Wear tests are of the upmost importance to introducing new clothing to the fleet. We need feedback from Sailors to ensure what we ultimately deliver is safe, functional, high-quality, professional looking and comfortable. From the onset, we’ve wanted this effort to be Sailor-driven and will rely heavily on Sailor input to make final design recommendations to Navy leadership.
Participants were issued four shirts and four trousers to wear over the course of the test period and instructed to provide feedback to the focus group point of contact at their command. Sailors’ comments on look, comfort, durability and functionality are strongly desired during this phase of the development process. The information received from the participants will be compiled for review by USFF, Navy Exchange Service Command and Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility to determine any design changes or implementation plan for the clothing.
The two-piece design is reminiscent of wash khakis and utilities, a reflection of the Navy’s maritime warfighting heritage. Three different blouse colors will be tested, with minor variations to pocket placement, closure, and size on each.Sailors E-6 and below will be given the option of a light blue blouse over dark blue trousers or a dark blue on dark blue design. Officers and chief petty officers are testing a khaki blouse over khaki trousers with the same design variations.
As a part of this prototyping effort, Sailors are also testing four different colors of flame resistant, moisture-wicking undershirts, along with a low-cut molder boot as a part of the wear test. A rigger’s belt, ball cap and pin-on insignia will be worn with the prototype. Ultimately, USFF will make a recommendation, based again on Sailor feedback, on whether pin-on or embroidered name tags and warfare/collar devices will be prescribed for wear with the two-piece.
Free Quote
