I recently received the new XTU LT3 Jacket from 5.11 Tactical. It’s part of their V.XI™ line, which we’ll get to in a minute. What you need to know right off the bat is that this is one of the most comfortable jackets I’ve ever worn. And this is coming from a guy who lives in the upper Midwest, where outerwear is serious business.
What is the V.XI™ Collection?
5.11 Tactical has built a reputation for innovation and functionality, and the XTU LT3 Jacket embodies those traits perfectly. Their goal has long been to design and create high-quality gear that will function well in demanding situations. The V.XI™ line was designed in collaboration with top-tier teams. The products are durable and well-suited for professionals who demand high-performing gear.
XTU LT3 Jacket Specs
The jacket is available in five colors: Black, Range Red, Storm (gray), Ranger Green, or Dark Navy. I went with basic black for mine. The XTU LT3 has an adjustable hem with an internal shock cord system. Something I appreciate is that the back hem dips low enough to cover my butt, which helps with warmth.
The body is 100% nylon dobby, with durable taffeta panels located at high-wear areas. There’s a bit of swish noise as you walk about, but nothing obnoxious. The insulation is 100% polyester quilted PrimaLoft Gold. Grid fleece panels along the side body and underarm allow for breathability.
There are hand pockets on either side, along with a left chest pocket called a ReadyPocket™. All three are secured by low-profile YKK zippers. There are loop patch platforms (4” x 6”) on both upper sleeves. Personally, I’m not much of a patch guy, but I know plenty of folks who collect and display them.
How Does It Perform?
I’ve had the XTU LT3 Jacket for a few weeks now. As I noted at the outset, this jacket is immensely comfortable. I’ve reached the age where comfort is more important than style, but fortunately, the XTU LT3 features both.
My wife and I went on a hike last weekend, and it was about 22F with the wind chill. And it was fairly windy for most of the hike, just for the record. I paired the XTU LT3 with a lightweight hoodie and T-shirt and I was plenty warm the entire time. I probably could have gotten away with just a thick flannel shirt under the jacket, but I pretty much live in hoodies all fall and winter.
Just today, we got about seven inches of snow. I ended up shoveling the driveway three separate times to keep up with the snowfall. Not only was I warm enough with the LT3, but its water-resistant construction kept me dry. I love the breathability of the jacket, too.
While this is definitely a winter coat, I wouldn’t toss out the Michelin Man puffy jacket. The XTU LT3 is warm enough for mild winter days, but if the temps drop down to zero or below, you’ll want to add more layers.
All in all, the XTU LT3 is definitely a winner. It retails for $180 at the 5.11 Tactical website.
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