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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ก.ย. 2024
- This is a comprehensive visual guide for the Protective Combat Uniform (PCU) (as well as the ECWCS Gen III) cold weather layering system. Here you will learn how to develop and use your cold weather system according to US Special Forces doctrine.
Commercial technical garments tend to run for premium prices and can be restrictive to those seeking to enter the world of cold weather technical activities. Military surplus, such as the ECWCS Gen III and PCU garments, are an excellent choice for a cost effective and high quality suite of cold weather layers. All of the ECWCS and PCU “levels” can be found on most surplus sites and are all over eBay.
This video also aims to showcase some of the cooler, more elusive garments of the PCU system.
Featured Garments:
-Level 1 Base layers - Halys PCU Block 1
-Level 2 - ECWCS Gen III Waffle layers
-Level 3 - Halys PCU Block 1 Fleece jacket
-"Level 4" - Arktis Stowaway Windshirt
-Level 5 - Patagonia PCU Block 1 Softshells
-Level 6 - Patagonia PCU Block 1 Goretex
- Level 7 - Halys PCU Block 1 High loft vest, Halys PCU Block 0 Type 1 High loft Jacket + Block 1 pants, and Halys PCU Block 1 Type 2 “Monster” Parka
For more information on the PCU System, check out Soldier Systems, ITS Tactical, The Full 9, and Ontario Geardo on the web.
For more references about cold weather effectiveness check out the channel “GruntProof” / @gruntproof . He has a lot a great videos on this very topic and covers many of its other facets.
And feel free to drop your favorite videos and channels in the comments you think may be useful to those who are getting into cold weather hobbies, sports, etc.
Next video is in the works and will continue our surplus cold weather effectiveness journey. Make sure you subscribe and stay tuned.
Imagine getting killed in the field with all this expensive protective combat uniform someone will get free loot
@@PRIMAL_HUNTER1988 Yes, nice gear doesn’t make you invulnerable.
solid video bro
@@PRIMAL_HUNTER1988that's why you should always wear a helmet
@@KitCreepwhat’s the song in the background?
An INCREDIBLY comprehensive guide you have put together. Wish they showed this to everyone way back when. The way they framed it was such a hassle, this is as easy as it gets!
I'm from the west highlands of Scotland and much prefer wool out on the mountains. A good set up for rough weather I find is good boots with two pairs of socks, one thin merino and one thick wool. A heavy weight wool kilt. lets the air flow but keeps you warm. Two merino wool long sleeves, a wool fisherman's jumper and a wool over coat. A peacoat is good for ease of movement. A good fur trapper hat is the only kind of hat i've ever found works properly in Scotland when it gets really wild. Then a poncho for rain protection. Waxed cotton or rubber. Ponchos are good as they let a lot of air flow and keep rain away from your upper and lower. After a good trek with all that even in the worst conditions you will be cosy, dry and fresh.
Nova Scotian here. Agreed to the kilt in outdoors conditions. Both warm and breezy.
When I graduated (over 40 years ago) as an Environmental Engineer my first job included snow surveys, ice surveys and building remote mountain weather stations. Out motto then was Clothing is Equipment. This a wonderful video. Well done.Today I spend a lot of time in the Canadian outdoors all year long and am constantly experimenting with the latest outdoor gear. Keep up the great work and I look forward to your opinion on footwear and other accessories.
Thank you so much! I agree with that. Each of these layers are another tool in the toolbox. And that sounds like an amazing first job. I'd love to have the opportunity to go somewhere like that in the future.
And yes, definitely stay tuned for hand and footwear systems I've been working on. Thanks again!
Above anything else I really enjoyed the positive mindset making you conclude by saying that there aren’t any bugs. It makes it even more pleasant to watch and actually makes me want to try
I’m so happy you felt that way! The snow and the cold is something to be played in. Not feared.
Great video. Especially filming in all the actual conditions, that must have taken a while.
Potential future topics:
-How to pack cold weather clothing as minimally as possible for an assault/raid while still maintaining enough to deal with contingencies.
-Skis vs Snowshoes vs Boots w/Gators, when to pick one over the other for tactical, survival, backcountry situations in various terrain.
-Keeping hands and feet warm. Over boots, muckluks, mittens, liner gloves, dexterity vs warmth, electric gloves, chemical handwarmers, etc.
Thank you. Ya it took a few months of waiting for the right conditions to film. I felt like it’d be more appealing than doing a table top review in a makeshift studio.
And I agree. Those topics all deserve their own separate videos. I think discussing the addition of combat gear into the mix would be interesting. Body armor and combat loads really throws a wrench into things.
@@KitCreep great work overall though. That was a really ambitious first video.
As a high school cross country ski racer, I think this is a great guide, however it’s totally possible to do stuff in basically two layers of long underwear as long as you have decent gloves and don’t stop moving. Once you do you die. This kit kinda shocked me in how much you wear for activities until I realized the military isn’t racing, and has a slower pace over longer time
ok you're in HS XC not the fuckin military bud
Agreed, even at 45 as long as I'm running with gloves I can wear anything. That's not realistic (or safe) for wilderness though. An unexpected winter injury could slow you way down, perilously so.
@@reallyhappenings5597 That’s an excellent point, and one I hadn’t considered before
@@maxwellclark6756 did you read my whole comment? I never said I knew it all, and I said my experience was limited to a different form of being outdoors in cold weather
Awesome video. East coast Canada reporting in…. I used the level 7 pants and mutant parka while pulling static duty. Toasty warm @ -40 to -50’c for 8 hours of night duty. For other layers, I used minus 33 ( brand name) wool socks, leggings and zipper hoodie. Winter tip: turn canteens or water bottles upside down. The ice will form at the “ new top” and leave the drinking end ice free. Or, what I prefer, a camelback under my layers but above my base layer…..body warmth will help keep the water warm….. I have sensitive teeth 🦷 and it kinda boosts morale to have something warm hitting the system at those temperatures. Cheers 🍻, take care and stay frosty ☃️. Looking forward to exploring your channel.🫵🤟🇨🇦🫡🇺🇸🫵🤟
Level 7 is definitely a fan favorite. And for the right reasons.
And YES. The upside down canteen trick is great. I just learned about that one this year. If you look closely you may be able to see my canteen is upside down in a non insulated on my ruck’s waist belt. Can confirm that this is a great way to store water externally so I don’t have to dig in my ruck.
In general, I think the Army lags a bit behind civilian mountaineers for methodology, weight, and technology.
I've lived in the PNW most of my life, and I spend a lot of time doing long treks in the mountains in summer and winter, both day-use and overnight.
Here are some tips I would add:
Pure down/puff is the best warmth/weight and warmth/volume ratio you will get.
For a puff jacket, I would highly recommend the Decathlon Trek. It's similar weight/pack factor/insulation as the mountain hardware ghost whisperer, so it's one of the best ultralight down jackets on the market. Where it really shines, however, is that it's 1/4 the price of the GW, at only 80$ for a 0F rated puffer.
I run very hot while active, and about average while static, and for me the key to staying warm is to wick moisture away quickly while static. So I use a cooling, wicking base layer and a thin, warm, and loose synthetic layer for warmth down to 15F if active and there's no precip. Smartwool is great but frankly the $10 32Heat/Cool from costco works great for my uppers.
If there is precip or bad wind chill, I'll wear a shell and potentially open vents. I'll also wear the shell from 15F to -5F if active.
GTX is 100% overrated and there's plenty of research to show it is never both waterproof and breathable at the same time. The exception is if you apply a good layer of dwr frequently, at which point you could use almost any other shell material. FortNine recently put out a great video on this oriented towards motorcycle gear, but the point extends to all categories.
I would recommend just finding any other number of other, cheaper ePE or PU shells and just spray on a DWR coating occasionally. You can save anything from $100 to $600 doing that. The REI Rainier is a great mid level jacket and only costs $100 new (90$ with the member discount), about 80$ cheaper than the patagonia torrentshell.
If static below 30 or active below -5, I'll throw on the trek. The shell does a good job of protecting the trek from precip.
I similarly like to layer my head (including ears!), hands, and feet protection. I think the latter two are arguably more important if you're active than even core layers since blood flow to your extremities is often much worse.
Finally, carrying a lot of gear in the mountains sucks. Pack light and minimize the number of layers you need to carry. Going all synthetic except your puffer (which should be down, not synthetic) makes a huge difference. And plan your layers around your expected route with some tolerance for contingency.
For instance, if I'm going ski touring with a low of 10F, I'm rocking a wicking layer, thermal layer, and only if it's windy, the shell. For my lower, I'll just use my uninsulated ski overalls and 32Heat base layer. On that kind of trip, I don't plan on ever being static for long periods, because I'm either going up, or I'm going down. I'll roll and pack my puffer in my pack, but I should never need to bust it out.
Interior alaska here. Use PCU/ecwcs 7 months out of the year.
1. Always wear no matter what
2. Add when active when temps are 15 to -20
3. Add when active when temps are -20 to -40
4. Never wear, not worth the weight (use a Patagonia Houdini in summer)
5. Always wear
6. Not really applicable unless summer
7. Mainly just the top always when I’m static and slowly working.
I’m military but most of my use is as a civilian running a trapline (ski, snowshoe, snow machine) I’ve found it’s easiest to just have a mid layer adjusted for the temp/activity and throw my 7parka on when I’m static or slow.
*Arctic pro tips*
Arctic necklace- 550 cord, chapstick, lighter, knife.
Carry a spare waffle top/bottom for sleep/ emergency
Boiled water into nalgene and put it in parka or sleeping bag between your legs
Get OR camp booties
Thin cap active/ fur hat static
Mukluks- replace the liner with Steiger 9mm wool/felt liner and good darn tough socks.
Use level 7 top as a garbage bag around your legs in your sleeping bag
Carry a soft canteen on a cord inside your layers. Drink a little and add snow. Let your heat melt it.
Adding a vapor barrier to feet can increase warmth and preserve insulation if your out for a bit.
Gortex boots cause frostbite. I don’t like gloves or boots were I can’t remove the insulation and dry out.
Check out the nato and Norwegian cold weather manuals.
These are all great tips. I love seeing how individuals adapt the system based on their own experiences, needs and applications. I especially enjoy learning how those who actually live in these climates do it since they'll have far more experience than those who have to travel there. I've heard some say they'd never take cold weather advice from an Alaskan (probably because you've been acclimatized), but acclimatization doesn't stop the body from dropping below 95ºF if you don't know what you're doing. We have a lot to learn from you guys. Especially the chapstick necklace thing. Definitely keeping that one. I hate losing those in one of my pockets in one of my many layers somewhere.
Also, I'll definitely be looking different countries' cold weather systems. I've got some shooting mittens from a couple different countries but comparing whole systems from other nations would be a great idea. Especially those around the arctic circle. The Norwegians already taught me about the magic of wool mesh. I'd like to see what else they got.
Why no level 4 windshirt mien weighs nothing and I love it
Yeah I use a lot of that stuff in the Adirondack high peaks. Best boots I've used so far are the usgi intermediate cold wet boots- they're goretex boots with removable liners. Totally recommend
This is perfect advice.
Mint fucking info. Thanks bro!
I have been using a layering system which keeps me comfortable but not necessarily dry for years. I have used kit such as Paramo, buffalo for many years. I tend to overlayed when I stop rather than taking off outer layers. When I get going I remove the outer insulating layer. One key I use is to start cool when I start exercising. I like garments I can ventilate on the go - put zips etc rather than having to stop and remove layers. Other kit I have is Rab Vapour Rise. I live in the UK. I use wind shirts which I find really good. When sking in Norway (-12) I wore two layers. Base layer and a Paramo smock ( Aspira). I add overlayers when I stopped.
Video so good I had to come back months later to use it in my studies while I design my own protective system for my less active civilian life lol. Great advice that anyone can adapt into their daily life. Looking forward to more from you!
Thank you! Glad I could help. New video on rain layers is coming out next week. Hopefully that can help influence your decisions.
Homeless people have been using that technique for decades, just not as much bling.
Experience is our best teacher.
actually what homeless people are doing is exactly what “being tactical” means
they’re probably veterans to :(
@@jonathana.1802
It's funny seeing commercals about the ony hoodie you will ever need and that layering is so passe. They miss the whole point of layering.
Once you take off that super warm hoodie with little underneath, you will freeze your azz off.
@@jonathana.1802
I'm a disabled veteran and did several years homeless.
“you are going to get wet”, that statement is so very true. Finally some truth in dressing for the outdoors. As soon as I read something written by a supposed expert on the outdoors that states that “you must stay dry”, or “if you get wet you die”, I stop reading and that “expert” losses all credibility with me. When I am working hard I am always wet with sweat. When it is raining for hours or days on end I am wet. You need clothing that dries quickly, that still retains some dead air when wet, and that slows evaporative heat loss. Thanks for a good video.
Greatest first TH-cam video ever! Thanks Kit Creep!!!
I'm writing from late October '23. I'll be using your vid immediately to guide my purchasing choices assembling a cold weather clothing kit. All hail the algorithm.
Most detailed description of the PCU system on YT, great video. Subscribed
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed.
Great show! The coldest I've experienced was 3 degrees F at the Ice Water Springs shelter on the eastern shoulder of Mt LeConte, NC. Ice rime on the branches 2 " thick. Winter camping focuses the mind. All external concerns are replaced my your immediate thoughts and actions. Wonderful meditation. Walking off the mountain and into the parking lot in a swirling blizzard was exhilarating.
Brilliant piece of content
🏴 love from Scotland 🏴
Thank you for the PCU 😉
This is my exact system i use for everything from rain, whitewater rafting, backpacking, and snow camping up in the mountains. Cool to see the military has the same idea.
Nice! That’s a good overview of the PCU. Thanks for taking time to put all of that together.
You went down through the octagonal wheel by temperature to compare clothing levels horizontally for active versus static missions. A complementary way gives further insight into the system by dividing the wheel left and right to compare all the static missions at the different temperatures and the same for the active missions. What this shows is that the system for static missions is pretty standard layering for retaining warmth. Each level, except L7, is a single layer that you add by planned or encountered conditions. The active missions side is very different.
The whole right side relies on the “cook yourself dry using your body heat” philosophy espoused by Mark Twight. As you mentioned, exertion causes sweat, so you will get wet. The idea is for your clothes to dry quickly from the inside out to regain their protective properties.
The L5 Soft Shell is "the heart and soul" of the system, as you said, because it is “breathable" and encourages the base and inner thermal layers to wick away moisture and dry quickly reforming warm air pockets next to the skin. Twight calls this combination (L1 or L2, and L5) the “Action Suit.” This was to be used in conjunction with the “Belay Jacket and Side-zip Overpants” (L7) during periods of prolonged inactivity, like belaying or glassing. Any wind resistance or water resistance of Level 5 is a bonus as long as it does not interfere with breathability. Most, but not all, commercial products called Softshells are too thick or too insulated to breathe this well.
I think the least understood is Level 4, the wind shirt. At least, I had misconceptions until I read Twight’s Extreme Alpinism, and there he only explains the principle. PCU manufacturers are also all over the place in what they made for L4, so I’m not sure they understood it either. Assuming you are active and sweating using L5, wind increases evaporative cooling to uncomfortable or unsafe levels. The thin, but tightly woven, wind shirt is less air permeable than L5, but not windproof, so it reduces evaporative cooling, ideally to normal rates.
If you’re prepared for constant windy conditions, you can wear L4 under L5, as if it were the liner of your soft shell, but if winds suddenly arise, you can throw it over your L5. A lot of PCU users think L4 Is not windproof enough. Instead, they like to throw on L6 in cold, windy conditions. The Gore-Tex is even less permeable. It's not an intended use of the level, but it can be an effective wind block, if the user is not very active and is not prone to sweat heavily. If you sweat out using L6 in cold, windy, non-rainy conditions, it may be better to use something else. Experiment with L4 and L7 instead.
The amount of changing that you demonstrate to show the different levels might lead those watching to think that is the way to use the system. It can be, but the PCU was designed to be “stackable." That is, you should only have to put on the next level or take off the last level. You should not have to take off one level to put on a different one, or especially, take off an outer layer to remove or put on an inner layer. But, instructions make it clear to use the system the way that works best for you.
L5 looks like more dense abrasive resistant L4 made with only purpose for plate carrier and mags with grenade pouches and rifle. So that's only army specific layer. Hence the action suit name. And that dense fabric only breathes with pit zips.
That’s an interesting observation. I don’t know if the ECWCS Gen III copied the general idea of the PCU, or if they were able to duplicate its designed function on all levels. I’ve always thought it was the latter. For that matter, there have been changes in PCU over time. I’m not sure that PCU manufacturers haven't met specs but drifted from the original function with the different iterations. The nature of clothing in general is a set of competing tradeoffs, so everything is always a compromise. This is especially so in military contracts.
Taken as a whole, the PCU is a good layering system for static missions. It could be a little warmer with fleece or low-loft pants added to L3. The unique feature of PCU is the active missions paradigm shift from staying warm to drying quickly. That was the core of Mark Twight’s contribution embodied in the lightweight “action suit”, of which the shell was key, for moving fast that he and others had developed for climbing and that personnel at Natick adopted.
The acid test for an L5 is soaking it and L1 or L2 or both, either from the inside with sweat or with water from the outside, then humping it a few miles. The inside should dry and be only cool, or even warm, within a mile or two. The L5 may have frost or even icicles on the surface, but the fabric itself should not be frozen or wet.
For an L5 alternative, I have sourced the Hill People Gear, Wind Cheater. First Spear makes this and it’s own Wind Cheater using Cordura Ambush 330D Nylon rather than Nextec’s EPIC nylon used by PCU. HPG and FS have different pocket arrangements and the HPG version as a roomier fit for layering. Twight was also using commercial brands before he got involved with PCU, so someone may be making a good shell. Twight’s specs were uncoated fabric, unlined, mesh pocket liners, thin but durable enough for hard use, wind resistant, no laminates. Products with DWR still seem to be effective.
@@rjtwocircles yeah it's funny to analyze and educate yourself on fabrics and lofted hybrid and synthetic insulation and weight to comfort ratio. Tightly woven but thin 7d fabric may be a better wind blocker than loose woven and dense 300d fabric. You only know after weeks and months in the field. For 2003 this system was top of the game.
Thank you for such an informative comment! It was definitely difficult to demonstrate all of the layering theory while keeping it short and sweet. I didn’t want to make it too confusing so I tried to keep the midlayers as midlayers and the shells as outer layers. I plan on doing a deep dive into all layers and they’re use cases. Especially level 4.
I agree the level 4 is very misunderstood and I’ve done a lot more research into the action suit since I made this video. It’s such a versatile piece of kit. Mark Twight is genius.
@@KitCreep Don’t get me wrong. I thought the video was great and of an appropriate pace and length. I thought the way you presented comparing what you wear when you are active vs static at each temperature was informative. It's just also informative to see how the layering changes for each mode as the weather dries out and gets colder or warmer. That’s why the information is presented in a wheel; you can look at it both ways. That could be part of a second video.
After I wrote that Level 4 was the "most misunderstood level," I realized that may primarily apply to me. I really didn’t get it for a while. I thought it was just a windbreaker or wind block, then I thought it might just be a lighter more tightly woven version of Level 5. I had to read the chapter on clothing in Extreme Alpinism before the lights went on. Twight writes more about general functions and applications rather than levels, so it’s not exactly obvious there either. So, I do think I’m not completely alone in my lack of enlightenment.
It’s ironic. Mark Twight commented that the alpinists were more and more trying to dress s he described, then he lamented that the clothing industry was likely never to catch on, because it was so alien to their way of thinking. A year or so after publishing, Natick contacted him to adapt the system for the PCU. Otherwise, the ideas may never have gained traction.
PCU is now over 20 years old. Advances in commercial systems since then are interesting. The first thing I’ve noticed is that L1 and L2 have just about universally gone to Merino wool blends. It seems everyone pretty well gets L3, L6, and L7, allowing for the synthetic versus down question. I think.a lot of companies understand the active versus static modes, but the only two that come to mind that take a dry-from-the-inside-out approach and have a suitable L5 are First Spear (thus Hill People Gear) and Patagonia. There may be more. I’m just not aware of them.
Evolutions since PCU might make a good third or fourth video and beyond, if that is interesting to you.
PacNW hiker/backpcker here. Two best take aways: 1) You WILL get wet. Even if you fond something that is actually 100% "waterproof", it will simply lock moisture from your sweat inside. You WILL get wet. 2) Everybody's body operates differently - you have to get out there and try new systems and find what works for you. Personally I can hike in what other people consider extreme cold in shorts, t shirt, and gloves. But I can't do much of anything above 85* when everyone else is LOVING it.
No matter what - we avoid cotton (jeans, t-shirts, etc) like the plague. That shit will kill you.
Acclimation is real. Same reason I’m in shorts when it’s 60° in March but wear a coat when it’s 60° in September.
And yup cotton kills.
@@KitCreep "Cotton kills." Well that depends. In our winter when it is cold and dry a windproof cottonshell is super. Keeps wind out and let moisture easily out. Like the swedish army ski parka.
Excellent,,,well done. GoreTex is the sliced bread of protective gear. But not in salt water environments. We always teach to stay dry in extreme cold. Your PCU layers seems to solve that. THX!
Good point on the 'you're going to get wet' because thats a fact.
It's either coming from the inside or the outside. Just gotta know how to deal with it.
deep winter camping seems very attractive, after the 'no bugs' statement
Ya the bugs are coming back out now and I did not miss them.
Great video and you right about the no bugs part but also no bears.
Luckily the bears around me are more scared of us.
5:10 - the reason the guide calls for the windshirt under the goretex is because of Twight's 'action suit' philosophy - your base windproof layers never come off, you just pull additional stuff over the top. The moment you took off that windshirt, you dumped a load of heat that you'd want to hold onto for the coming static period.
Sincerely, a Scottish mountaineer 😅
I've never heard of the concept of the action suit, but that's really good to know. It looks like he also calls it his "alpine uniform". It makes a lot of sense for an alpinist to develop their own standardized "uniform" much like how the military does. And then the US military goes and adopts the mountaineers' uniform to become part of THEIR standard uniform. I love seeing where the military and professional outdoorsmen cross paths. We have a lot to learn from each other. Thank you so much for your insight! Definitely going to look into this concept more.
p.s. thank you for the PCU system😉You guys really are good at what you do.
@@KitCreep ah, yeah, my mistake. 'action suit' as a term comes from Andy Kirkpatrick - similarly bonkers in terms of climbing, equally good on kit and layering.
I'll look for more of your videos
One more observation from a former Nordic Ski PAtrollerand US Army ROTC Cadet winter survival instructor. I have tested two good brands of DWR treated down garments and loose DWR treated down from a 3rd supplier.
->ALL of these have been excellent at passing body moisture to the outer layer shell in all cases except my -30 F. down expedition parka, which in temperatures below -10 F. needs no shell layer..
->My -20 F. down winter bag has DWR teated down but still needs a light polyester "flannel" cover to hold the frozen body moisture.
->This light cover holds about 90% of the night's perspiration and when removed the frost can be shaken off as the fabric does not absorb the moisture.
I grew up in a semi arctic environment, Then I moved, I kind of miss it, crazy as that is. Feels powerful to tromp around in minus 40
Puffy jackets are absolutely the way to go. They've been around long to enough to where they're cheap now. The Ghost Whisper is wicked lite, but I just got a solid one for $20 for my lady from Costco. It's always with me.
I worked in the Arctic over 30 years and was never cold with the gear I used. One job I had we would do tower work in the dead of winter on Alaska’s north slope. If it is real cold water isn’t a problem. In real cold temperatures ditch the GoreTex and let you layers breath except for a breathable wind suit on the outside.
Very good overview! I sent it to my friend, who freakin' froze in Prince George earlier this month.
Thank you! Hope it’ll help him out!
Really enjoyed this, nice one. This should be shown in any cold weather outdoor activities courses, not just military.
Thank you! That’s one of the reasons I made this vid. I’m not in the military but they do a great job of creating standards that are easy to follow. Figured this might help out any fellow outdoorsman.
@@KitCreep Does indeed. Truly great stuff. And you'd think that layering in very cold conditions is common sense, but like they say "that ain't so common anymore" 🙃😅
Guys thanks for sharing! that said you dont need a special force system to keep you protectec....problem is that most people just dont understand thr normal layering system which is total possiple with civil clothes whitout looking like a soldier on the hunt! is way more comfy too!
Agreed. Companies and systems that label their garments according to the 7 level system certainly make it easier. However, surplus is generally cheaper than brand new commercial stuff
Another thing about using zippers instead of velcro is velcro tends to be very loud when having to retrieve something from one of the pockets compared to a zipper where you can slowly open it without as much noise for when you find yourself in a sticky situation and are nearby enemy combatants.
As a Norwegian soldier, i have two words if you are ever going to wear any cold weather clothing
Wool, layers Thats all you need to know, avoid synthetics
Just a point, never ever put wool on your first layers please. Wool is good but it does trap sweat easily
very good point
@@gaia8840
@@gaia8840 wool breathes easily though. synthetics trap sweat.
You definitely don’t want to put your waterproof/windproof Gore-Tex layer underneath your insulating jacket/Parka. Your waterproof/windproof layer it’s supposed to be put on last. But what can you expect from the military.
Goretex should always be on the outside agreed, or the second to outside layer If winter Camo worn above
Even though the goretex/waterproof layer is labeled “level 6” does not mean it needs to go under the level 7. It’s definitely confusing and I plan to touch on that in a later video. The level 6 is actually oversized to be able to fit over the level 7.
@@Krytech420
waterproof over whites are a very good idea
Actually, there are many circumstances where it makes total sense to put thin goretex under the durable outer layer. Outer layer gets wet, and muddy. So what? Goretex pores are not clogged with mud and whatever else, and goretex is protected from tears, and other damage from the rather rough terrain these people work in. Try it. THIN goretex under a fatigue shirt. Many hunters/ wilderness guides do this also, especially in muddy tangling scrub. In fact, just check out the hunting gear that is felted wool with a thin goretex liner….
@@susannewilliams protecting fragile technical layers is a great idea. The first scenario shows a dwr treated wind shirt being protected by a field blouse. Doing the same for a goretex membrane to keep it clean and breathable makes a lot of sense. Breathability will be reduced with each layer or treatment you add to the system, however. Every method has its pros, cons, and depends heavily on the situation. Knowing when or where to apply a method is the real test.
a really good and straight-to-point vid, thank you
I love the waffle fleeces
This is an awesomely detailed breakdown and it seems there is a point to be made about that thick vest after all.
It would be good to see about what you can do in extremely hot conditions to not pass out.
It gets pretty hot and humid in the summer where I am. I’ll give my 2 cents on hot weather garments soon. Summer is coming…
Good Breakdown man.
Cold weather training is critical for units to conduct on using the PCU/ECWCS
I agree. Theaters of war are moving back up north and into the mountains. The war in Ukraine and rising tensions in the Himalayas and Korea could put combatants in some of the harshest cold conditions on earth.
Rising prices of gas and domestic oil refineries burning down left and right could mean lost of heating for millions. Everyone needs to learn this.
i travelled from german winter to new zealand summer dressed only with the following: Merino underpants, hiking pants with removable lower parts to make them shorts, merino tshirt, poliester tshirt, merino longsleeve, cotton shirt, fleece, windbreaker jacket, rain jacket, hat. I was good from +35 degrees celsius to 0 degrees dressed like this and layering up or down. with thicker socks, i could go to -1, -2 as well. thats an amplituted of around 37 degrees from just layering up and down according to the season. it is amazing and im not using the same system in the german winter again, with one extra layer on my core and i can go all the way down to -7.
Hmm maybe I do want to play in the snow…I really enjoyed this!! I can tell you had fun making it too. Can’t wait to see what you do next :)
That’s great! Plus surplus is so much cheaper than brand new technical garments so that’s one less barrier to entry.
I had a great time with this video. You can expect more cool stuff here very soon. Thanks for your support!
people should learn what gore-tex is. it cant both breathe and repel water at the same time! this is very important,and few are actually aware. the gore-tex fabric can only have one function at a time,either breathing or repelling water. it has to do with if the surface is wet or not. it changes the characteristics of the fabric.
oh,you seem to be aware. too few know this,tho.
thanks for sharing,man! very interesting and practical.
I was in the Canadian army for 10 years and have spent time in the field with temps as low as -55c. If you sleep in your clothing rather than stripping to your underwear and getting in a sleeping bag then you have put yourself at risk of sweat, and therefor death. Moisture in extreme cold is your greatest enemy, if it finds you it will kill you and it will ensure you suffer while its happening.
The origin of multiple layer systems started in the mid-1970s when we started being issued a jacket that was the liner for the parka. It was understood that in the cold of idaho, where I was stationed at the time, intermediate levels of protection would be more productive. And yes it was a slow process, it is the US military after all, till they finally found an outlet to actually teach them how to layer. And they got heavy into it by the late 90s early 2000s. Especially when they were starting to do a lot more work in desert as well as cold climates. I've picked up a number of the long sleeve t-shirt things and I'm surprised at how comfortable they are at relatively high temperatures.
I use woolen sweater around the year because the material breaths so well
Great info. on a difficult, but enjoyable situation/challenge.....
I also have an Arktis A192 stowaway, I love it so much
We’ll done! Add more details on the individual pieces of clothing and keep those videos comin’!
I’ll be posting breakdowns of each level individually. That way we can focus on the philosophies, methods and applications of each level to help us find the right garment for our individual needs. Spring is coming, however. Maybe I’ll start with wet weather layers…
@@KitCreep Excellent! I am looking forward to your upcoming videos
Netting wool is by fae the best bottom layer to use
I wish it was more available/popular in the states.
You got a sub from me. First time I've subbed after a single video.
Great content man. Keep it up.
Thank you! More is on the way
I don't have a lot of money for gear - but I layer top and bottom with fleece. Colder the temp, I just add more fleece layers. Pop a nylon shell over all that top and bottom. Its comfy as hell, drys quick, weighs nothing.
So for the OR insulated Nalgene “pouch” put your Nalgene in upside down so when the water does freeze, eventually it will of out long/cold enough, ice forms at the “bottom” so you can actually still drink, and if you have a canteen cup on said Nalgene it is 109% gonna freeze your water, so stow that upside down to help or just stow it elsewhere with food or whatnot
Agreed. The upside down trick is vital no matter the container or insulator. I used to just rely on putting my stainless steel canteen on the fire after it froze. Putting them mouth down let’s you have your water when you need it and not have to wait for the fire to start or your core to melt it. I’ll do a video on my water solutions one day
@@KitCreep currently on a winter survival course and I’m learning some little tips and tricks, I look forward to more content from yourself.
Excellent video bro. What I would like to see. A chow kit and cook. In the field. Cheers 🍻
Thank you. I’ve been itching to go on some overnighters.
Have a look at Lars Fält and what the Swedish army did/does, it's probably more informative and better suited considering the Swedes schooled the Americans in artic warfare and survival.
Dressing for the cold really goes overlooked in the US. Most people I see have the luxury of just dressing fashionably for that excruciating journey from the car to the mall.
We have a lot to learn from our Scandinavian friends. I’m not afraid of the world getting warmer. I’m afraid if it getting colder.
Awesome summary! You helped me to choose how I'll look in the future 😁
thank GOD!! someone put a awesome PCU layering system vid thats up to date thanks Kit Creep
Incredibly thorough video and demonstrations, thanks
There at 00:11 you see Xtra tuff rubber boots, which tells you these poor sods are in Alaska (they are called the Alaska Sneaker).
I did the drill they are doing back in 2004, it was kind of fun, we told funny stories to the instructors and sang songs while slowly freezing to death then got out and had to set up our tent, sleep system and successfully boil water and prepare food before our bodies quit working. Good times!
Radddd video man! Only partway through but loving it! Great info all over the place. 10/10
Awesome, thanks for sharing Creep 🤙
Well, stay healthy for all of us & Safety First! Peace across the Globe ✌😉
Just noticed my ORC PCU LV5 lacks some functionality against the Patagonia, but still got the drip advantage, haha. Very informative!
Ya I mostly went with the block I garments for their features but the orc garments are better looking in my opinion. Definitely great for a collection or impression kits. Really cool dudes rocked those orc jackets in the early gwot
@@KitCreep mainly bought ORC for the collection purpose but I've been wearing it a lot now, just too comfy
I stand by light weight puffy jackets. I have a carhart one I've had for years. I put on that and a sweatshirt and I'm good down to 30 degrees while resting
Wool is your friend. Greetings from Norway.
just spent a week in static 20-50F with only cammies, waffle top and lvl5 top and beanie. Mistakes were made not bringing more layers and some bottoms, my ass was frozen. Wasn't used to being static for that long but now i know I cant get away with it if i drop activity. I wasn't used to being static for nearly the whole time which was weird.
Sounds like poor leadership? Good leaders should always make sure their guys go out with the right equipment. Seems like too many think “embrace the suck” = letting guys walk into a mission woefully unprepared for the weather conditions.
@@KitCreep I agree in part but also I take some of the mistake not preparing for worse conditions myself and know what i need next time i head out in similar conditions
Very cool information. I've used some if these techniques while ice fishing, didn't realize I was being smart 😅. I liked & subbed...
The ECW “HAPPY” top is indeed where it’s at haha
Meanwhile in Wisconsin: 3 layers top, shorts on bottom
An old lady said to me once "you're gonna catch a cold!" I said "don't worry, these are my winter shorts ;)"
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I am currently looking for a cold weather system for work and you gave me a good bit of information.
Great video. Going to have watch it several times in order to get the most from it.
Extremly good and informative video men.
Much appreciated!
Very useful! Thanks & respect from your humble NATO ally - Bulgaria
Thank you for the brilliant content. Looking forward to seeing more videos.
Most everyone rocks the ECWCS system in the army now and there are trial versions of the CTAPS being tested at the moment. New versions of the PCU are also being used in multicam/scorpion variants.
Great video that is going to save me a bunch of $$$, since I am in the process of replacing my Marmot gore-tex and a Patagonia wind top. I took your recommendation and ordered a Arkis Stowaway Wind shirt. $70 US is way cheaper than most anything else out there. Also who knew that a Patagonia rain shell was the best deal and considered by many as the best in it's class. I bought a ArcTeryx Atom hoodie last month, that is a great piece of kit. It should be for how much it costs.
Funny to see that we are going back to a wind-certain cold/dry conditions and away from Gore-Tex. As you said, in a wet cold conditions you are going to get wet. My thoughts are once you're underwear and socks get soaked it doesn't matter much if it is raining anymore. Moisture control is the key. I have seen people get into big trouble and almost die from hypothermia in cold, wet and windy conditions or when it changes from a cold/wet to a cold/dry conditions. Drop in a high workload, no or little sleep and a caloric deficit and Bob is NOT your uncle.
Ya the Stowaway is a great deal. I hope you enjoy it. I’ve been playing around with the atom LT a lot this year too and I love it.
I’ll have a video coming out next week all about rain layers too. Anything goretex from Patagonia or arcteryx is absolutely solid.
Glad you enjoyed!
@@KitCreep Some suggestions for future topics; What needs updating in the current PCU ensemble?, What you recommend as a replacement?, What is the current state of the art thinking and clothing in the civilian gear market? How is the concept of the PCU layering system holding up in 2023? Compare and contrast the needs of the civilian market with the military market.
Очень интересный и подробный рассказ. Спасибо за информацию
Would love to see some equivs for these layers for us civis all around the world. Great job though, keep the videos coming!
I’ve put out a couple of videos going over some great alternatives (surplus and commercial) to the PCU system. So far I’ve got breakdowns of Level 4 and 6.
@@KitCreep sorry man, i wrote this comment to quickly, i saw your alternatives! really helpful! thank you!
For “I’m going to be out in the cold for a while.. days” I wear
A capliline base layer, an 800-fill goose down jacket and then my Patagonia Rainshadow over that.
For pants I don’t get as nuts.. some moisture wicking joggers and then some cheaper rain gear pants over them.
My feet are always cold.. but wool socks help best. I need some solid boots.
Head is easy too, simple wool or fleece beanie is a huge help.
Most important though I’d say is a waterproof good quality rain jacket.. nothing else matters if you’re wet. And you absolutely don’t need Gore-Tex lol. Any of the environmentally responsible alternatives work fine for 99% of users.
Still have my setup, still love it
What’s your setup?
@@KitCreep this system, we called it the "7 layer " system.
@@TR-hf1nm that’s dope! You wanna talk a little about it? I’m interested in first hand accounts from people who used it seriously.
Absolutely love levels 2 through 5. I didn't like level 1 at all, but that was just personal preference. The soft shell is killer, as is the gortex. Only used the 7th layer once, wasn't practical for the areas I was operating in.
I still keep the soft shell in my go bag.
I have a Substitute Level 5 that's identical to the Patagonia version if not a little better and for around the same price. Its made by a Finnish company named, "Särmä" and its just called the outer layer, includes a little more functions than the Patagonia one you displayed. I've been wearing it for a year straight and it is my go to jacket in any time of year besides the Wobbie hoodie. They use a new environmentally friendly Gore-Tex they designed, Figured Id recommend if anyone's interested.
I’ve heard of sarma. Looks like a solid brand. I’ve seen a lot of their stuff on Varusteleka. I’m a big fan of the eco friendly textiles and using natural stuff like wax to repel water. One of the reasons like surplus so much is because it’s basically recycling gear that would’ve ended up in a land fill when it came out of issue.
@@KitCreep 1000000%
cant wait for the next vid, very nicely explained
Next ones coming soon. Just in time for spring.
the pcu looks cooler than the ecwcs. That being said, once I learned how to use the ecwcs, it's super simple. I hate how the highers who don't know how it works dictate how to use it, and 99% do it wrong and intern no one knows how to use it properly so you see guys look like marshmallows and still freezing
Better equipment can’t fix poor leadership sadly.
I love the Levels because I a have a baselayer drawer and a midlayer drawer, but stuggle with some shirts as to which drawer it should go in. Hint: baselayers should be close to skin, midlayers thicker and less tight than baselayers. The ECWCS Gen III surplus gear gives you top level modern hiking gear at a 1/4 of the price.
The Indian Army operates in the high altitude regions of the Himalayas. Some places are as high as +20,000 ft with winter temperatures reaching as low as -60°C. They run the world's toughest mountaineering course at HAWS (High Altitude Warfare School) where all the world's armies (mostly SF) train. I wonder what they wear over these areas.
Super informative content man. Can’t wait to see what you have in store!
Thanks man!
The Tweaker that lives in a tent in the field behind my local 7-Eleven has been doing that for years for $4.77
10 below freezing on a speeding motorcycle im happy wearing much less gear. (static high speed/element exposure) My recommendation for gear is underwear, marino wool socks, over the head over the lips shoulder level balaclava made from nomex, freezeout warmr pant/neck zip shirt/neck gator(worn over nomex under shirt zipper), choice of outer pant(jeans acceptable)(leather for additional element proofing preference), leather jacket, helmet, composite toe(not steel) insulated boot, windproof/waterproof gloves(the kind i bought literally have a plastic lining inbetween layers of material). I frequently walk around in freezing temperatures with the freezeout warmr pants and shirt with a pair of jeans and tshirt and some light jacket and end up sweating my butt off. i end up removing the jacket and sometimes the warmr shirt. if there is any takeaway from this post it is that for 15$ a pant/shirt/gator you cant beat the design and usability of warmr gear. They are designed with multiple materials with important functions. The orange wicks/traps body heat, the grey breathes and evaporates, the black has ceramic which traps escaping body heat as it windbreaks. I would like to say that you should always be prepared to remove all of your clothing during a hike like this. Having a proper tent like a coleman sundome and a proper sleeping bag like a furnace northface will enable you to dry your gear out safely staying warm. despite protecting your lips with two layers of clothing if you are anything like me you will need a good chapstick as well. my lips never handle wind or cold well. the reason this strategy the military uses has so many layers is because they don't have a firm understanding of the mid layers. If you have a proper pant and shirt mid layer you can regulate your temperature simply by either removing the shirt mid layer or both the shirt and pant mid layer. Some additional gear I could recommend is a proper cowboy hat and an oil slicker duster coat. Back in the day people realized you can prevent the elements with bug saliva and oil coatings. That being said although oil coatings are truly the ultimate strategy they are one of the least pleasant to deal with for my personal preference.
Coming from northern (Manitoba) this is excellent advise.
Wow that is allot of stuff. The total opposite of my special forces winter training in Norway as a 13 year old in HVU (scouts with guns, run by the military, was there until the real military at 18). All our trainers were exMil special forces and we had decent gear, but unlike sane stuff. We had rules that we needed to follow.
A few examples:
1. No gloves, mittens only and they had to have a military grade trigger finger, which they did. Not like this civilian type ones that are more or less 3 finger gloves (gloves separate the fingers and can lead to frost damage when it really gets cold).
2. Regular leather boots all year long, no over layer boots because they were too bulky. So basically the regular black boots you see.
3. No long underwear unless -20c or lower.
4. Wool mid layer only when static unless under -20c.
5. Not allowed to sleep in clothes, you needed to be in your underwear in the sleeping bag. The reason for this is because you sleep in your clothes in a heated tent. You might be in deep trouble when you walk outside into instant extreme cold.
6. Only thick wool socks and backup pair on the inside pocket of your jacket. We were not allowed to have the backup pair in backpack or similar. Why? You need to ditch it, you will lose it. Now with only leather boots it is just a matter of time before they get too wet from sweat or other and you are probably going to die... because you lack another pair of 10$ socks.
That said, you still needed to use many borderline dangerous tactics to not freeze to death when you were in the middle of a forest. 13 years old in a fox hole at -25c at 2AM and its only Friday... Yeah, cold air is heavier than slightly hotter so enjoy the freeze hole. Feet twist, forced shaking, palm hold on key areas at the correct time. Not losing focus and understanding that. IF you are freezing your A off and it suddenly does not feel that bad. THEN you are in real danger of frost bite and that is when the palm technic should be used. Take off your mitten and hold your hand over the "not that bad spot" to heat it up" etc etc stuff.
Man, my winter training as a kid was freaking torture, my later actual military training was a breeze and today I do not even own a jacket while living in Norway. :D
In Finnish army, we were required to use rubber boots during winter training. I didn't follow the rule and that was a great mistake
Cool new channel, nice video.
Thanks and welcome
Being from Texas I never quite know what to wear when it does get cold. Now I also know why I am still so uncomfortable, im improvising with my summer and fall stuff and it sucks when it does dip into freezing.
Winter time in the south is tough. One day it's 80º and sunny, then 40º and raining the next. The temps drop out of no where and it's hard to prepare.
@@KitCreep That is true. One time I had a trip to West Virginia and it had a freeze the whole week. I was never quite comfortable in the teens temperatures. Still I acclimatized enough to sweat when it peaked at the 40s, thing I have never done in Texas.
I know some old mountaineering tricks in regards to temperature management.
There are 6 temperature escape zones on your body: foot soles, crotch, armpits, palms, neck and scalp. We all know that we can zip and unzip some of these areas, but especially when in deep cold and active, there are thin lines between actiely cooling down and hypothermia. Therefore uncovering your neck or scalp or armpits is not recomended, and uncovering the crotch or foot soles is obviously impossible.
solution: Take one of your gloves off. You'd be surprised how much heat you can get rid of that way, in sub zero temperatures.
Stowaway mentioned, woop woop!
Cheers! I love my stowaway. I take it everywhere and even used them as stocking stuffers last Christmas. Excited to try out some more of your products in the future. Keep up the great work!
Great video man, definitely subscribed
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it
I own and use the Level 7 jacket and the soft shell jacket. along with the Arc'terx Insulate Pants. They all work great. But I'd love to find the complete set. all levels. I am from the US Army 1980's and 90's. I remember the only 1950's gear we had, and the testing and issuing of the ECWC Gen 1 gear. Even the Sleeping bag didn't exist back then. Although we were testing all sorts of gortex bivi bags, which I used to have the TNF system in M83 and brown sleeping system. really crap. But the one piece of kit that would make the new system better would be the return to the Jac Shirt in Wool, of course in Merino today. wouldn't itch so much. But that shirt was the best. You could wear it for any activity, it was fire proof, and kept you warm even when wet. I loved it. And it looked great. I was in the Batt, so we touched a lot of gear first to test. Good video BTW, nd if you could please have a look at my channel.
You definitely were in during an interesting era of technological advancement. I’m sure they had you play with plenty of strange pieces of kit that had to go back to the drawing board.
Older ecwcs still stands the test of time but we’ve learned a lot about materials since then. Cotton kills but I still love my M65.
And ya a merino wool version of the older sweater would rock. I guess the only thing close to that would be the First Spear “Woobie” line of mid layers. They’re ridiculously expensive sadly.
As Infanrty from that time, I freaking hated emptying all the water out of the damm gortex bivi bags - from rain, snow and fogs. The 50's stuff had some cool jazz, but it was really the Mickey Mouse boots I still have a love/hate relationship with. I almost got a article 15 for not wearing them in the field when it was only 20 below. Wore my civ canvas gaiters and was the bell o' the ball. Everyone got them as well back in garrison - including Top. That being said, maneuvers with norg boys has me in mickeys in a heartbeat.
@@RolftheRed we only wore the mickys up north north. But we were issued chipawas mountain boots from the 1950’s. Those things were shit. And usually used the gortex bivi bags with a poncho liner. And of course the foam pad inside
@@RolftheRed havecyoo seen the new stuff that’s come out? Check out SSD
@@mikebox AH... Yet another sleep in wet weather gear guy... I never saw the chip's, though. Kinda glad now. I have never worn the Over boots since active decades ago. But I do miss the old leather boots of the 80's with dress nylon and wool over. Blisters sorta sealed themselves. Those overboots were a slippery pain in NC and Georgia, Custer Hill here - miss the smell of the woods there. Did get the nomex flyboy gloves and found them a good first level with black leathers on top. Did you ever find a good combo for mild weather? We had trigger finger mitts up north, but they were a PAIN IN THE ASS to actually do anything in. I've got no clue how they sorted that out later.
loved how informative and interesting you made your first vid. have now subscribed. look forward to more. only wish the system was more available in the uk..i want the monster parka in XL...!!!
I hear you. There’s some cool stuff from your guys’ neck of the woods I wish I could get my hands on. Getting the right size is even worse. Glad I found a field smock in my size though. And thank you!
@@KitCreep hey i collect alot of military gear. what are you after? maybe we could do swaps on any.
I would love to hear the reasoning they went with the color grey
Even if Cold, you do not always have Snow, but you always have Rocks.
So when did they do away with the mickey mouse boots as well as the parka . I learned a lot when we went to Artic Warfare and Survival school at Ft Wainwright Alaska.
As far as I know, Mickey Mouse boots are still used today as well as the Air Force n1b Mukluks. I believe the n3b is still used as well. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.
Someone who recently went through school in Alaska will know better than me. Everything I know is through anecdotes and some online research.
How is this your first video!! Amazing content man!
Thank you! I’m pretty passionate about this subject so I put a lot of work and planning into it.
Keep it up! Love your content.