Helikon-Tex SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Shadow Grey

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Shadow Grey is a technical, waterproof hardshell jacket designed for use in harsh and changeable weather conditions. The jacket is built around Helikon-Tex®’s TorrentStretch® 3-layer membrane, with a waterproof rating of 30,000 mm and a breathability rating of 30,000 g/m²/24h. The SQUALL has therefore been developed for users who wish to combine protection against rain and wind with high breathability during physical activity.

With a RET value of 7, underarm ventilation, taped seams, YKK® AquaGuard® zips and a water-repellent DWR finish, the jacket is clearly designed for active outdoor use. The adjustable hood, cuffs and hem help to adapt the protection to the conditions. For airsoft and milsim, this is particularly useful during longer outdoor events where rain, wind and physical exertion alternate.

TorrentStretch® 3-layer membrane

The SQUALL Hardshell Jacket is based on the TorrentStretch® 3L membrane developed by Helikon-Tex®. In this three-layer construction, the membrane, together with the inner and outer layers, forms a single technical laminate designed to combine protection against the elements with moisture-wicking properties.

The microporous membrane structure keeps out water from the outside, whilst allowing water vapour produced during physical exertion to escape. This makes the jacket suitable as a technical outer layer for walking, trekking, airsoft, milsim and other activities where you are active outdoors for long periods in changing weather conditions.

Waterproof rating of 30,000 mm

With a specified water column of 30,000 mm, the TorrentStretch® construction offers a very high level of protection against rain. Combined with taped seams and a water-resistant zip, the SQUALL is designed for use in heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.

A water column rating of 30,000 mm is particularly useful when a jacket is exposed to rain for prolonged periods or when the fabric is subjected to additional pressure, for example from carrying equipment. For airsoft and milsim, this means that the jacket offers considerably greater protection than a simple water-repellent combat jacket or windbreaker.

Breathability of 30,000 g/m²/24h

A waterproof jacket must not only keep the rain out during physical activity, but also be able to wick away body moisture. The TorrentStretch® membrane has a stated breathability rating of 30,000 g/m²/24h.

This allows moisture generated during exercise to be wicked away through the fabric relatively efficiently. This is important during activities such as long walks, climbing, intensive fieldwork, and airsoft or milsim, where you are constantly on the move whilst carrying a rucksack, plate carrier or other equipment.

RET value of 7

In addition to its stated breathability, the SQUALL has a RET value of 7. RET indicates the resistance a material offers to the passage of water vapour. With this measurement method, a lower value means that moisture can be wicked away through the material more easily.

The combination of RET 7 and the stated breathability of 30,000 g/m²/24h emphasises that the SQUALL was not designed solely as a rain jacket, but as a technical hardshell for active users.

Ventilation openings under the armpits

If the membrane alone is unable to dissipate enough heat, the jacket features ventilation openings under the armpits. These allow excess heat and moisture to be released directly during intense activity without the jacket needing to be opened fully.

This direct ventilation can be particularly useful during long journeys, on hilly terrain or when playing airsoft with a heavy loadout. As soon as the pace slows down or the weather takes a turn for the worse, the ventilation openings can be closed again.

Taped seams and YKK® AquaGuard® zips

The seams of the SQUALL are taped to prevent water from easily seeping in through the stitching. In addition, Helikon-Tex® uses YKK® AquaGuard® zips, which offer extra protection against rainwater seeping in.

The main zip is a two-way zip and is complemented by a Prym press stud. The two-way design allows the jacket to be partially opened from the bottom, for example to allow greater freedom of movement or access to equipment.

DWR water-repellent outer layer

The outer fabric of the jacket has a DWR (Durable Water Repellency) finish. This finish ensures that water beads up and rolls off the outer fabric more easily, and reduces the absorption of moisture and dirt.

DWR is not the same as the waterproof membrane. The membrane forms the main waterproof barrier, whilst the DWR treatment prevents the outer fabric from becoming saturated too quickly. As a jacket is used more intensively, the effectiveness of a DWR treatment may diminish, which is why proper care is important for long-term performance.

Adjustable hood, cuffs and hem

To ensure the jacket fits snugly around the body in bad weather, the hood, cuffs and hem are adjustable. This allows the fit to be adjusted to suit the weather conditions and the layers of clothing worn underneath the hardshell.

A good fit also helps to keep out as much wind and rain as possible. When using the jacket for airsoft or milsim, it is advisable to try it on and adjust it whilst wearing your full loadout, so that the hood and sleeves remain comfortable even whilst moving.

Chest pockets and internal storage space

The jacket features chest pockets and an inside pocket for carrying smaller items. The positioning of the chest pockets makes them practical for items that need to remain accessible whilst wearing the jacket.

There are also hook-and-loop panels on the shoulders to which compatible patches can be attached. This allows the jacket to be fitted with, for example, team, identification or other patches.

Compact to store

Despite its technical three-layer construction, according to Helikon-Tex® the jacket weighs only around 422 grams and can be packed away compactly. This makes it possible to carry the hardshell as a protective outer layer in a rucksack or amongst your kit when bad weather is forecast.

For airsoft and milsim, this is useful when the weather forecast is changeable during a long day of play or a multi-day event. The jacket does not need to be worn all the time, but can be kept to hand in case the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Suitable for use all year round

Helikon-Tex® has developed the SQUALL as a year-round outer layer. In warmer conditions, the jacket can be worn on its own to provide protection against wind and rain. In colder temperatures, it can be worn in combination with insulating layers.

A hardshell jacket generates very little heat of its own. In winter, therefore, the overall warmth is mainly determined by the base and insulation layers worn underneath the jacket. This means that the same outer layer can be used in different conditions by adjusting the rest of the layering system.

Suitable for airsoft and milsim

For airsoft and milsim, the SQUALL is particularly appealing to players who regularly spend long periods outdoors and do not want to be at the mercy of the weather. Its high waterproofing, breathable membrane and additional ventilation options are well suited to activities that require a combination of protection from the rain and physical exertion.

The jacket can also be worn as an outer layer over other clothing. When choosing your size, bear in mind the clothing and kit you normally wear. A hardshell that fits perfectly without any kit on may feel quite different when worn with extra layers of clothing or kit.

Suitable for professional outdoor use

The combination of a technical 3L membrane, high waterproofing, high breathability and adjustable ventilation also makes the SQUALL an attractive option for professional outdoor use, training sessions and work involving prolonged periods outdoors.

For military training purposes or other professional applications, the jacket may also be suitable if its specifications meet the relevant requirements. Where a specific organisation requires certifications, standards or prescribed clothing, these must be checked separately. The technical specifications of the jacket do not automatically mean that it is certified for every professional application.

Practical insights

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Shadow Grey is particularly appealing if you’re looking for a single technical outer layer that can withstand heavy rain whilst wicking away moisture during physical activity. The combination of 30,000 mm waterproofing, 30,000 g/m²/24h breathability and a RET value of 7 makes it clear that this is no ordinary rain jacket.

During intense exercise, it remains important to ensure adequate ventilation. No waterproof membrane can handle sweat indefinitely. The ventilation openings under the armpits are therefore an important addition when, for example, you are covering longer distances whilst carrying a rucksack or tactical equipment.

You should also pay attention to the care of the outer fabric and the DWR treatment. If water no longer beads off the surface effectively, the outer fabric may become saturated more quickly. The membrane may still be waterproof, but the jacket will feel much wetter on the outside and will breathe less efficiently.

Voor wie is de Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Shadow Grey geschikt?

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Shadow Grey is ideal for users looking for a high-quality technical outer layer to protect against rain, wind and intensive outdoor activities. The jacket is particularly well-suited to hiking, trekking, bushcraft, airsoft and milsim, but can also be used during training sessions and for professional outdoor work where its features meet the required specifications.

The SQUALL is an excellent choice, particularly when breathability is just as important as waterproofing. Anyone who stays active in bad weather will benefit from the TorrentStretch® 3L membrane, the ventilation openings and the various options for adjusting the jacket to fit the body.

Specificaties

• Note: Helikon-Tex®
• Model: SQUALL Hardshell Jacket
• Membraan: TorrentStretch®
• Membrane construction: 3-layer / 3L
• Water resistance: 30,000 mm
• Breathability: 30,000 g/m²/24h
• RET value: 7
• Wind protection: Yes
• DWR treatment: Yes
• Taped seams: Yes
• Zips: YKK® AquaGuard®
• Main zip: Two-way
• Prym press stud on the main fastening: Yes
• Underarm ventilation: Yes
• Adjustable hood: Yes
• Adjustable cuffs: Yes
• Adjustable base: Yes
• Chest pockets: Yes
• Inner pocket: Yes
• Velcro panels on the shoulders: Yes
• Compact for storage: Yes
• Suitable for use as part of a layered system: Yes
• Suitable for year-round use: Yes
• Kleur: Shadow Grey
• Weight: approximately 422 g
• Suitable for professional outdoor use: Yes, depending on the requirements

Common mistakes

• Do not confuse the DWR treatment with the waterproof membrane. The DWR treatment primarily ensures that water beads up and rolls off the outer fabric; the TorrentStretch® membrane forms the main waterproof barrier.
• Don’t expect a hardshell jacket to provide much warmth on its own. In cold weather, you’ll need suitable insulating layers underneath the jacket.
• Don’t automatically wear too many insulating layers during strenuous activity. This can still cause you to overheat and produce a lot of sweat.
• Don’t forget to use the underarm ventilation openings when you build up a lot of heat whilst exercising.
• Do not assume that a breathable membrane can wick away all perspiration immediately. During very strenuous exercise, moisture can still build up on the inside.
• Do not use any harsh detergents or fabric conditioners when caring for technical membrane clothing. Please follow the Helikon-Tex® care instructions.
• When choosing your size, bear in mind any base layers and insulating layers you might be wearing underneath the hardshell.
• When taking part in airsoft and milsim, it’s best to test your freedom of movement whilst wearing the kit you’ll actually be using.
• Do not automatically regard technical specifications as professional or military certification where specific standards apply to a particular application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket waterproof?
Yes. The TorrentStretch® 3L membrane has a stated waterproof rating of 30,000 mm and is combined with taped seams and YKK® AquaGuard® zips.

How breathable is the jacket?
The stated breathability is 30,000 g/m²/24h, with a RET value of 7.

What does a RET value of 7 mean?
RET indicates the resistance to water vapour transmission. A lower value means less resistance and, therefore, a greater ability to allow perspiration to escape as vapour.

Does the jacket have ventilation openings?
Yes. There are ventilation openings under the armpits to allow extra heat and moisture to be wicked away during intense activity.

What is TorrentStretch®?
TorrentStretch® is the technical 3-layer membrane laminate used by Helikon-Tex® in this SQUALL Hardshell Jacket, designed to provide protection against rain and wind whilst offering high breathability.

What does the DWR treatment do?
The DWR treatment ensures that water beads off the outer fabric more easily and reduces the absorption of moisture and dirt by the outer material.

Is the SQUALL suitable for winter?
Yes, as part of a layering system. The hardshell acts as a protective outer layer against wind and rain; to stay warm, suitable insulating layers should be worn underneath the jacket.

Is the jacket suitable for airsoft and milsim?
Yes. Its high waterproofing, breathability and ventilation features are particularly useful for longer outdoor skirmishes and milsim events in wet and changeable weather.

Can I wear a plate carrier over my jacket?
That is possible, but when choosing the size and adjusting the fit, take your full loadout into account. Tactical equipment can also affect ventilation and moisture wicking in the areas covered.

How much does the jacket weigh?
The stated weight is approximately 422 grams.

What type of zips does the jacket use?
Helikon-Tex® uses YKK® AquaGuard® zips. The main zip is a two-way zip and is complemented by a Prym press stud.

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Shadow Grey combines a TorrentStretch® 3L membrane with a waterproof rating of 30,000 mm, a breathability rating of 30,000 g/m²/24h and practical ventilation for serious protection during outdoor activities, airsoft and milsim.