Gore, a global leader in technical outerwear, is introducing an advanced all-weather insulation jacket as part of the US Army’s Soldier Enhanced Program, targeting improved mobility and comfort for cold-weather operations. The proposed single-layer design aims to replace the Army’s existing two-layer cold weather system, comprising the Level III fleece and Level IV wind jacket, with a more efficient and compact alternative scheduled for fielding next year.
Weighing just under 17 ounces (482 grams) and using 40 percent less packing space, the jacket merges a fleece-lined interior with a Windstopper membrane that shields soldiers from harsh winds without relying on chemical-based water-repellent coatings. The gear is suitable for temperatures ranging from –40°F to 30°F (–40°C to –1°C) and significantly reduces exposure to PFAS materials, aligning with the Department of Defense’s environmental safety goals.
Initial testing is underway at Army Mountain Warfare School in Vermont and the 11th Airborne Division’s Arctic Regions Test Center in Alaska, where extreme temperature evaluations are assessing the jacket’s field performance. Early feedback indicates that the design enhances comfort and reduces layering requirements during extended operations in severe climates.
The initiative comes as part of the Army’s broader drive to modernize its cold-weather and combat apparel, improving mobility, adaptability, and protection. The long-standing Extended Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) has faced criticism for its weight and bulk, prompting a shift toward lighter, more versatile gear. Across the US military, similar innovation is underway — the Marine Corps is developing temperature-regulating undershirts, the Air Force is testing sensor-equipped, flame-resistant uniforms, and the Army continues refining its body armor systems. Concurrently, programs such as Soldier 2025 and Natick Soldier RDEC initiatives are exploring smart textiles, adaptive camouflage, and integrated power fabrics to equip future soldiers with intelligent, energy-efficient apparel.
