Now here’s a special treat! A very high-quality cold weather softshell pants of the US military. Designed for high-intensity activities in hostile environments. So, they’re quite appropriate for winter hiking and other cold-weather adventures. Use as is or put more layers under or over if the weather really hates you. Unissued military surplus. Available in Alpha Green and Coyote Brown. Made in the USA. In stores, these would cost at least double except that you cannot find these anywhere because they are custom gear made for special forces.

Protective Combat Uniform (PCU)

These pants are part of the US Protective Combat Uniform (PCU) system that came to be in 2002. The PCU system is divided into seven layers that are combined with each other to protect against various weather conditions. The basic philosophy is that air trapped between layers of clothing will create the best form of insulation. It is not necessary to wear all seven layers at the same time. You pick and choose those that you need.

Level 5 (L5) includes the softshell jacket and pants. In cold weather, the L5 jacket and pants replace the camouflage uniform. Underneath you can add the L3 fleece layer and on top of it, you can put the L6 hardshell if needed.

Features

• Zippered fly
• Waistband snap closure
• Belt loops for a max. 45 mm (1.8”) belt
• Suspender loops (suspenders included)
• Zippered hand pockets and thigh cargo pockets with drain holes
• Left calf patch pocket with drain holes
• Side-zippered access points to underlayers
• Reinforced articulated knees
• Ankle zips for easy pants on, pants off action

These breathable and packable pants are designed for winter use. They protect from the wind and dry very quickly but they aren’t mud pants. They work in snow but for rainstorms, you should put on the L6 hardshell or your ass will get wet.

Materials

The shell fabric is 99% Nylon and 1% Spandex. The trim is made from 100% Nylon and the mesh 100% polyester. The use of these materials stems from the experience that it is impossible to stay completely dry in any case. So, the best option is to use materials that lose water as quickly as possible.

Condition

Unissued US military surplus. These haven’t seen any wars or exercises, just some huge ass warehouse. So they are in very good condition. Beyond makes some of their stuff in some galaxy far, far away. However, these pants are made in the land of the free and would cost quite a pretty penny if you found them brand new somewhere.