The 2nd generation parka and trousers incorporates features requested by Marines. Improvements over the original parka and trousers include a two-way entry pocket design, water channels to protect critical area from potential leakage, removal of the taffeta nylon lining to reduce cost, improved breathability, a roll and stow hood, and a Cordura nylon reinforcement of the elbow and knee areas to improve durability.

left: USMC Gen II ECWCS Parka, right: parka with optional hood and fur ruff, and trousers.

Description of Item

The parka has two side access hand warming pockets, two cargo pockets, two side access breast pockets, two upper sleeve pockets, and a roll and stow hood that fits into the collar. It also features water shedding slide fasteners and zippered armpit vents. The parka is also designed with an optional hood for extreme cold weather, which attaches to the parka collar by hook and pile tape and interfaces with the fur ruff, a component of the ECWCS.

The trousers feature suspender attachments, belt loops, two side leg cargo pockets, and knee high zippers for easy donning and doffing while wearing boots.

Materials Used

The material is a tri-laminate using a waterproof, vapor permeable membrane laminated between two nylon knits. Both garments come in woodland camouflage.

Nomenclature

• PARKA, COLD/WET WEATHER, CAMOUFLAGE
• TROUSERS, COLD/WET WEATHER, CAMOUFLAGE

Logistics

Similar Item

• Army 2nd Generation ECWCS Parka and Trousers

Improvement

• APECS

References

• Smedstad, Neil E. Waterproof, Breathable Fabrics for Military Clothing Systems: An Innovative Approach to Acquisition, April 1995. [pdf]
• Marine Corps Concepts and Issues, 1997, p. 116.