Uniforms for law enforcers are a solid and vital aspect of the full job description. The use of uniforms is to promote a sense of belonging among members. Even the police uniform pants alone can signify discipline and power to the public.
There are different types of uniforms to communicate rank, service length, particular tasks completed, and honors won at service. Essentially, uniforms often classify the ones in command, regardless of the situation.
Moreover, there’s the application of special attention towards camouflage on the uniform. There are unique elements that help them blend in any environment. For camouflage uniforms, the material of production is also worth considering.
Combat uniforms, particularly the BDU, have unique functions that match the soldiers’ activities and battlegrounds. This article covers the Battle Dress Uniforms and the reasons for their uniqueness. Read on.
What is BDU?
BDUs are unique and practical garments with a design that enables freedom of movement. This was the standard uniform during combat situations for the U.S. Armed Forces from 1980 to 2000.
Its unique design can accommodate several body types. That’s why the first BDU shirts and pants were baggy and had lots of pockets.
The limited range of styles and features was the major flaw in the original BDU. But, eventually, that didn’t matter because the BDU was only for combat and tactical occasions by then.
Now, the U.S. army no longer uses the BDU, and several branches have displaced it completely. Subsequently, military uniforms feature excellent design, comfort, durability, and performance.
Are Police Uniform Pants Part of BDU?
No, police uniform pants are not part of BDU. Here’s what you should know about uniform pants for police.
The best police uniform pants feature a solid color and unique designs that can endure the pressure of operations. The uniform pants police use contain more robust material than fashionable civilian pants designs. The materials for these pants are unique in terms of wrinkle, fade, stain, and soil resistance, as well as water repelling.
Aside from the type of fabric, the sewing design must also include maximum durability. You’ll find bartacks placed at the pressure points and all seams. This will ensure no ripping or tearing in a wide range of motion.
Moreover, the pockets are unique in a way. They feature reinforced material like nylon on the edges where tools and gear come into contact. High abrasion areas like knees and seats include patches that increase durability.
Police uniform pants are not only for reliance against operational strain. Instead, they should also be very professional in appearance. Based on your desired appearance, police pants include cargo pockets for a tactical or professional look.
Still, some departments allow police uniform shorts in specific situations. When it gets hot, a police unit can allow the officers to wear shorts. Plus, shorts are more comfortable and flexible than skirts, especially during fieldwork.
What’s Included In The BDU?
The BDU is a particular type of uniform for military personnel. Its features and purpose are noticeably different from the standard uniforms. There are several parts of the BDU, like;
- BDU Pants
The BDU woodland camo pants enable free motion and come in several camo patterns and solid color options.
Comfort, durability, and performance are vital aspects in the design of BDU combat pants. Usually, the fit is ergonomic because of the robust stretch material. So you can run, jump, bend, duck, and kneel even with stuffed pockets.
The BDU pants also have an innovative knee-protection system with knee pads. This helps to provide lasting protection from impacts and extra cushioning when kneeling. Show up for your mission in either black or camo BDU pants.
- BDU Shirt
The BDU shirt is also made from the finest materials. The extraordinary and practical design of the BDU shirt blends and works well with other gear.
Additionally, the role of the BDU shirt is to keep you comfortable and in control of your game. This works well, especially in extreme temperatures.
It’s an excellent choice whether worn as a functional base layer or a combat shirt. The BDU shirt comes in plain or camouflaged shades.
- BDU Jacket
The BDU outfit includes a jacket, even though the original version didn’t. Excluding the jacket was an unthinkable exclusion because a jacket is vital for damp, windy, or cold conditions.
Fortunately, the BDU jacket features different styles for various conditions. This makes it easy to find a suitable match for your mission and personal needs.
The BDU jacket is also made from robust and somewhat stretchy material. Thus, the soldier can freely move the arms and upper body in the battleground.
You can wear your BDU coat over an undershirt to protect you from harsh weather elements like rain or snow. This BDU jacket also comes with 4 sizable front pockets to show anything for the battle within quick reach.
- BDU Headgear
Unlike the helmets, BDU headgear consists of hats and caps mainly for comfort purposes. The BDU Boonie hat is lightweight and has a wide brim that provides maximum protection from the sun.
The less rigid and wide brim also allows adequate airflow under the dome. Better still, the camo pattern allows you to blend in with the environment effortlessly.
How’s BDU Different from a Normal Uniform?
The current regular uniform has nothing in common with the BDU. Some of the variances include the following;
- Closure: The BDU consists of a button closure for the jacket. But, the standard uniform comes with a zipper for the coat and velcro “hook and loop” closure for pockets.
- Pockets: There are a maximum of 6 pockets in the BDU. But, the standard uniform has 12 pockets and knee and elbow slots to insert pads for added comfort.
- Material: The BDU and the ACU are made from double absorbent two-ply fabric. Plus, the whole uniform set comes paired with less maintenance tactical boots.
- Colors: The BDU comes in solid and camouflage colors. On the other hand, the ACU uniform has three colors: faded green and light tan.
- Patches: The ACU patches for rank, name unit, and flag are removable and replaceable. In contrast, the BDU involves required sewing and ripping the patches off.
Generally, the Army Combat Uniform (ACU) cannot meet the BDU durability standards.
Bottom Line
The Battle Dress Uniform was initially only for the American armed forces during combat. But today, officers in particular groups like SWAT wear BDU-inspired uniforms due to its several benefits.
The BDU is robust, durable, purpose-built, and well-performing. Even better, it comes in different styles and sizes to suit the officer’s job requirements and personal preferences.