I am a new CAP member looking for uniforms. I have read 39-1 and the 2012 change letter. I fall outside the weight limit right now, so I am working on getting the proper uniforms to start with. The golf shirt uniform and the blue field uniform.
I am having trouble finding the gray pants for the golf shirt uniform. Also Vanguard only carries the field uniform in Winter Weight. Summertime in south MS is not where I need to be wearing a winter weight uniform for ground team activities.
Does anyone have any suggestions where I can get ladies gray slacks or a summer weight blue field uniform?
The gray pants can be purchased from any commercial source - "medium gray" is a pretty vague definition.
Any clothing store with gray dress pants should have something usable.
BDU.com for the blue field uniform.
There are plenty of retails stores and online sites, including Amazon, that carry women's grey slacks. The biggest challenge is finding the "proper" color, as medium grey means different things to different manufacturers/brands. I bought my men's slacks at Sears.
While not a requirement, I recommend using the grey epaulet slides as an example of grey color when looking for slacks. As for styles, CAPM 39-1 mentions authorized styles and their proper used with the blue Golf shirt or white Aviator shirt.
http://bdu.com/propper-poly-cotton-ripstop-bdu-coats/lapd-navy (http://bdu.com/propper-poly-cotton-ripstop-bdu-coats/lapd-navy)
http://bdu.com/propper-poly-cotton-ripstop-bdu-pants-zip-fly/lapd-navy (http://bdu.com/propper-poly-cotton-ripstop-bdu-pants-zip-fly/lapd-navy)
Not sure on the color, but the dark navy ones I have seen worn as Field Uniforms were too dark.
Also, you should pick up an Aviator shirt and insignia... The golf shirt does not meet the minimum uniform requirements.
You want "dark navy" - LAPD Navy is nearly black.
Although with that said, the pics don't seem to match the actual colors (seems to show LAPD navy as lighter).
Trying to find an old order...
Nertz...the email receipts just say "navy". I had purchased poly/twill, and I don't think in those there was a blue choice.
If it is LAPD SWAT navy it might be ok. The stuff I have that is dark or midnight navy is too dark though.
I've not been able to find my sizes on bdu.com in the same material/color for pants/blouse in years.
Quote from: usafaux2004 on July 12, 2013, 08:01:49 PM
I've not been able to find my sizes on bdu.com in the same material/color for pants/blouse in years.
Me too. I have taken brand new BBDUs and then put them in a bucket of dye just to get the colors to roughly match up.
The only set I have that matched up awesome was from lapolicegear, and when they arrived, they had slant pockets :( Would have looked awesome ;) but had to go back.
RE: Grey Pants
I have a few pairs of these that I wear with the aviator.
Flat Front: http://www.haggar.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3994159 (http://www.haggar.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3994159)
Pleated Front: http://www.haggar.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3994158 (http://www.haggar.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3994158)
They're a bit darker than the epaulet sleeves, but not so much that it looks weird. They are comfortable, breathable, and require little to no maintenance in terms of ironing.
Somewhere on the Knowledgebase is a small table with the cell fills in light, medium, and dark grey. The medium is a bit darker than the grade slides. I used their medium definition when I bough my new trousers.
I highly recommend the Propper Gray tac pants from BDU.com for light work with a polo.
Quote from: Spaceman3750 on July 13, 2013, 02:12:25 PM
I highly recommend the Propper Gray tac pants from BDU.com for light work with a polo.
+1
Quote from: Spaceman3750 on July 13, 2013, 02:12:25 PM
I highly recommend the Propper Gray tac pants from BDU.com for light work with a polo.
Our Wing Commander is on the Uniform committee and the color you should order is "Charcoal" gray in the Propper. As I understand it this will be the new "spec"....
Quote from: cap235629 on July 13, 2013, 09:14:30 PM
Quote from: Spaceman3750 on July 13, 2013, 02:12:25 PM
I highly recommend the Propper Gray tac pants from BDU.com for light work with a polo.
Our Wing Commander is on the Uniform committee and the color you should order is "Charcoal" gray in the Propper. As I understand it this will be the new "spec"....
I would say that until something official comes out, you purchase clothing based on the current regs. Not saying you're wrong, but
"Charcoal" is very dark and well off the current expectation.
(http://assets.cat5.com/images/catalog/650/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants-gray.jpg)(http://assets.cat5.com/images/catalog/650/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants-charcoal.jpg)
Quote from: Eclipse on July 13, 2013, 09:25:35 PM
Quote from: cap235629 on July 13, 2013, 09:14:30 PM
Quote from: Spaceman3750 on July 13, 2013, 02:12:25 PM
I highly recommend the Propper Gray tac pants from BDU.com for light work with a polo.
Our Wing Commander is on the Uniform committee and the color you should order is "Charcoal" gray in the Propper. As I understand it this will be the new "spec"....
I would say that until something official comes out, you purchase clothing based on the current regs. Not saying you're wrong, but
"Charcoal" is very dark and well off the current expectation.
I would have to say "show me that in writing".......I have never seen anywhere where they define their expectations for what gray is for the corporate uniforms.
Here's the KB version:
http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm (http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm)
Quote from: cap235629 on July 13, 2013, 09:14:30 PM
Quote from: Spaceman3750 on July 13, 2013, 02:12:25 PM
I highly recommend the Propper Gray tac pants from BDU.com for light work with a polo.
Our Wing Commander is on the Uniform committee and the color you should order is "Charcoal" gray in the Propper. As I understand it this will be the new "spec"....
Too bad, if they were going to change it they should have changed to Khaki.
That said, when I wear slacks, they are closer to charcoal.
Wow, thanks for all of the replies! Sorry it's taken me a while to respond, I'm on vacation and don't always get a signal. Not much signal in some of these parts of Alaska. I was excited to see CAP on the side of a building at a small air field in Anchorage!
Gray pants of any kind are tough to find right now. I need ladies and unfortunately my size is also a limiting factor (women's). I ordered a pair from Dickies.com but they don't fit right and are more of the darker charcoal color too. I might check Haggar.com, thanks for that idea. I had a nice pair of grey Haggar slacks years ago.
I do plan to get the aviator shirt and insignia fairly soon too as I understand its the minimum uniform recommended. However, the seniors at my squadron are primarily wearing the golf shirt combo right now.
Bummer you all are not having much luck getting your matching blue BDUs even from bdu.com! What about getting some from an Army/Navy store...if I find ones that fit? We've got Navy and Coast Guard in my home area, as well as Air Force. If I find blue BDUs in one of those stores that match the pocket and style description in 39-1, would that work?
Thanks again for all of your help!!!
Mela
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 15, 2013, 11:50:56 PMIf I find blue BDUs in one of those stores that match the pocket and style description in 39-1, would that work?
Yes - don't get too hung up on the color - I'll take a member in a neat, pressed set of BBDUs andy day over someone
who bought the "correct" color, cares for them wrong, and is essentially wearing a light blue uniform.
Thanks Eclipse! My thoughts exactly.
Wow I am so surprised to see this. I was just about to ask about uniforms. OP I went o my local Good Will and found both an aviator shirt and gray pants.
The Blue Utility is another story. I bought a number of items off ebay only to find none of them match even brand new stuff from the same manufacturer? Most of it is dark or midnight blue so those are the pants I am trying to hunt down now. I tell ya its not making me happy!!!
Are we allowed to wear the gray propper pants with the blue polo? I did not think we could do that concerning 39-1 or is that something that is coming. If it is coming are we allowed to start wearing it now? I like these better than having to wear dress slacks. They look nice for office work or for meeting nights but not good for use as a flying outfit. Getting in and out of aircraft is not very good with this combination. I think the new Propper trousers would be great.
Increasingly dressier versions of the grey slacks are required for those corporate uniforms - polo, aviator shirt, and blazer. From Table 4-X, CAPM 39-1:
1. Blazer - Commercial dress trousers of medium gray flannel, tropical worsted, or
similar commercial blend, full cut, straight hanging, with or without pleats,
with or without cuffs. (No jeans or causal trousers made of cotton or twill
fabric.) Front of trouser legs rests on the front of shoe or boot. No bunching
at waist or sagging at seat. Trousers must be worn at natural waist.
3. Aviator Shirt - Commercial dress slacks/trousers of medium gray flannel, tropical worsted, or
similar commercial blend, full cut, straight hanging, with or without pleats,
with or without cuffs. (No jeans or casual slacks.) No bunching at waist or
bagging at seat.
4. Polo - Commercial slacks/trousers in medium gray color, full cut, straight hanging,
with or without pleats, with or without cuffs. Cotton/twill weave trousers are
authorized (no jeans).
Quote from: TarRiverRat on July 17, 2013, 06:50:20 AM
If it is coming are we allowed to start wearing it now?
No. If its not authorized. It means exactly that; not authorized.
It's anybodies guess (unless they sit on the uniform board) as to what may or may not be coming along. even then, the Nat/CC can nix an idea.
The main thing wrong with the Propper pants shown is the pocket on the leg (like cargo pants)...right? Since cotton/twill are authorized with the polo I would think things like Dockers or even the Dickies would be ok... or am I incorrect? Of course, they need to be of a style appropriate for slacks. The material for the Dickies pants are much more rugged, but iron/crisp up nicely.
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 18, 2013, 12:12:52 AM
The main thing wrong with the Propper pants shown is the pocket on the leg (like cargo pants)...right? Since cotton/twill are authorized with the polo I would think things like Dockers or even the Dickies would be ok... or am I incorrect? Of course, they need to be of a style appropriate for slacks. The material for the Dickies pants are much more rugged, but iron/crisp up nicely.
What's wrong with having a pocket on the leg?
Quote from: TarRiverRat on July 17, 2013, 06:50:20 AM
Are we allowed to wear the gray propper pants with the blue polo?
We are as far as my wing is concerned.
Those pants meet the spec as published. Anyone who says they don't is trying to make a point where none exists.
We've been wearing them for years.
Thanks for the replies back to my question. It helps.
Ok, I was not aware that the gray pants with the leg pocket were allowed. I know the reg doesn't specify, I suppose I just assumed. I will have to check with my squadron to find out if there are any specifics in my area.
I had hoped my questions were easy to answer, but apparently not. I will just have to keep looking around for both the gray pants and summer weight blue BDU. I just don't understand why Vanguard only carries a winter weight blue field uniform and not a summer weight. Oh well... :(
I wish Vanguard would stock the gray pants.
I totally agree TarRiverRat!! I've already got the golf shirt and everything I need for the golf shirt uniform, but the gray pants are proving to be elusive!!!
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 21, 2013, 04:04:58 AM
I totally agree TarRiverRat!! I've already got the golf shirt and everything I need for the golf shirt uniform, but the gray pants are proving to be elusive!!!
I don't think I've ever been to a clothing store that doesn't have grey pants.
When you find pants in the store, ask yourself two questions:
1) Are they pants?
2) Are they grey?
If you can answer yes to both those questions, you're good to go!
Quote from: Fubar on July 21, 2013, 08:16:32 AM
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 21, 2013, 04:04:58 AM
I totally agree TarRiverRat!! I've already got the golf shirt and everything I need for the golf shirt uniform, but the gray pants are proving to be elusive!!!
I don't think I've ever been to a clothing store that doesn't have grey pants.
When you find pants in the store, ask yourself two questions:
1) Are they pants?
2) Are they grey?
If you can answer yes to both those questions, you're good to go!
3) Are they in your size? This is the one I had a hard time with.
Quote from: BHartman007 on July 21, 2013, 03:08:35 PM3) Are they in your size? This is the one I had a hard time with.
Ahh, gotcha. Didn't consider the edge cases on the small/large ends of the bell curve. Can the places you usually purchase pants from order what you need?
You really would think finding gray pants would be simple, I thought so. However, it's not turning out nearly as simple as you would think. First of all, yes size is a issue for me...hence the question about the blue BDU's not the regular ones. Secondly, in ladies clothing. Mens stores stock the classic style pants, but the ladies stores all want to follow the latest trend so just finding a classic pair of pants is a trick. Also, gray seems to be a hard to find color. I can order them, but I prefer to try them on. I already have one pair I have to return because they don't fit right. I guess I'll keep looking.
I don't have a brand or store that I know fits properly right now. I did check Haggar on line and apparently they don't even carry ladies clothes anymore!!
After eight local stores I finally came across a pair of gray pants that fit me for the golf shirt uniform! They are more of a charcoal gray, but at this point I just needed something. I will continue my search for a pair to wear with the aviator shirt that is right for that uniform.
As for the blue field uniform, I had a good string of emails with Vanguard today. It seems like the weight of the field uniform is a little heavier than standard summer BDUs (active duty), so I'm hoping they are like the all weather woodlands. They were designed especially for CAP so I plan to give them a try. If they are too much heavier than the woodlands (I plan to compare on a meeting night when others are in woodland), then I will try to find a lighter alternative. :-\
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 26, 2013, 05:18:34 AMThey were designed especially for CAP...
Who told you that? Vanguard?
If you want lighter, propper ripstop cotton- drawbacks-ironing intensive and if not cold water washed, WILL fade.
Poly cotton ripstop- lighter than cotton or poly cotton twill, near no-iron, good color retention. Depending on Long or Short instead of Regular, size search may be a challenge.
Quote from: Eclipse on July 26, 2013, 05:35:25 AM
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 26, 2013, 05:18:34 AMThey were designed especially for CAP...
Who told you that? Vanguard?
They can't put it on the internet if it isn't true.
Bonjour.
Quote from: David Vandenbroeck on July 26, 2013, 11:20:05 PM
Quote from: Eclipse on July 26, 2013, 05:35:25 AM
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 26, 2013, 05:18:34 AMThey were designed especially for CAP...
Who told you that? Vanguard?
They can't put it on the internet if it isn't true.
Bonjour.
You've just won a cookie for that!
As for the actual topic, BlueDU's have been around for quite some time. Many places, including Fire Departments, have used them. My town uses them.
I bought mine a while back, from Vanguard, and they are Propper brand. Not sure if they are ripstop or not.
The Vanguard rep told me they were designed per CAP specs.
I have seen blue BDUs for years including our local Coast Guard. I have been debating buying them at a local Army/Navy store. Not sure of the differences but I could look at the regs and follow as close as possible. The Vanguard rep did say that the little heavier material tends to hold color better.
VG material is ridiculously heavy.
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 27, 2013, 06:14:06 AM
The Vanguard rep told me they were designed per CAP specs.
An interesting statement, since there are no "CAP specs" for the BBDU, or pretty much any uniform beyond very general color and style.
They are standard production BBDU from a standard military / LEO supplier.
Sure there are CAP specs.....blue and BDU style.
Now....I doubt that Proper (who IIRC is what Vanguard Sells) produced their Navy Blue BDU's simply because CAP asked them too.....but given that we are getting this conversation third hand....I am sure what the Vanguard Rep meant was that the BBDU's that they sell meet CAP requirements.
Here's the quote from my email with Rep, "The uniform is specifically made per CAP specs, which is why we carry it in our inventory as a Winter weight. I do not know of any other location that carries this uniform."
To me this uniform looks exactly like the blue BDUs that I have seen on the military in the past for years!
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 28, 2013, 04:59:33 PM
Here's the quote from my email with Rep, "The uniform is specifically made per CAP specs, which is why we carry it in our inventory as a Winter weight. I do not know of any other location that carries this uniform."
To me this uniform looks exactly like the blue BDUs that I have seen on the military in the past for years!
Sounds like Vanguard is trying to justify overcharging for this item by saying a custom job.
You can probably get the exact same item for less at bdu.com or propper's web site.
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 28, 2013, 04:59:33 PM
Here's the quote from my email with Rep, "The uniform is specifically made per CAP specs, which is why we carry it in our inventory as a Winter weight. I do not know of any other location that carries this uniform."
Wow. I guess they aren't in the business of redirecting customers to their competition, but Pinocchio would be proud of the way that sentence is crafted.
Quote from: Eclipse on July 29, 2013, 02:17:35 AM
Quote from: Mela_007 on July 28, 2013, 04:59:33 PM
Here's the quote from my email with Rep, "The uniform is specifically made per CAP specs, which is why we carry it in our inventory as a Winter weight. I do not know of any other location that carries this uniform."
Wow. I guess they aren't in the business of redirecting customers to their competition, but Pinocchio would be proud of the way that sentence is crafted.
Not necessarily. If the Rep has never looked for them elsewhere he may not know other locations do carry them. I get mine from a Surplus store. And they're happy to order sizes they don't have in stock at no extra cost.
Maybe so, but the nonsense about "CAP specs" is pretty much a fib.
I had a feeling I'd get a reply from some of you. lol The comment about over pricing lets me know I need to do some shopping around. Plus it's good to know other sources can get a size they may not have in stock. Now I just need to figure out the sizing. A unisex uniform does not exactly fit all, and my pear shape makes it challenging sometimes!
Thanks for all your help. It's nice to get other opinions especially from other CAP members and I even saw at least one Ground Team too. I would like to begin training for Ground Team, which is why having a suitable outdoor uniform for summer activities will be important for me to find.
BDU style uniforms are based on sizes XS-XL diameters with an associated Short-regular-long for length, both in shirts and pants. There is a inch measurement associated with each size range XX-XX. So the ability to mix and match for different body styles is fairly easy. Now some combos are not always readily available (say XL/short) but you should be able to find what you need. The biggest problem I have seen with the "pear" is the shirt is straight cut (ie the same diameter around from shoulder to waist) so depending on the chest/hip variation you may end up with something that hangs on the shoulders to not get stuck on the hips (but custom adjustment...ie cut and sew, is an option if you really don't like the cut/fit.)
mk
Thank you MK!! That is exactly what I needed to know. I will have to have it altered then and hopefully it won't have to be a major overhaul.
Also, BDU.com does have a sizing chart that should help you too.
Thanks PHall, I will check bdu.com out. Someone else mentioned them as well. Thanks to all who have replied!!
If you dry clean the BBDU it will look good longer. You can buy the Dryel kit at Walmart.
Quote from: billford1 on August 01, 2013, 01:18:29 AM
If you dry clean the BBDU it will look good longer. You can buy the Dryel kit at Walmart.
+ 1 - or have the nice lady on the corner do it.
I admit I gave up today and ordered my BBDU from Vanguard. :-\
I know it's going to be a shot in the dark if it fits, but it always is with something ordered online. I tried the local Army/Navy stores and though they had tons of the BBDU pants, they had about 8 of the shirts total. Of course they were either the wrong size or color or number of pockets, so...!! The prices I was seeing on the other sites were comparable to Vanguard, so I am just going to try them for this first uniform. They have a return policy, so I'll return it if needed.
I just need to get myself within those weight standards sooner than later so it's not as hard to find the uniforms!!! :o
Quote from: Mela_007 on August 01, 2013, 01:33:57 AMI just need to get myself within those weight standards sooner than later so it's not as hard to find the uniforms!!!
The available sizes for camo and blue field uniforms are the same.
(http://terminallance.com/comics/2013-07-30-Strip_282_Size_Matters_web.gif)
http://terminallance.com/ (http://terminallance.com/)
;D I know what you mean Eclipse, but perhaps the standard sizes will be easier to find! Plus my unique shape won't be as challenging to fit!
I don't believe the Vanguard Ones are RipStop, or if they are, the one I bought was sub-standard!
I got nonripstop bbdus in winter weight...sigh
Quote from: IndySartech on August 01, 2013, 08:15:55 PM
I don't believe the Vanguard Ones are RipStop, or if they are, the one I bought was sub-standard!
Welcome aboard, Indy!
--Yoda
I never got the reason why they stock Winter Weight BlueDU's. They could stock only Summer Weight rip-stop that is extremely good in the summer but sucks in the winter and possibly hit you with a BlueDU jacket for the winter!
I never had issues in IL with ripstop in the winter. I would like the option to layer underneath rather than be forced into winter weight year round.
Ditto - I much prefer lighter weight everything and adding layers where rarely needed.
Quote from: IndySartech on August 01, 2013, 08:15:55 PM
I don't believe the Vanguard Ones are RipStop, or if they are, the one I bought was sub-standard!
What else did you get at the PX?
And welcome aboard the C T .... 8)
My Vanguard order arrived yesterday (BBDU)!! :D I'm not sure how hot or rip-stop the uniform will be yet, but at least it fits. It could fit better in some areas, but I think it will be close enough to look proper. If not, I'll have it altered later. I got the patches and tapes so all that is left is to get everything sewed on! YAY!! Thanks for everyone's help on this subject!!!! You all are great! :clap:
I have a question for you all. I have looked thoroughly through 39-1 and the March 2012 change letter and I cannot find one specific bit of information that applies to me. Both regs mention what do to on the Field Uniform for officer insignia, but not what to do if you are a SM without grade. They both say what to do on the BDUs, which is the CAP with ultramarine background on both collars. But I cannot find the directions for a SM member wearing a Field Uniform. They say what to do about the cap (no insignia) for a SM too, but not the uniform itself...unless I'm missing it.
Do you know what the regulation is? If so, where am I missing it? I have purchased the CAP because it makes sense that the CAP would be right since the Field Uniform is the BDU equivalent, but I do not have them sewn on yet. Any advice would be appreciated. :-\
Same thing on the collars - two embroidered CAP "cutouts".
The BDU and blue field unifrom are configured the same, with the only difference being not being allowed to wear any military badges above the tapes.
Quote from: Eclipse on August 25, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Same thing on the collars - two embroidered CAP "cutouts".
The BDU and blue field unifrom are configured the same, with the only difference being not being allowed to wear any military badges above the tapes.
Still wish cloth cutouts were phased out. They don't really serve a whole lot of purpose now.
Thanks, that's what I thought (which is why I purchased them).
One more probably dumb question. The regs say white on ultramarine blue insignia, but for 2d Lt and Maj the ranks are not white. I assume that part in the reg is just to distinguish between a white thread versus a silver thread on those insignia which would be that color, correct?
Yes - white on ultramarine, not silver. If you get the from VG, they should have the proper type.
With that said, the word from the conference was that the tapes will soon be changed to dark blue with silver, so if you haven't bought them yet, and
can wait, you might want to hold off for a couple months.
The reference to white is not the thread you sew it on, but the white being the insignia on the ultramarine blue. Everything is white on ultramarine except those grade insignia you mention. Since those symbols are re-used, the thread color changes.
In this era of color, I find it far clearer to simply show the badges, insignia and say "these are the authorized ones". Where as when the manual was printed in gray scale only, that would have potentially shown 1/2 Lt, & Major/Lt Col with the same thing.
Duh - missed butter bar and major question. ^+1
Thanks for the warning about the potential change in tape color. Since I'm a new CAP member and a Ground Team Trainee, I need an appropriate BDU style uniform now. I'm not planning on tromping through the woods in my gray slacks and loafers. ;) Also, too late...I've already purchased the ultramarine tapes and a few reverse flags, oh well.
I have been following the National Board uniform change thread, so I noticed the possible uniform changes coming up. The bummer part is more that I just got the things sewed on and I am not looking forward to taking them off and sewing on the new ones in just a few months!
The one advantage that I have is that I am not currently authorized to wear the regular BDUs (my goal for next year). Because of that I got the Field Uniform which hopefully will stay in use. By the time I make weight next year and am ready to wear the AF-style uniform hopefully the new uniform regs will be out and I will be able to get a uniform that will be good for a while.
Assuming approval, there's likely to be a multi-year phase in on the new tapes.
Some people will have them day-1, but that's not required.
Cool, thanks again!! 8)
So to clarify, Charcoal tactical pants? Not trolling, need pants and this thread seemed to have a better grasp on the tactical pants.
I think "charcoal" is too dark.
You're looking for something like this:
(http://assets.cat5.com/images/catalog/650/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants-gray.jpg)
http://bdu.com/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants/gray#/654/0,656/1 (http://bdu.com/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants/gray#/654/0,656/1)
Quote from: 38ffems on August 27, 2013, 01:57:39 AM
So to clarify, Charcoal tactical pants? Not trolling, need pants and this thread seemed to have a better grasp on the tactical pants.
I recommend both of these
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00543YN24/ref=pe_175190_21431760_cs_sce_dp_1 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00543YN24/ref=pe_175190_21431760_cs_sce_dp_1)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81k%2B9Y-KZdL._SX522_.jpg)
http://www.511tactical.com/All-Products/Pants/Tactical-Pants/511-Tactical-Pants-Mens-Cotton.html#192 (http://www.511tactical.com/All-Products/Pants/Tactical-Pants/511-Tactical-Pants-Mens-Cotton.html#192)
(http://static.511tactical.com/images511/large_2000x2000/74251_029_Alternate1.jpg)
Quote from: Eclipse on August 27, 2013, 02:16:06 AM
I think "charcoal" is too dark.
You're looking for something like this:
(http://assets.cat5.com/images/catalog/650/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants-gray.jpg)
http://bdu.com/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants/gray#/654/0,656/1 (http://bdu.com/mens-propper-lightweight-tactical-pants/gray#/654/0,656/1)
^^^ I own a pair of this and I am wearing it today. It's on the light grey side of the spectrum (as compared to the epaulet). Somehow the picture makes it look darker.
On the other hand, the grey BDU is actually closer to the color of the epaulet but, again, somehow the picture makes it look much much lighter.
Not that the epaulet matter since these pants are to be worn with the Golf shirt only, but it is a good reference for grey.
(http://assets.cat5.com/images/catalog/650/propper-poly-cotton-ripstop-bdu-pants-gray.jpg)
http://bdu.com/propper-poly-cotton-ripstop-bdu-pants/gray (http://bdu.com/propper-poly-cotton-ripstop-bdu-pants/gray)
Here is the "official" page from the Propper contractor catalogue in reference to the tactical pants previously mentioned, including their colour shade chart. Their "grey" colour matches the CAP Officer shoulder marks more closely than the "charcoal" which is almost black.
(http://i.imgur.com/RsFoB9t.jpg)
Also (not to derail the tread), but the same catalogue has some very decent image of the ABU uniform items, if someone would like those posted, if someone (with better Photoshop skills than I) would like to create a better idea of what the "silver on navy blue" tapes and insignia would look like on the proposed CAP version of the ABU. My thinking is, that since it is just an image, and not an actual ABU, that hopefully some members on this board won't be as likely to jump my case about not having authorisation to purchase ABU items.
As a lady, finding the tactical pants was difficult for me (plus size)...as you likely noticed from the early part of this thread. I am still going to get another pair of gray pants and I am hoping they are a tougher material than the slacks I have right now.
Either way, I'll need the BDU style uniform for ground team use. I'll worry about what kind of AF-style uniform is current when I make weight standards and am authorized to wear it. I do feel out of place somewhat at a SAREX being the only person in a Field Uniform, but I am ok with the fact that I am in a uniform that is properly marked and I'm authorized to wear. I have seen pics of senior members that are obviously not within weight requirements wearing the BDUs, but that isn't going to be me. I will not disrespect the USAF by wearing a uniform I'm not authorized to wear. Nobody at the SAREX acted in any way differently towards me due to my Field Uniform (thought a couple cadets and parents were confused), so it's no biggy.
According to the guidance on the KB, the correct medium gray is darker than the grade slides.
Quote from: Mela_007 on August 27, 2013, 05:38:57 PMI do feel out of place somewhat at a SAREX being the only person in a Field Uniform, but I am ok with the fact that I am in a uniform that is properly marked and I'm authorized to wear.
Don't feel out of place. I wear BBDUs because I have a beard, and do my job(s) just as well as I would w/o the fuzz, and in AF-style uniforms.
I wear BBDUs because I have a 25 pound bag in my gut. :)
Thanks, it's good to know I'm not the only one out there wearing the BBDUs. It just happened to be that way at the only two SAREX that I have attended thus far.
I have been the only one in BBDUs at an event several times, and it's never been a problem. On top of that, I'm easy to find. ;)
Certainly in the minority most of the time, even if others should be wearing them.
I never thought about that SarDragron...you are not camouflaged, with the rest of the camouflage! lol
Quote from: Mela_007 on August 28, 2013, 12:20:11 AM
Thanks, it's good to know I'm not the only one out there wearing the BBDUs. It just happened to be that way at the only two SAREX that I have attended thus far.
My Wing Commander wears BBDUs to our SAREXs and he sets a great example for others to follow since he can wear the BDUs legitimately and correctly. :clap:
Not only that, with the different uniform, outsiders think you must be the super-secret special skills guy! 8)
Quote from: SarDragon on August 28, 2013, 03:06:32 AM
I have been the only one in BBDUs at an event several times, and it's never been a problem. On top of that, I'm easy to find. ;)
Quote from: skymaster on August 27, 2013, 04:07:01 PM
Here is the "official" page from the Propper contractor catalogue in reference to the tactical pants previously mentioned, including their colour shade chart. Their "grey" colour matches the CAP Officer shoulder marks more closely than the "charcoal" which is almost black.
(http://i.imgur.com/RsFoB9t.jpg)
Skymaster, I can only wish that their official catalog was actually accurate.
Here're what I actually own and they are both Propper. The one on the left is the grey tactical pant and the one on the right is the grey BDU. Got both from bdu.com. I actually thought that they sent me the wrong grey tactical, but another member who purchased it from a different source ended up with the same color that I have.
(http://captalk.net/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=17662.0;attach=5102;image)
The ones on the left are what I and everyone else in my wing wears. The ones on the right are too dark.
Again, the darker ones more closely fit the info on the KB.
http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm (http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm)
I know, the KB isn't regulatory, but it is guidance.
Glad to hear your Wing Commander wears them and is eligible to wear the regular style. Super-secret special skills guy (gal in my case), cool, that works for me. Just gotta get the skills to go with it. Lots of learning to go.
Quote from: SarDragon on August 28, 2013, 09:00:46 PM
Again, the darker ones more closely fit the info on the KB.
http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm (http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm)
I know, the KB isn't regulatory, but it is guidance.
I am soooo looking forward to the next revision of CAPM 39-1. :angel:
(http://captalk.net/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=17662.0;attach=5104;image)
Quote from: vento on August 28, 2013, 09:28:58 PM
Quote from: SarDragon on August 28, 2013, 09:00:46 PM
Again, the darker ones more closely fit the info on the KB.
http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm (http://capnhq.custhelp.com/ci/fattach/get/204/0/filename/Med_gray-chart.htm)
I know, the KB isn't regulatory, but it is guidance.
I am soooo looking forward to the next revision of CAPM 39-1. :angel:
(http://captalk.net/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=17662.0;attach=5104;image)
Doubt it will change anything. Until there's a "This is what you get" clause, the gray will be up to interpretation of everyone's closet/closest store.
Given the very skillful combination of the two graphics, I'll go for the Propper gray BDU.
I would tend to agree, except that in the context of the golf shirt, which is where you would use these, anything darker then the ones on the left
look too dark.
If you were wearing these with the aviators, itd be a different story because you have other gray to compare it to and the shirt is obviously bright.
It's in the contrast where things go sideways.
Quote from: usafaux2004 on August 28, 2013, 04:10:06 AM
Certainly in the minority most of the time, even if others should be wearing them.
I can wear both but I prefer the Blue BDUs, I've always thought it was odd we wore the woodland BDUs and then the Orange Vests. If I was king for the day, I would have a BDU in a red, orange or yellow to eschew the need for a vest :)
Quote from: robaroth on August 29, 2013, 01:41:36 AM
Quote from: usafaux2004 on August 28, 2013, 04:10:06 AM
Certainly in the minority most of the time, even if others should be wearing them.
I can wear both but I prefer the Blue BDUs, I've always thought it was odd we wore the woodland BDUs and then the Orange Vests. If I was king for the day, I would have a BDU in a red, orange or yellow to eschew the need for a vest :)
My guess is that if you were king, you'd have a BDU in red, orange
and yellow. ((*snort*))
Quote from: Eclipse on August 29, 2013, 01:50:03 AM
Quote from: robaroth on August 29, 2013, 01:41:36 AM
Quote from: usafaux2004 on August 28, 2013, 04:10:06 AM
Certainly in the minority most of the time, even if others should be wearing them.
I can wear both but I prefer the Blue BDUs, I've always thought it was odd we wore the woodland BDUs and then the Orange Vests. If I was king for the day, I would have a BDU in a red, orange or yellow to eschew the need for a vest :)
My guess is that if you were king, you'd have a BDU in red, orange and yellow. ((*snort*))
Actually red and yellow make orange so all three would be superfluous :)
Would they cancel each other out and you'd be full-on Predator invisible?
Quote from: Eclipse on August 29, 2013, 02:00:52 AM
Would they cancel each other out and you'd be full-on Predator invisible?
You are funny funny person :) Come to Northeast we have good time
Quote from: robaroth on August 29, 2013, 01:41:36 AM
Quote from: usafaux2004 on August 28, 2013, 04:10:06 AM
Certainly in the minority most of the time, even if others should be wearing them.
I can wear both but I prefer the Blue BDUs, I've always thought it was odd we wore the woodland BDUs and then the Orange Vests. If I was king for the day, I would have a BDU in a red, orange or yellow to eschew the need for a vest :)
UGH! Kill it with fire!
(http://www.armyuniverse.com/images/8865.jpg)
Too late...
Be careful about uniforms.
When I lived in PR in the 1980's I was a member of an Explorers Post we gave First Aid and CPR classes to community groups etc and were a kind of reserve for the state Civil Defense. One of our uniforms was a mustard-colored coverall. We thought we were very distinctive!
One day we were scheduled to teach a CPR class to a group of students at a community college auditorium with a broken air conditioner. We had just started wearing those coveralls so were beaming! As we arrived, all students in the auditorium started cheering and clapping. So our ego went through the roof. As we got introduced, there was a collective groan and comments like "so you are not here to repair the AC?"
Talk about a downer...
And name and what you have in your insignias...
Name of the organization was Cuerpo de Voluntarios en Accion. Insignia was a gold cross with the letters CVA. We joked that CVA in English stands for "Cerebro Vascular Accident," or stroke...
Flyer
Quote from: robaroth on August 29, 2013, 02:01:47 AM
Quote from: Eclipse on August 29, 2013, 02:00:52 AM
Would they cancel each other out and you'd be full-on Predator invisible?
You are funny funny person :) Come to Northeast we have good time
Next time you're in town we will have muchly coffee...
Quote from: Eclipse on August 29, 2013, 02:14:25 AM
Quote from: robaroth on August 29, 2013, 02:01:47 AM
Quote from: Eclipse on August 29, 2013, 02:00:52 AM
Would they cancel each other out and you'd be full-on Predator invisible?
You are funny funny person :) Come to Northeast we have good time
Next time you're in town we will have muchly coffee...
Which town, I like coffee
West Chicago or maybe North Chicago.
Quote from: Eclipse on August 28, 2013, 03:31:50 PM
The ones on the left are what I and everyone else in my wing wears. The ones on the right are too dark.
Agreed. The one on the left is pretty much what everyone else in my wing wears as well, with the golf shirt. Anyone who thinks that the darker colour pant is appropriate for wear on or near a mission base tarmac in Georgia with 90% humidity during the summer, must be rather naive about the nature of our missions, and probably have not worked many, if any actual missions in the state. Even the EMA people and other first responders wear khaki tactical pants with their agency golf shirts that time of year.
Quote from: Eclipse on August 29, 2013, 12:47:57 AM
I would tend to agree, except that in the context of the golf shirt, which is where you would use these, anything darker then the ones on the left
look too dark.
If you were wearing these with the aviators, it'd be a different story because you have other gray to compare it to and the shirt is obviously bright.
It's in the contrast where things go sideways.
Neither of the pictured items are authorized with the white shirt, so that point is moot.
Quote from: skymaster on August 29, 2013, 03:06:57 AM
Agreed. The one on the left is pretty much what everyone else in my wing wears as well, with the golf shirt. Anyone who thinks that the darker colour pant is appropriate for wear on or near a mission base tarmac in Georgia with 90% humidity during the summer, must be rather naive about the nature of our missions, and probably have not worked many, if any actual missions in the state. Even the EMA people and other first responders wear khaki tactical pants with their agency golf shirts that time of year.
I do the majority of my missions in So Cal. The temp here regularly gets to 90+. I, personally, haven't noticed a big difference among various shades of grey.