All items of the cold-weather uniform are large enough to allow wearing of the appropriate number of layers. Your field jacket may appear too large without all of the layers designed to fit under it. If the uniform items do not fit loosely, the insulation that keeps you warm will be greatly reduced.

KEEP IT DRY

It is important to keep clothing dry, since wet clothing conducts heat away from the body more quickly than dry clothing. Moisture soaks into clothing from two directions: the inside and the outside.

From the outside you must guard against melting snow; from the inside you must guard against sweating. Brush snow and frost from clothing before entering any heated shelter or vehicle, and avoid overheating.

2-2. COLD-WET VERSUS COLD-DRY

As mentioned in Chapter 1, temperatures that are above 14°F (-10^o C) are considered cold-wet conditions; temperatures consistently below 14^oF will cause cold-dry conditions. Cold-wet conditions usually involve a freeze/thaw cycle, often accompanied by rain or wet snow. This type of weather is hard to dress for, since each soldier must battle the elements to keep his clothing dry. During cold conditions, the ground is usually frozen and the snow is dry. Athough the temperatures during the cold-dry conditions may be lower than during cold-wet conditions, it is easier to stay warm.

Figure 2-3. Cold-wet versus cold-dry.

2-3. THE COLD-WEATHER UNIFORM

There are many layers of clothing that must be worn in a cold weather environment. The first layer of clothing is the T-shirt and shorts. The second layer is a set of thermal underwear, which consists of an undershirt and underpants. You should wear only the clothing needed to keep comfortable and warm.

The scissors-type suspenders must be the last thing next to the outer layer, or else the layers cannot be tucked inside the trousers. The underpants and all succeeding layers of trousers are supported from the metal hooks on the suspenders. The suspenders allow the underpants and trousers to be worn loosely at the waist so that circulation and ventilation are not restricted.

Wear the wool shirt outside the trousers, which provides another method of ventilation. You can increase the waist size of this shirt by removing the stitching in each dart at the sides of the shirt.

Wear the field trousers as an outer garment in the cold-wet environment. In the cold-dry environment, wear the nylon liners inside the field trousers during periods of inactivity. On the inside of each cargo pocket on the trousers is a tape that runs through a hole on the side of the pocket. The tape ties around the thighs and keeps the cargo in the pocket from rubbing and irritating the legs. For warmth and to prevent entry of snow, tie the drawstrings around your ankles outside the boots into the boot lacing, and tuck the bowknots under the trousers.

The field jacket is worn with the liner in both cold-wet and cold-dry areas. Wear the coat and liner directly over the wool shirt. Remove the liner in mild weather or when activity increases.

In a cold-dry environment the parka is worn with a liner. The waist is adjustable for ventilation and warmth with a drawcord, and the skirt has a "split-tail" that can be tied tightly around each leg for warmth. During a period of severe cold, when activity is less, wear the parka with liner over your field jacket with liner. Remember: do not overdress or you will sweat.

Do not dry nylon on drying lines too close to the heat; too much heat will melt the nylon, destroying its insulating value.

Keep the head covered to stay warm; a warm head even warms the feet. Wear the cold-weather cap or balaclava under your helmet or under the hood to your field jacket. When wearing the cold-weather cap as an outer headpiece, the lower flap may be folded up over the top and fastened with hook-pile tape straps in front. In a cold-dry environment, wear the winter hood over the cap or the helmet. Adjust the hood by using the drawstrings on either side of the hood and the elastic strip at the back. To provide minimum protection for the face from the wind, bend the wire in the fur cuff of the hood so that you have a small opening for your face. This allows visibility but less protection.

The feet are hard to keep warm and dry, so protect them. The insulated boots (black for cold-wet conditions and white for cold-dry conditions) are warm and waterproof. The white insulated boot is the best cold-weather footwear today. When you are active, your feet will sweat and, because of the waterproof rubber lining, the moisture will remain in the socks or in the bottom of the boots. The feet, even if damp, will stay warm because the heat given off by your body will remain inside the boots. If the boots are worn for long periods, the feet become white and wrinkled when you remove the boots. This is no cause for alarm. Drying, massaging with foot powder, warming and putting on dry socks will correct this. If you are inactive for long periods, your feet may become cold. Exercises such as knee bends, stamping your feet, running in place, or wiggling your toes will make them warm. Elevate the feet whenever possible to aid blood circulation. Don't wear socks that are too tight, and wear only one pair of cushion-sole socks at a time. Change your socks at least twice a day. Most important, stay active.

Care of your boots is important. Wash boots inside and out with soapy water at least once per month or as required by unit SOP you want your feet to keep warm, you must keep the insulation dry. Inspect your shoes often and repair any holes or punctures immediately. Temporary repairs can be made by patching the hole with any kind of tape; even chewing gum can be used. Seal the hole quickly to prevent the insulation from becoming wet. If one of your boots feels heavier than the other, the insulation is probably wet and they should be turned in for new ones.

Insulated boots must be tested annually to ensure they are waterproof and have less than 0.01 percent moisture in the insulation. The air valve on the outside of the boot is used to equalize pressure when worn at high altitudes and adjusted again upon return to low altitudes. To equalize the pressure in the boot, open the valve for a few seconds and immediately close it. The valve should be kept closed at all other times to prevent moisture from entering. Never open the valve unless the boot pressure around your foot causes discomfort.

You can wear overshoes over the leather boots on wet or muddy terrain. The overshoes are not as warm and dry as the insulated boots. Make sure your socks are dry and that your boots are loosely laced so as not to restrict circulation.

2-4. EXTENDED COLD-WEATHER CLOTHING SYSTEM (ECWCS) (TEST)

The ECWCS is issued as a one-for-one replacement for the current standard cold-wet clothing system. System components use the most recent materials and technology. The result is a reduction in weight and bulk from the current cold-wet clothing system without loss of protection from the cold. The ECWCS uses the layer approach that draws moisture away from the body and should be worn as discussed below.

FIRST LAYER

This consists of polypropylene undershirt and shorts. They are worn next to the skin. They are designed to draw moisture away from the skin, thereby reducing conductive heat loss. You must make sure that no other item is placed between these items and your skin.

SECOND LAYER

The second layer contains a synthetic fiber pile (SFP) shirt and polyester batting trouser liners. The SFP shirt and trouser liners provide insulation. The shirt is designed to dry quickly if it becomes wet and to provide a high degree of insulation. It should not be worn as an exterior garment in wet or windy conditions, since the loose weave provides little protection against wind chill. If the shirt gets wet, it will reduce the insulation value.

The trouser liners are designed to be worn during little or no activity. They should not be worn during heavy activity such as skiing or snowshoeing.

THIRD LAYER

This consists of polyester batting field jacket liner and field trousers. The jacket liner should only be used for extra insulation during periods of little activity. This liner is designed to be used as a separate jacket; it should not be attached to the parka. The trousers provide a durable wind-resistant, water-repellent layer to protect the insulating underpants and trouser liners.

FOURTH LAYER

Windproof, waterproof parka and trousers make up this layer. The parka and trousers provide windproof and waterproof shell garments to protect the first three layers.

The parka should be the outer garment, which is always worn when doing any activity outside a shelter. It is waterproof, yet the fabric is breathable so that body moisture can escape. The hood is designed to give full protection from wind and snow and does not prevent your seeing the area around you. It has underarm zippers to allow air to circulate during heavy activity. The trousers are made of the same material as the parka and are very warm. They should be worn only when necessary to prevent the field trousers from becoming wet.

FIFTH LAYER

This consists of standard camouflage overwhites.

2-5. TIPS ON WEAR AND MAINTENANCE OF CLOTHING

The previous discussion on the layers of cold-wet and cold-dry uniforms describes how each system functions. In some units, the cold-dry field trouser liners are often substituted for the wool field trousers of the cold-wet system and function well in a cold-wet environment. Your commander and unit standing operating procedure (SOP) will determine what uniform and components will be worn and carried in the field.

DRYING WET CLOTHING

Hang items separately from drying lines inside the tent. Do not place anything too close to a stove or over steaming pots; steam will cause further dampness.

DRYING DAMP CLOTHING

Damp items can be hung on the rucksack during movement. Pin damp socks to load-carrying equipment or shirt during movement or just inside the last layer of clothing. Do not place damp clothing in sleeping bags. This will only make sleeping bags wet, and they are harder to dry than clothing.

Small items can be placed between the sleeping bag and the sleeping mat under your legs. When washing clothes without soap, dry-rub and air clothing and sleeping bags.

Never warm your feet next to an open fire. The boots will melt and burn because of their insulation before the feet become warm.

Try never to wear VB boots in a sleeping bag. Sometimes the tactical situation is such that boots must be worn while sleeping. If so, the feet must be dried and massaged with foot powder, and dry socks must be put on. Wearing the VB boot while sleeping does not let your feet dry out. After VB boots have dried, place them underneath your sleeping bag on top of your sleep pad when temperatures are below 0^oF.

2-6. COLD-WEATHER EQUIPMENT

The sleeping equipment consists of a sleeping bag, an insulated sleeping pad, and a waterproof bag. There are two types of sleeping bags:

Whatever clothing is necessary must be worn with both bags to stay warm and comfortable at the lower temperature ranges. As a minimum, long underwear, sleep shirt, dry socks, and head protection should be worn while sleeping.

The insulated sleeping pad has replaced the pneumatic mattress. Use the insulated sleeping pad under the sleeping bag for warmth and comfort and to keep your sleeping bag dry.

Figure 2-4. Sleeping pad.

The bag must be kept dry if it is to keep you warm. Sleeping bags become wet from outside moisture, from sweating on the inside of the bag, and from water escaping from the mouth or nose into the sleeping bag.

To keep outside moisture from wetting the bag, place protective insulation, pine or spruce boughs, a poncho, or an insulated sleeping pad under the bag. Avoid sweating by wearing the least amount of clothing to keep warm inside the bag, and by using the proper sleeping bag for the temperature conditions. Do not breathe into the bag or moisture will collect and wet the bag or form ice crystals. If your face gets cold, cover it with a towel, muffler, balaclava, or sleeping hood. The sleeping shirt with hood is specifically designed for use with the types I and II sleeping bags.

When it is not in use or being carried, open the sleeping bag wide so that fresh air can get into it. Turn it inside out so that the sun and wind can dry it. Always shake the bag out and fluff it up before and after use to provide for more trapped air between the layers of the wind-resistant/water-resistant outer shell.

Always carry your sleeping bag in the waterproof carrying bag. This protects the bag and helps keep it dry. Ensure that the top bag is securely tied to prevent snow or other moisture from getting inside and wetting the sleeping bag. The following suggestions will help you keep warm and comfortable in the sleeping bag:

• Eat just before getting into the bag. This gives you energy and helps you to stay warm.

• Always relieve yourself just before going to bed. The act of getting out of a warm sleeping bag to go outside can be a chilling experience.

PACKING YOUR RUCKSACK

When you load your rucksack for skiing or climbing, pack heavy items at the bottom and next to the frame. This places the weight on your hips, which is necessary for good balance. Place hard or sharp objects inside the load where they will not rub on the bag and your back. When walking or snowshoeing, raise the center of gravity and take more of the load on your shoulders. Articles that are often needed are placed in the outside pockets for easy reach. Keep maps and other flat objects in the flap pocket.

ADJUSTMENT

Adjust the straps so that you can move the top part of your body and swing your arms freely. Adjust the shoulder straps so that the lower back straps fit just above the belt line.

2-7. LOAD-CARRYING EQUIPMENT

The all-purpose lightweight individual carrying equipment (ALICE) rucksack comes in sizes medium and large. Make sure you are equipped with the large ALICE in a cold environment.

In cold-weather operations, you should follow the packing list set forth in your unit SOP to organize your rucksack. The main consideration is to avoid having to unpack during halts to get frequently needed items. The following illustrates a method of organizing your rucksack:

• Small external pockets. These contain small high energy foods (candy, cereal bars) to be eaten while on the move.

• Large external pockets. These contain rations to be eaten for morning and evening meals. Take extra socks, scarves, and a spare cap. The openings behind the pockets can be used for skis or other items.

• External attachment points. The sleeping pad is attached to the bottom of the pack or under the top flap (wrapped inside sandbags) and other combat items as required.

• Top flap. It contains camouflage overwhites and pack cover.

• Main compartment. Place the sleeping bag in the bottom of the rucksack. Spare clothes are placed in the upper half of the compartment for easy reach.

• Camouflage. A white cotton cover is provided that covers the entire rucksack, excluding the shoulder straps. Use it when wearing your overwhites.

• Care and maintenance. Check your rucksack for damages before and after an operation. Repair damages immediately or turn in through supply channels for a replacement.

• Emergency quick-release of the rucksack. When quick removal of the rucksack is needed, unsnap the fastener. Pull down on the quick-release fastener on the left shoulder strap, shift the rucksack toward the right shoulder, and let it drop to the ground.

• Cargo support shelf. The rucksack can be converted to a cargo carrier by removing the combat pack and replacing it with the cargo support shelf. You can carry square, rectangular, or box-type items such as radios, water cans, and fuel cans.

Figure 2-5. Load-carrying equipment.

2-8. OVER-THE-SNOW MOVEMENT EQUIPMENT

Before you are instructed to use snowshoes or skis, your chain command will first determine if movement by foot is possible. In shallow snow (8 inches or less) or heavily crusted snow, movement on foot for inexperienced skiers provides better maneuverability with the least effort.

SNOWSHOES

Snowshoes consist of a white magnesium frame laced with nylon-coated steel cable. They are about 48 inches by 12 inches weigh 3.3 pounds with bindings. When properly adjusted, the toe of the boot will be about halfway across the opening in the snowshoe; the toe strap should be firm, but not tight enough to restrict circulation; and the heel straps should permit some side-to-side movement. When used correctly, snowshoes provide better mobility than walking. In most instances, skis are preferred over snowshoes. When using snowshoes, you cannot back up or swim; be careful when moving over thin ice. The traction needed to ascend or descend with snowshoes can be increased by waxing. The use of ski poles with snowshoes aids movement and reduces fatigue.

Figure 2-6. Snowshoe and snowshoe binding.

Figure 2-7. Snowshoe binding attached to VB boot.

SKIS

The standard military skis are about 208 centimeters (82 inches) in length, and have a hole in the tip for towing, a groove in the heel for attaching mohair climbers, and metal edges.

SKI POLES

Ski poles can be very useful in steep terrain. The military ski pole consists of a steel shaft with rubber handgrips and baskets, and a leather wrist strap. The poles come in three lengths: 130 centimeters (51 inches), 137 centimeters (54 inches), and 147 centimeters (58 inches). When fitting the poles, you should stand on the floor and place the pole at your side; it should come to the point of your shoulder (about 1 inch below the top of the shoulder).

MOHAIR SKI CLIMBERS

The mohair climbers are attached to the bottom of the skis for added grip when climbing steep slopes. The climbers consist of a cotton-backed mohair pile and are attached to the skis by five web straps.

2-9. MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT

SUNGLASSES

Polarized sunglasses should always be worn on bright days when the ground is covered by snow. Failure to wear the sunglasses, even on overcast days when the need seems less, may result in blindness.

PROTECTIVE MASK

There is an M4 cold-weather winterization kit available for your protective mask. Make sure you install this winterization kit for operations in the northern environment.

CANTEENS

In cold weather the plastic canteen will freeze very quickly if carried in the standard fabric carrier. Since the canteen cannot be placed directly on heat, there is no quick method for thawing. Whenever possible, the canteen should be carried in one of the interior uniform pockets, or wrapped in clothing and placed in the rucksack to ride against your back. In extreme cold, do not fill the canteen over two-thirds full; this allows for expansion if the water freezes.

The insulated canteen is a one-quart capacity stainless steel vacuum bottle. It is provided with a cotton duck cover and a stainless steel cup. A new arctic canteen will keep water from freezing at -40^oF for 6 hours. The following are some tips in using the arctic canteen:

• Fill the canteen using your canteen cup.

• Fill to within half an inch of the neck.

• Do not drop or dent.

• Put it in your sleeping bag at night.

• Carry the canteen in an M60 bandoleer near your body.

Figure 2-8. Insulated canteen with cup.