Shirts have regained great popularity nowadays, not only in our day to day but also in our airsoft games. So the launch of Helikon-tex of its series of defender Mk2 shirts has been a success, on the one hand for the expectation that its announcement generated and also for the reception they have had later from the market.

In their struggle to continue at the head of tactical clothing design they have created different versions of this famous model in their catalogue, in which the characteristics change depending on whether they belong to the Patrol, Urban Outback or Bushcraft line. Shirts for the day to day that, of course, also for the pew-pew days.

DEFENDER MK2  CITY SHIRT

Like this one, the original Defender Mk.2 was part of the Helikon-tex Urban line. It was a garment designed for law enforcement, operators, security personnel... professionals who needed to combine tactical functionality with aesthetic appearance.

The cut of the garment is anatomical, which means that perfectly fits the body, being loose enough to move comfortably, wearing a bulletproof vest or an IWB cover. 

It has a design of 4 pockets in the chest. Two vertical access closed by a flap and velcro, the flap has an oblique cut that, as it is sewn by the narrow end, prevents the content from dropping. And two vertical access from the centre that are secured by YKK zippers. In addition, the inside of the pockets are mesh fabric, so it helps evacuate heat.

DEFENDER MK2 GENTLEMAN SHIRT

This shirt can be found in the Urban line of Helikon-tex, since it is the one we will be able to wear with a suit if we need dress up nicely, and also with jeans if we are going to play.

Manufactured in 100% polyester, which makes the garment very light, at barely 300 g. It is an interesting option because it is breathable (it has mesh fabric in the armpits) and can be quickly dried, so if you sweat a lot you will not see the marks. And being UPF30 it provides good protection against UV rays.

Despite the classic cut of the garment, it has details such as the loop for the sunglasses, the elasticity of the fabric thanks to the mechanical stretch that makes it look like a dress shirt but it is actually very comfortable for another type of activity.

DEFENDER MK2 PILGRIM SHIRT 

This garment belongs to the Bushcraft line by Helikon-tex, and it seeks to provide greater comfort in nature, either when climbing a peak, playing airsoft or unplugging in a weekend getaway.

The feel of the fabric reminds of flannel, very nice and warm. However, it is a thicker fabric (although incredibly breathable). It has a DuPont Sorona to avoid bad smells, while it will also protect you from the sun thanks to its UPF50.

Its production follows the BlueSign system which is an interesting solution for a sustainable textile production. It removes harmful substances from the beginning of the manufacturing process and establishes and controls standards for a safe production that is environmentally friendly.

Investing in gear is easier when it is on something you can use beyond the weekend. So indeed, when you discover all the features that make these shirts not just "one more plaid shirt". Chris Costa, Travis Haley, Garand Thumb or Lucas Botkin have been saying it for a while now, how long will it take you to realize that shirts are cool?