Helikon-Tex Chinook Jacket Dark Green

If you regularly have to contend with rain and wind whilst playing airsoft, hiking or practising bushcraft, you’ll want a jacket that offers reliable protection without being unnecessarily heavy. The Helikon-Tex® Chinook Jacket Dark Green is a lightweight technical rain jacket with a 2.5-layer membrane, a waterproof rating of 20,000 mm and a breathability rating of 20,000 g/m²/24h. This makes the Chinook ideal for active use in wet and changeable weather conditions.

The jacket combines a waterproof membrane with taped seams, covered YKK® zips, a PFC-free DWR C0 treatment and underarm ventilation zips. Thanks to the adjustable hood, cuffs and hem, you can tailor the fit to suit the weather. The Dark Green version also complements woodland-style airsoft kit and other outdoor gear in natural colours perfectly.

Why choose the Helikon-Tex® Chinook Jacket in Dark Green?

The main advantage of the Chinook is its combination of high waterproofing, good breathability and a compact design. Whilst a simple water-repellent jacket is mainly suitable for light rainfall, the Chinook has been developed as a technical outer layer for conditions where you are exposed to rain for prolonged periods.

The jacket does not have a traditional insulating lining. This means you can choose which layers to wear underneath and it remains relatively light. This makes it suitable for a range of seasons, from a rainy spring day to a cold autumn day when you need a fleece or other insulating layer.

2.5-layer membrane construction

The Chinook uses a 2.5-layer laminate consisting of a polyester outer fabric, a microporous membrane and a thin protective printed layer on the inside. This construction eliminates the need for a traditional separate lining.

The membrane has been designed to keep out water from the outside whilst allowing water vapour to escape from inside the jacket. The protective inner layer helps to protect the membrane without adding much extra weight or bulk.

This makes the Chinook ideal as a compact rain jacket that you can easily carry in a rucksack.

Waterproof rating of 20,000 mm

With a stated water column of 20,000 mm, the Chinook offers a high level of protection against rain. This makes the jacket an attractive option for airsoft players and outdoor enthusiasts who want to remain active even during prolonged rainfall.

The waterproof construction is enhanced by taped seams and covered zips. This is important because, with technical clothing, water can penetrate not only through the fabric but also through the seams and fastenings.

Such a structure is a major advantage, particularly during longer airsoft skirmishes, hikes and other activities where you cannot take immediate cover.

Breathability of 20,000 g/m²/24h

During physical exertion, your body produces heat and sweat. If this moisture cannot escape sufficiently, the inside of your clothing becomes clammy and comfort levels can quickly decline.

The Chinook therefore has a stated breathability of 20,000 g/m²/24h. The membrane allows water vapour to escape, whilst keeping rainwater out.

This makes the jacket suitable for active pursuits such as airsoft, trekking and hiking. However, it is still important to bear in mind the limitations of a membrane: during strenuous exercise, your body may produce more moisture than the fabric can immediately wick away.

Active ventilation under the armpits

To help dissipate excess heat more quickly, Helikon-Tex has fitted the Chinook with ventilation zips under both armpits. This allows you to improve air circulation without having to open the main zip fully.

This is particularly useful for airsoft. When you’re wearing a plate carrier, chest rig or rucksack, parts of the jacket are covered, which can cause heat to build up more quickly. The underarm ventilation allows you to actively manage this.

This feature is also useful when out hiking, for example when you’re tackling a steep climb and need a bit more ventilation for a while.

PFC-free DWR C0 treatment

The outer fabric has been treated with a DWR C0 PFC-free water-repellent coating. This treatment ensures that water does not penetrate the outer fabric as easily and helps prevent the material from becoming completely saturated too quickly.

The DWR coating is not the primary waterproof barrier; that role is played by the membrane. The coating enhances the jacket’s performance by allowing rainwater to bead up and roll off the surface more easily.

Over time, the water-repellent properties may diminish due to wear and tear, dirt and washing. It is therefore important to look after the jacket properly and, if necessary, renew the DWR treatment using a suitable product.

Taped seams and covered zips

A technical membrane can be extremely waterproof, but the jacket’s construction is just as important. That is why the seams of the Chinook are taped, so that rainwater is less likely to seep in through the stitching.

The zips are also fitted with protective flaps. This means the zips are less directly exposed to the rain.

Together with the membrane and the DWR treatment, this forms a complete system designed to provide protection in wet conditions.

YKK® two-way zip with chin guard

The main fastening consists of a YKK® two-way zip, which allows you to open the jacket from both the top and the bottom. This provides extra freedom of movement when, for example, you are sitting, kneeling or frequently changing position during outdoor activities.

At the bottom, the fastening is further secured with a Prym press stud. In addition, the main zip is fitted with chin protection, so that the top of the fastening rubs less directly against the skin.

These details make the jacket more comfortable during prolonged wear.

Adjustable hood with a high collar

The integrated hood features a 2-point adjustment system. This allows you to adjust the fit to your head and ensure the hood fits more snugly when you’re out in the rain and wind.

A well-fitted hood is important when you’re on the move. If it’s too loose, it can slip out of place or restrict your vision when you turn your head.

The high collar also provides extra protection around the neck and lower part of the face.

Adjustable cuffs and hem

The cuffs are fitted with hook-and-loop fastenings, which allow you to adjust the sleeves to fit more tightly or loosely around your wrists. This is useful when you’re wearing gloves or want to prevent rain and wind from easily getting in through the sleeve openings.

The bottom of the jacket is also adjustable with a drawstring. This allows you to tailor the hem to fit your body more closely and adjust the fit to suit the layers of clothing you’re wearing underneath.

Combined with the adjustable hood, the Chinook offers a range of options for adapting the jacket to changing weather conditions.

Four handy bags

The Helikon-Tex Chinook features four zipped pockets. There are two hand pockets at the front, whilst an additional shoulder pocket is positioned on each upper arm.

The front pockets are ideal for smaller personal items and provide a place to keep your hands out of the elements for a while. The upper arm pockets are handy for documents, a mobile phone or other small essentials.

For airsoft players, these higher-positioned pockets are useful when a plate carrier or chest rig restricts access to the standard front pockets.

Velcro panels for patches

Both upper arms feature hook-and-loop panels to which you can attach patches and identification tags.

This makes it easy, for example, to wear a team, nationality or identification patch without having to attach it permanently to the jacket. Suitable IR identification patches can also be attached to these panels.

This is a practical addition for airsoft and duty use, whilst the patches can easily be removed for everyday use.

Dark Green voor woodland en outdoor

The Dark Green version has a dark green colour that blends in well with natural surroundings and woodland-themed kit.

The colour pairs well with Olive Drab, Ranger Green, Coyote and various camouflage patterns. This makes the jacket a logical choice for airsoft players who tailor their kit primarily to wooded environments.

At the same time, Dark Green has a neutral, outdoor look. This means the Chinook is also ideal for hiking, bushcraft, camping and everyday use.

Regular fit and suitable for layering

The Chinook has a Regular fit, meaning the jacket can be worn as an outer layer over a variety of outfits.

In mild weather, for example, you can wear it over a T-shirt or combat shirt. When the temperature drops, you can add a base layer and a fleece or other insulating mid-layer.

Helikon-Tex rates the jacket for wet conditions ranging from approximately -5 to 10 °C. However, this is not a guaranteed temperature range within which you will stay warm without additional clothing. This is because the Chinook does not have an insulating lining; your comfort is largely determined by your activity, the wind and the layers you wear underneath.

Folds away neatly into the hood

Thanks to its lightweight 2.5-layer construction, the Chinook can be packed away relatively compactly. The jacket can be packed into its own hood and also comes with a separate carry bag.

This makes it particularly suitable as a rain layer to keep in your rucksack or gear bag at all times. When it’s dry, it takes up very little space, but if the weather changes suddenly, you’ll have a technical outer layer to hand straight away.

This is also a practical advantage for travel and multi-day outdoor activities.

Lightweight construction weighing approximately 400 grams

According to the technical specifications, the Chinook has a reference weight of approximately 400 grams in size L. This means the jacket offers an attractive balance between weight and functionality.

It isn’t an extremely minimalist, ultra-light rain jacket, but you do get practical features in return. These include four pockets, ventilation zips, adjustable cuffs, an adjustable hood and a sturdy two-way zip.

For airsoft and general outdoor use, these additional features may be more important than saving those last few tens of grams.

Care instructions for the Helikon-Tex Chinook

To ensure that the jacket retains its technical properties for as long as possible, it is important to look after it properly. The following care instructions apply to the Chinook:

　• Wash at a maximum of 30 °C on a delicate cycle
　• Do not bleach
　• Do not tumble dry
　• Do not dry-clean
　• Do not iron

These specifications are also listed in the product information for the Dark Green version.

Ideally, use a detergent suitable for technical membrane clothing and always follow the care instructions on the jacket’s label. If, over time, water no longer beads up and rolls off the outer fabric properly, the DWR treatment may need to be maintained or renewed.

Practical tip

Use the underarm ventilation before you get completely sweaty. Heat can build up quickly under your kit, particularly when you’re wearing a plate carrier or chest rig during airsoft. By ventilating in good time, you can keep the temperature under your jacket more under control. You should also check regularly that water is still beading off the outer fabric and maintain the DWR treatment when necessary.

In the box

When you purchase the Helikon-Tex® Chinook Jacket Dark Green, you will receive:

　• Helikon-Tex® Chinook Jacket Dark Green
　• Transportzak

Specificaties

　• Brand: Helikon-Tex
　• Model: Chinook Jacket
　• Product family SKU: KU-KCH-PO
　• Colour code Dark Green: KU-KCH-PO-2U
　• Colour: Dark Green
　• Product line: Patrol
　• Additional product lines: Outback / Range / Urban
　• Type: Lightweight technical rain jacket
　• Construction: 2.5-layer laminate
　• Outer fabric: 100% polyester
　• Membrane: 100% polyurethane
　• Fabric weight: 100 g/m²
　• Waterproof rating: 20,000 mm
　• Breathability: 20,000 g/m²/24h
　• DWR treatment: DWR C0, PFC-free
　• Seams: Taped
　• Zips: Rain-sealed
　• Main zip: YKK® two-way zip
　• Chin guard: Yes
　• Additional fastening: Prym press stud
　• Ventilation: Zips under the armpits
　• Hood: Integrated, 2-point adjustable
　• Collar: High-neck design
　• Cuffs: Adjustable with hook-and-loop fastening
　• Hem: Adjustable with drawstring
　• Number of pockets: 4
　• Front pockets: 2 with zips
　• Upper arm pockets: 2 with zips
　• Patch panels: Hook-and-loop on the upper arms
　• Fit: Regular
　• Fastening: Full-zip
　• Gender: Men’s
　• Insulation: No insulated lining
　• Packable: Yes, packs compactly into the hood
　• Carry bag: Included
　• Approximate weight: Approximately 400 grams in size L
　• Sizes: XS to 3XL
　• Specified weather conditions: Wet, approximately -5 to 10 °C
　• Suitable for: Airsoft, outdoor activities, hiking, bushcraft, duty, shooting range and everyday use in wet weather

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I choose Dark Green instead of Coyote, Black or Shadow Grey?

The technical specifications of the Chinook are the same across these colours. Dark Green is particularly useful if your kit is designed for wooded environments and natural colours. The colour pairs well with Olive Drab, Ranger Green and various woodland camouflage patterns. For an all-black urban loadout, Black is the more obvious choice.

Is the Chinook suitable for wearing under a plate carrier?

Yes, but bear in mind the characteristics of a lightweight membrane jacket. A plate carrier may cover parts of the breathable surface and cause extra wear and tear due to friction. You should therefore regularly check the areas where buckles, shoulder straps and hard components rub against the jacket. During intense skirmishes, the ventilation zips under the armpits are particularly useful.

What is the advantage of a membrane jacket over a softshell?

A softshell is often designed to offer freedom of movement, protection from the wind and light rain. The Chinook, on the other hand, has been specifically developed for considerably wetter conditions and features a waterproof membrane with a water column rating of 20,000 mm. If you’re active in the rain for long periods, a technical membrane jacket is therefore usually the better choice.

Can I wear this coat in winter as well?

Yes, provided you combine the right layers of clothing. The Chinook is a protective outer layer and does not itself have an insulating lining. In cold conditions, for example, you can combine it with a thermal base layer and a warm fleece. The level of insulation required depends on the temperature, the wind and how much you’re moving around.

How can I stop getting wet inside whilst playing airsoft?

The main cause of moisture on the inside isn’t always rain, but often perspiration. You should therefore use the underarm ventilation as soon as you start to feel warm and choose your base layers to suit your activity. It’s best to wear moisture-wicking layers and avoid wearing more insulation than necessary under your jacket.

Is this jacket suitable for multi-day hiking and bushcraft trips?

The Chinook is particularly useful as a compact, protective outer layer for multi-day activities. It is relatively light, can be stowed away in the hood and comes with a carry bag. Bear in mind, however, that it is a technical rain jacket and not a heavily reinforced bushcraft jacket. Caution is still advised during intense contact with sharp branches, rocks or rough equipment.

Advice from Airsoft-Legends

The Helikon-Tex® Chinook Jacket Dark Green is an excellent choice for airsoft players and outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay active even in bad weather. The combination of a 20,000 mm waterproof membrane, 20,000 g/m²/24h breathability and active underarm ventilation makes it particularly suitable for conditions where both rain protection and temperature regulation are important.

When it comes to airsoft, we find the combination with tactical gear particularly interesting. When you’re playing whilst wearing a plate carrier or chest rig, you quickly build up heat. The ventilation zips then offer a practical way to create extra air circulation without having to open the jacket completely.

The Dark Green colour also makes this version particularly suitable for woodland loadouts, bushcraft and other outdoor activities where natural colours are preferred. Thanks to its neutral appearance, the jacket is also very practical for use away from the playing field.

With a reference weight of approximately 400 grams in size L and the ability to pack the jacket compactly into its own hood, the Chinook is also a practical rain layer to carry with you as standard in your rucksack or gear bag.

So, if you’re looking for a technical, waterproof rain jacket in Dark Green that goes well with woodland and outdoor gear whilst also offering sufficient ventilation during physical activity, then the Helikon-Tex Chinook is a particularly versatile choice.