Tactical jumpers at Recon Company – hoodies and jumpers for duty, training and outdoor activities

A tactical jumper is workwear, not loungewear. Whether as a warm layer under a jacket, a standalone top for training or a service-grade hooded jumper with patch areas – with over 30 years’ experience as a supplier to the authorities, we know which styles stand the test of everyday use. Our range extends from robust army jumpers to technical merino jumpers, covering operational scenarios from basic training to field deployment.

Tactical hoodie, crew neck or round neck – which cut suits your mission

The cut determines where a tactical jumper works and where it gets in the way. A tactical hoodie protects against wind and light rain during outdoor shooting training. However, the hood has its limitations: under a combat helmet or with ear protection, it becomes a hindrance. Anyone who regularly wears a helmet or headset is better off choosing a Troyer with a half-zip and a high-closing collar – wind protection at the neck, with no fabric getting in the way.

The classic crew-neck jumper without a hood or zip is the slimmest option. It doesn’t bulk up under a plate carrier or tactical vest and is suitable as a mid-layer when the outer layer already features a hood. Tactical models from Emerson Gear or Helikon also feature Velcro panels on the upper arms for patches and service badges – a detail that makes the difference between a standard hooded jumper and a tactical hoodie suitable for duty. Upper-arm pockets with headphone ports are standard on models from 5.11 and Tasmanian Tiger.

Cotton blends, fleece-wool or knitted wool – whatever your operational profile requires

Most tactical hoodies in the range are made from cotton-polyester blends. Under Armour uses 80/20 fleece in its Rival range: hard-wearing, quick to wash, and retains its shape even after dozens of washes. For regular training and day-to-day duty, this is the practical choice. The downside: after two days without washing, the synthetic component becomes noticeably odourous.

Fleece-wool blends, such as Aclima’s FleeceWool range, take a different approach. The combination of merino and synthetic fleece brings together the odour control of wool with the robustness of synthetic fibres. Worn as a mid-layer beneath a softshell or hardshell, a merino jumper of this design regulates body temperature without causing you to overheat during exertion. For multi-day exercises without washing facilities, this is a significant advantage over pure cotton.

Classic knitted wool – as found in the Swiss Army jumper or the Pentagon Elysium – remains a reliable option in the lower price bracket. The construction is robust, the fit generous, and the insulation solid during static activities. Not a high-performance product, but a reliable workhorse for guard duty, training or as a spare in your rucksack.

Outdoor jumpers and army jumpers – an overview of use cases

You’ll find three distinct ranges in our collection.Sports hoodies from Under Armour are designed for movement: lightweight fabric, a close-fitting cut and moisture-wicking performance during PT or at the gym. Tactical models from Emerson Gear and Helikon are heavier, feature pockets and patch areas, and serve as standalone outerwear whilst on duty. Outdoor jumpers from Fjällräven and Aclima rely on natural materials and are ideal as a warming layer whilst hiking, bivouacking or in a raised hide.

When it comes to military jumpers in the classic sense – command-style knitted jumpers with reinforced shoulders and elbows – models such as the Swiss Army jumper deliver exactly what the name promises: tried-and-tested military construction at a price that won’t break the bank, even when buying your first kit.

Important when choosing a size: if you’re wearing your tactical jumper as a mid-layer under a jacket, allow for half a size’s worth of room. An outdoor jumper that’s too tight restricts movement and reduces the insulating layer of air between the layers. You can find out more about how it fits into the clothing system in the outerwear overview.

• 10% discount for government agencies on request – for government departments and members of the BOS.
• Field post delivery worldwide directly to Bundeswehr field post addresses.
• Personal advice from our team in Salzgitter or via our online contact form.
• ISO 9001 certified – audited processes from procurement through to delivery.