ECWS

ECWS (Extended Cold Weather Clothing System) is a modular clothing system that provides protection against extreme cold conditions. It was originally developed for the United States military and is designed to allow soldiers to adapt their clothing to current climate conditions. The system includes several layers that can be combined for varying degrees of protection against cold, moisture, and wind.

Layered system Level 1 - Level 7:

ECWS is divided into seven levels, based on the function and layer of the garment. Each level plays a specific role in weather protection and can be used individually or in combination with other layers.

LVL 1:
Lightweight base layer made of quick-drying, breathable material. Designed to wick sweat away from the body and keep you dry.
LVL 2:
Insulating mid-layer, usually made of synthetic fibers, providing light insulation and moisture-wicking properties.
LVL 3:
Fleece layer for lightweight insulation, providing additional warmth while remaining breathable and lightweight.
LVL 4:
Lightweight softshell jacket that provides protection against wind and light rain, while ensuring good mobility and breathability.
LVL 5:
Durable softshell layer for wind and rain protection. This layer is more robust and offers higher protection in unfavorable conditions.
LVL 6:
Waterproof layer (usually a membrane jacket and pants) that provides full protection against rain and wind. This layer is waterproof yet breathable.
LVL 7:
The warmest layer, fully insulated jacket and pants, designed for extreme cold conditions. This layer offers maximum protection against freezing temperatures and is meant for use in extreme winter environments.

Use in airsoft:

In airsoft, the ECWS system is popular among players who participate in multi-day events under challenging Mil-Sim conditions. Proper layering is crucial for player comfort, especially during longer games where weather conditions can change. The ECWS system allows players to adapt to varying climate conditions – from rainy and windy days to extreme cold – without the need to change clothing.