Based on the SAS Smock, the Arktis B221 was developed for the German “Kommando Spezialkräfte” KSK Special Forces Command.
The Smock is made from a British MilSpec Poly-Cotton Ripstop Fabric which is Windproof and Water Resistant with Granger Water Treatment.
It features 13 Pockets!:
-Six Large Lined Cargo Pockets with Storm Flap and NATO-Style Taped Buttons.
-Attachment D Rings in outer Pockets
-Four Zippered Internal Pockets,
-Two Sleeve Pockets, Large Rear External
Additional features:
-Two Way Front Zipper, Storm Flap with Buttons and Velcro,
-Velcro Cuffs, Adjustable Storm Hood, Waist Cord
-Underarm Ventilation Zipps, Cordura Elbow Pads
-Foliage Attachment Loops
-Rank Epaulette
Intended for for Long Range Missions, it’s also great for Outdoorsman, Hunters, Photographers, Researchers, Hikers, Explorers, ATVs, and Horseback Riders.
Although it’s seen here in Swedish M90 camo, the B221 is offered in the Arktis Comb Arid Camo; subtle and very effective. Other colors include Olive Green, MultiCam MTP, DPM, and Coyote.
Made in the UK. $279.95 Shipped CONUS.
Available Through Arktis US Ebay Store or direct from Arktisusa.com.
Tags: Arktis USA
I’d been debating the wisdom of smockery for some time and have stalked the B221. In the end, it’s just a bit too buttony for my suburban commando lifestyle.
Instead, I went with the Fjallraven Singi Trekking jacket: light waxing for weather resistance (supposedly easily restored), plenty of pockets with the understated look of the M65. And, unlike the M65, a truly massive and useful hood big enough for helmets or my massive head. Not a lot of use for it yet (a bit too cold), but looking forward to spring.
What do smocked units do for a waterproof layer? A poncho? An WPB undergarment? Is that standard for the British Army?
Buttony or not, and I agree this thing would have more potential users if it weren’t so overtly tactical in appearance, there’s a big difference between buying fashionable scandi-themed gear made as cheaply as possible in china and dedicated, purpose-built clothing made by steadfast allies in UK. Not trying to be critical, china-made kit is everywhere in the tactical and outdoor clothing and equipment market and most are perfectly happy with it and generally don’t give a damn where their kit is made. Though I must say it is somewhat of an ironic attitude for the tactical/defense-oriented folks.
The same wax used by fjallraven can be used on arktis or for that matter any cotton/poly cotton garment, but fabsil/ wash in proofers are better in the in the ir spectrum as they produce less reflection
Arktis makes really good kit. I have their SAS smock, beautifully made with a tremendous amount of pockets – it’s basically a backpack in jacket form.
Wear a lightweight rain jacket underneath or makes a waterproof liner as well. I have found that this is not a breathable combo and usually just keep the smock on for light rain and put it away in favor of a hard shell in heavy rain.
Watched a documentary about Royal Marines and waterproofs mostly stayed packed. I think they just get and change into dry layers for sleeping and change back into wet layers for all other activities.
I own several Arktis smocks and I use them for cold weather wind shells while hiking and snowshoeing. I only use the unlined models (not windproof or waterproof ones) for the breathability. Treat with Nikwax and they are good for light precipitation.
Sorry..Arktis makes a waterproof liner.
Always used to wear waterproof jacket under my smock, smock stays useable and protects the lightweight material used in the issue MVP Jackets
I’m on my third and let me tell you that this jacket is great! the only drawback is the lack of pockets, I can never fit all of my EDC properly. I have waxed my Arktis smock several times, just as all good combat smocks should be waxed. It has saved me from the elements at Darkon and sparked multiple conversations with the ladies. A must have!
Just curious, what do you habitually carry that 12 pockets aren’t enough?
The multi pocket smock was a spin off of the old COP vests that where made up by unit tailors in NI, I think the first commercial version was made by SASS of Lancaster people used to strip off the chest pockets and sow them lower to have useable pockets while wearing the old flack vests and chest rigs to avoid having to wear belt kits in the Pigs and snatch rovers
Bobby, that’s a cool bit of historical information. The troops on the ground are often the poster-children for “necessity is the Mother of invention.”
Che, great question. These pockets are great for carrying most of my EDC. Starting with the obvious- Flashlight, extra mags, vs-17 panel, strobe, Mt. Dew Code Red, compass, fire starting kit, Darkon identification, belt knife and an extra Mt. Dew code red.
I stumbled upon Arktis on eBay-their kit looked really cool-I took a chance and I was very impressed with the quality and price! I will be buying more!
Cheers!
I’ve always been a smock fan and currently have an SASS Kit Carry smock in DPM and a Dropzone smock in Multicam! I want a solid color smock now in either OD or Coyote, and this Arktis B221 will be the one?!
People still use all these pockets under body armor? In my opinion this design weighing over twice that of an ECWCS level 5 jacket is outdated, to heavy, to bulky and way to water absorbing..
Curious how US and European military users view this.
In the Dutch Army, people still are a big fan of smocks. They are also generally issued. Typically body armour is worn under the smock. The fabric is pretty fast drying.
The British Army has good experiences with smocks from the Falklands, from what I’ve read. Maybe a Brit can elaborate.
I believe that smocks come from an era where body armour generally isn’t worn.
Unfortunately I am not familiar with the ECWCS jacket, what kind of material is it?
I’ve owned an Arktis smock for about five years now. Love it. I forget which model it is, it only has the front pockets and a simple bicep pocket on each sleeve. Best thing about it: no velcro!
From what I understand the smock was originally designed as a light weight jacket that a soldier could carry their basic fighting and survival load in. The soldier wouldn’t have to wear any type of web gear.