's roll one complaint which is probably a good one for a company to have out of stock on a lot of items.... We keep up requesting reviews he'll be out in the woods so much Susie will be a bushcraft widow.

[@jameshewitt8828]

Love it, looks great, be a great combo with my vidda pro trousers

[@cjaneAlaska]

The anorak style was invented by the St Lawrence Island Yupik people’s of Alaska. Absolutely the best style of parka in Alaska. Especially with a nice wolf ruff to keep your face from freezing

[@benterwellen]

I have several helikon and would have more, if they didn’t have so many out of stocks, they make quality items at a low price, I was in Poland last year after going to numerous stores I finally scored on a jacket, helikon is from Poland and they also experience out of stocks....

[@taffdavies35]

Love this....but.....try the helikon tex pilgrim jacket..and trousers..even better. In my humble opinion....keep up the excellent work my friend.