Sitka Jetstream Jacket | A Sitka Staple

Dealing with the elements, including cold winds, can drain both body heat and morale, making for miserable experiences. Back in my Army days, there were times on ranges where a solid windproof layer would have helped. When I was asked to try Sitka’s Jetstream jacket, I gladly accepted, especially with an upcoming hunt at high elevation.

“Trusted on more hunts than any other jacket we make, the Jetstream Jacket is a rugged windproof workhorse that shields you from the elements without slowing you down.” ~ sitkagear.com

Jetstream Overview

Starting at the top of the Jetstream, there is an adjustable hood with shock cords at the back. On the chest are two zippered pockets. These pockets have helped hold my phone while hunting or for a pocket IFAK (individual first aid kit) while in town. Beneath both armpits are pit zips to dump heat while on the move. At the lower half of the jacket are two zippered hand pockets.

On the Jetstream’s exterior, Sitka used GORE-TEX’s Windstopper to help defeat the wind. Sitka also reinforced panels around the arms and lower body to improve durability when moving through brush. Inside the windbreaker, there are fleece panels in the sleeves, back, and lower front. The fleece areas help to provide some warmth against the weather.

“WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX LABS completely blocks heat-sapping winds, while zippered underarm vents keep you from getting bogged down with sweat on uphill assaults”. ~ sitkagear.com

Jetstream Performance

I got the opportunity to put the Jetstream through its paces while hunting and around town. Out in the wild, the windbreaker did well with blocking the wind while on ridges or driving on trails. During my stalks, the jacket did not snag on briars or make much noise. The pit zips were especially helpful in regulating my body heat as I stalked through the brush.

The windbreaker also does a good job of retaining heat when the pit zips are closed, thanks to the fleece panels. The Jetstream’s medium fit is big enough for me to wear additional layers and a light jacket without losing my range of motion. I also tried the jacket in wetter conditions. What I found was that while the windbreaker can resist a light sprinkle, it will get soaked in heavier downpours or during extended periods of rain.

Jetstream Features & Specifications courtesy of sitkagear.com

• WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX LABS is 100% windproof and highly breathable
• Recycled fleece backer provides low-bulk warmth
• Pit zips let you rapidly expel excess heat
• Reinforced panels in high-wear areas ensure lasting durability
• Knit fleece panels at underarms and lower torso enhance layering comfort
• Adjustable hood blocks wind without obstructing vision
• Zippered hand and chest pockets secure small essentials
• Weight: 27.2 (Size L)
• Product Imported
• MSRP: $375

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, the Jetstream is a great outer layer for hunting or for around-town use. Besides becoming a staple in my hunting layers, I will use it on winter days while walking around my work. If you are looking for a heavy-duty windbreaker, take a look at the Jetstream Jacket from Sitka.