Extreme Cold Weather Parka and Trousers
Mission
The Generation III Extended Cold Weather Clothing System (GEN III ECWCS) allows the Soldier to adapt to varying mission requirements and environmental conditions. Utilized materials offer a greater range of breathability and environmental protection, providing greater versatility in meeting Soldiers’ needs.
GEN III ECWCS utilizes an innovative design that reduces bulk; it takes up 33 percent less space and weighs 25 percent less than its predecessor systems. Each piece of GEN III ECWCS functions either alone or in concert with other components as a system. This provides more options for the Soldier and enables seamless integration with load-bearing equipment and body armor configurations. The GEN III ECWCS design allows moisture to escape and at the same time has water-resistant properties.
GEN III ECWCS is a 12-piece kit that enables Soldiers to utilize seven different layers, depending on the mission and environment. The system functions through insulation, layering, and ventilation. Insulation resists the transmission of heat, traps air, and wicks moisture away from the body. Layering increases air space and allows easy adjustment to a Soldier’s activity level. Ventilation allows moisture to escape. By mixing and matching GEN III ECWCS components, Soldiers can protect themselves from temperatures ranging from 40 degrees Fahrenheit to minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Description
Level 7 of the ECWCS Gen III multi-layered system is designed for use during static operations in extreme cold and dry weather. Options are as follows:
Specifications
Extreme Cold Weather Parka is constructed of PrimaLoft® Sport Thermal-bonded high-loft insulation that maintains its warmth even with wet and has an outer shell fabric with a water-resistant finish, making it highly durable and breathable. It has a two-way center-front zipper, as well as the following features:
• High Collar with Collapsible, Stowable Insulated Hood
• Nylon-Reinforced Elbows
• Two Front Zipper Pockets
• Ripstop Nylon Inner Lining
• Velcro® Fasteners for Rank and Name Plates
• Bottom Hem with Elastic Cord for Adjustability
• Two-Way Front Zipper with Protective Wind Flap
• Elastic Cuffs with Velcro Adjustment Straps
• Velcro Fasteners to Attach Rank Badges and Name Plates
Extreme Cold Weather Trousers are constructed with a water-resistant outer shell fabric and PrimaLoft® Sport thermal bonded high-loft insulation. They are highly durable and breathable and maintain warmth even when wet. Other features include:
• Zippered Fly Opening
• Full-Length Side-Zipper Openings to Facilitate Donning without Removal of Boots
• Nylon Reinforced Knees
• Elastic Waist with Provisions for Suspenders
• Zippers with a Pull Tab for Ease of Opening and Closing when Wearing Gloves