The US Army is fielding an updated version of the Army Combat Shirt called the Type II (still in OEF-CP). The ACS Type II has a narrower torso to accommodate the SPC which requires the shirt to offer more camo coverage on the yoke, chest, and sides. Massif is selling an ACS Type II, with slight fit modifications, but the same camo/solid configuration as the Army’s. As you can see it also incorporates a zippered, polo-style collar.
www.massif.com/military/combat-shirts/armycombatshirttypeii
XGO has quite a few new items but is like to share two with you.
The Montana Wool 1.0 is made from wool sheared in, you guessed it, Montana. It is 100% Merino wool meaning natural no melt / no drip, anti-microbial, and at 152 grams warm when wet. It is anatomically cut with clean seam for comfort. In addition to drop shoulders it has two extra inches in length to remain tucked in. Seen below is Treebark with Blaxk and Desert as and also coming late March, early April.
The Hybrid is meant for workouts and incorporates their Phase 1 fabric with the FR rib, vented fabric. Oddly enough, the FR fabric used in this garment is highly stretchable and breathable and both fabrics are highly durable. Available in Desert Sand.
Following on the popularity of the Alpha gloves, SKD Tactical is introducing the PIG FDT-Bravo glove. It introduces suede leather and Nomex making these FR gloves. You asked, SKD listened.
Look for these, later this year.
As you may recall, Massif was recently purchased. I have heard they are in the process of preparing some new products. They’ve also placed several items (both FR and non-FR) on clearance at really great prices.
Available in January, the FR Phase I Hybrid integrates an underarm mesh panel to enhance breathability.
The Natural Phase I FR T-shirt was designed for use with civilian clothing.
The Sun Hoody offers UPF 50 protection and will be offered in Coyote and Heather Grey. It is not FR and is part of the Power Skins line.
WTT has delivered 600 jackets to the US Army Soldier Enhancement Program for evaluation. These jackets are 100% FR made from Gore’s Pyrad shell material insulated with 2.4 oz of PrimaLoft Fusion.
The Army is currently evaluating concepts for an FR environmental clothing system.
Texollini is a fabric company well known in the commercial market. What many don’t know is that they offer FR fabrics as well. They use a lot of wool in their performance military FR fabrics but they don’t rely on the super wash process used by many but rather a use proprietary process. This helps control costs. They also work with FR Rayon and this material is going into the new FR bra for female Soldiers. If you’re looking for a performance or FR fabric, they’re definitely a company to look at.
The Army is starting to talk publicly about developing a new FR clothing system for dismounted troops that would leverage features of both the general issue Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System Gen III and Fire Resistant Environmental Ensemble used by mounted and aviation crewmen. Two years ago, ADS Inc took a look at this issue and introduced their take on the concept called Dismounted FREE. Here, Ike Horvath from ADS highlights the features, functions, and solutions behind the system.
For more information, visit adsinc.com/dismounted-free-warrior-expo-east-ads-tv.
