Removable Front Panels: Zehta Jacket and Urban Defender II

A removable front panel changes the width and front profile of a jacket. Both the HLVTC Zehta Jacket and Urban Defender II use this construction. Here is a closer look at their pattern work, measurements and practical details, beyond the fabric names.

Fashion design shaped around movement

HLVTC aims to bring the performance and comfort associated with outdoor clothing into directional fashion. Material quality and precise pattern cutting are central to that approach: design and comfort are considered together.

The front panels and sleeves offer concrete examples. A panel changes the width of the body, while shaped sleeves account for arm movement. These are functions built into the garment's form. Read more about the brand's approach to making clothes on our About us page.

What does a removable front panel change?

Attaching the panel increases the jacket's width; removing it makes the body narrower. Check the measurements in both configurations before choosing. A substantial midlayer and a thin shirt need different amounts of room.

The panel does not turn the sleeves or body length into a different size. Treat the adjustment as one part of fit, and compare the measurements with a jacket you already wear.

Zehta Jacket: adjustable width and an additional pocket

The Zehta Jacket is made in Japan, with a densely woven Ventile mil-cloth outer fabric and 2.92oz Dyneema elbow panels. Its outer fabric composition is 60% polyester and 40% nylon. Orange TORAY AIR FINE fabric is used for the lining.

Attaching the front panel adds a pocket as well as width. The product specification lists five front pockets and a strap for carrying the jacket on your back when it is taken off. Storage and carrying options are useful details to consider alongside the silhouette.

The sleeves are patterned to straighten when the arms are raised high. Look at how the garment is designed to change shape in motion, as well as its outline at rest.

Urban Defender II: eVent with Dyneema sleeve panels

The Urban Defender II is also made in Japan. It combines a three-layer eVent body with Dyneema sleeve panels, a removable front panel, a high neckline and forward-shaped, articulated sleeves.

INCODER's Nynodal Cord and compatibility with the i N system are further details. The metal accessories attached to the cord are sold separately. Check the product description rather than assuming that every accessory shown in a photograph is included.

For rain protection, distinguish the fabric from the finished garment. eVent has waterproof and breathable properties, but this jacket is sewn with water-repellent thread and has no seam tape. It is not specified as a fully waterproof garment, including its seams.

Compare the measurements with and without the panel

ModelChest width, panel attachedChest width, panel removedLength
Zehta Jacket67cm58cm72cm
Urban Defender II S66cm59.5cm68cm
Urban Defender II M68cm61.5cm70cm

These are the garment measurements listed on the product pages. Chest width is not body chest circumference or a recommended body measurement. Shoulder width is listed as not measurable for both designs, so a conventional shoulder-width comparison is unavailable.

Three checks before choosing

  1. What will you wear underneath? Compare width and length with your own jacket and consider your usual layers.
  2. Which details will you use? Consider Zehta's extra pocket and carrying strap, or Urban Defender II's cord and accessory compatibility.
  3. Which fabric expression appeals to you? Compare Zehta's dense cloth and elbow panels with Urban Defender II's three-layer body and sleeve panels in the product photographs.

Choose through the relationship between the shape you want to wear and the construction you want to use. That is one way to bring HLVTC's jacket designs into everyday life.

Related reading: Everyday Techwear: A Guide to Fabrics, Fit and Function. For international delivery, see our shipping policy. For sizing or specification questions, contact us.

Specifications and measurements are based on product information checked on 22 October 2026. Refer to each product page for current specifications, pricing and availability.

Back to blog