French Civil Defense XR Jacket

French Civil Defense Jacket

This is the navy XR jacket issued to French civil defense personnel, the emergency and rescue service that responds to disasters, fires and civil emergencies in France. It was made for work outdoors in bad weather and low light, so it pairs a weather-resistant shell with wide reflective bands that stand out in headlights and torch beams. It suits collectors of French service clothing, reenactors, and anyone who wants a serious foul-weather work jacket with real government provenance.

Features

• Gore-Tex Membrane — A waterproof, breathable layer keeps rain out while letting body moisture escape so you stay drier from the inside too.
• Nomex Content — Nomex is a flame-resistant aramid fiber that resists igniting and melting, which is why it turns up in emergency-service clothing.
• Cotton And Polyester Shell — The outer fabric blends cotton for comfort with polyester for strength and shape retention.
• Reflective Banding — White reflective tape circles the chest and upper arms and runs around the hem, making the wearer visible from every side at night.
• High Stand Collar — A tall collar with a hook-and-loop closure tab closes up around the neck against wind and rain.
• Covered Front Closure — A full-length storm flap runs over the front opening to keep water from getting through the fastening.
• Hook-And-Loop Patch Panels — Panels on the chest and collar take service identification or name patches.
• Flapped Lower Pockets — Two angled hip pockets have covering flaps to keep rain and debris out of the contents.
• Adjustable Cuffs — Tab closures at the wrists let you snug the sleeves over gloves or seal out drafts.

Original Issue Spec

This jacket was made for French government service, so it was built to an official specification rather than a fashion brand's idea of workwear. The combination of Gore-Tex, Nomex, cotton and polyester reflects a garment meant for rescue crews who face rain, cold and heat on the same shift. The navy body with white reflective bands is the recognizable French civil defense look, which makes it a strong piece for anyone building a collection of European emergency-service uniforms.