July 20,
2008: Four months ago, the U.S. Navy
issued official exercise uniforms. Now orders have been issued about how to
wear them. For example, when doing mandatory PT (physical training), the
t-shirts must be tucked in. But when exercising on their own, the t-shirts
don't have to be tucked in. And so on.
The black
shorts and gold t-shirt of the new PT uniform are both made of synthetic
materials that are moisture wicking (more rapidly disperses perspiration) and
odor resistant (self-explanatory). The piping on the shorts and the "Navy"
lettering on shorts and t-shirt are reflective (to make the wearer more visible
to motorists at night.)
Technically,
these uniforms are for organized PT, although sailors can also wear them when
off-duty. Each sailor will be issued two sets. There are also optional items,
like long-sleeved shirt, compression shorts, head gear and running shoes that
all use the same color scheme. A track suit is in the works as well.
Sailors
have long complained of the lack of official exercise gear, mainly because the
other services have it and that stuff looks cool. The admirals think it looks
even cooler when the shirt is tucked in.
