The most desireable part of the PCU is naturally going to be the one you'll use the most, and the Level 5 pants are just about the most versatile part of the whole system.
Meant to be the wind-resistant layer you put on top of your cammies, the level 5 still boasts the features of a standalone layer that performs excellently in tons of climates. Featuring breathable microfiber, the pants are just warm enough for summer and fall use without the sweatiness of the typical nylon ripstop material most pants use.
Being made to go on top of your other gear, they feature side-zips prominently down most of the legs, interrupted by large zippered cargo pockets. they come with suspenders so you don't have to worry about moving your belt to your outermost layer, and both the waist and ankle cuffs are elastic for better insulation and fit.
Made to be mobile, you'll notice a looser fit than most pants. This is normal because the PCU is meant to be layered on top of other equipment. For added mobility, it even features articulating reinforced knee patches.
Whether you're gearing up for a early 2000s themed SOF LARP or just want some of the best hiking pants on the market, you can't go wrong with level 5s. They really are that good.
ECWCS/PCU
The protective combat uniform or PCU is a prominent, versatile, and fantastic bang-for-buck US surplus goldmine of incredibly useful clothing. You can read more about the rest of the system in an article here, and see an excellent use guide here.
Sizing
Note: many of the pants we have in stock for now are "Extra large long". Our Model is 6'0" with a 34" waist and was still able to use these with a reasonable fit. see photos for reference.
The sizing follows the US army's standardized sizing system, which will stay the same across all other uniform pieces you purchase. If you know your US Letter Pant size, that will typically work for the main size, but just in case, here's the sizing in waist circumference:
'Small' — 27"-31"
'Medium' — 31"-35"
'Large' — 35"-39"
'X-Large'— 39"-43"
'2X-Large'— 43"-47"
For the length portion, this is mostly determined by your height.
'Short' — 5'5" - 5'8" (typically 29-30" inseam)
'Regular' — 5'8" - 5'11" (typically 32" inseam)
'Long' — 5'11" - 6'2" (typically 34" inseam)
'Extra Long' — 6'3" - 6'6"
A vast majority of people will choose the "regular" length, which changes slightly across garments to keep desired proportions. Taller folks with shorter legs may wish to stick with "regular" length as well.
Specs
- Made in the USA by Patagonia
- 100% Nylon microfiber
- Removeable suspenders
- Zipped and velcro sides for easy donning and doffing
- 2 large zippered cargo pockets and 2 slash hip pockets
- Partially elastic waist band & ankle cuffs
- Articulating knee patches
- Part of the Protective Combat Uniform
- Alpha Grey
Condition
Pants are in unissued condition, in factory original packaging.