Triple Aught Design makes some of the best tactical gear on the planet, and the Stealth Hoodie LT is one of their flagship jackets (along with the original Ranger Hoodie). First introduced over a decade ago, the jacket has seen some changes (improvements, mainly) in design, but remains the bombproof, versatile and adaptable jacket that tactical users have come to trust and rely on. What makes it so good?
The Stealth Hoodie LT is entirely weatherproof, engineered with a 4-way stretch, three-layer softshell design that uses three unique technologies from Swiss brand Schoeller.
First is c_change, their “advanced” windproof and waterproof membrane that adapts to changes in temperature and moisture, by closing when exposed to cold and opening when in response to heat. Yes, actually – almost like the pores in skin. The second is 3XDry. This layer helps repel water, dirt and stains on the surface of the jacket while wicking away moisture to keep you warm and comfortable. The third layer is called coldback, and it’s a special finishing treatment that helps reflect UV rays from the jacket to keep you cool in sunny locales and during high-output activity.
Altogether, these fabric technologies are supremely abrasion-resistant. The jacket also features reinforcements at strategic places throughout the jacket, such as underarms, shoulders and elbows. It’s then fully seam taped to further keep water out while adding some durability and resiliency, and given YKK Aquagard zippers for even more water-resistance. There’s a host of customizable features, like Velcro cuffs, cinch-cord hem, pit zips and a stowable Aero hood; together, so the jacket can adapt the way you like it. Chest and arm pockets add storage, while d-rings inside those pockets let you strap and stash items securely.
So what’s it good for? Virtually anything. It can be worn as a standalone jacket in slightly less demanding situations or paired with a mid-layer when the temperatures drop. This is a versatile and adaptable jacket that will keep your protected in virtually any environment. It’s also Made in Canada; not quite the same as Made in the USA of course, but we can appreciate our northern neighbor’s dedication to quality, too.
The Stealth Hoodie LT comes in Black, Deception green, and Chimera brown. It perfectly combines the protection of a regular shell with the breathability and comfort of a softshell, and brings the rock-solid dependability, and sleek, high-speed and low-drag design that TAD built a reputation around. It’s not always the first choice for an outdoor shell, but for demanding tactical environments, it gets the job done.
