Alpenflage, also called TAZ 83, Pizza Camo, and what we've dubbed "Casserole Camo" was issued on different pieces of gear from the late 50s to the early 90s. In fall and early winter foliage the pattern performs at its best, matching the conditions of the Swiss Alps closer than other times of the year. When it hit the surplus market in the 90s, outside of its natural environment in the alps, it stuck out like a sore thumb — in both cool factor and pattern. It continues to intrigue curious surplus collectors and has amassed quite the diehard fandom for both it's functionality and it's unique pattern.
The parka features 10 pockets — ammo-pouch-styled front chest pockets, two larger abdominal pouches, sleeve pockets, and roomy pockets on the back. An additional design element present on the parka is making sure you're slathered with Alpenflage — It features a mesh veil that deploys off the hood to cover your face and zippered wrist cuffs to avoid any sleeve rolling and showing even the thinnest stripe of skin (we've noticed this feature is on some but not all of the parkas, keep that in mind).
The optional rucksack really takes the jacket to the next level. Attaching to the shoulders and hips of the parka, it adds even more space to the absurd capacity the parka already sports. it features two cinch-shut side pockets originally designed for rockets or mortar shells, and a main pouch with a simple snap closure for MREs, A mess kit, rain poncho, anything you'd not need but probably want with you on a short assault. It also has a way to attach an e-tool with a retention loop at the base of the main pouch to keep the handle retained.
All together, you can skip a chest rig, and roll with the parka and rucksack on your expeditions innawoods if you so desire. The Swiss had it figured out.
Specs
- Durable heavy duty cotton twill construction, machine washable
- 10 pockets for ammunition and supplies on the chest, shoulders, and back.
- Drawstring hood
- Some but not all feature deployable camo mesh veil integrated into the hood
- Elastic waist adjustments
- Weatherproofed Elbows
- Optional rucksack adds 15L of extra space
Sizing
Thus far we've had the EU 52 (Large) parka fit users with a chest size between 34"-40" without issue, and fit users with a height of 5' 5" to 6' 0" comfortably. For all sizes the bottleneck seems to be height, with the EU 48 fitting users up to approximately 5' 8", and the EU 56 parka fitting users up to approximately 6' 2".
Please note, we've had customers inquire about the length of the sleeves — they do run shorter than most jackets. If you size up, this may alleviate the issue but it may result in a larger chest than you'd want.
Condition
Excellent
- Lightly used and well cared for.
- Alpenflage Pattern remains vibrant.
- Perfectly functional with either minor or no cosmetic blemishes, abrasions, or other signs of use.
Good
- Alpenflage Pattern may be slightly worn.
- Weatherproofing panel may be worn.
- Minor cosmetic blemishes, abrasions, or other signs of use. This includes fabric repairs done in the field.
- May exhibit writing and/or markings, including rank, serial numbers, etc.
