REVIEW: The Foxtrot MK2 carrying system

The Polish manufacturer Helikon-Tex is known for quality products for professional and tactical use, but also for outdoor use. In today's review, we will introduce one specific piece of equipment in detail, namely the Foxtrot MK2 carrying system. I personally use it primarily for one-day outdoor activities where I can do without a backpack. So let's get to it.

I had the opportunity to try the Foxtrot MK2 carrying system from Helikon-Tex with a friend of mine who bought it just for one-day activities. He chose the carrying system for the reason hat the backpack for these events seemed unnecessarily bulky to him, and he also wanted to avoid uncomfortable sweating on his back.

At first I was a bit skeptical and it didn't arouse my interest, however, a few one-day events with his participation changed my mind. Why? I have a simple answer to hat. Even in this case, Helikon-Tex was able to develop a product that is practical and, given its purpose, surprisingly voluminous.

The Helikon-Tex Foxtrot MK2 central pocket has a Versatile Insert compatible velcro panel inside and a 3D mesh zippered pocket. A similar pocket is also on the inside of the top lid.

Characteristics and description

The main characteristic of this product is its wearing style. It is a "belt" bag (something like a waist bag), with the only difference being hat any load is spread over the shoulders as well. In addition to the lumbar fastening, the carrying system also has shoulder straps, so nothing restricts you even with a fully loaded Foxtrot. In addition, it is very comfortable and even after wearing it for several hours, nothing got in the way.

The Foxtrot MK2 consists of shoulder straps, a waist belt and a large, articulated pocket hat forms a central compartment. On the sides you will find two pockets for bottles.

Central space

The central space is made up of a large pocket hat can be accessed through the top lid with high-quality YKK zippers. The top lid is equipped with a carrying strap and a bungee cord for attaching small equipment such as a raincoat. On the inside of the top lid, you will also find a 3D mesh pocket with a zipper. You can store e.g. documents, wallet and other valuables in it. This pocket also has a loop inside for attaching small items.

The Helikon-Tex Foxtrot MK2 top cover is equipped with a carrying strap and a bungee cord for attaching small equipment.

Inside the large central pocket is a velcro panel compatible with the Versatile Insert system, to which you can attach equipment using velcro. There is also another 3D mesh zippered pocket with a loop inside.

On the outside, there is an even smaller front pocket with velcro fastening. Inside you will find a simple organizer where you can place e.g. a pen or tactical pen, a lighter and other small equipment. The pocket has a velcro panel on the outside where you can stick your favorite patch.

Side pockets

The two side bottle pockets are quite roomy and have adjustable safety bungee cords. They can easily accommodate canteens or wider types of bottles such as Nalgene.

The side pockets of the Helikon-Tex Foxtrot MK2 with a bungee cord fixation can also accommodate canteens or wider bottles.

Waist belt

The waist belt is equipped with the MOLLE system on the sides, so it is not a problem to attach other equipment to the hips, e.g. IFAK or other MOLLE compatible pockets and pouches.

Additional MOLLE-compatible pockets or equipment (e.g. universal Helikon-Tex holsters) can be attached to the Helikon-Tex Foxtrot MK2 waist belt.

Back and bottom

The back is reinforced for a comfortable fit. On the bottom of the system there are compression straps, under which you can also place some of your gear.

The rear stiffening part of the Helikon-Tex Foxtrot MK2 is equipped with single-line MOLLE.

Shoulder straps

The shoulder straps are attached to the system with D-rings and are fully adjustable and removable. In the space between the shoulder blades, they have a connecting stiffening part, which is equipped with single-line MOLLE and it is possible to attach to it, for example, a pocket for a hydration bag.

In the front part you will find D rings for attaching other equipment (e.g. gloves, hat, etc.). An adjustable chest strap is also a matter of course.

The Foxtrot MK2 Helikon-Tex shoulder strap with D-ring and adjustable strap is additionally equipped with a carabiner (in my case for hanging gloves and a hat).

Foxtrot MK2 parameters

• Material: Cordura
• Total volume: 5.5 l
• Dimensions: 26×18×12 cm (H × W × D)
• Weight: 710 g
• Zippers: YKK
• Waist belt with 50 mm wide buckle
• Adjustable and fully removable shoulder straps
• MOLLE compatible
• Compatible with the Versatile Insert system
  

Plus points

• Removable shoulder straps.
• Side MOLLE ties for attaching other equipment.
• Ideal for one-day outdoor activities when you don't need a backpack.
• Can be combined with a chest bag, e.g. Numbat from Helikon-Tex (see Numbat bag review).
  

Conclusion

If I have a day trip ahead of me, I more or less don't count on a backpack. The Foxtrot system is an excellent and functional alternative. If you impregnate it well, it can withstand bad weather relatively well. With the possibility of further expansion thanks to MOLLE and the possibility of attaching a hydro bag, the "em key two" becomes a full-fledged variable and quite voluminous waist bag.

hat has worked for me is the combination with a chest bag (for me specifically Numbat from Helikon-Tex). The chest bag holds everything I need to have close at hand, and in the Foxtrot I carry gear such as a Jetboil, a Sawyer water filter, a smaller IFAK and much more. So for me, another big point for Helikon for a great piece of equipment.

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Foxtrot MK2 Belt Rig Helikon‑Tex®

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