When I first saw the 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig at Shot Show in 2023, I was intrigued by its sleek design and promise of lightweight versatility. After all I do believe my very first review on AOD was a different 5.11 Chest Rig. As someone who spends a significant amount of time outdoors, whether hiking, hunting, or engaging in tactical training or even photographing it, I’ve experimented with various chest rigs over the years. The Skyweight seemed to offer a balanced blend of durability, functionality, and comfort, so I decided to put it through its paces over a few months.
5.11 Tactical Coverage on AllOutdoor
- 5.11 Officially Unveils the Founder’s Jacket – An Anywhere, Anytime Blazer
- AllOutdoor Review – 5.11 Tactical Seth Shirt Jacket
- AllOutdoor Review: 5.11 Tactical PrimaLoft Insulated Hand Warmer
- New Fall 2024 Footwear Options from 5.11 Tactical – Always Be Ready
- AllOutdoor 1,500 Hour Review: 5.11 Foley Mid Shoe – EDC Workhorse
Specs – 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig
- Material: 500D nylon
- MOLLE: compatible webbing
- Storage: Integrated magazine pouches and a spacious main compartment with internal organization.
- Adjustability: Fully adjustable straps
- Retention: Elastic magazine retention for secure yet accessible storage.
- Country of Origin: Vietnam
- MSRP: $65
Design and Build Quality – 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig
The Skyweight Chest Rig has compact and minimalist design and many of 5.11’s current offerings seam to reflect this design nature. Unlike bulkier rigs, the Skyweight lives up to its name by prioritizing lightweight materials. The 500D nylon fabric feels robust enough for most applications, and the stitching appears clean and solid. I never felt like it would tear under normal use, even when I loaded it up with gear
That said, the lightweight design comes with some compromises. The lack of padding in the shoulder straps, while understandable to keep the weight down, became noticeable after extended wear. On a short hike or quick training session, it’s fine, but during longer outings, I found the straps began to dig into my shoulders, especially when the rig was fully loaded.
The modularity of the rig is a strong point. The buckle system allows for alternative harnesses to be worn while the interior offers lots of customization. However, the size of the rig does limit how much you can realistically carry without it becoming unwieldy. For someone like me who likes to carry a fair amount of gear, this was a bit of a drawback. It’s worth noting, though, that the rig is designed for a minimalist approach, so this may not be an issue for everyone.
Fit and Comfort – 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig
Adjustability is one of the Skyweight’s selling points, and it delivers in this department. The straps are easy to adjust, allowing for a snug fit on a variety of body types. I’m an average build, and it fit me well with room to spare for adjustments either way. However, the fit isn’t flawless. Because the rig is so lightweight and lacks structure, it tends to shift around more than I’d like, especially when running or performing dynamic movements. I found myself frequently readjusting it to keep it in place, which became annoying over time.
Breathability is another area where the Skyweight performs decently. The materials don’t trap heat as much as other chest rigs I’ve used, which is a blessing in warmer climates like here in Alabama. However, the trade-off is the lack of padding or mesh that might improve comfort over longer periods of wear. It’s a bit of a double-edged sword: you stay cooler, but you sacrifice some comfort.
Storage and Accessibility – 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig
For a minimalist rig, the storage options are surprisingly good. The main compartment is spacious enough to hold essentials like maps, gloves, and small tools. The internal organization helps keep things in place, though I’d have appreciated slightly more compartmentalization. The addition of elastic loops or smaller pockets for items like pens or multi-tools would have been a nice touch. The integrated Velcro field is another highlight. It’s well-sized and can securely hold a Glock-19-sized pistol with ease. The elastic retention system works well, providing a balance of security and accessibility.
Accessibility is generally good, but not exceptional. Reaching for gear feels natural when the rig is sitting properly, but as mentioned earlier, the tendency of the rig to shift can sometimes make accessing pouches a little awkward. I’d recommend practicing with it extensively to get used to its quirks before taking it into a high-stakes situation.
Performance in the Field – 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig
I tested the Skyweight in various scenarios, including a day hike, a weekend camping trip, and a few range sessions. During the hike, the lightweight design really shone. I barely noticed the rig for the first few hours, and the internal organization system allowed me to keep all of my high-use tools close by, which was a game-changer. However, as the day wore on, the lack of padding in the shoulder straps started to wear on me. By the end of the hike, I was actively looking forward to taking it off.
On the camping trip, I used the rig primarily for carrying tools and small essentials. It performed adequately, but I did feel limited by its storage capacity. If you’re the type who likes to carry a lot of gear, you might find yourself wishing for a larger rig or a complementary backpack. That said, for quick access to frequently used items, it was a solid choice.
At the range, the Skyweight performed well in terms of accessibility and mobility. I appreciated the low-profile design, which didn’t interfere with my shooting stance or movements. Reloading from the magazine pouches was smooth, though the shifting issue reared its head again during more dynamic drills.
Value for Money – 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig
At its price point, the 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig sits in the mid-range category. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but it’s far from the most expensive. For the features and quality it offers, I’d say it’s reasonably priced. However, whether it represents good value for money depends on your intended use. If you’re looking for a lightweight, minimalist rig for heavy use, it’s a great option.
Final Thoughts – 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig
The 5.11 Skyweight Chest Rig is a well-designed piece of gear that’s clearly aimed at those who prioritize mobility and simplicity with loads or organization. It excels in scenarios where lightweight and low-profile gear is a must, such as short hikes, range sessions, or minimalist tactical setups. However, it’s not without its flaws. The lack of shoulder padding and tendency to shift make it less ideal for extended wear or more demanding activities with its loaded down.
Would I recommend it? Yes, but with caveats. If you understand its limitations and use it within its intended scope, it’s a solid piece of equipment. Just don’t expect it to perform miracles or replace a more heavy-duty rig. For me, it’s become a situational piece of gear—something I’ll use when I need a lightweight option, but not my go-to for every outing. If you’re considering the Skyweight Chest Rig, think carefully about your needs and whether this rig aligns with them.
The post AllOutdoor Review – 5.11 Tactical Skyweight Chest Rig appeared first on AllOutdoor.com.
