Coming this fall from OTTE Gear is this limited edition of their LV Insulated Hoody in an ultra-rare camouflage pattern recreated by artist Andrew Bawidamann.
The LV Insulated Hoody combines 100G Primaloft Gold Insulation with weather-resistant DWR coated Patriot Lite fabric. Inside, they’ve applied 200D MultiCam reinforcement patches to protect against sidearm (OWB/IWB) abrasions. Topped off with fleece-lined hand pockets, invisible Napoleon-style chest pocket and large internal pouch.
WASHINGTON (AFNS) —
New dress and appearance updates will soon be released following feedback, testing from Airmen and reviews conducted as a part of the 2020 Air Force Uniform Board.
“We remain committed to maintaining an iterative approach with our dress and appearance standards,” said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, Air Force deputy chief of staff for manpower, personnel and services. “During this most recent review we approved several updates fully aligned with our Air Force standards and culture that maintain our focus on warfighting while providing options to meet many of the needs of our Airmen.”
2020 Air Force Uniform Board initiatives
Uniform Board changes will be effective upon publication in Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Appearance of Air Force Personnel, which is expected to publish in early October 2021. Below are examples of a few changes to the updated AFI:
– Male bulk hair standards increase from 2 inches to 2.5 inches
– Cosmetic tattooing on the scalp is authorized for men
– The size of hair accessories increases from 1 inch to 2 inches for females
– Hosiery is optional for females with any combination of the dress uniform
– Transparent piercing spacers are authorized
– Wing commanders may authorize the local wear of approved OCP morale patches on Fridays or during special events
Furthermore, the board conducted a review of several policy items that previously mandated specific behavior based on restrictions. In some cases, the board recommended removing the restrictive language to entrust commanders and Airmen to understand and adopt proper behavior based on their situation and circumstances.
“We trust our Airmen, (noncommissioned officers) and commanders with incredible resources and significant responsibilities and we’ll need to do so even more as we prepare for future conflicts,” Kelly said. “We likewise trust they can figure out what it takes and means to maintain standards without specifying exact behavior in every situation.”
Examples of guidance removed in the future AFI release:
– When walking in uniform, members may not use a cell phone or drink water
– Members may not place hands in their pockets when walking or standing in uniform
Specific details about the initiatives listed above, as well as additional changes, will be available upon AFI publication. In total, more than 30 recommendations from the Air Force Uniform Board were approved for implementation to the field.
Additional Uniform Item Improvements
The following uniform item improvements were made considering feedback from the field and multiple uniform fit tests. These items will be released for issue and/or purchase as the design and development process is completed.
Men’s Blue Shirt and Women’s Blouse
The improved men’s blue shirt and women’s blouse will utilize a new stain-resistant, wrinkle-resistant and moisture-wicking fabric with a herringbone weave in the current Air Force blue shade.
The men’s shirt improvements include a tapered and lengthened shirt body with a reengineered armhole and shoulder. The women’s tuck-in style blouse and semi-form-fitting blouse improvements include a lengthened shirt body, realigned buttons, a reengineered armhole, and a redesign of the neckline and collar.
In addition, the updated maternity blouse will include a redesigned neckline and collar for improved fit and comfort. The back pleat of the previously-designed blouse was replaced with darts for better shape and fit. It has realigned buttons and a lengthened shirt body for accommodation through all trimesters.
The improved men’s long-sleeve blue shirt is expected to be available August 2021. The improved men’s short-sleeve blue shirt and women’s tuck-in style blouse (long and short-sleeve) are expected to be available at the end of October 2021. The improved maternity blouse is expected to be available October 2021 and the updated semi-form fitting blouse is expected to be available in January 2022.
Improved Hot Weather Combat Uniform
The improved hot weather combat uniform is a variant of the operational camouflage pattern uniform aimed at reducing layers of fabric in order to be lighter in weight, more breathable and quick drying, providing safer flame protection that does not melt or drip. It was designed to improve performance, survivability, lethality and safety in extreme hot and wet-weather environments. The improved hot weather combat uniform is expected to be available to Airmen in October 2021.
Extreme Cold Weather Parka
Generation III Level 7 parkas, commonly referred to as extreme cold weather parkas, are expected to be available for personal purchase through AAFES online and in select AAFES stores this winter season. Previously, the parka was not available for personal purchase and was primarily distributed as organization clothing and equipment at northern tier or extreme cold weather base locations.
Men’s Blue Trousers and Women’s Blue Slacks
Men’s blue trouser improvements include an adjustment to the pocket design to enhance the fit of the trousers and reduce additional alterations.
The women’s blue slacks improvement includes a redesigned and lower waistband, removal of the front darts to create a flat front, and a shortened rise to address fit concerns. Additionally, the pant legs will be straight cut as opposed to the previously tapered fit.
The updated trousers and slacks are expected to be available in May 2022.
Women’s Mess Dress Slacks
The new women’s mess dress slacks will provide Air Force women an option in addition to the current mess dress skirt and men’s mess dress trousers. The slacks will be a female-fit version of the male mess dress trousers with design adjustments required to fit female measurements. Slacks can be worn with the current mess dress jacket. Women’s mess dress slacks are expected to be available in August 2022.
Physical Training Gear
Modernized physical training gear will feature a revised fit and look with updated materials and fabric. The fabric includes soft, quick drying, antimicrobial technology that helps with moisture and odor control. The jacket, pants, and men’s and women’s t-shirts will be available along with new running and all-purpose shorts. The physical training gear is expected to be available in October 2022 with a four-year transition period for mandatory wear.
Space Force Guardians will follow the updates above except where Space Force specific guidance already exists. For example, in accordance with SPFGM2020-36-01, USSF personnel are not authorized to wear morale patches. The Space Force held its inaugural uniform board in March and is currently developing comprehensive service-specific grooming and uniform policies with a targeted release late 2021.
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
U.S. Air Force graphics by SSgt Elora J. McCutcheon
Featuring body mapped Alpha insulation from Polartec, the Torrens Thermal Crew Jacket features a DWR coated shell. An elasticized hem keeps the weather out and there’s a maritime loop to attach an engine cutoff lanyard.
You’ll find zippered hand warmer pockets as well as an internal zippered pocket at the right chest. For those blustery days, there are thumb loops.
Offered in Men’s and Women’s sizing, with or without hood. Colors are Black, Mid Gray and Ocean Blue.
The Ghosthood Light-Belt is available from Germany’s Triple Action. Made from a Cordura laminate, the belt is 40mm wide around most of the circumference of your waist except where it narrows to narrower nylon webbing at the front for a lower profile and use of a 20mm SR buckle.
It’s offered in Stone Grey (above) or CONCAMO Green (below) in three sizes (see site for sizing). Both color options are IRR compliant. At 30 to 35 g depending on length, this is not a Battle Belt, but rather a simple trouser belt which can be worn under load carriage systems.?
www.tripleaction.de/ghosthood-light-belt-guertel
I received a note from Max at SOD. It’s always great to hear from him, particularly considering how hard Italy was hit with COVID-19.
How are you? Here it’s HOT! We are melting down… this summer is very tropical… and what better way to deal with than by wearing shorts?
Here is what our SF troops are wearing around the world! We have added US WOODLAND CAMO… original from the US… like the MultiCam Crye Original of course!
Max, you had me at shorts. Woodland Camo is just the icing.
So here they are, the SOD S.P.01 shorts. They features classic SOD styling with dual slotted buttons at the top of the fly , wide belt loops, and angled pocket placement for ergonomics.
They are offered in several camouflage patterns and solid colors.
Get yours at www.sodgear.com/product/series/sp01
Take a look at FirstSpear’s all American made short and long sleeve Rash Guards that are now back in stock!
Built from a premium poly/spandex blend the FS Rash Guard is an ultralight compression fit garment that helps to protect against abrasion and rub commonly found in a maritime environment.
• Ultralight compression fit
• Protects against rubbing and abrasion while wet
• Natural sun / UV protection
• Dries quickly
• Made in the USA
Quick to dry with natural sun / UV protection. Smooth flat seams, medium high collar, and integrated low profile thumb holes keep the sleeves in places when putting on equipment and other garments. Available and shipping now in short and long sleeve in charcoal and ranger green. Order your standard t-shirt size for a compressed fit and consider stepping up 1-2 sizes for a more relaxed fit. 100% Made in America.
For more information, check out www.first-spear.com/technical-apparel/rash-guard-7228.
It’s always difficult to find someone to repair technical outdoor clothing. That’s why it was nice to learn about Rainy Pass Repair in Seattle.
Not only can they repair your clothing and gear, but they can also launder it and accommodate alterations. Rain Pass Repair has been in business for over 30 years and is an authorized Gore repair facility and is used by multiple outdoor brands to conduct their repairs.
Irvine, Calif. (July 27, 2021) – 5.11, Inc., the global innovator of purpose-built apparel, footwear and gear, today announced the release of several exciting new products that expand the brand’s offering for outdoor adventurers, public safety professionals and tactical enthusiasts alike. The newly released items are available online and in-stores now.
“To live our mantra of Always Be Ready®, we must continually work to enhance and expand the gear we offer our customers,” said 5.11’s Vice President of Global Product, Matt Page. “The products being introduced this summer were developed with that in mind. Whether its updates to previous lines or the addition of all-new categories, we are excited to bring each one of these items to market.”
5.11’s well-known line of Norris Sneakers is expanding in the summer of 2021 with a Low-Top Norris Sneaker ($100) arriving in August. The same functionality and durability of the original High-Top Norris Sneaker will be available in 2 new colors including black/gum and dark coyote. The High-Top Norris is also getting an update this season with new colorways – coyote, storm, multicam, dark navy, black/woodlands camo, and black/white ($110).
The A/T Series™ Footwear line, an enhanced and expanded offering our A.T.L.A.S™ technology, All Terrain Load Assistance System collection, offers durable and highly technical support for all day performance and comfort.
The A/T Arid ($160) offers the full benefits of A.T.L.A.S.™ technology along with a locking ankle eyelet that prevents sand, dirt and other debris from entering the boot. The A/T 6 and 6 side zip ($155) also offer all of the full benefits of the A.T.L.A.S™ technology in a 6-inch height. Additionally, the A/T Trainer line ($130) is now being offered with the signature A.T.L.A.S™ plate for added stability as well as an expanded color offering of Cinder and Turbulence.
A whole new category of innovative training gear was introduced by 5.11® earlier this year with the Physical Training-Ready (PT-R) Line. A key new addition to that line this summer is the TacTec® Trainer Weight Vest ($130.00). Specially designed to intensify workouts, it’s a low profile, lightweight and comfortable vest that features breathable mesh body pads, adjustable stretch cummerbunds, front/rear MOLLE and is compatible with Rogue® weight vest plates. The TacTec® Weight Plate Sandbag ($50.00) offers an alternative to weighted plates as a heavy-duty and adjustable bag that can be filled with sand or other weighted materials and secured in the vest. After many years of request from our end users, 5.11® is delivering its first ever Weight Vest Plate designed specifically for fitness use. The plates are built with a low-profile, ergonomic compound curvature sculptured design in powder coated steel to provide users with ultimate comfort. Available in 2-plate sets at 5.75-pound ($70.00) or 8.75-pound ($75.00) options, the plates also have lashing points and openings that service as easy to grab handles. All 5.11® weight vests and plate carriers are compatible with these products.
To complement its extensive line of load bearing packs and vests, this summer, 5.11® has introduced a wide range of hydrations systems and accessory pouches to allow users to customize gear loads and features to meet specific needs.
The brand partnered with Hydrapak® to produce an ultra-durable, 3-liter hydration system with a fixed center baffle for a slim profile with the new WTS 3L Hydration System ($45.00). The system works in conjunction with 5.11’s packs and the new Convertible Hydration Carrier. The Convertible Hydration Carrier ($50.00) converts from a backpack to a MOLLE pouch via the included uniloops or RUSH® Tier System.
The new Flex TacMed Pouch ($45.00) allows users to neatly organize and carry medical supplies along with extra magazines by offering both a TacMed supply compartment and a dual AR-Mag compartment. This versatile pouch offers quick access with a pull drop-front opening and clear organization with a bungee compression lashing system, elastic band and slip pockets, compression straps and a front laser-cut platform for adding additional accessories or patches. A Flex Tourniquet Pouch ($30.00) securely fits one tourniquet with elastic compression and internal reinforcement webbing along with durable 500D-nylon construction. The FLEX-HT™ Mounting System and hook/loop straps allow for vertical or horizontal orientation while a pull-out hook/loop flap makes attachment to a plate carrier simple. The Flex Flashlight Pouch ($20.00) offers easy, convenient and durable functionality with a Hypalon pull-tab for quick opening, 500D-nylon construction, internal webbing reinforcement and elastic compression webbing.
Designed as an inner/outer belt system, the Maverick Battle Belt ($140.00) belt features an ergonomic curve and Austri Alpin COBRA® buckle. A loop faced inner belt connects quickly to the laser-cut MOLLE outer belt featuring 5.11’s proprietary TAC-LAM™ high-strength laminate on top of a dual nylon webbing.
Customers looking for everyday carry tools will be happy to see many new items that are keychain or micro hardpoint carabiner compatible. The EDT Hex comes with four tip fastening options including Phillips and slotted screwdriver tips along with T6 and T8 Torx heads ($15.00). The EDT Pry features a pry tip that doubles as a flat-head screwdriver, a ¼-inch driver that works with standard hex bits, as well as a bottle opener ($13.00). The EDT Rescue includes a carbide tip that can shatter tempered automotive glass, a web cutter that makes quick work of a stuck seat belt, and an oxygen key ($13.00).
When it comes to EDC, knives embody “everyday” more than any other tool. The minimalist Base 1SF knife is a quick-access keychain edged tool. It features a 1.5-inch sheepsfoot blade constructed from 8CR13MOV stainless steel. With a one-handed thumb stud opening and frame lock, it can handle everyday tasks directly from your pocket. Measuring less than 4 inches when opened, it folds down to an easily carried 2.365 inches and includes a split ring and micro Hardpoint carabiner for multiple connection options ($15.00). The Icarus DP Mini ($30.00) is a manual folder knife featuring an 8CR13MOV blade and FRN scales. The perfect everyday knife designed with a 2.8” drop point blade, liner lock, and deep carry 2-point clip attachment.
The EDC K-USB Flashlight keeps 150 lumens at the ready with its dual Hi-Lo settings and keychain-carry design. With a body constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum and IP54 dust and water-resistant rating, it will withstand the daily beating of keychain carry. A battery status LED in the switch reminds users when actively recharging and fully charged using the USB-C charge port ($30.00).
5.11® is also thrilled to announce new products in collaboration with special forces veteran and leader in the tactical cutlery industry, Justin Gingrich, who pioneered the modern tactical tomahawk and has developed some of the most sought-after tactical knife and tomahawk designs on the market.
Gingrich teamed with 5.11® to design the CFA Peacemaker with a heat-treated 4” steel blade and pick head with full-tang steel construction that’s perfect for heavy field use. Best of all, the CFA swings with the accuracy and feel of a hammer. Its skeletonized frame reduces the weight (1 lb. 12.2 oz), which helps make short work of large tasks. A textured handle with removable scales, finished with a tactical pummel tip, provides a sure grip in wet and freezing conditions and it includes a protective sheath with four position belt/MOLLE clip ($140.00).
Gingrich also led the design of the CFK 7 Peacemaker ($120.00). Thanks to the heat-treated steel blade and full-tang steel construction, the CFK 7 Peacemaker can handle tough jobs that lesser knives can’t touch. Blade perforations reduce weight to help make short work of cutting, batoning, and carving. The textured handle with removable scales, finished with a tactical pummel tip, provides a sure grip in wet and freezing conditions and it includes a protective sheath with updated two position 3-inch belt/MOLLE clips.
“The new products in 5.11’s collection this summer offer our end-users with an ultimate sense of preparedness,” said 5.11’s Chief Marketing Officer, Debra Radcliff. “Summer is about being outdoors and active – from 5.11’s loadbearing items to our footwear and EDC gear, each of these categories offer our customers the purpose-built gear they need to feel ready for the summer months ahead.”
Learn more about 5.11’s new and best-selling tactical gear and accessories at www.511tactical.com. Connect with 5.11® on Facebook, Twitter @511Tactical and on Instagram @511Tactical and #511tactical.
