- Base Layer: wicks sweat away from the skin (Merino/synthetics, no cotton).
- Mid Layer: provides warmth (fleece or synthetic insulation jacket).
- Outer/Shell: protects against wind/rain (Softshell = breathable, Hardshell = waterproof with taped seams).
When the weather develops a certain dynamic between seasons - too warm for a winter jacket, yet too cold for a Hawaiian shirt - it places special demands on your wardrobe and calls for Operation Transitional Jacket. As always, at the start of the layering season, we’ve got you covered with a curated selection of high-performance garments that provide the right textile mix to keep morale high in unpredictable conditions.
(l.t.r.) Helikon-Tex - Wolfhound Hoodie Jacket Climashield, Arc’teryx - Atom Jacket LT Men's
For maintaining warmth during breaks on the trail, morning coffee in a bivouac, or late evening walks, lighter insulation jackets are now sufficient - and much easier to pack into a smaller backpack when not in use. The Carinthia G-LOFT Windbreaker provides all-around warmth and, thanks to its discreet collar, can also be worn easily as a warming midlayer. The Carinthia TLG Jacket is particularly lightweight and supports a wide range of movement for demanding activities. As a reliable backup in your pack, insulated jackets with a hood - such as the Carinthia G-LOFT ESG Jacket and the Helikon-Tex Wolfhound Hoodie - stand out. They take up minimal space and, when worn, offer full upper-body comfort.
(l.t.r.) Helikon-Tex - Squall Hardshell Jacket, Helikon-Tex - Chinook Jacket
As winter cold fades and is replaced by cool drizzle or refreshing wind, hardshell jackets prove their value as a protective barrier against the elements. The Squall hardshells from Helikon-Tex bring a high-tech highlight to the rainwear lineup of the rough season - available in both a men’s version and an anatomically tailored option for women. A highly professional and effective barrier against precipitation and storm gusts is provided by the Arc’teryx PRO Alpha Jacket LT Men’s Gen 2.2 or the Tilak Raptor MiG Jacket. While the Carinthia Loftshell Hydro and the Helikon-Tex Chinook integrate seamlessly into everyday civilian carry, the UF Pro Monsoon XT Gen 2 stands out with exceptional durability and maximum protection for demanding outdoor operations.
(l.t.r.) Carinthia - Softshell Jacket SpezKr, Tilak Military Gear - Noshaq Jacket
With rising temperatures and increased physical activity, breathability becomes essential - something waterproof membranes simply cannot fully provide. To maintain protection against light rain and energy-draining wind, softshell jackets are the first choice. The UF Pro Delta Eagle delivers reliable all-round protection across a wide range of scenarios, while the Carinthia Softshell Jacket SpezKr, with its hybrid construction, performs just as well in the harsh downwash of a helicopter as it does on a windy hike across open terrain. Maximum mobility combined with high wearing comfort and balanced protection is achieved by both the UF Pro Hunter FZ Gen 3 and the innovative Carinthia Loftshell Climate. These modern softshell jackets are highly functional on their own and can also be combined with a hardshell as a lightly insulating midlayer.
(l.t.r.) Helikon-Tex - Tracer Anorak Jacket, Leo Köhler - Einsatzkampfjacke KSK Smock
Activities in dense undergrowth, working around a campfire, or building a shelter require more than just weather protection - they demand specific material properties provided by durable cotton-blend fabrics. As an outer layer over a base or midlayer, Helikon-Tex jackets such as the Woodsman Anorak and SAS Smock offer the right protection against abrasion and sparks through the intelligent use of DuraCanvas. The Leo Köhler Einsatzkampfjacke KSK Smockis unmatched in terms of carrying capacity, offering ample space for extensive bushcraft and survival gear. For streamlined setups in active outdoor environments, the Helikon-Tex Tracer Anorak provides a solid foundation with well-balanced storage options for essential equipment.
Whether it’s insulation, weather protection, or a durable outer layer - the right setup ultimately comes down to your needs. By combining clothing layers intelligently, you can handle varying conditions and fully enjoy the moment. Our transitional jacket selection is designed to help you spend less time browsing and more time outdoors - where it matters.
*DWR = Durable Water Repellent. A special surface treatment that makes water bead off the fabric instead of soaking in. Needs to be refreshed regularly.
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