Chapter 3

Mountaineering Equipment
Commanders at every level must understand the complexity of operations in a
mountainous environment where every aspect of combat operations becomes more
difficult. Leaders must understand that each individual has a different metabolism
and, therefore, cools down and heats up differently, which requires Soldiers to
dress-up and dress-down at different intervals. Provided all tactical concerns are met,
the concept of uniformity is outdated and only reduces the unit’s ability to fight and
function at an optimum level. The extreme cold weather clothing system (ECWCS) is
specifically designed to allow for rapid moisture transfer and optimum heat retention
while protecting the individual from the elements. Every leader is responsible for
ensuring that the ECWCS is worn in accordance with the manufacturers’
recommendations. Commanders at all levels must also understand that skills learned
at an Army mountaineering school are perishable and Soldiers need constant practice
to remain proficient. The properly trained mountain Soldier of today can live better,
move faster, and fight harder in an environment that is every bit as hostile as
the enemy.

SECTION I. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION AND MAINTENANCE
3-1. With mountainous terrain encompassing a large portion of the world’s land mass, the proper use of
mountaineering equipment will enhance a unit’s combat capability and provide a combat multiplier. The
equipment described in this chapter is produced by many different manufacturers; however, each item is
produced and tested to extremely high standards to ensure safety when being used correctly. The weak link
in the safety chain is the user. Great care in performing preventive maintenance checks and services and
proper training in the use of the equipment is paramount to ensuring safe operations. The manufacturers of
each and every piece of equipment provide recommendations on how to use and care for its product. It is
imperative to follow these instructions explicitly.

FOOTWEAR
3-2. Currently, CTA 50-900 provides adequate footwear for most operations in mountainous terrain. In
temperate climates a combination of footwear is most appropriate to accomplish all tasks.

The hot weather boot provides an excellent all-round platform for movement and climbing
techniques and should be the boot of choice when the weather permits. The intermediate cold
weather boot provides an acceptable platform for operations when the weather is less than ideal.
These two types of boots issued together will provide the unit with the footwear necessary to
accomplish the majority of basic mountain missions.

Mountain operations are encumbered by extreme cold, and the extreme cold weather boot (with
vapor barrier) provides an adequate platform for many basic mountain missions. However,
plastic mountaineering boots should be incorporated into training as soon as possible. These
boots provide a more versatile platform for any condition that would be encountered in the
mountains, while keeping the foot dryer and warmer.

Level 2 and level 3 mountaineers will need mission-specific footwear that is not currently
available in the military supply system. The two types of footwear they will need are climbing
shoes and plastic mountaineering boots.

26 July 2012

TC 3-97.61

3-1