2025 Sitka Jetstream LT

Anyone got some good use in one yet?


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Only a few days with mine but so far I like it. Shed a decent amount of rain and cut the wind well. It’s definitely more of a wind breaker than a soft shell but with the right layers I think it will be much more versatile than a typical soft shell jacket
 
They just released some more colors/ sizes. I’m needing a smaller size and I can’t exchange due to throwing away the tags already even though it’s unworn. If anybody wants a green XL let me know.
 
I have had the Sitka Jetstream LT jacket since last fall. Below is my take on it.....

Soft shells are one of those pieces that tend to live in the gray area of gear systems. They are rarely perfect, often misunderstood, and frequently misused. When matched correctly to the pursuit, however, a good soft shell can be one of the most worn and trusted items in a kit. The Sitka Jetstream LT falls squarely into this category. If you hate soft shells you might want to skip over, but if you are like me and find them useful carry on! :)

Bear with me as I geek out on the specs. The Sitka Jetstream LT (Lite) Jacket is a lightweight, 100% windproof softshell designed for active pursuits and weighs approximately 13.6oz. It serves as a packable, streamlined version of Sitka's Jetstream Jacket, optimized for early-season outings or high-output activities where weight and breathability are critical.

If has WINDSTOPPER® technology by GORE-TEX – which claims complete windproof protection and adds a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish to shed light moisture. The design includes a low-profile hood with elastic binding (no cinch cord) that fits securely and is equipped with three zippered pockets: two for the hands and one on the chest (that easily holds my phone). These pockets can also act as mini “pit zips” to allow breathability as the jacket does not have full pit zips. Overall the LT has an athletic, streamlined fit that minimizes bulk and makes it ideal for layering or wearing on its own in mild, windy conditions.

I bought the LT jacket hoping for a solid color option to the infamous (and discontinued) Sitka Timberline jacket. It is very similar in design, but the Timberline Jacket is better suited for heavier duties and harsher terrain than the Jetstream LT. The fabric is quieter and thicker, IMO.

I spend a fair amount of time in wind-exposed terrain where temperatures fluctuate, and constant movement makes traditional insulation impractical. The Jetstream LT is clearly designed with these scenarios in mind, and its performance reflects that design intent. It's not great in hot weather, and it’s not great in cold weather, but it excels in that middle space and dances on the edges of both extremes.

The standout feature of this jacket is its wind protection. Sitka has done an excellent job balancing windproof capability without turning the jacket into a sauna. In steady winds, the Jetstream LT effectively blocks wind while still allowing enough breathability to stay comfortable during sustained movement. This makes it particularly well suited for ridgelines, glassing knobs, and variable conditions where stopping to layer up or strip down becomes tedious.

Rain protection is decent, but this is still just a soft shell. Light precipitation and brief showers are handled, buying time before true rain gear is required or shelter is found. Prolonged rain will eventually overwhelm it, but that is not a failure of the jacket—rather, a reminder to use the right tool for the job.

Fit is another strong point. The stretch in the fabric allows for a full range of motion without feeling restrictive, even when worn over light insulation. It moves with the body rather than against it, which is something I place a high value on, especially when covering ground or navigating steep terrain. I usually wear a L in Sitka jackets and the L in the LT fits as expected.

One downside worth mentioning is noise. Out of the box, the Jetstream LT is somewhat loud while moving. That said, the fabric does seem to break in over time, and the noise level has either decreases with use or I got used to it.

Overall, the Sitka Jetstream LT is a good soft shell that excels in windy conditions, offers respectable weather resistance, and fits the active adventurer well. As long as expectations are aligned with its design intent, it earns a solid place in a versatile layering system. I keep mine in my Jeep (and / or in my travel bag) and its more of an active adventure, oops its rainy and windy, daily wear option, than something that will go in my hunting kit.
 
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