Military Blankets - Wool Field Blankets & Emergency Survival Blankets

Military wool blankets serve multiple field functions beyond basic warmth. A standard wool field blanket provides insulation during rest periods in the field, functions as a ground pad to insulate from cold ground, wraps around shoulders during cold stationary observation periods, and serves as an improvised litter for casualty movement. Wool is preferred for military field blankets because it retains warmth when wet, unlike synthetic alternatives that lose insulating value when saturated. The Rothco wool blanket collection covers the same military-specification construction and wool content used in genuine military-issue blankets.

A Polarshield survival blanket is a thin, lightweight aluminized polyester sheet that reflects radiated body heat toward the user. The reflective surface captures up to 90% of the body heat that would otherwise radiate away into the environment, significantly slowing heat loss in cold conditions. Polarshield blankets pack to the size of a deck of cards and weigh less than two ounces, making them practical for every emergency kit, first aid bag, and outdoor pack. They are single-use in most emergency scenarios;s the thin material tears easily after deployment. Carry multiple blankets in your field kit.

Rothco wool field blankets are available in standard military blanket dimensions, typically 62 inches x 80 inches to 66 inches x 90 inches depending on the specific model. Check individual product pages for exact dimensions, ns as they vary between the standard wool blanket, Swiss-style, European surplus, and US wool variants. The rescue and travel wool blankets are available in smaller dimensions. Larger dimensions are preferable for full-body coverage during cold weather field operations.

Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle in cool water using wool-specific detergent. Never wash wool blankets in hot water; heat causes wool fibers to felt (irreversible shrinking and matting that permanently changes the texture and dimensions). Lay flat to dry; hanging a wet wool blanket causes it to stretch out of shape under its own weight. Do not tumble dry. Store clean and dry in a breathable storage bag; sealed plastic bags trap moisture that causes mildew in wool over time.

The Rothco US Wool Blanket uses a higher wool content and heavier construction compared to the standard wool blanket; it is the closest equivalent to genuine military-issue wool blankets in our collection. The higher wool content provides more warmth at the same blanket size and is more durable through repeated field use and washing. The standard wool blanket provides good cold weather performance at a lower price point. For serious field operations in sustained cold weather, the US Wool Blanket is the stronger choice.