FREE SOLDIER Men's Hooded Waterproof Rain Fleece Lined Softshell Jacket

Reviewed in the United States on October 9, 2026

Verified Purchase

Originally bought for on motorcycle in chilly weather (thanks reviewers who said it’s pretty warm - it is). Keeps me warm enough in So Fla winters, layers well on coldest days even with windchill factor. Zips up high to chin. Very waterproof - not like other jackets that eventually get soaked through. This one stays dry, design of hood is better than other jackets, actually keeps rain off face & neck. Pockets are THE BEST! Side pockets: plenty big to cram gloves keys phone into one spot to run into store, quickly find everything to gear back up. Inside is a thin divider that makes a second pocket - perfect to keep money/cards in pocket and prevents loss when I pull everything else out. Zipper starts higher up like chest pockets and runs to waist height - haven’t tried but might be able to fit a ruler in there. Actually it’s so roomy I haven’t had to use other pockets. But if needed there’s more on arms, back so you won’t have to dig thru bags on longer trips for chargers, papers etc. I keep it on at work - pool tech - chems haven’t bleached or melted fabric, always looks good as new - bonus to not need multiple coats. The real test: (I don’t recommend you try this - I did so you don’t have to, you’re welcome) original jacket kept most of my skin on my torso in serious accident. Hit ground at 80mph, some elbow and forearm removed, but at that speed the jacket did damn good for not being kevlar. Jacket was mostly intact, so my skin underneath was too. I can easily say even if you don’t ride it will probably hold up well for your use - I highly recommend. Once I got out of ER I bought a second jacket. [And riders: chain snapped, locked up rear wheel, tumbled to stop - everyone behind me stopped thankfully. God wasn’t ready for me up there. Not one broken bone. Pants didn’t protect me much, I mooned all of 95 with a bloody red butt like one of those baboons on Nat Geo. Bike done, but I did get another bike to go with the replacement jacket:) 2 down! ]

1 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2025

Verified Purchase

Solid Tactical Jacket - Mostly Awesome, Minor Quirks Writing under wife’s account so if it sounds like she suddenly got into tactical gear, nope, I am her husband. I picked up this tactical jacket in XL (I’m 6’ tall, 200 lbs, rocking the classic manly dad bod) and it fits just right, not too snug, not too baggy. The material is surprisingly soft for something that looks like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Comfortable enough to wear all day, whether I’m out skiing or just knocking around Denver. Pockets Galore: and I mean everywhere. Front, sides, sleeves, even the back. My wife especially loves the rear pockets, perfect for warming her hands when we’re out walking. It’s like a built-in hand-holding system. Now, a few quirks: Patches: Not sure what the deal is here. I’ve never seen anyone actually use these patch spots in real life. Feels a bit cosplay-ish unless you’re in a tactical unit or a paintball league. Inside “Pockets”: I say “pockets” loosely. Dropped my charger in one and it went straight through like a trapdoor. Landed on my foot. Ouch. Why not just sew the bottom shut? Feels like a missed stitch. Armpit Zips: Ventilation is cool, but a little mesh wouldn’t hurt. That said, my wife likes sticking her hands in there too, so maybe they’re multi-purpose. Bottom line: For the price, it’s a solid buy. Looks sharp, feels great, and it’s versatile enough for winter sports or weekend errands. Just don’t trust those inside pockets with anything that you actually want to keep.

68 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on September 28, 2026

Verified Purchase

I looked at several other similar jackets, and settled on this one. Some of the reviewers didn't like the front pockets, and they are a bit high, but there's an inner phone pocket in the front slash pockets, and it's not that big a deal. Also no inner pocket, but again, not a dealbreaker. I got this jacket delivered the day before the Nor'Easter we just had in the NY/NJ area, and I wore it outside in moderate rain and high wind for about 20 minutes at a time. Water just beaded up and slid off. The hood was comfortable and not overly restrictive. Overall, pretty satisfied with the jacket.

3 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on January 17, 2020

Verified Purchase

I purchased this coat as a wind/water resistant shell. I haven't owned a dedicated winter coat for many years as I find layering to be more comfortable and efficient. I live in a climate where winters frequently feature 15° F temps. Upon unboxing this jacket I was impressed with the quality of the material and the zippers seemed solid. I had purchased and returned another jacket that seemed to be of cheaper material with zippers that would certainly separate. I was pleased that this jacket was superior in quality and seemed durable. I am a male who usually wears a medium shirt/jacket depending on the brand. I ordered this jacket in a medium. The fit, sleeves and jacket length were perfect. There is enough room to layer a hoodie or fleece under the jacket without it being too tight. This jacket has a light fleece lining and hood with a bill and is surprisingly warm by itself. The jacket features a double main zipper that allows you to unzip the jacket upward from the bottom to make room or release tension on the jacket to sit, lift something or access a tool on your belt or inside your waistband. There are small pockets on the sleeves which at first I didn't think I would use but have actually come in handy. The biggest negative I have with this jacket are the two main vertical breast pockets. The lack of standard pockets almost made me return this jacket. I didn't realize how much I used/appreciated standard pockets on a jacket. The two vertical pockets are not really suitable for carrying anything and are not deep enough that I would feel comfortable putting my keys in them without fearing that they would fall out. I have zipped my cell into them but that is it. They are inadequate for sticking your hands in them for warmth. This jacket has a pocket on the back that has two vertical zippers that creates a tube almost like a fanny pack that conveniently holds a pair of gloves or other items with the space being about 6" x 12" square. I have never seen this feature on a jacket before. This jacket sadly lacks any interior pockets which would have been a nice feature. Outside the pocket issues I like the jacket and I am pleased with this purchase. I have been wearing this jacket on a daily basis. I hiked in it recently in freezing rain for about an hour and the rain did not penetrate the jacket eventhough I have not waterproofed it. The billed hood worked well. The jacket serves the purpose for which I purchased it.

14 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on October 19, 2026

Verified Purchase

2+ years of use. Hasn't faded, torn, or had any zippers break. Perfect amount of pockets and storage. Keeps out the cold and the rain. 10/10 product.

0 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on November 13, 2023

Verified Purchase

So, proof to this review. I just bought it last week and put it to the test this past Saturday. My stepson had a TYFA championship playoff game this past Saturday here in Texas. It was 56° and a steady heavy drizzle or light rain. I was part of the chain gang holding the down marker so I could it use an umbrella. This jacket held up to its descriptions. It eventually got soaked, but I literally stayed dry and warm. I ordered a large. I am 5'7" and at about 198lbs. A bit over weight, and it's a but loose on me. But it's definitely comfortable. I love the pit zips because as I started to sweat, I was able to unzip my pits just a bit for better ventilation and no more sweating and I was still warm. The hood is great in both ways. I love the extended bill, it kept the rain off my face and glasses. And when thrown back, it sits flat, not all puffed out like most jackets. No, here are my downsides. It has plenty of pockets, I wish it had at least one internal pocket. But my phone and smokes stayed dry in the rib pockets 100%. Second downside. Since my jacket is a bit too big for me, the bicep pockets are a bit difficult to zip back up. I have to hold the cuff with my fingers to keep it tight and pull the zipper up. But that's not a defect in the product, just an issue with the size I ordered, so keep that on mind. 3rd issue, there were no instructions on how to roll the hood up and stow away. I had to watch the video for the product a view times to see how they are folding it. But once folded, it's a nice tick fleece lined collar. All in all great product, there is a video on YouTube where a guy has owned his for years and loves it. I definitely recommend. I'm going to order another one, but without the hook and loop patches for my wife. She loves mine as well.

171 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2026

Verified Purchase

or bad zippers the zipper has two so one is at bottom and 2 zipper goes up and so keep the bottom zipper down and all works nice, as to quality very nice better then baerskin I returned to get this one and wullfull, jacket both very nice jacket feels nice putting on feels soft and outside shell is soft on the arms different mitaril and it's just a nice jacket for 54 bucks not going to return it's great. quality good zippers runs just right with room and great hoodie too Velcro love my new jacket

1 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2024

Verified Purchase

Disclaimer: This review is by a guy who starts to get hot, just by moving around. At work, I’m already wearing pants, with a t-shirt and outer dress shirt with a tie. Out of work, I’ll generally have an untucked (much more breathable) shirt with pants or shorts. What you wear (and layers you’re wearing) makes a huge difference with outerwear, and I’ve found that if you’ve got a higher internal thermostat (and sweat easier, like me), “waterproof breathable,” material is going to be rendered mostly useless above a certain threshold (temperature and humidity). You’re either going to get wet or you’re going to sweat. For me, that’s maybe above 65° - 70° F, and upwards of 60% humidity. As background, I do own both an Eddie Bauer and Carhartt waterproof breathable jackets. I love them both, but neither is perfect. Onto my review: Ordered this jacket because I’ve got a similar Eddie Bauer one which I love, but the cuffs are fraying and wearing after several years of use. I read online reviews while looking for another waterproof, breathable jacket, and decided to try this jacket. While it certainly looks waterproof, the layer of insulation is probably 2-3x thicker than my Eddie Bauer jacket. That’s a, “no go,” for me. There are zippers in the armpits - that open the jacket up completely at the pits, which is nice, but with so much insulation, I’m not sure this will make a difference in keeping me cool and comfortable. This is a pretty THICK jacket for something waterproof and breathable. I’m looking for little more than a shell, with minimal insulation, and this does not seem to be it. I believe there was a fellow from Texas who raved about this jacket in the rain in the high 50’s F. I can’t imagine wearing this ABOVE 50° F. Anyway, I’m torn between returning it, or keeping it. It’s certainly priced right (as of September, 2024, ~$55 on Amazon), and it seems to be of decent quality. If I DO hold onto it, I’ll post another updated review in the future. Forgot to add - there are Velcro patches on the outer bicep areas of both sleeves. Not sure what this is for - maybe for insignia if you’re An emergency responder? Anyway, that’s my $.02. Attaching pics to attempt to show the thickness, as compared to my Eddie Bauer jacket. Update: 11/10/24. I'm not a fan. The jacket (XL) is too short - I'd prefer it went slightly below the belt line. The pockets are too high -I can feel my ribcage. I'd prefer the pockets just above the hip. And it it is not flattering - it's very puffy in the mid-section, making me look fat. Ill-fitting. Also hot, unless you're outside in under 50⁰ F weather, with high winds. No idea how it will fare in wet weather, so unknown if it's waterproof, but definitely NOT breathable. I would avoid. Going to keep it as a beater jacket in my vehicle.

24 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2026

Verified Purchase

Great fit and worth the money. I've purchased several of these over the years and have issued them as team uniform for my sales teams when traveling to events. All the other brands are junk. I've tried them trying to save a buck. Go with Free Soldier!

0 people found this helpful

Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2026

Verified Purchase

True to size! I know some returned this for being loose but it is perfect to wear a hoodie under and still feel like tou have mobility! Will update with water and wind resistance later this week.

0 people found this helpful