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Winter gear for the military: membrane fabrics, advanced materials, multi-layer design

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

20 October, 2025, 10:24 AM EEST

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine is systematically improving clothing and gear provision for service members, including winter gear. The system has evolved considerably in recent years — from heavy, often impractical legacy models to multilayer sets made from modern materials.

Modern winter gear for the Armed Forces of Ukraine is developed according to the Ministry of Defence's updated technical specifications, which define requirements for fabrics, insulation, fittings, stitching, and functional performance. These documents also define specific quality standards for laboratory testing.

Insulated winter jacket

At the beginning of the full-scale armed aggression, the range of winter wind- and moisture-resistant jackets was limited. Over time, drawing on combat experience and international practice, the range of models was expanded and their designs improved.

Currently, several primary models (types) are in service, allowing service members to adapt their protection to weather conditions and mission requirements.

Modern winter jackets for the Armed Forces of Ukraine personnel are made using a multilayer design. The outer layer is made of fabric with water-repellent and windproof properties that are resistant to abrasion. The insulation consists of a synthetic nonwoven material made from polyester fibers. The design features fit adjustment, ventilation components, reinforced seams, an ergonomic shape, and a hood.

• Type 1 (Classic multilayer design): This item of clothing consists of two key components: an outer jacket (the external wind- and moisture-resistant layer) and an insulated jacket (the internal thermal layer). This design allows the two jackets to be worn either separately or together for maximum protection in extreme cold.
• Type 2 (Innovative design): This is a modern insulated jacket made with membrane fabric (for improved water resistance and breathability) and an innovative material — Omni-Heat or its functional equivalents. This material uses special heat-reflective points to retain body heat, ensuring effective thermoregulation while reducing weight and bulk compared to older models.
• Type 3 (Women's design): For the first time in the history of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, dedicated women's models of winter uniforms, including jackets, have been introduced. Type 3 is functionally identical to Type 2 (featuring insulation, a membrane, and materials such as Omni-Heat) but features design improvements and is tailored to the female body shape, significantly enhancing comfort and wearability.
  

Insulated trouser

Winter wind- and moisture-resistant trousers have undergone a similar process of improvement. They are now available in a range of models that correspond to the jacket types.

Modern trousers are designed with membrane fabrics and efficient insulation, protecting from wind and moisture while maintaining warmth.

The trousers are made from wind- and moisture-resistant fabric and feature a lightweight, durable synthetic insulation. The ergonomic cut features anatomically shaped knees, waist adjustment, and compatibility with combat boots. The use of modern materials ensures heat retention without restricting movement.

The introduction of women's models provided female service members with trousers featuring an anatomically tailored fit, enhancing comfort and ease of wear in daily activities.

Winter camouflage suit

The special camouflage suit has also been substantially upgraded. Previously, it was made from a material that generated unwanted noise during movement and had a simpler, less ergonomic design.

The key improvements relate to the material and overall ergonomic comfort. The current model is made from lightweight, noise-free fabric that does not obstruct hearing or compromise a soldier's concealment. The improved design comfort features include an adaptive cut that ensures freedom of movement and allows quick dressing over main winter gear and body armor; an enhanced tightening and fastening system for a secure fit; and dedicated openings for access to pockets of the main uniform. The fabric is made of tear-resistant material with a dedicated camouflage pattern designed to provide effective concealment in snowy terrain.

Winter combat boots

Previously, Soviet-era or early Ukrainian models without adequate thermal insulation were widely used. The soles were prone to losing flexibility in freezing temperatures, and their moisture protection was inadequate.

Modern combat boots are made of genuine leather and feature a waterproof membrane, an insulated lining, an insole made of puncture-resistant synthetic material, and non-slip polyurethane/rubber soles. The design ensures compatibility with insulated insoles and effective protection against low temperatures.

Winter gloves

Earlier models were fleece gloves with a semi-wool knitted lining that did not protect against moisture.

The current model is made from a multilayer base with protective reinforcements on the palm and on the thumb, index, and middle fingers, including "Touch Screen" patches. It features an insulating lining and an intermediate membrane layer positioned between the multilayer base and the insulation.

Thus, the system for providing winter clothing and gear to the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been significantly transformed. The new technical specifications issued by the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine set clear quality standards, while modern materials such as membrane fabrics, synthetic insulation, and an anatomically tailored cut ensure that service members stay dry and warm even in the harshest conditions.

This is not merely a change in appearance — it is the result of a focused effort to improve the comfort, convenience, and adaptability of Ukrainian warriors' uniforms for the winter season.