Crucial to the function of ECWCS is a high quality synthetic base layer de- signed to quickly wick moisture away from the skin, to prevent chafing and allow the other layers to work more effectively. In 2016 7L launched its first synthetic technical base layers in our Abrasion and Movement Systems, which can be found in the look book sections of the site. As the world started to move away from synthetics (or at least reduce them) we’ve moved towards more natural products, like our 100% cotton T-Shirts. Thats not to say we won’t do technical base layers again, but for now, fusing high per- formance materials with fashion is our USP (unique selling point).

One of the biggest advantages of cotton is that it is highly breathable. This means whenever you sweat, moisture will go through the T-Shirt and evaporate quickly. Your body’s way of cooling down is through sweating and having that moisture evaporate into the air. When you make it easier for your body to do this, this means you’ll get better cooling. The luxury and quality cotton 7L use, means quicker drying time so less embarrassing situ- ations with wet chests, under the arms and backs.

Our mid layer consists of shirts and Overshirts for that next level of com- fort and protection which include properties for cooling and insulating. Our Level 2’s can act as UV protection from the sun or keep you cool in warmer environments such as our ORIGIN SYSTEM // Layer 2 // Overshirt with COOLMAX® technology. The COOLMAX® ALL SEASON technology keeps the wearer cool and on hot days and helps insulate on cold. The fabric is specifically engineered from a blend of Polyester fibres designed to improve breathabil- ity compared with natural fibres. It’s also engineered with a high level of elasticity, thanks to the 10% EA Lycra® making it extremely comfortable and forgiving.this, this means you’ll get better cooling. The luxury and quali- ty cotton 7L use, means quicker drying time so less embarrassing situations with wet chests, under the arms and backs.

Our 100% cotton t-shirts can also be worn in the wintertime as the first layer to all your winter clothes. By wearing cotton instead of some other blends, you won’t overheat and get uncomfortably sweaty when you go indoors where it’s war

Sometimes called the insulation layer, we call our the Thermal Layer. This Layer usually provides you with warmth which you can add over your base layers and under your field layer. Usually, your thermal layer is either a jumper, fleece or an insulated jacket.

Fleeces are available in different thicknesses and are quick-drying and breathable, offering warmth by retaining heat and removing moisture. Down insulated jackets are packable with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, whereas synthetic insulated jackets are able to retain heat even when wet.

For active outdoor pursuits, It’s best to avoid cotton mid-layers, as they will retain moisture which can lead to you getting cold. The most important consideration is to choose the right level of warmth to suit your activity and weather conditions.

In milder conditions, you may not need anything on top of your mid layer, but when the weather closes in, an outer shell will be necessary.

Wind / Cold Weather Jacket Waterproof and Windproof Layer

Our Layer 4 is primarily a wind layer built for stormy light wet condi- tions. Its primary purpose is not to provide temperature protection, but cover from the wind and rain when the weather turns foul. In the military a nylon is normally used such as a 3L Waterproof but as 7L (Fashion with function) we manufacture from various fabrics and materials including cot- ton, nylon, polyester etc. with fabric makeups featuring water-resistant finishes to keep the wearer dry. It is lightweight and packs easily.

Sometimes called the insulation layer, we call our the Thermal Layer. This Layer usually provides you with warmth which you can add over your base layers and under your field layer. Usually, your thermal layer is either a jumper, fleece or an insulated jacket.

Fleeces are available in different thicknesses and are quick-drying and breathable, offering warmth by retaining heat and removing moisture. Down insulated jackets are packable with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, whereas synthetic insulated jackets are able to retain heat even when wet.

For active outdoor pursuits, It’s best to avoid cotton mid-layers, as they will retain moisture which can lead to you getting cold. The most important consideration is to choose the right level of warmth to suit your activity and weather conditions.

In milder conditions, you may not need anything on top of your mid layer, but when the weather closes in, an outer shell will be necessary.

Our Layer 6 waterproof outer shell’s are designed for non-freezing temper- atures. Their dual-layer, seam-taped (sealed) fabric offers elite weath- er protection. Our new lightweight and durable 3L Waterproof Outer (WPO) is manufactured from 100% Japanese recycled polyester and a recycled hy- drophilic monolithic membrane. The outer fabric specification includes a non-fluorinated durable water repellant finish (environmentally friendly) with a hydrostatic head of 20,000mm waterproofness and a Moisture Vapour Transmission rate of 20,000g per metre squared every 24 hours.

We say a garment is not fully waterproof unless it is seam taped on the in- side. Seam taping enhances the waterproof protection as conventional needle stitching leaves tiny holes through which water can seep when worn in wet conditions. Our WPO comes fully bonded and seam taped with YKK Aquaguard® water resistant matt film reverse coil zips.

The Layer 7 parka’s are for the most extreme, Arctic-like conditions. Rat- ed to -40°F, these garments help to keep the wearer warm and safe when tem- peratures are well below zero. Layer 7 is worn with other layers to offer maximum insulation and protection from dangerously low temperatures. To prevent overheating, these garments should not be worn during strenuous ac- tivity but the down and membrane do allow for the transfer of body heat.