Chapter 7

Clothing for SAR

Objectives (1 of 3)

• List at least three characteristics in the various natural and synthetic materials used in the construction of clothing as used in SAR.

• List three of the factors concerning heat transfer due to clothing construction and/or design.

Objectives (2 of 3)

• Describe the function of each of the following layers of clothing: – Underneath layer – Wicking layer – Clothing layer – Insulation layer – Shell layer

Objectives (3 of 3)

• Describe the proper SAR clothing to be used in various environmental conditions.

• Describe some advantages and disadvantages of various types of outdoor footwear.

Clothing for the SAR Responder

• First line of defense in harsh conditions• Protects from cold-related injuries • Ensures comfort in adverse conditions

Natural Fiber Materials

• Derived from plants or animals • Natural fibers:

– Cotton – Wool – Silk – Down

Cotton

• Adequate for moderate climates– Breathable – Absorbs water

• Burns easily but does not melt

• Good insulator when dry, but poor when wet

Wool

• Maintains insulation when wet • Burns slowly, very resilient, breathable, and

durable • Gives off an unpleasant odor when wet• Inexpensive through military surplus supplier

Silk

• Very comfortable and light • Good insulating and wicking properties • Generally expensive • Not durable and damaged by perspiration and

sunlight

Down

• Light and very comfortable • Absorbs moisture readily • Excellent insulating properties when dry • Absorbs and retains odors and will mildew

when damp

Synthetic Fiber Materials

• Synthetic fibers are produced by chemical synthesis. – Nylon – Polypropylene – Polyester

Nylon

• Abrasion resistant and quick drying • Low moisture absorption and wicking

properties • Blends well with other fibers • Can be damaged by sunlight and melts when

on fire • Examples: Ripstop and Cordura®

Polypropylene

• Maintains insulative properties when wet • Repels and wicks moisture/water • High abrasion resistance • Easy care and non-allergenic • Melts at relatively low temperatures (160ºC or

320ºF) • Examples: Capilene™, Thermax™

Polyester

• Strong, durable, and inexpensive • Softer and lighter than any other synthetic

material • Will not absorb moisture • Poor wicking qualities • Examples: Polartec®, Polarguard™,

Primaloft®, Thinsulate™

Polartec®

• Warm, comfortable, and versatile • Not abrasion resistant • Quick drying • Resistant to stretching and shrinking

Polarguard™

• Used primarily as an insulator • Continuous fibers form air-trapping pockets. • Eliminates clumping and cold spots • Examples: Polarguard HV™, Polarguard

3D™

Heat Loss and Garment Features (1 of 2)

• Rate of heat transfer through clothing depends on: – Quantity and thickness of dead air space – Amount of air that passes through a

material – Water and moisture

Heat Loss and Garment Features (2 of 2)

• Closures need to be designed and applied properly. – Seams – Vents – Pockets – Reinforcements

The Layer System

• Layers of garments that can easily be added or removed: – Underneath – Wicking – Clothing – Insulation – Shell

The Underneath Layer

• For hygiene, discretion, and comfort • Socks

– One or two pair – Should not bunch– Should not cause constriction or abrasion

The Wicking Layer

• Moisture control and comfort • Ensure proper fit • Materials

– Thin silk or wool – Synthetics such as Capilene™, Coolmax®,

and Polartec®

The Clothing Layer

• Should offer some insulation and absorb moisture from layers beneath

• Loose fit and comfortable • Durability and snag/tear resistant • Consider visible colors.

The Insulation Layer

• Traps air between wicking and shell layers • Accomplished best with multiple layers rather

than one thick one • Don’t forget about your extremities.

The Shell Layer

• Protects against the elements • Must be strong and durable • Consider ventilation. • Hoods are highly recommended.• Should be bright color. • Research wisely: A good shell is an

investment.

Shell Options

• Waterproof Shell • Water-Repellent Shell • Water-Resistant Shell • Waterproof/Breathable

Shell

Other Clothing Considerations (1 of 5)

• The head – An unprotected head can be responsible

for half of the body’s heat loss. – Whole-head protection in cold

environments (balaclavas)– In hot environments, protect head from

external heat.

Other Clothing Considerations (2 of 5)

• Hands – Mittens keep generally keep hands warmer

but affect dexterity. – Leather gloves protect hands and improve

traction and grip. – Remember to protect the wrists.

Other Clothing Considerations (3 of 5)

• Feet – Examine and clean daily – Treat blisters and hot spots immediately. – Always wear clean, dry socks. – Have footwear fitted by a professional.

Other Clothing Considerations (4 of 5)

• Footwear – Proper fit and comfort – Adequate stability and support – Durability and good traction for

environment – Protection from the elements – Break in footwear before using the field.

Other Clothing Considerations (5 of 5)

• Gaiters – Protection against dirt, debris, snow, and

insects – Prevent layers from getting wet – Usually made of Cordura or ripstop and

coated with waterproofing agent – Available in two sizes

Clothing Purchase Suggestions

• Research and investigate before purchasing.• Plan ahead and buy off-season sale items. • SAR clothing is an important tool. • Take advantage of online discount retailers.