Helikon Gunfighter Softshell Shark Skin Windblocker Jacket - Black

L... Review confirmed by purchase

80%

19.12.2025

Just like other clothing from Helikon, the jacket is nicely designed, with thought and attention to detail... almost. Unfortunately, as is often the case with their clothes (at least the ones I own), the designers stumbled precisely on those little details. For example, the chest pockets are a good solution, but only if you’re not using a backpack – and obviously, the jacket is meant for situations where a backpack is standard. The zippers of the pockets are then hidden under the backpack straps, making them hard to access or pressing into your body. The hood with Velcro works great, as long as you don’t wear a Helikon cap with Velcro, because then the Velcros stick together. The back pocket at the bottom of the jacket is an interesting feature, but I recommend trying to put something heavier than a lighter in there – the experience isn’t great, especially when you try to get to it. Overall – a few less gadgets would be enough. Other than that, I can recommend it.

The military jacket stands out for its durability and practicality. Made from sturdy fabrics, it effectively protects against cold and wind, and also features many pockets, making it very functional. Although it has a military look, it provides comfort and is perfect for everyday wear. It’s a solid option for those looking for durability and a versatile design.

The jacket is very comfortable and well-made, crafted from nice and high-quality fabric. The placement of the pockets, hood, and other elements is quite well designed. A very convenient and quality jacket.

The fabric used to make the jacket is of very good quality. The pockets are well placed. The price is rather high, but it's worth waiting for a promotion. I noticed two things that might be bothersome: the first is the hood hidden in the collar—inserting it back in, you can clearly feel it when moving your head, which might be annoying for some people, including myself, especially if you like high collars. The second thing is the fit—the jacket has little room inside, so it's hard to wear it over, for example, a hoodie (like the Helikon Patriot MK2), unless you choose a larger size.

This is one of the best softshells I’ve ever had the chance to wear. It’s stylish, comfortable, durable, and reasonably priced. I have a strong affinity for the Helikon brand because it delivers quality products at an affordable price. Plus, when you buy it, you support a local company. I highly recommend it with full confidence.

I am 180 cm tall, weigh 80 kg, have an athletic build and size L is perfect for me. The jacket handles water well in the rain – I’ve worn it at the shooting range several times in such conditions. The pockets, fit, and workmanship are very good. As for resistance to abrasion, Velcro can cause pilling. If you only use a belt with a handgun, the jacket works great. When using a long gun and a low-quality belt, the material may become abraded. I use it at the shooting range but try not to damage it. I definitely recommend it.

I'll start with the positives – the jacket looks great and fits very well. It's lightweight, has plenty of pockets and interesting features, and a really nice hood. Light wind or rain is no problem, and you just want to wear it – exactly what I've always dreamed of. However, there are a few downsides: when you put it on, you may feel like the shoulders were sewn differently, but that feeling quickly goes away (probably because of the zippers under the armpits or the sewing method – when you raise your arms, only the sleeve goes up). The material seems to get dirty easily, but it's quick to wipe off. In my jacket, one of the hood cords in the pocket was stuck, the other worked fine. Despite these flaws, I'm very happy with it. I previously used a Brandit M65 with a liner; it lasted for 10 years. Now I'll use the liner for this jacket, because why buy extra fleeces if I have one that works great. As for the M65, winter was no problem, but it was very heavy. If not for worn cuffs, pockets and faded color, it would be indestructible. It survived trips to the woods, work, and the city – nothing hurt it. I don't know if this jacket will be just as durable, maybe it's just a matter of getting used to it after the M65. One last downside for Militaria and INPOST – I paid 15 PLN for next-day delivery (as advertised), ordered Friday afternoon, and received the package only on Monday, so a standard shipment.

Helikon Gunfighter is one of the best softshells I've used. The Shark Skin material is durable, effectively protects against wind and light rain, and at the same time provides good breathability – even during intense movement, I don't overheat. Armpit ventilation is a great solution and can be unzipped during greater activity. The fit is tailored but does not restrict movement – it’s suitable for the outdoors and daily wear. The hood is adjustable and provides good wind protection. The pockets are practically placed and I have space for all the essentials. After several months of use, there is no sign of wear and no problems with the zippers. The jacket works great for mountain trips, cycling, and everyday use. It’s a very good option for those looking for a durable softshell that protects well against wind and cold.

In my XXXL jacket, the cuffs are so wide that a 9mm slingshot would probably fit in there. Overall, though – as always with Helikon – everything is done at a very high level. I must admit, I have two other softshells from different brands and this is a common problem: the larger the size, the excessively wider the sleeves.

Fantastic jacket, made with attention to detail. The pocket solutions are interesting. The material is pleasant to the touch. Rather warm, but for colder days I recommend wearing a fleece underneath—that depends on your individual resistance to cold. I hope it will last a long time. I bought it on sale on a friend's recommendation. The only concern is the cuff drawstrings. Overall, I highly recommend it. Helikon does not disappoint.

This is another Helikon jacket in my collection. It stands out for solid workmanship, offers many pockets and compartments. I appreciate the possibility of individual configuration. The jacket is waterproof and meets my expectations, and it also keeps me warm—even at 5 degrees, a t-shirt underneath is enough to feel comfortable.

After the first use of the jacket, I am very satisfied. It performed well during a winter trip in the mountains with strong wind. With a thermal shirt and fleece, it was very warm and I couldn't feel the wind. I recommend it to everyone.

Great jacket. I was looking for a lightweight jacket for warmer evenings and was pleasantly surprised, because despite the thin material, it retains heat well. It has ventilation holes and a comfortable hood that can be hidden in the collar, which is a big plus. Very comfortable and looks good.

The jacket is versatile and works well in various weather conditions – you can open the underarm zippers when it's warm or wear a fleece underneath when it's colder. It pairs great with Patagonia or Alpha fleeces, and on very cold days you can wear all three layers at once.

Very good quality, materials and finishing at a high level, no complaints. Unfortunately, the sizing is completely unusual—according to the website, I should wear XXL, but after trying it on, it turned out that the sleeves are good, the chest circumference is very tight, the length is still acceptable. However, the pockets are completely impractical: only a thin wallet will fit, anything thicker won't. I ordered XXXL and it was about 10 cm larger than the measurements listed in the store. Hard to recommend even on sale, and definitely not for over 500 PLN. I give 4 stars for quality of workmanship—maybe people with a slim build will be satisfied, but more built people may have trouble with the fit.