The A.I.P insulation pad

Prologue.

In this review I´m going to give you a quick detailed look into the ''AIP'' – the Ambush insulated pad.

The project was originally made by OSO Gear and field tested by Project Gecko. After half a year in field activities and different weather conditions we decided to move to the next phase and to introduce it officially. The review itself will focus on 3 topics:

• The importance

• Specs and small details

• Efficiency vs Effectiveness

While it may be used for many activities rather than ''Ambush'', we took the word ambush from the IDF slang for those kind of mattresses \pads.

So lets go.

The Importance.

The most common insulated pad you will see on the market is the sleeping pad. While the only differences between the 'AIP' & sleeping pads are width & length, both are mostly expected to insulate your body from the cold. Any kind of camping pad would be expected to be both cushioning & insulating – the crucial part is its ability to insulate your body from the cold.

But wait a second, why should I use an insulation pad anyway?

1.Hypothermia

Hypothermia is the main reason rather than comfort. Hypothermia occurs when the body can no longer produce more heat than it is losing. That precious heat that we require for normal metabolism and body functions. Out of my military experience, Hypothermia is something that could hit anyone at any level of professionalism and requires awareness.

2. Bugs \ Insects

Some places on our green planets are remarkably beautiful. Within this beauty there exists a wide range of wild life – insects. It doesn´t matter if you are military or civilian, it really sucks to sit down for few hours in a specific place feeling the entire ecological system of your area climbing up into your ass. While good clothes are also a factor, a good comfortable pad may decrease the amount of bugs finding there to you.

3. Wet

Ok, let me start with this. – This pad is not 100% water resistant. With that being said, if you like to sit outside in the rain and count rain drops, then maybe it´s not for you. The AIP will be useful when you want to sit on wet surfaces. Such as wet moss (on stones for example) or even snow.

Specs and small details.

• Dimensions: 39 x 34 cm
• Camouflage print: GreenZone by Pencott
• Material: Cordura 1000D
• Insulation material GalFoam
• Weight: 230 gramm

The design of the AIP could easily bring up associations with chocolate bars. The guys at OSO divided the surface of the AIP into 8 different cells. The idea comes from foam insulation, which is commonly used in walls or roofs for example. Without going into to much confusing information – dividing the insulation into 8 different cells gives each cell self-sufficiency in insulation and comfort ability. Further more, the cells design gives the AIP a great flexibility within the different elevation it might be used upon.

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The insulation material

GalFoam is a substance produced in rolls using injection technology. GalFoam is particularly suitable for acoustic and thermal insulation in the construction, air conditioning, sports, camping and other markets. The use of Palziv’s raw materials is extending the capabilities and basic features of various products, providing such benefits as ultra-high density, anti-static, conductive, elastic, flame retardants, durability and UV and more.

The GalFoam capabilities

• Durability

• Resistance to harsh climatic conditions

• Resistance to chemicals and fluids

• Shock absorption

• Light weight

• Convenience and ease of processing

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Efficiency VS Effectiveness

Like in most products it´s a thin line. While efficiency would focus on stuff like packing capability & storage requirement (in your backpack for example), effectiveness would focus on the product capability to be really useful rather than looking good.

Efficiency

The AIP is relative compact. Thanks to the designs the pad is pretty flexible upon storage. Aside of the compact storage capability, the AIP has a really light weight (230 gramm), so the it could be a great solution for users with limited weight carry. All in all the AIP delivers a compact efficiency under a decent weight.

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Effectiveness

Simple to use, quick to deploy or store – the AIP does not consume time and gets straight to work. While inflatable pads requires some time and noise (!)– the AIP is ready to go. Another factor is the reflection \ shine. Since it´s covered by 1000D Cordura, it does not reflects light or shines. The AIP is also more than just a seat. I used it personally as a support surface for a barrel of a sniper rifle, or a working sheet for tools, etc. However, the options are various, and the result is one – effectiveness. The ''Cells'' design (mentioned above) allows the AIP to obtain different angles of use, perfect for different terrain elevations.

Another pretty effective characteristic, which OSO implanted in his AIP, is the finnish and cover of edges & bottom. The guys at OSO picked up the spots which potentially could decrease significantly its life span over excessive used. The bottom of the pad (as you can see in the picture below) got 4 lines of strong webbing which should receive most of the pressure and rubbing.

Summary

The AIP is an insulation pad which gives the end user the ability to sustain nature temperatures in most climates. Aside of the insulation capability it provides comfort ability and efficiency towards packing, organizing etc.

The AIP insulation pad Available at : http://tinyurl.com/pv532y3

Thank you for reading.

Eli

-Project Gecko-

The Participant impression project (Part 1)

We at Project Gecko decided to lunch a small project called ''Participants Impressions'' under this project, we will post testimonies of various clients which participated in some of our programs. We interviewed different guys from different backgrounds, from Military & LEO's to Civilians.

This time we got to interview Sebastian (On the picture)from Germany.Sebastian is one of our most active clients.He was a key team member in the previous 'Alps expedition' last June,2014.

The interview.

►Whats the point in coming to such a course that is not only physical demanding, but also mentally ?

 ▷''Well, i could say it is a challenge and bla bla like you hear often these days. Yeah it is, or better, it should be like that. Only then these seminars give me a way to learn more about my self and to see what i actually can do and where i lack in all those little things that come up. And there is a lot, for sure. But it is a good feeling every time you can close one of those gaps in your variety of abilities. Of course, i also enjoy all the material stuff, running around with my gear, using and adapting it.I am no soldier after all, but i do like adventures and the tickling feeling called adrenaline.''

►You participated in the Alps. Why ? and what did you learn / keep with you after this experience?

 ▷''The answer is just a few lines up ;) But this time it was just „more“ of that all. Every time i am trying to find the line where i can´t go any further, and try to overcome. And honestly it is not that common that i succeed, but i am working on it.''

►Would you recommend it ? do you think its for everyone ?

 ▷''Yes I do. But I am not sure if it is for everyone. I think you shouldn’t join in here from zero, concerning your mindset. Otherwise, no one who falls in this category would book those seminars anyway…We all know its not about Airsoft \ Milsim Games.. its more than that. Whats that about for you.It might sound harsh but being truly honest, yes, in some ways i am a wannabe. There is no other word for that. But i can live with that and i enjoy to learn and develop myself piece by piece, trying to come as close as i can get. Not in the bragging´ gearwankin´ way i am sure you now from all across the Internet. Now don´t get me wrong, i like gear a lot and i am spending a lot (too much) money on it, but ist because it performs better for me and not to impress or cover up other weak spots''

►You been participating since the very beginning. Did any of the program's ever helped you in your daily life ?

▷''Maybe not straight, but yes i am sure it had a certain impact. Most of it concerns my confidence. F.e. i never thought i had any good use in leading a team, but i was proven wrong. Also working under stress and making fast decisions. Those things where a weakness of mine quite some time (at least in my mind), but it improved immensely.''

►What do you think of Project Gecko?

▷''Until now i am pretty positive about it and even if i dont know where it will be in a few years, i am confident. There is so much more you could do, the list is endless. Its just the time and the money that slows down. I hope i will have the honor to be part of it for a long time…''

►Thank you Sebastian for this interview.

UF PRO Striker XT Pants evaluation

UF PRO STRIKER XT Evaluation

-Part 2-

by Eliran Feilboy, Project Gecko

Welcome to my second part of the UF PRO Striker XT combat uniform evaluation. In part 2, I am going to dress the Striker XT pants.

But first, lets go back in time...just a little bit. During my service we used different types of pants, normally the American uniform, but most of the time we used the standard IDF pants with hand made modifications (velcros, etc).

During one of our final phases, we had to perform a 'lone wolf' navigation exercise which consisted of around 45-55% body weight and only 2 hours per day looking into your map. Yes, we were not allowed to do the actual navigation with maps at hand and no, there was no GPS. It´s all about stars and memorizing your route. We normally call this navigation the ''Sea to Sea'' navigation. We basically started on Acre shore (west coast line of Israel ) and the extraction (ending point) LZ was the Sea of Galilee. Soon as I reached it, my officer canceled under a specific scenario and I received 1 hour to climb-with the entire equipment–to the LZ on its top.

72km lone navigation. without need to say - quickly it escalated above the 72km.

Its also important to set a few remarks. During specific topographic points, there was a team of graduated soldiers which had to 'hunt' us with thermal equipment, making this whole party even harder towards maintaining a good grade. The results of this entire phase effects directly your ability to continue to the final phases of the qualification.

'Mount Arbel' - the side we climbed. (not my picture)

The whole story is interesting, but I want to get to the point. Two things effected my performance that 3 critical days - Gear & knowledge. See, the pants I used were typical IDF pants. Not so far in their material from the German issued pants. The IDF pants are ok, they can be comfortable under 'regular' use, and can sustain some damage. However, for me the problem always was the flexibility & efficiency.

Lets go quick through the problems (equipment related) I faced during that 3 days.

• -efficiency
• -breathing capability
• -weak belt rings
• -knee protection
• -durability

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Stretch material.

Ok, I´m not going to write the obvious but – the stretch material in this pants is beyond just stretch. It´s a really living existence, which allows you to do things better. Simply as that – special as that. I already used a few stretch trendy pants, most got ripped or just failed to deliver flexibility once soak with water \sweat. Thing is, the Striker XT really offers you flexibility, and not only that, the butt stock is really comfortable. I did had a chance to hear to hear people complain over the ''too much lack of concealment on the ass piece''. Since 99% of those reading this are not black ops,and even than, thats not really a problem. The part of your ass is a part that often is irregular. Why? We all know why, especially the gifted ones among us. Having an elastic butt stock which fits and receives 100% original shape of your body is just incredible. This is great for many activity’s. From climbing to rappelling, parachuting or sitting in a DPV\SOV for 72hours desert patrol.

Operational capability

Normal BDU pants can turn into a cage when made out of a bad material. Especially when you head wet & sand into the equation. Therefore having this kind of stretch material is a clear up to date advantage.

Silence

Another aspect, which I find great. During stealth movement, the areas in your pants that provides noise, are often the pelvis and the knees. The stretch material in the Striker XT significantly reduces the amount of noise the pants produce. Another great advantage.

''Through ice & fire''

During the trip to the Alps, as mentioned in the previous part we went trough tons of rain, water & dirt.

As approaching the 2000m above sea level, the temperatures started to drop, add the wind blows on the ridge and you got a bit of ice. Personally, the stretch material kept serving me well, even when it was completely fucked up by the weather. The feeling I had, was equal to wearing a good glove. Fits comfortable, and is simply...there.

1950m+ Above sea level.

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Pockets

Lets go through the different pockets on the Striker XT.

The thigh pockets

Such big pockets are nothing rare or special in the industry today. But I will tell you why this pockets are great. During our trip to the Alps I used one of my leg drop Admin kit. Inside I had really a lot of items. From maps to markers, compass, mufti-tool, grenade, survival kit and extra 5.56 mag. And even a small tuna can (don´t ask, it was a dire situation up there). With all of those things packed rather tight inside, and placed on my left thigh – I lose my left thigh pocket...normally.

Well guess what, I didn’t really lose that pocket. Well indeed, I can´t really have a 100% clean access to eat, but thanks to the side zipper, I could still put inside rather small or flat items, such as a map, pills, and small documents. Indeed I lost 70% carrying capability by putting a drop leg pouch...but still – I could use that pocket. In other pants this is something you can forget about. Now that was the most extreme situation, you can say. What about Holsters ? So I tried a holster, and had no issue reaching some 2 pistol magazines (p8) inside, though of course, pulling them in & out is not really the quickest, but those who know the size of the P8 magazines...would clearly recognize the benefits here.

Note the pocket & the holster.

If it´s still not convincing you to have two possibilities to enter the pockets – then read this. When sitting down or leaning, often opening the pockets is nothing, but a very annoying thing, and often a gateway for losing things in the field ( a big sin in the IDF). Specially with tons of equipment that also limits your 'near' vision (belt, waist pockets, etc). So when you have another possibility & capability to both access and actually see the pocket and it´s inside while siting or leaning, it is a great thing to have, which is not also improving your comfort, but also ensuring the safety of your items.

This is another indication of the way of thinking by UF PRO. This little detail of maximum of access, EVEN if something by default covers the pocket, shows that someone, somewhere in UF PRO lair – knows what he is doing!

The Tab' pocket

Ok, this pocket I used less, out of the simple fact that I don´t carry really phones in the field. However, I found this pocket quite interesting. You can still benefit from it for many items. From a multi-tool (leather man) to a P8 magazine. I find the use of a magazine in this type of pocket as a nice advantage, specially for the LE personal. Since this 'tab pocket' consist of no zipper or velcros, its opening makes it extremely quiet, and even fast! This kind of capability is great in some specific environments.

But I want to focus on something else that I tried out. Out of my experience, there are 3 things I must have on my combat equipment, doesn’t matter what. A bandage, a tourniquet...and an airway. Why? Experience taught me, that airway can save lives, simple. For me the three things mentioned above must be very accessible, and also easy to remember upon utility memory. So I tried inserting, and actually to spend a day with the airway in my pocket during one of our CQB courses. I have to say that it was great. Unlike I was thinking, the airway did not fell or drooped. I really liked it.

*Do note – locating the airway in this compartment is not the best option, due to some airways are being made of a non shock resistance material, which can result in their immediate break under pressure.

The center pocket \ Knife pocket

This pocket is located more on the center \ front of each leg piece. The pocket is relative simple. Again no velcro \ zipper. The pocket is very, very good for knifes, multi tools...and pistol magazines!

I´m not a big fan of things that can fall off or giving me the feeling of 'losing things behind', but this pocket can hold pistol magazines really good! I personally used the P8 & Sig-Sauer 226 magazines – and each magazine fitted it perfectly ! A great plus for a quick reload or even just for having a fast access to your magazine during range time...

Regarding knifes in this pocket – I am not a fan of having a knife flying around in my pocket. Doesn’t matter how secured or how many fail safes it or I have. But this pocket allows you to isolate and really 'fix' its position, resulting in two capability – the first & obvious, a good & secure compartment and second, a clear and easy to remember storage location. Professionals who work on their utility memory muscle (some of us really do it) will find this as a great and comfortable feature.

Lower leg pocket

A very good simple pocket. Another way of getting the maximum out of the pants. Personally I find it really good for storing first aid bandages (Israeli bandage). In fact, this pocket is big enough to contain the OLAES Modular bandage. You could also store in this pocket your small emergency\survival kit. I tried it also – it fits in, and you don’t feel it.

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Double belt loops

Well this is another great thinking by UF PRO. Technically, there are two belt rings circles. The first circle is the normal belt ring, which allows your belt to go through it. The second circle is basically made of loops which can be opened or closed with a button. I found it extremely useful when I wanted to mount during a training a small thin version of a 'battle belt'. All I needed to do is to close those rings around the belt and that’s it, tight, secured and ready to go...this is very useful for the widely used duty belts (which most gouvernment organizations use). What I personally really liked in the way UF PRO made this loops, was the operational thinking of those 'buttons' in each loops.

Duty belt with a P8 Holster & 3 magazine holders.

See, most company’s would simply place the button, and making it visible,that’s it. But not here by concealing the external button texture the Striker XT maintains a perfect concealment capability, even in the small details, call me a whiner – but this kind of 'metal' buttons can wear off their color and reflect sun light (!).

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Zippers in the Striker XT pants.

Overall

I find the zippers outstanding. For sometime we all wondered what is smarter & 'operationally correct' to have, buttons, velcros or zippers ? Each has its thing, but the UF PRO zippers and their tabs are just great. First of all, in order to 'conceal' those zipper lines, there’s an extra 'cover' made above it. I know it is not nothing revolutionary, but there are a lot of tactical company’s who do not do that. They just put a zipper,just like in flight suits, and that all. The fact that this zippers are not to long, or with anything that can get stuck any where in the forest for example – makes it a big positive thing for me.this is great this zippers will not get stuck in nothing.

The pipe zipper

Ok, ladies – this is not for you. What I extremely like,and it was also the first thing I have seen, was the ability to open the pelvis zipper in both directions, means if you got a heavy holster \drop leg pouch, which normally puts some weight on the pants, you can open the pelvis from the other direction without using the waist balance. Great for quick release....awesome !

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The Width-adjustable feature

Another favorite part.....Each part of the pants has within its lower part, just above the boots – a small pocket. This pocket contains a shock cord with a clips that can control how tight or lose you want the pants to be in that area. This is really great out of few reasons. The first one, is that many LE organizations, and even military’s having a dress code that requires you to 'lock' your pants above the boots the second reason is more operational – the idea of keeping the area of the lower leg literally isolated from the outside world is really great, not always..but mostly. Imagine this – laying down in a forest for 24 hours. Ton of bugs and tics....normally, since you will be concealed and well covered..those bugs often 'infiltrating' under your cloths either from the waist between the pants \ shirt or from your hills. This little bugs can make a simple task as laying & 'watching' a nightmare.

It´s also a great way to make sure that that part of the pants, will be really closed without using things such as Rubber band or so which can get easily off or lost.

The fact that this compartment, is closed by a zipper, the shock cord is fixed by a velcro – makes it highly efficient, smart and also durable, making sure that nothing will get in your way or limits you, while in the same time it will still remaining comfortable. The whole design of this pocket once again shows the very micro detail that UF PRO is playing with.

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Knee pads

So like many modern combat pants, this pants are coming along with integrated knee pads. The knee pad system (yes it deserves the title system) in the pants is outstanding. The knee pad section is divided into two compartments.

External – #For maximum hard protection against solid stuff.

Interior – #Second protection, and more soft for the knee itself.

This combination of two layers is superior. It gives us more freedom for adding\decreasing a protection capability, and maximizing the efficiency of the protection. But what is really unique here is the 150%, flexibility by the protection layers. I used two types supplied by UF PRO

The Solid- Protectors & the softer Flex- SAS-TEC Protectors.

The combination of both flexibility & maximum protection against sharp objects, such as rocks in green side or pieces of glass, or sharp metal objects in urban environment for example, is a huge advantage which many knee pads simply won´t give you.

Freedom of access

What I liked with those compartments is the freedom of access. I can access both compartments relatively easy. The only thinking that stands in my way is either a zipper or a velcro. Both are designed in a way which is more reachable and easier for extracting, unlike the crye-knee pads for example.

Efficiency

Speaking out of experience, sometimes there are injuries that requires full access to the knee for putting a bandage, splinter for example. When it is so crucial, we can just cut it of course, but what about minor injuries, such as a twisted knee? Where a improvised splint is required, an easy access to your body parts is highly important. The Striker XT offers such a freedom of access, that I can easily remove the protectors off my knee, and apply a splint around my knee or anything else that´s needed.

'Operational efficiency' #1

One of the things I like in the design of the StrikerXT is the rather soft finish, unlike many modern combat pants. This kind of finish is giving the end user the ability to remain quiet.

''What does quiet has to do with it ?''

When you move in a very rocky environment, or an Urban environment, where the surface is strong & solid, every knee or movement on the ''plastic'' piece will produce noise. In my unit, we took this issue very serious. Again it might sound like being bitchy, but it was a major point. We used to tape a thick sponge material on the top of our knee pads to prevent the knee pads plastic cover from making any contact while crawling, kneeling or just leaning against something, as it will make noise.

'Operational efficiency' #2

Since we are already talking about flexible movements – the design of the knees allows you to really perform a way beyond any normal BDU or other tactical pants. The design of the knee protection is outstanding. While standing, the majority of the knee, and beyond is still protected. Unlike the crye version, you can make it tighter with a velcro, which obviously at a first glance might look weird or less effective, but if you choose the precise size (thanks to my wife), than you will get a maximum protection.

Back to the point, when kneeling down, the knee protection section receives it´s shape, which provides an outstanding protection, but still don´t get in your way when your elbow leans against your knee.

Most people, doesn’t know much about the individual skill, but when shooting from a kneeling position, it is very important that the elbow won´t meet the knee. Its either you lean it in front or behind the knee. Why ? Many reasons, but the main reason is to prevent the unstable grip, whichis normally caused by the slippery surface of the common ''plastic'' pads.

The Flexibility

The flexibility of the protection layers them self is also remarkable. I mean damn it. Look on it, the first layer, as can be seen, can receive different angles of shape, which anyway are beyond the common angles. The second layer is also very, very flexible. I found it extremely comfortable during proning. Back in my service, as a sniper, I felt very uncomfortable with the casual knee pads. While laying down for 48-72 hours in an observation mission, the feeling was like I have a hill between my feets & the lower back since the knee pad normally was 'lifting' up a bit my knee, something you feel after 3 hours. But the UF PRO protection layers had the ability to adopt the elevation & pressure, and to remain comfortable.

The problem

This is something personally that was a bit uncomfortable. The pads I received were not soft enough, now I know that some people like it soft and some doesn’t really feel it – but as someone that carries a lot, and also, like any other soldier after a couple of years I have a 90 years old grandpa knees, it is crucial for me to have some kind of a bit thicker pads. Since the compartment is easily reachable, as mentioned above – you can just cut a good sponge \ any soft material and insert it.

Breathing capability

Unlike many knee protection sets I used in my life, the clear advantage here is the breathing capability. You can walk for 12 hours, and the area around your knee will still feel comfortable.

Summary

• Creative - The quiet pockets,the ''V'' shape cut and other features in this pants are new, or improved, i mean really improved.
• Efficient - Definitely. integrated two outstanding protection layers that will make sure your knees are safe - under any angle or pressure.aside the knee protection, the layout of the pockets,its quality and positioning of the access point gives us a simple way, to ''communicate'' with this pants. no bullshit, just functionality - LIKE !
• Durable - Very durable. i used it through rain,rocks,sweat...The green zone print was just fine - no fading. i was crawling, and rubbing this equipment so much - no rips.
• Comfortable - More than just very.
• Innovative - Definitely....once again we can see how micro leveled UF PRO way of doing things is.

After finishing the total evaluation of the Striker Xt pants, i can say that i am more than happy to have the privilege to test such a magnificant peice of equipment. personally i am going to follow UF PRO's work in the future. im convinced, that if they will keep the same level and mindset - it will be interesting, very interesting.

If you never heard of UF PRO, check their website out NOW ! www.ufpro.si

Thank you for reading,

Eli

UF PRO Striker XT evaluation - The Combat shirt

UF PRO STRIKER XT Evaluation

-Part 1-

by Eliran Feilboy, Project Gecko

It was the year 2013, when I was introduced by a friend to UF PRO & Pencott's Green Zone. I was mostly skeptic, like the IDF taught me, regarding fashion & equipment. But it wasn’t too long, until I had a chance to see UF PRO's equipment in 'action'. I was still not convinced, but the name itself, followed by a remarkable, yet somewhat new level of professionalism, kept ringing a bell. Long story short – I didn’t became a 'fan' or 'temporary fashion influenced' by UF PRO. I became addicted, and most important – convinced 150% in their work and vision. And that´s how our evaluation, which is based on two main environments, to the outstanding Striker XT started.

STRIKER XT COMBAT SHIRT

CAMO PATTTERN: PENCOTT GREENZONE

As someone that comes from a hot country, with a relative high humidity – Combat uniform with a breathing capability and quick drying functionality, is more than just another ''plus'' – its a clear advantage.

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During a SUT training

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Young cadets, during Basic training. after the SF selection.

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We used to work very often in hot climates. Carrying a payload of 40-50% of your body weight including your plate carrier sometimes, followed by a sun that follows you during the entire day, will cause you to sweat like a donkey. The problem I personally had, was not the sweating itself, but the moments after it. See, the problem was, that normally, even if I finally reached my initial point, nothing guaranteed that my shirt \ jacket would be dry the next day. And if it was dry...it was always becoming so stiff, that it had its own uncompromising shape, which means wearing it again was horrible. Why horrible? Mostly because it kept me inefficient, and uncomfortable. My IDF jacket for example was really durable & strong, but when it came down to breathing capability’s...ironically it failed.

So how does the UF PRO Striker XT combat shirt performs than?

I think that every environment opens a door to different adventures and risk factors, especially an environment like mountains. I tested the Striker XT Shirt during our 4-days Alps Seminar in Austria. That whole seminar was a simulation of the principals of movement & individual cooperation with such a demanding environment. I carried up to 32-34 kg and so did the rest of the team. During our climb the weather was completely unstable. We have been through 24 hours of non stopping rain and even a small nearby thunderstorm. Due to the weather and the time fraction to the Objective we were cut off of our backpacks, extra water & food for 24 hours, and we found ourselves in a mini real survival situation. We crossed various topographic landscapes full of snow & some ice, we climbed and crossed small cliffs with a strong wind blowing, and a constant fog that reveals only what is 10 meters away from you. We were completely soaked and exhausted. Definitely an environment that will not tolerate bad equipment.

Personally, my rain prof gear above the green zone was completely torn after 6-7 hours of walking in that environment. Both the Striker XT Pants & combat shirt were completely soaked through by not only sweat, but now also rain. Being not my first time in heavy rain shower, I expected the StrikerXT to limit my movement, and to deliver an uncomfortable feeling of wet equipment.

But no.The shirt felt awesome. Especially around the shoulders & collar. Despite the fact it was so wet, I still had a good freedom of movement. When we finally took the objective and had a small shelter from the rain, I could literally feel how my skin was breathing through the shirt. It felt cold of course, but the shape of the shirt remained normal, and so was the feeling.

I have to say that, out of experience, this is really awesome. When you are diving, swimming or doing any high end activity that includes a lot of water \sweat – the clothes will often get 'stuck' to your body as the water were glue. It always has been a disadvantage, and a very uncomfortable feeling. Every lean, crawling, or even carrying; anything becomes agony.

After around 15 minutes in that cover finally the rain weakens and we started the movement to the next possible shelter. This time, I moved without my rain gear on the shirt. It was outstanding. The chest \ back piece itself was relative dry, or lets say not really soaked. Of course, the arm pieces were still wet, but the chest, back and arm pits were relative less wet...magic or not – that´s the moment I smiled, and most important – I gained confidence in my gear, which allowed me to continue even more determined to our next objective – shelter.

In the shelter we were all very wet, exhausted, and in serious need of food & water. We took out the emergency blankets, and started to hang up our equipment, so it can get dry over night next to the fire.

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It was a great chance for me, to check out how quick the Striker XT set dries. After 25min, the combat shirt was nearly entirely dry. Only the elbow protection pads, wrist parts, and the pockets inside were a little bit wet. Pants of course took some time, but the stretch material got entirely dry in less than 30min too.

So why am I so convinced by the UF PRO Striker XT combat shirt?

Air packs on the shoulders

8mm thick breathable air cushion are located on each shoulder in the combat shirt. Those were outstanding. Smart located, not so thin and not so short – making sure that, doesn´t matter which kind of strap crossing your shoulder, sling or backpack, you are protected. This is just more than outstanding, this is magic. While we climbed up the Alps I could clearly feel how comfortable it was for the first time, with those packs. And I´m telling you now – during my service, a good training meant a good pain, especially in the shoulders. For the very first time I had really less muscle sore or pain in the shoulders! This is literally the first time I deal with such weight without the familiar pain that always was there.

Collar & Zipper

Zipper

Under the Combat shirt I was wearing nothing. I was really interested to see, how the zipper will come into play in this combination. From my experience with other relative cheaper combat shirts, the zipper is something that you feel when there’s a plate carrier involve. I have to say, it was really comfortable. I did not feel the zipper at any given time, thanks to the NyCo Ripstop fabric that covers the zipper very well. Yet another thinking to the little details. Speaking of zipper, most pockets are closed by zippers. Like it or not...I think its smart. Less noise, and less dirt to get stuck in your velcro.

Collar

The Collar was very comfortable and easily adjustable. Unlike other collars, this one is able to receive any shape you would like it to gain. But what took my attention was the small finish of the left start of the collar. It´s like a small triangle hole, that allows the opposing side of the collar to fit in, in case and you want to completely close it.

Wrist pockets

Another favorite feature in the Striker XT C-shirt is the available pocket on each arm, just before the wrist. That smart location allows you to maintain a visual contact, even if you are currently limited by movement or in a tight place. The pocket is easy to open, thanks to a zipper. Inside there is an elastic band that allows you to secure & simply organize whatever you want to have inside. In my case, it was very efficient to secure numerous things, such as weatherproof papers, a small survival kit, lighter, and other very small First Aid related items. I find it extremely usefully feature.

Back in my past, there was something we called ''utility concentration control''. That means how to control many equipment pieces, and how to spread it in the smartest way among your carrying capability. Having survival kit, pistol & other 1st line equipment stored only on a chest piece (vest, pc, etc) is wrong. In case something goes wrong, and you lose your chest piece you will still have something left. That was when we realized, that the issued IDF combat suit was bad. We didn´t have many pockets available to store simple yet useful items. That was also how the first hand made 'battle belts' & the use of flight kombos started. Out of that need.

Wrist Velcros & overall shape

Without saying the obvious, I still want to focus on this one – my wrists are not big. Therefore it was important for me that the wrist piece will receive a perfect shape around my wrist when I close it. I used numerous C-shirts including IDF hand made variations (S13, etc) with Velcros, and I have never came across such a comfortable shape. It just fits perfect, even when there’s something in the wrist pockets.

Shoulder pocket \ compartments

Oh man, my favorite part!!! First of all, I hate Velcros of any kind – but i´ll explain it later. The shoulder compartments are smart, efficient and just perfect. Why? Well, easily accessible, quietly to open and relative strong. Lets go into micro details. – You are in contact. Your cover is thin, and any wrong unthoughtful move will expose a body part. I recognized in some other C-shirts I used, that the entry to the pocket was from the top and not from the side. That means...when you digging into your pocket, you are lifting up your elbow higher, than you would need if your pocket was accessible from the side. Might sound bitchy...but fact is a fact, try it out.

Velcros in the Striker XT C-Shirt

I hate Velcros on pockets. Why? Noise, illusion of securing capability, and the fact that a male Velcro can collect so much garbage from nature that cleaning it later will be time consuming. As someone who served in the IDF, it burns my soul to see something that is not 100% secured. I have to say that the Velcros in the Striker XT surprised me. First of all, the ones on the shoulders are relative strong, wide and offers a lot of space for all those patch whores. Second, I checked my wrist Velcros, and I had no garbage there. Luck or not, I think those Velcros have a really high quality, are strong & durable.

Drying a wet Striker XT C-shirt

Drying your shirt under direct sun or next to a heat source will cause it to harden. Unless you will try to dry it in some kind of a breeze (takes ages) the shirt will harden. Of course, it depends on what made it so wet (sea water, water, or just sweat) and what are the materials in the shirt. The Striker XT C-Shirt passed this test without a problem. Nothing got harden, not even the Nyco ripstop material. I even tried  it one more time under a direct sunlight, in a hot environment – the result was a bit of stiffness around the sleeves...but in overall, comfort ability & shape left like they were originally. That´s a big plus, if you are in a hot environment and you need to dry your shirt during concealment hours. Personally, every time we took, break of around 20 min, I noticed how quick some parts got dry. Unbelievable.

Rubbing \ Abrasions

Oh yes. We called it 'Shawarma ' (google it). Throughout my service, I carried mostly either a 65 or 90 Liter backpack full with surprises. The waist belt of the backpack almost always rubes your waist in according to your movement & the weight you carry. Since normally those waist belts are less breathable and supposed to hold your waist rather tight – that area is a potential reservoir of sweat. The impurities that sweating helps flushing out, can stay on your skin. When the skin begins to re-absorb them, pH factors change and can lead to irritation and rash. Add 5 days, high weight pressure of your backpack, and a bad shirt – and you got those rubbing like cuts on your waist.

UV exposure

That is something not every person is giving really a consideration, but still – some cheap camo prints, or cheap clothing material can fade \ even damage rather quick under intense UV exposure. Mountain environments, especially environments like the Alps, are a pretty exposed place for high UV exposure, since the air is cleaner and thinner at higher altitudes, so UV exposure is greater in the mountains than in the valleys. I looked carefully around my camo textures & color contrast and didn´t noticed any significant changes.

Breathing capability’s

This shirt has an amazing breathing capability. I used a plate carrier, a heavy backpack and still, despite the heat, I felt that I have a good air circulation. I believe that´s what kept me fresh during the 3rd day ascending under a very hot temperatures and strong UV for that time.

Elbow protection

Sadly I didn´t had with me the D3O® impact protection pads, which are the most interesting & promising protectors I have seen recently. I used some very simple padding’s, similar to the Crye paddings without that plastic piece. I have to say they were fitting very well. The actual design is a bit small than other C-shirts, which allows a better grip on the padding itself, ensuring that the protection is there, no matter where you go or in which stance you are.

Summary

• Creative - This is not the first combat shirt in the market - but i could clearly see the creativity,and courage behind this Cshirt. the small things.
• Efficient - definitely. with all those pockets,and its high accessability & a very impressive breathing \ drying capability this shirt is indeed,efficient.
• Durable - Yes. this shirt,as mentioned above - went through different climates,weight and conditions. basically an unforgiving environment. there was no damage done.
• Comfortable - Yes ! Very !
• Innovative - Yes. as UF PRO said, the Striker XT will set new standards in how we see combat suits. as a professional i can clearly see how much hours,thoughts,and headache there are behind this equipment.

GET THE SHIRT! I hope that more people will get into the UF PRO circle. Their equipment is being made with a very high level of standards, and made out of the best material in the market & still affordable. I see no possible way to regret \ return a Striker XT equipment piece. A complete summary you will find in the next part of this evaluation – The Striker XT Combat Pants.