ECWCS GEN III Level 6 Gore-Tex Jacket, Original USA

The Tennier Industries ECWCS Gen III Level 6 jacket is a lightweight outer-layer membrane jacket from the Extended Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) used by the United States Armed Forces. It is designed to protect against rain, wind, and snow and is intended to be worn over base and insulating layers. Thanks to its compact construction, the jacket is easy to carry in a backpack and use in changeable weather conditions.

GORE-TEX Paclite Membrane

The jacket is made from two-component GORE-TEX Paclite membrane fabric. This material combines waterproof and windproof properties with effective water vapor transfer during physical activity. According to the manufacturer, the material is approximately 30% lighter than the fabrics used in previous generations of the ECWCS system.

A distinctive feature of the Paclite construction is the absence of a traditional third inner layer. Instead, it uses a thin protective coating with oil-repellent properties that helps prevent contamination and clogging of the membrane pores. The smooth inner surface reduces friction between clothing layers, makes the jacket easier to put on and take off, and promotes freedom of movement.

Hood and Weather Protection

The high stand-up collar features a built-in hood pocket secured with Velcro. The roomy hood is adjustable with an elastic drawcord and cord locks, and its design allows the jacket to be worn over most types of protective helmets.

The central two-way, cold-resistant IDEAL zipper is covered by a Velcro storm flap. This design helps reduce wind penetration through the closure. The sleeve cuffs feature elastic inserts and Velcro adjustment, allowing them to be fitted around the wrists.

Functional Details

A Velcro panel on the chest is provided for attaching insignia or patches. Two vertical openings with IDEAL zippers provide quick access to pockets or underlying clothing layers and equipment without having to unzip the jacket completely.

The lightweight construction allows the jacket to be folded compactly for transport. As part of the ECWCS layering system, it can be combined with base and insulating garments according to weather conditions.

Key Features

• Manufacturer: Tennier Industries

• System: ECWCS Gen III Level 6

• Type: outer-layer membrane jacket

• Material: GORE-TEX Paclite

• Waterproof rating: 20,000+ mm

• Breathability: up to 25,000 g/m²/24 h

• Closure: two-way, cold-resistant IDEAL zipper with a Velcro storm flap

• Hood: adjustable, stows inside the collar, compatible with most protective helmets

• Cuffs: elastic, with Velcro adjustment

• Additional features: chest Velcro panel, two vertical openings with IDEAL zippers

The Tennier Industries ECWCS Gen III Level 6 is a functional membrane jacket designed to protect against adverse weather, combining low weight, compactness, and compatibility with the ECWCS layering system.