New physical fitness uniform comes with wear policy

POPE AIR FORCE BASE, NC -- What is gray with reflective tape and blue all over? That’s right — the new Air Force physical fitness uniform.

Available to all active duty, Guard and Reserve Airmen since May, the unisex uniform shouldn’t need any modifications after purchase. It consists of a T-shirt, a pair of shorts and a two-piece nylon running suit. With the exception of the gray T-shirt, the entire ensemble is navy blue. It was designed with comfort and safety in mind, officials said.

“The reaction to the uniforms has been very good,” said a Pope clothing sales employee. “It’s our biggest seller.”

The uniform was comfort-tested by 300 Airmen before it went into mass production. It has enough reflective material on it to make sure wearers can be seen from any direction. Some other features include two pockets in the shorts; zippers at the bottom of the running pants to make it easier to slip them on over shoes; zippers for ventilation in the jacket; and a hood in the collar of the jacket.

Pope’s clothing sales has the uniform in stock and will continue to receive shipments as needed. The cost of the separate pieces are: jacket, $61; pants, $37; shorts, $12; and gray T-shirt, $9.15.

Although there is not yet an official mandatory wear date for the uniform, those wearing it must follow the uniform’s wear policy.

•   Any combination of PT uniform items may be worn together (jacket with T-shirt and shorts, T-shirt with shorts or pants); PT uniform items must not be worn with any civilian clothing.
  
• Air Force T-shirt (short- or long-sleeved style) must be worn tucked into shorts.
  Jacket must be at least half zipped, and hood must be stored and zipped when not worn.
  
• Pants must be zipped at the legs.
  
• Spandex shorts and leggings (navy blue, or black) may be worn under PT shorts (full-length leggings may be worn during cold weather).
  
• White socks must be worn; ankle, or calf length (small conservative trademark logos are OK).
  
• Shoes must be a conservative color.
  
• Hats are not required when wearing the PT uniform. The wing commander will issue guidance of hat wear at Pope at a later date.
  
• Saluting not required when performing PT activities, but is required regardless of uniform type when not performing PT activities and when meeting individuals displaying appropriate rank.
  
• Hair must be neat and cannot hang loose below the collar; long hair must be tied back.
  
• Requirement for reflective belt is at the discretion of the squadron commander.
  Body art standards apply.
  
• Jewelry wear will follow normal uniform wear rules, keeping safety in mind.
  Wear policy for deployed locations is at the discretion of the theater commander.

For more information, call Military Personnel Flight at 394-2276