Modern US Army Clothing - ECWCS Gen III. The children were disciplined themselves; oh, not with the help of a system of threats, they are not in the mind of a child with a conceptual mind. Remember, with this type of consciousness, the group has a common goal, not a desire for individual power.

13.10.2019

The all-weather complex ECWCS (Extended Cold Weather Clothing System), read as Ek-Wax, is designed to protect US Army personnel from negative climate factors in the most unfavorable corners of the world at temperatures down to -40. The starting point for the development of the third generation ECWCS - GenIII, called the Extended Climate Warfighter Clothing System, was the outbreak of hostilities in Afghanistan in 2001. The geographical position and relief of this country brings down all kinds of adversity to the inhabitant: a piercing cold wind and snow in the mountains, sandstorms in desert regions, heat, downpours and high humidity in the lowland parts.

ECWCS GenIII is an unmatched, unmatched set of highly specialized components on the market, crafted from the best materials available today. This is a constructor from which a kit is made for any possible conditions. The lightness and high degree of compression of the elements of clothing allows you to always have a tool at hand to withstand any whims of the weather.

The ECWCS GenIII set consists of 12 pieces: 2 keelsons, 3 jackets, 4 jackets and 3 trousers. All elements are divided into so-called layers. The layer consists of trousers / keelsons and a jacket / jacket (except for layers L3 and L4).
By location, the layers are divided into: underwear (L1, L2), universal (L3, L5) and external (L3, L4, L5, L6, L7).
According to their functional purpose, the layers are divided into moisture-wicking (L1, L2), warming (L2, L3, L7), basic (L5) and protective (L3, L4, L5, L6, L7).

The principle of operation of the layers consists in multi-stage removal of moisture from the body while maintaining the generated heat, as well as protecting the internal volume from wind and moisture. Such an effect is provided by the vapor permeability of the layers, and first of all the underwear and base layers, as well as a high degree of protection of the outer layers. Designed for different types of weather conditions. In addition to its intended use (by the US military), the ECWCS GenIII complex, due to its versatility, will be of interest to a wide audience of fans of active outdoor activities.

Layer 1. Light undershirt and underpants

Layer 2.

Layer 3.

Layer 4. Windbreaker for cool weather

Layer 5.

Layer 6.

Layer 7. Parka and trousers for extreme cold weather

Below are sequential images of all layers.

If for some reason you are not able to purchase the necessary ECWCS elements, you can design your own kit.

Fans of extreme summer sports, hikers, fishermen and hunters will appreciate layers 1, 5 and 6.

Spring and autumn outings will require 2, 5, 6, possibly 3 layers.

Ice fishing, hunting and hiking will be much more comfortable with 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 layers.

Corrected due to fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate. This is due to the fact that all elements, like the materials used in ECWCS, are created by American companies in the United States.

Reprinting of materials, in whole or in part, is permitted only by agreement with the author. In preparation, materials from ADS, Inc.® were used.

Requirements for a multilayer military clothing set.

In the tourist environment, it is customary to divide clothing items according to belonging to one of the three main layers, depending on its functional purpose. The first layer, which is also basic, its main purpose is to remove moisture from the body. The second, or middle layer is insulating, designed to retain heat, as well as for further removal of moisture from the base layer to the outer layer. The outer, third layer protects from wind and precipitation, and also, if possible, evaporates the moisture accumulated in it. This division is rather arbitrary, since each of the listed layers can combine several functions at the same time or consist of several things that perform the same function.

Further development of the multilayer principle leads to the division of each of the three main layers into additional ones, depending on climatic conditions and the nature of physical activity. It is in this way that, with the active participation of athletes and tourists, such sets of clothing for the military as ECWCS and PCU were developed in the United States. The kits are designed for use at low and low temperatures, consist of seven layers, their detailed reviews can be found on the Internet. In our opinion, the division into seven layers is really convenient from the point of view of the military "building layer", and in the future we will adhere to this classification.

Based on our experience, the basic requirements for a seven-layer military clothing set are as follows.

1 layer - moisture-wicking.

Thin underwear. Designed to remove moisture. Worn directly on the body under the other outer layers. The layer can be presented both in the form of a T-shirt and underpants, and in the form of a long-sleeved T-shirt and underpants. The cut should be close-fitting to avoid wrinkling and to ensure a snug fit of the fabric to the body. Examples of materials used - Coolmax, Polartec Power Dry, Polartec Power Stretch

2nd layer - moisture-wicking and warming.

Thicker thermal underwear in comparison with the 1st layer. Which of the two properties - moisture wicking or heat retention - will be most pronounced depends on the material used. As a rule, these are long johns and a sweatshirt with long sleeves. In conditions of low (<10 С) и отрицательных температур вещи 2-го слоя могут носится постоянно, независимо от характера физической нагрузки. Примеры используемых материалов - Polartec PowerDry Grid Fleece, Polartec Power Stretch

3rd layer - medium insulating.

Designed primarily to keep warm. It is worn over the first two layers and, as far as possible, should not interfere with further moisture removal. Presented as a jacket / sweater and pants / pants. In the American ECWCS Gen 3 set, the third layer is represented only by the jacket. Given the variety of climatic conditions in Russia, it is advisable for the military to have a complete set of jackets and trousers / pants. In conditions of low temperatures, the layer is usually used during periods of static or low physical activity. At temperatures of -20 C and below, it can be worn even with high physical activity. Examples of materials used - Polartec Classic 200/300, Termal Pro HighLoft.

4th layer - lightweight windproof.

Designed to protect against wind and light precipitation. It is worn as an outer layer over the first three, with their various combinations. A versatile lightweight, compact, quick-drying windbreaker, used both in summer and in the off-season. The jacket must have high wind resistance with good breathability, which will allow it to be worn even at high physical exertion in positive temperatures. The materials used are mainly nylon.

5th layer - the main outer.

Designed for permanent wear, regardless of the nature of physical activity, over the first three layers or their various combinations. Consists of a jacket and camouflage trousers. In the above-mentioned kits of the US Army, the fifth layer is designed to be worn mainly at low and low temperatures and is made of softshells, which we will discuss in more detail another time.

6th layer - waterproof.

Designed to protect against precipitation of any intensity. It can be worn over all of the listed layers or their various combinations. Consists of a jacket with a hood and self-discharge trousers. Has waterproof zippers and, as a rule, taped seams. The main purpose of the 6th layer is to protect against heavy and prolonged rain when not moving or with low physical activity. Unfortunately, the “membrane” has become overgrown with many legends, partly due to the efforts of manufacturers, but most often due to the lack of knowledge and experience of the user, which leads to its misuse. Examples of materials used are Gore-Tex membrane fabrics, eVent, Gelanots, etc. More details about and the use of membrane fabrics and products from them.

7th layer - external insulation.

Designed for thermal insulation and protection from precipitation in conditions of negative temperatures. Can be worn over the first five layers or various combinations of these. The set consists of a jacket with a hood and self-discharge pants with synthetic insulation. First of all, the 7th layer is what will help you warm up in a minimum of time with a minimum of effort during autonomous actions, even at short stops. Its design should allow it to be worn over the main layer and other equipment, and when packed, take up as little space as possible when carrying it in a backpack. Examples of materials used as insulation - PrimaLoft, Thinsulate, etc.

In conclusion, a few words about the materials for the layers listed. The conditions for the military use of clothing are quite different from the civilian tourist one. The military has to be in the same clothes for several days, including under different weather conditions, without the opportunity to change or dry it. With autonomous operations, when every gram is saved, the number of items of clothing is very limited and practically does not include spare items. In the field, caring for clothes often comes down to infrequent washing in cold water with soap and hand darning of damage. Based on the above, the following basic requirements for materials can be formulated:

1-3 layer:

low hygroscopicity
moisture removal
light weight
small volume
hypoallergenic
suppressing or slowing down the activity of bacteria

5 layer:

high wear resistance
high breathability
low hygroscopicity
sufficient wind and rain protection
light weight
easy maintenance, i.e. washing with ordinary soap or powder, without additional treatment with various means

7 layer:

maximum thermal insulation properties of the insulation in relation to weight
high degree of wind protection
breathability of outer fabric
protection from precipitation
low hygroscopicity
wear resistance
compactness when rolled up, without performance degradation

In the following, we will look at examples of layer combinations depending on external conditions and type of activity, as well as specific clothing samples.

The armed forces of the armies of the countries of the world have on supply sets of uniforms, created in the concept of "layered" clothing and providing the soldier with comfort in any (up to -45) cold and any activity. The concept of "layered" clothing assumes the presence of three conventional layers on a person - base (sweat-wicking), intermediate (warming, heat-insulating), and external (protecting from precipitation). Physically, these layers can include both several garments within one layer, and combinations of the functions of one or two layers in one garment, depending on external conditions.

If a civilian tourist, hunter, athlete or climber chooses each piece of equipment himself, then uniform kits are produced for the needs of the army, simplifying logistics. Their difference from previous sets of winter uniforms is that their components are developed together, and not separately, ensuring mutual compatibility and efficiency in use.

Varieties of layered clothing systems

Examples include:

ECWCS(US Army kit),
FREE(US Army fire-resistant kit, for crews of combat vehicles),
PCU(set of special operations forces of the United States), also APCU - Advanced PCU,
CLS(extended version of the PCU),
NBS7(refractory commercial kit),
MCWCS(US Marine Corps kit),
GARM(kit for the Norwegian army),
set of uniforms for CRRF CSTO(Collective Rapid Reaction Force of the Collective Security Treaty Organization),
set of uniforms for RF Armed Forces.

The listed kits were created according to the assignments of various departments, but their purpose in general is the same - to provide the soldier with comfort so that, in an aggressive environment, he could concentrate on performing a combat mission. Also their components are united in design, satisfying the concept of “layered” clothing.

In fact, for example, a winter tourist has a wardrobe that is similar in composition, the only difference is that the items of clothing in it were selected separately from the others, therefore it is difficult to call it a set, although in terms of functionality it is quite.

For example ECWCS Gen III we will analyze the use of modern clothing for difficult weather conditions, in different environments and with different activities. In this we will be helped by the fact that this system has a visual publicly available guide, and it itself has been comprehensively mastered by both military and civilian users.

ECWCS Gen III

So what is ECWCS Gen III. This is a modified version of the ECWCS system, which is now not just a "layered" clothing system for the cold season, but a full-fledged expanded combat climate system. It is designed to increase the survivability of soldiers in various harsh climatic conditions.

Key differences between Gen III and previous ECWCS versions:

Complete system of 7 layers, to ensure comfort in temperatures from -40 to +16 degrees Celsius,
Reduced weight by 25%
Volume reduced by 30%,
Added 4 new layers,
All 7 layers are a dynamic system for individual selection of clothes and achieving comfort in various climatic conditions,
Improved and optimized design of layers, as well as their sizes.
The system has become quiet and invisible, NIR (Near Infrared Textile Technology) technology is used,
Well adapted to be worn with weight-bearing and body armor systems,
Used innovative technologies in the manufacture of materials, design and manufacture of finished products.

Consider the layers of the ECWCS system

Layer 1: Light underwear (underpants). Base layer. It is put on directly on the body, combined with other layers. Designed for warm weather, moisture and heat removal.
Layer 2: Tight underwear (warm pants). This is also a base layer, also worn directly on the body (as well as over the first), combined with other layers. Designed for the cold season, thermal insulation and moisture removal.
Layer 3: Jacket with fleece fleece. Intermediate layer. It is worn under the tops or worn as an outer garment in cold weather. The fleece creates an air gap to retain heat, and the jacket itself is light enough. The material is quick-drying.
Layer 4: Windbreaker. Outer layer. Wears over base and intermediate layers. Designed to protect against wind and dust on rough terrain. Water-repellent layer, used as the simplest outer layer. Can be worn under body armor.
Layer 5: Jacket and pants for cold weather (softshell). Outer layer. It is put on together with the base and intermediate layer. Designed for the cold season. Made of elastic, breathable and water-repellent material. Very comfortable when traveling on foot.
Layer 6: Jacket and pants for wet and cold weather (hardshell) .Outer layer. It is put on together with the base and intermediate layer. The layer is completely waterproof and not breathable (however "breathable"). It is used in conditions of temperatures close to zero degrees.
Bed 7: Jacket and pants with insulation for dry and frosty weather. Outer layer. Designed for static operations in dry and frosty conditions. The layer provides water resistance and good thermal insulation, but "breathes", preventing overheating.

The scheme of using layers depending on temperature and mobility

Layering system in a nutshell

The main point of the system is to put on what is needed at the moment, relying on the weather and type of activity. Let's say it's windy and cool, we go jogging - put on thermal underwear, a windbreaker and trousers, as well as a cap and a scarf-tube, for example. Instead of the wind, it started to rain - what to do, drove to the locker room or climbed into a backpack, put on a raincoat suit instead of a windbreaker and trousers, we continue to run. It got colder - we changed the thermal underwear for a warmer one. It got very cold - put on a fleece jacket. Both the outer layers and the inner ones change. And so on and so forth.

Readers Last Day Club, for the most part, civilians, there is an advantage over the military - you can adjust the wardrobe not only for the weather and occupation, but also for the characteristics of the body, heat perception. For example, pick up:

lighter / tighter, solid / zoned, merino / polyester
insulated / not insulated softshell, lighter / denser
fleece thinner / thicker, windproof, with a neckline / without, with a hood / without
warm jacket with a dense / lightweight upper fabric, with different insulation, with a different number of layers of insulation
different gloves, scarves, socks and hats

In this article, we will get acquainted with the American all-weather clothing complex of the US Army Extended Cold Weather Clothing System Generation III (ECWCS Gen III) (or in Russian - Ek-Wax of the third generation). It was originally developed, as you might guess, to protect US Army personnel from negative climate factors in the most unfavorable corners of the world at temperatures down to -40. This development arose for a reason, but was a response to complaints from United States soldiers who began hostilities in Afghanistan in 2001. All kinds of weather conditions simultaneously hit the American warriors - a piercing wind with sleet in mountainous areas, unbearable heat with sandstorms in desert areas, torrential rains and high humidity in open areas.
ECWCS Gen III is, in fact, a universal set of highly specialized components created from the best materials at the moment. Thus, by dressing the set in different combinations, you can survive any weather conditions with maximum comfort. Moreover, the high compactness of each of the components allows you to carry the entire set with you, and use only its parts.

A miracle set, you can't say otherwise, ECWCS Gen III consists of 12 elements - two underpants, three jackets, three trousers and four jackets. Each element is intended for its own layer, which, as a rule, consists of trousers or underpants and a jacket or sweater, although not always.
According to their purpose, the layers are divided into: moisture-wicking - layers one (L1) and two (L2), heating - layers two (L2), three (L3), seven (L7), base - fifth (L5) and protective layers - layers from the third on the seventh (L3-L7).
The principle of operation of this kit consists in multi-stage removal of moisture from the body while maintaining the generated heat, as well as protecting the internal volume from wind and moisture. All this is ensured by the vapor permeability of the layers, primarily the underwear and base layers, as well as a high degree of protection of the outer layers. The ECWCS Gen III complex, due to its versatility, will be of interest not only to the military, but also to a wide audience of fans of outdoor activities in various weather conditions.

Layer 1 (L1)

Thin underwear turtleneck and underpants. Provides moisture removal from the body. The sleeves have a thumb slot. It is an integral part of any of the kits. It is necessary that the linen fits tight, but does not hinder movement either. Recommended for permanent use at any time of the year.

Layer 2 (L2)

Alternative / Addition to the first layer. Unlike the first layer, this is not only a moisture wicking, but also a heating kit. The inner side has an extruded mesh pattern that allows you to effectively absorb moisture without sticking to the body and forms an additional air gap. May be worn over the first layer during frost.
Layer 3 (L3)

Oversized combined fleece jacket. Refers to the base layer of insulation, thanks to its bulk, it warms well, especially in combination with the first - second layer or dressed over the form. For greater durability, the stressed parts are reinforced with fabric. The sides have "waffle" inserts similar to Layer 2 for improved ventilation. The surface structure of the jacket is very soft and pleasant to the touch. Recommended for use at temperatures below -10 degrees.
The Polartec® Thermal Pro® fabric of the fleece jacket, made of 100% special polyester yarns, is 30 times stronger than traditional woolen fabrics. The material guarantees excellent breathability and dries instantly. Unlike most fleece fabrics, Polartec® Thermal Pro® retains its appearance and performance even after multiple washes.
Layer 4 (L4)

Lightweight, durable, thin windbreaker. Recommended for use in areas with strong cold winds. It differs from the jacket of the fifth layer in the absence of a hood and a few more minor details. The material is the same as the 5th layer. As a rule, camouflage coloring, but there are also monochrome ones, for example, coyote, olive, etc.

Layer 5 (L5)

It is a wind / waterproof base layer - SOFT SHELL. Trousers and a jacket form the basis of the whole complex, it is under it that the lower layers are worn, and it is on it that the upper ones are worn. Created from the unique moisture-wicking material EPIC, the 5-layer jacket and trousers are extremely lightweight, compact and do not restrict freedom of movement. In combination with base and insulating layers, it is an excellent outer layer for cold weather.
EPIC is a unique fabric created using encapsulation technology developed by Nextec Applications, Inc. The encapsulation technology is based on the process of surrounding natural fibers with a protective layer of polymers. As a result of such processing, the wear resistance of the fabric increases, moisture-repellent properties are imparted and moisture absorption by the fibers is excluded.

The encapsulated material cannot be washed off or wiped off as a moisture-repellent impregnation and has higher vapor permeability properties than membrane fabrics. Encapsulation keeps the weight of the fabric low and increases wind resistance. EPIC products are versatile and provide optimal comfort. Additional reinforcement with layers of GORE-TEX® membrane fabric is only required in heavy rain.

Tissue encapsulation technology is protected by 52 patents and is currently used only by Nextec Applications, Inc.
Typically camouflaged to match Layer 4.

Layer 6 (L6)

Membrane jacket and trousers made of GORE-TEX® PACLITE® for freezing and / or wet weather. GORE-TEX membrane technology allows moisture to be removed from the lower layers, but prevents it from entering from the outside. Unlike previous generations (GEN1 and GEN2), the fabric is thinner, more flexible, stronger and less rustling. Wears over Layer 5, 7 or other clothing to protect against moisture and blowing winds during winter.

Jacket with a hood and trousers for unbearable frost. Waterproof outer layer. PrimaLoft® filler provides a high level of thermal insulation, freezer areas are sealed with fabric pads, many external and internal pockets. The "PrimaLoft Sport" filler is more like synthetic down. It has no analogues yet. Does not get wet, shrinks into a minimum volume, instantly and independently fluffs after compression, keeps heat perfectly.In combination with layers L1, L2, L3, L5, even at -40 degrees, it will be in the cold for a long time, in a sedentary state.

You can buy any set of layers from us - go to the section

The Soft Shell suit is purposefully designed to meet the stringent requirements of Special Forces operators. Designed to maintain a comfortable body temperature of the user in the cold season during vigorous activity, in bad weather, with wind and rain. The suit can be used as a base 5th layer of ECWCS Gen.III. Jacket MPA-26-01: Jacket MPA-26-01 is designed to maintain a comfortable body temperature in the cold season. Effectively removes steam from the body, does not allow moisture from the outside and reliably protects from cold, wind and rain, taking into account intense physical activity. The demi-season jacket combines several layers of clothing thanks to the three-layer Softshell material, consisting of an outer surface with a water-repellent Teflon® impregnation, a membrane and fleece that wick moisture away from the body. The cuffs on the sleeves are adjustable with a textile fastener. Ventilation in the armhole allows you to "cool down" faster and not overheat with increased physical activity and changing weather conditions. High stand-up collar protects the neck. Detachable hood is adjustable in volume and face contour. The tactical jacket is equipped with 8 zipped pockets: chest, side, back in the lower part of the back and in the forearm area. Velcro fasteners are located in the upper part of the sleeves for fastening the chevrons.2 internal and 6 external pockets with the ability to access when worn together with tactical equipment; - ventilation openings are protected by a mesh; - adjustable waist and bottom; - stand collar; - adjustable, detachable hood; - closed ventilation holes; - taped zippers. - places for chevrons on Velcro Soft shell fabric breathes, does not tear, does not get wet, does not restrict movement! COMPOSITION 92% POLYESTER, 8% SPANDEX, MEMBRANE, FLEECE SEASON SPRING / AUTUMN JACKET CATEGORY

Field demi-season (for cool weather) jacket for armed professionals, provides protection from wind and light rainfall. Suitable for outdoor use. It is analogous to the 5 layer of the American military multilayer systems of clothing ECWCS / PCU (non-insulated softshell) Light but durable fabric (100% polyester) with a dense weave, has windproof properties. Thanks to DWR impregnation, it protects against light precipitation (it gets wet in heavy rain). Does not bite through mosquitoes. Dries quickly. Similar to the fabric used in the Panzer Super Light anorak. All seams are seamed (the fabric cuts are hidden in the seam, the overlock is not used in principle) for greater strength. All zippers have long braid grips on the zippers. The hooks are flat and soft, do not press when worn over the jacket, the equipment. The hood is retracted into the collar, the pocket is closed with a two-zip, protected by a strap. A special tightening around the face and the shape of the hood do not disturb peripheral vision, the free ends of the cord are brought out into the collar and further into the chest pockets of the jacket. Additional horizontal tightening with elastic cord (adjustable at the back of the head). The hood is sewn into the upper edge of the collar, so it fits the head just as well as the hoods that are a continuation of the collar.The collar is high, large width, counting on putting on over a fleece jacket with the hood removed in the collar. the entire length is covered with a windbreak. On the collar, the placket extends outward to protect the neck and chin from chafing. Sleeves are articulated at the elbows. The cut provides unobstructed upward movement of the arms, the jacket does not pull up. Simple cuffs with wide elastic bands The jacket is lengthened at the back to protect the lower back. Drawstring at the bottom using the clips located near the central fastener. Free ends of the cord are brought out into the chest pockets of the jacket All loaded places are reinforced with zigzag bartacks Pockets: large pockets on the shoulders with a vertical zipper, protected by a strap on the wrong side, a mesh pocket with a zipper for documents, chest pockets with vertical zippers on the sides of the chest, zippers are protected by a strap. This arrangement provides access to the pockets when worn over a bib or body armor, and does not interfere with the use of pistol belts, RPS, backpack belts and other equipment (there are no pockets below the waist). Burlap pockets are made of lightweight synthetic mesh, but the bottom and zip area are reinforced with the main fabric. The openings for the free ends of the hood tightening cord can be used to thread the headphone or headset cord through it so they slip out of the collar pockets MAYBE YOU WILL BE INTERESTED IN: REVIEWS: