Cold Weather Layering Part 4: Tactical Rain Gear Explained

This video details the evolution of cold-weather gear used by SEAL Team Six, emphasizing the importance of a layered clothing system. It covers historical issued gear like the M65 field jacket and its liners, progressing to commercially available items from brands like Patagonia, North Face, Mountain Hardware, and Wild Things. The core principle is to use multiple layers for insulation, moisture management, and protection from wind and water, allowing operators to maintain optimal body temperature and fighting capability in extreme cold.

This video provides a detailed breakdown of the U.S. military's Protective Combat Uniform (PCU) system, explaining its nine-level layering approach for cold and wet weather operations. The presenters, former Navy SEALs, discuss the evolution of the PCU, from early iterations to modern multicam versions, highlighting the function and benefits of each layer, from base thermals to outer shells and extreme cold insulation. They emphasize the importance of microclimate management and the PCU's role in preventing hypothermia during strenuous activity and static conditions.

This guide, presented by FalconClaw, details four types of footwear suitable for Northern winter conditions. It emphasizes proper sizing for issued leather boots, recommending they be worn with thick socks and avoided below -5°C. The guide also covers the benefits of rubber boots with liners, specialized winter boots, and overboots for maximum warmth and dryness in extreme cold.

This video provides a six-month performance review of Sitka Arrowhead and Arc'teryx LEAF winter apparel. The presenters discuss the effectiveness of various garments, including shell jackets and pants, base layers, and mid-layers, highlighting their durability, weather resistance, and comfort in cold conditions. They offer recommendations on which pieces offer the best value and performance for outdoor activities, emphasizing the premium quality and associated cost of these specialized clothing lines.

This video provides an in-depth review of the Arc'teryx LEAF Winter Clothing System, focusing on its application for law enforcement and military personnel operating in extreme cold. The presenters detail the functionality, materials, and fit of various components, including the Cold WX Zipneck SV base layer, Naga Hoodie mid-layer, and Alpha Jacket Gen 2 outer shell. They emphasize the importance of a well-constructed layering system for maintaining warmth and dryness in harsh environments, highlighting features like gusseted underarms, thumb loops, and helmet-compatible hoods. The review offers practical insights into sizing, durability, and the rationale behind Arc'teryx LEAF's design philosophy, which prioritizes performance and longevity for demanding operational use.

This guide, drawing on the expertise of Adam from Spiritus Systems, a former member of the 10th Mountain Division, details essential gear and techniques for arctic warfare. It covers adapting firearms like the M4 Carbine with camouflage and modifications for cold weather, implementing layered hand protection, utilizing specialized clothing systems such as ECWCS, and optimizing sleep, hydration, and nutrition for extreme cold environments. The advice emphasizes self-sustainment and practical field modifications learned through extensive military and mountaineering experience.

This guide, presented by Adam from Spiritus Systems, details essential techniques and gear for sleeping in a non-permissive environment (NPE). It covers site selection, shelter construction using tools like E-tools and ALICE packs, thermal protection with specialized garments and sleep pads, and tactical considerations for maintaining security and readiness. The instruction emphasizes practical application derived from extensive field experience, including references to Ranger School and operations in Afghanistan.

This video, featuring Fred from Spiritus Systems, delves into the philosophy behind Everyday Carry (EDC) items. It emphasizes understanding the purpose of each tool, prioritizing reliability, and considering de-escalation tactics before resorting to force. The discussion covers lighters for diffusing tension, flashlights as defensive tools, the legal implications of drawing a firearm, and a strong preference for fixed-blade knives over mechanical folders.

A Force Recon Marine details the setup of his M27 IAR rifle for VBSS missions. Key components include a Knights Armament suppressor for hearing protection in confined spaces, an AN/PEQ-16 laser/light module, and an Aimpoint T-2 red dot sight. He specifically advises hard-pointing a Magpul sling for security during high-risk ship-to-ship or ship-to-helicopter transitions.

This guide details the setup of a Spiritus Systems LV119 plate carrier as demonstrated by Garand Thumb, a recognized expert with extensive military experience. It covers plate carrier selection, placard configuration, comms and navigation integration, and primary weapon system details, emphasizing practical application for general purpose and urban environments. The setup prioritizes modularity and mission-specific needs.