Helikon-Tex SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Coyote

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Coyote is a technical, waterproof hardshell jacket designed as a protective outer layer for harsh and changeable weather conditions. The jacket utilises the TorrentStretch® 3-layer membrane with a waterproof rating of 30,000 mm, a breathability rating of 30,000 g/m²/24h and a low RET value of 7. As a result, the SQUALL combines very high protection against rain and wind with effective moisture wicking during active exercise.

Taped seams, YKK® AquaGuard® zips and a DWR-treated outer layer enhance protection against bad weather. At the same time, underarm ventilation openings and various adjustment options ensure that warmth and ventilation can be actively regulated. Weighing approximately 424 grams, the jacket also remains relatively light and can be packed away compactly into its own hood. This makes this Coyote version particularly suitable for outdoor activities, trekking, airsoft, milsim and professional use in changeable weather conditions.

TorrentStretch® 3-layer membrane

The SQUALL Hardshell Jacket is based on the TorrentStretch® 3L laminate developed by Helikon-Tex®. This three-layer construction has been designed for high-intensity activities in challenging weather conditions and combines protection against rain and wind with the ability to wick body moisture away.

The microporous membrane structure keeps out water from the outside, whilst allowing water vapour generated during physical exertion to be transported out through the fabric. This is particularly important during longer walks, trekking, fieldwork and intensive airsoft or milsim activities, where a standard raincoat can quickly become too warm.

Waterproof rating of 30,000 mm

The TorrentStretch® membrane has a specified waterproof rating of 30,000 mm. This means the jacket is designed to provide long-lasting protection during heavy rain and other wet weather conditions. The taped seams and water-resistant zip construction complement the membrane by also protecting vulnerable parts of the jacket against water ingress.

The high water column is particularly useful when the jacket is exposed to bad weather for prolonged periods. For airsoft and milsim, this means that the SQUALL offers significantly more advanced rain protection than a simple water-repellent combat jacket, softshell or windbreaker.

High breathability and RET 7

As well as waterproofing, moisture wicking plays an important role in a technical hardshell. The SQUALL has a stated breathability of 30,000 g/m²/24h and a RET value of 7. A low RET value means that the material offers relatively little resistance to the passage of water vapour.

As a result, the jacket has been designed for situations where protection against the rain needs to be combined with intense physical activity. Even with a highly breathable membrane, ventilation remains important when a lot of body heat is generated. After all, no hardshell can handle an unlimited amount of perspiration.

Ventilation openings under the armpits

For times when extra heat needs to be released, the SQUALL features zip-fastened ventilation openings under the armpits. These allow the airflow to be increased directly without having to open the main zip fully.

This is particularly useful during long climbs, fast-paced movements, or airsoft and milsim activities whilst wearing a rucksack, chest rig or plate carrier. As soon as the exertion eases or the weather conditions deteriorate, the ventilation openings can easily be closed again.

Taped seams and YKK® AquaGuard® zips

To extend the protection provided by the membrane to other parts of the jacket, the seams are taped and YKK® AquaGuard® zips are used. This zip construction is designed to offer extra protection against the rain without making the zip unnecessarily stiff to operate.

The main zip is two-way and is secured at the top with a Prym press stud. Among other things, the two-way design allows the jacket to be partially opened from the bottom for extra freedom of movement or access to equipment worn underneath.

DWR water-repellent outer layer

The outer fabric has a DWR (Durable Water Repellency) treatment. This allows water to bead up and roll off the outer fabric more easily, and means the material is less likely to absorb moisture and dirt. This helps prevent the outer layer from becoming completely saturated during prolonged rain.

The DWR treatment should not be confused with the TorrentStretch® membrane itself. The membrane forms the primary waterproof barrier, whilst DWR enhances the performance of the outer fabric. The water-repellent properties may diminish over time due to wear and washing, which is why proper care is important.

Adjustable hood with a high collar

The hood features a 2-point adjustment system, allowing it to be adjusted more precisely around the head. Combined with the high collar, this provides extra protection for the head, neck and face when the wind and rain pick up.

For practical use, a good fit is important. A hood that is too loose can obstruct your vision when you move, whilst a well-fitting hood moves with your head whilst also offering protection from the elements.

Adjustable cuffs and hem

The cuffs can be adjusted using hook-and-loop fastenings, and the bottom of the jacket features a drawcord. This allows the fit to be adjusted to suit the weather and the layers of clothing worn underneath the hardshell.

In strong wind or rain, the jacket can be tightened to fit more snugly around the body. In milder conditions, a looser fit can actually help with ventilation and freedom of movement.

High-set chest pockets

The SQUALL features two higher-positioned chest pockets. This position has been deliberately chosen so that the pockets remain accessible when wearing a rucksack with the hip belt fastened.

This is a practical feature for trekking and longer outdoor activities, but also for tactical use where other equipment is worn around the hips. It means the pockets remain easily accessible without having to unfasten a hip belt or other equipment first.

Internal pocket for a mobile phone or documents

On the inside, there is an additional storage compartment designed to carry items such as documents or a mobile phone more securely.

The internal compartment offers additional protection against adverse weather conditions. For electronics and important documents, it is advisable to use additional waterproof protection if necessary during prolonged exposure to extremely wet conditions.

Folds away neatly into the hood

One practical feature of the SQUALL is that the jacket can be stowed away in its own hood. This creates a compact package that can easily be carried in a hiking, outdoor or EDC rucksack.

According to Helikon-Tex®, the 3L laminate is resistant to excessive creasing whilst in storage. Combined with its relatively low weight of approximately 424 grams, this makes the jacket suitable for carrying as a standard item of kit, serving as an emergency or weather-protective outer layer.

Designed for use all year round

Helikon-Tex® has designed the SQUALL as a year-round outer layer. During warmer periods, the jacket primarily protects against wind and rain, whilst in colder conditions it can form part of a multi-layered clothing system.

The hardshell itself is not intended as a primary insulating layer. In winter, for example, it can be worn with technical thermal underwear and a light insulating mid-layer. This allows the level of insulation to be adjusted according to temperature, activity and weather conditions without changing the protective outer layer.

Coyote for tactical and outdoor loadouts

This version is finished in Coyote, a popular earth tone commonly used in tactical, military and outdoor gear. This makes the jacket easy to pair with colours such as Coyote, Ranger Green, Olive Green and various camouflage patterns.

For airsoft and milsim, Coyote also offers a neutral base for various loadouts. Of course, the colour alone does not determine the actual effectiveness of the camouflage; the terrain, the season and the rest of the equipment worn also play an important role in this.

Suitable for airsoft and milsim

For airsoft and milsim, the SQUALL is particularly appealing to players who remain active even in prolonged rain and changeable weather. The combination of high waterproofing, good breathability and direct ventilation options is well suited to physical activity whilst wearing tactical kit.

When using this product with a plate carrier, chest rig or rucksack, it is advisable to test the fit and freedom of movement whilst wearing your full loadout. Such equipment can compress parts of the garment and reduce ventilation in the areas it covers. The higher positioning of the chest pockets is particularly useful when wearing a rucksack with a hip belt at the same time.

Suitable for professional outdoor use

The technical features also make the SQUALL an attractive option for professional outdoor use, training sessions and work involving prolonged exposure to inclement weather. The jacket may also be of interest for military training purposes, provided its features meet the requirements of the user or organisation.

Where specific professional or military applications require certain certifications, uniform regulations or safety standards, these must be checked separately. The technical performance of the SQUALL does not automatically mean that the jacket is officially certified for every professional application.

Practical insights

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Coyote is particularly appealing to users seeking reliable rain protection without ending up in a poorly ventilated outer layer whilst on the move. The combination of a 30,000 mm water column, 30,000 g/m²/24h breathability, RET 7 and underarm ventilation openings makes the jacket suitable for activities involving alternating periods of exertion and bad weather.

Make active use of the ventilation openings when the intensity of your activity increases, and close the jacket up further when the pace slows or the weather takes a turn for the worse. In cold conditions, the SQUALL works best as part of a layering system, with moisture-wicking and insulating layers worn underneath the hardshell.

You should also pay attention to maintaining the DWR finish. If water no longer beads off the outer fabric properly, the outer layer may become saturated more quickly. The membrane may still function as a waterproof barrier, but the jacket will feel heavier and wetter, and moisture wicking may become less efficient.

Who is the Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Coyote suitable for?

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Coyote is ideal for users looking for a lightweight yet technically advanced hardshell for heavy rain, wind and active outdoor pursuits. Walkers, hikers, bushcraft enthusiasts and other outdoor sports enthusiasts will particularly benefit from the combination of waterproofing, breathability, ventilation and the jacket’s compact pack size.

For airsoft and milsim players, the Coyote version offers a practical combination of weather protection and a tactical colour scheme. The jacket may also be of interest for professional outdoor use and military training, provided that its technical specifications and any requirements are suited to the application in question.

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: Yes
• Underarm ventilation: Yes
• Hood: Adjustable at two points
• High collar: Yes
• Cuffs: Adjustable with hook-and-loop fastenings
• Bottom: Adjustable with a drawstring
• Chest pockets: 2
• Position of chest pockets: Raised for ease of access whilst wearing a rucksack or hip belt
• Inner pocket: Yes
• Velcro panels on the shoulders: Yes
• Can be stowed in its own hood: Yes
• Suitable for a layering system: Yes
• Suitable for year-round use: Yes
• Weight: approx. 424 g
• Suitable for professional outdoor use: Yes, subject to specific requirements

Common mistakes

• Do not confuse the DWR treatment with the waterproof membrane. DWR helps water to bead up and roll 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, wear suitable layers of insulating clothing.
• During strenuous exercise, do not automatically wear too many layers of insulating clothing under your jacket, as this can lead to an unnecessary build-up of heat and sweat.
• Don’t forget to use the ventilation openings under the armpits when you need to let extra heat escape.
• Do not assume that a breathable membrane can handle an unlimited amount of perspiration. During very intense exercise, moisture can still build up on the inside.
• When washing and caring for the jacket, do not use any products that are not suitable for technical membrane clothing, and follow the Helikon-Tex® care instructions.
• When choosing your size, bear in mind the base layer and insulation layers you intend to wear under your hardshell.
• When practising airsoft and milsim, it is best to check the fit whilst wearing the plate carrier, chest rig or rucksack that you actually use.
• Do not automatically regard technical specifications as military or professional certification where specific standards apply to a particular application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket in Coyote 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 SQUALL Hardshell?
The stated breathability is 30,000 g/m²/24h with a RET value of 7.

Does the jacket have extra ventilation?
Yes. There are adjustable ventilation openings under the armpits, which allow excess heat to be released during intense activity.

Can the hood be adjusted?
Yes. The hood has a 2-point adjustment system and is combined with a high collar for extra protection against the wind.

Can the pockets be reached whilst wearing a rucksack?
The two chest pockets have been deliberately positioned higher up so that they remain accessible when wearing a rucksack with the hip belt fastened.

Can the jacket be packed away compactly?
Yes. The SQUALL can be stowed inside its own hood, meaning it can be carried compactly in a hiking, EDC or tactical rucksack.

Is the SQUALL suitable for winter?
Yes, as part of a layering system. The hardshell protects against wind and rain, whilst the layers of clothing underneath provide the necessary insulation.

Can I wear the jacket with a plate carrier?
Yes. When choosing your size, do bear in mind any clothing you’ll be wearing underneath, and test your range of movement whilst wearing your full loadout. A plate carrier may also reduce ventilation in the areas of the jacket it covers.

How much does the jacket weigh?
This Coyote version has a stated weight of approximately 424 grams.

What is the difference between DWR and the TorrentStretch® membrane?
The DWR treatment helps prevent the outer fabric from absorbing water quickly. The TorrentStretch® membrane acts as the technical barrier that ensures the specified waterproofing and moisture-wicking properties.

The Helikon-Tex® SQUALL Hardshell Jacket TorrentStretch Coyote combines high-quality protection against rain and wind with a highly breathable 3L membrane, active ventilation and a compact design for outdoor activities, airsoft, milsim and demanding use.