Military clothing designed
Choose Military Clothing Designed For Cold Weather Ops
During cold weather conditions, military and security personnel face additional challenges. Snow, freezing temperatures and heavy wind chills can create taxing situations for those who must operate regardless of the weather.
Specially designed clothing, such as combat jackets and tactical boots, are used by military and security forces to keep warm while still having adequate combat protection.
For some types of military, such as Special Forces, a unique type of cold weather clothing is used, called Lightweight Environmental Protection System. This system, also called LEP, is used by Special Forces to protect them in colder environments. It uses lightweight insulation to protect against temperatures of up to -40 degrees F. A number of specially treated pieces are included in this cold weather clothing system, including a combat jacket that will protect the wearer from cold temperatures.
Tactical boots for these types of operations may include different forms of insulation that will protect the wearer’s feet from cold weather as well as block moisture. By keeping moisture out of the boot the foot is able to stay warmer longer and may reduce incidence of hypothermia if the wearer must be in cold conditions for long periods of time.
Boots used in cold weather operations may be white in color as opposed to black to help them blend in with the surroundings. Thermal insulation will also protect against frostbite and leakage of rain or melting snow into the shoe. These boots often have the same features that standard tactical boots offer such as reinforced edging and soles that will provide protection and comfort.
Field and combat jackets for cold weather operations may include a removable liner that either snaps or zips in. This allows the jacket to be used in a variety of weather conditions. Often specialized outerwear features a water resistant or repellent treatment to help block snow, ice and rain.
This can help to keep the wearer warm and protect the additional equipment worn underneath the jacket. Fleece may also be used to line a combat jacket for colder temperatures to keep the wearer warm. This may add considerable bulk to the combat jacket, and may not be suitable for all cold weather operations.
Some combat jackets intended for colder weather may be more form fitting to allow the wearer to have as much range of motion as possible. This can be critical for units who will be moving frequently or must be able to move quickly.
