While in the military, I was issued a stack of gear, with most of the clothing being fair at best. After getting out and getting into Law Enforcement, my issued items took a large leap in overall quality, with the exception of my issued jacket, which I call "The Sponge". Quality clothing in the form of jacket/ parkas has always been something that I have searched for on REI clearance racks, or listed as a wanted Christmas present. Quality doesn't come cheap, but I've got an old shell/ jacket that is worn through in areas after having been used hard since the mid 90s. Cheaper gear would have ripped apart a long time ago. The old saying comes to mind, if you buy quality, you only have to buy once.

This review is on the OTTE Gear Hard Shell. OTTE Gear comes from a background of rock and mountain climbing, and in talking with Todd At OTTE Gear, we've climbed in some of the same locations. It just goes to show how small of a world it can be.

Below is info taken from the OTTE Gear webpage, it gives insight into the direction this company is headed towards, and who is using their product.

http://www.ottegear.com/main.php

Otte Gear

When U.S. troops were deployed in the global war on terror, the clothing systems they had did not perform at the level they required. Otte was conceived to fill the gap, and began distributing to some of the most specific and elite special operations teams worldwide.

THE OTTE PRODUCT

Otte Gear presents two lines of technical operations gear:

* The Soft-Shell Alpine Line

* The Hard-Shell Patrol Line

Otte leverages real world, mountaineering and military experience to bring you the very best in tactical and military gear. Using the most innovative materials, we design product that truly functions -- the most waterproof breathable rainwear, the toughest stretch woven jackets, and pants capable of handling the most demanding scenarios.

Otte's products are designed to be lightweight, packable, and durable for individuals living out of their ruck sacks for extended periods.

Hard Shell/ Patrol Parka Attributes

PATROL PARKA

• 3-layer fabric is waterproof, fully seam-taped, and highly breathable

• Full parka length-cut

• High mobility hood stows in the collar, has two adjustments and is helmet compatible

• All zippers YKK water resistant

• Pit zips to avoid overheating and internal moisture build-up

• Two high volume low profile sleeve pockets accessible while wearing body armor

• Velcro on sleeve pockets for patches

• Two deep chest pockets located above belt line and can be accessed while wearing a ruck

• One handed draw strings on hood and hem of jacket

• Brushed chin guard lining

• Weight 31 oz (879 grams) in size large

• Sizes: Small - 2Xlarge