U.S. Military M65 Jacket

The M65 field coat has been used in the military for decades now and is a proven jacket for a variety of uses. The jacket shell is 50/50 NYCO twill which is a tough durable but soft material. It is treated with Qruarpel water repellent coating which makes it waterproof. The lining is 65/35 poly/cotton twill which is a great sweat wicking material, but still comfortable. The jacket is a parka type design that goes below the waist and blouses with a drawstring. The jacket opens with a heavy duty #10 tooth zipper and snap down storm flap. There are four pockets, two bellowed, two flat, and the one complaint is not handwarmer pockets. In cold weather you can buy the liner, about $20, which buttons in and keeps you warm, without too much extra bulk.

I have never gotten wet using this jacket even in heavy rain. It appears waterproof yet breathable and even has a zip in hood, also quarpel treated, but the hood is designed to fit over the PASGT helmet so it is kind of big (works great with hats). This jacket is low tech but it works and you can depend on it to keep you warm and dry for a relatively low cost.

I have owned this jacket for a couple of years and it's in exactly the same condition as the day I got it. The quality can be felt in the weight of the jacket. I do a lot of field work in northern Britain and this jacket has stood up to all conditions without ever letting in the rain. The hood is too thin compared to the rest of the jacket but combined with a wooly hat it does okay. The cuff extensions are a bonus when used with NI Gloves.

Overall it's a jacket that you can use year in, year out.

We have a great military thrift shop where dependents can shop and I was lucky enough to get one of these jackets! It's great even in a German downpour.