Military, Tactical & Outdoor Gear Glossary

This glossary explains common military, tactical, outdoor, apparel, footwear, fabric, camouflage and equipment terms used throughout Army Universe. It is designed to help customers understand product descriptions, materials, features, sizing and military abbreviations.

Terms such as “military-style,” “GI-style,” “tactical” and “commercial” describe a product’s design or intended use and do not necessarily mean that the item was manufactured for, issued by or approved by the United States government. Product specifications vary, so always review the individual product description before ordering.

A

Abrasion Resistance

A material’s ability to resist surface wear caused by rubbing, scraping or repeated contact. High abrasion resistance is useful in tactical clothing, packs, gloves and outdoor equipment.

ACU

Army Combat Uniform. ACU can refer to the uniform design and garment cut used by the U.S. Army. A product described as “ACU-style” may use a similar design without being an issued military garment. ACU should not be confused with a camouflage pattern.

Acrylic

A lightweight synthetic fiber commonly used in watch caps, gloves, sweaters and cold-weather accessories. Acrylic is soft, warm, shape-retaining and generally resistant to wrinkles and shrinkage.

Adjustable Cuff

A sleeve or pant opening that can be tightened or loosened using hook-and-loop material, snaps, buttons, elastic, drawcords or tabs.

ALICE

All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment. ALICE is a U.S. military load-carrying system associated with packs, frames, belts, clips and field equipment developed before the widespread adoption of MOLLE systems.

ANSI

American National Standards Institute. ANSI coordinates voluntary standards used in many industries. A product should only be described as meeting a particular ANSI standard when that specific compliance is stated by the manufacturer.

Anti-Pilling

A fabric treatment or construction intended to reduce the formation of small fiber balls on the material’s surface after wear and washing.

Appliqué

A decorative or identifying fabric piece sewn or bonded onto a garment, cap, bag or patch.

AR 670-1

A U.S. Army regulation covering the wear and appearance of Army uniforms and insignia. Products should only be represented as AR 670-1 compliant when the manufacturer specifically confirms compliance with the applicable requirements.

B

Ballistic Nylon

A dense, durable nylon fabric originally developed for protective military use and now commonly used in luggage, packs, belts and equipment cases. The term does not mean that a finished product is bullet-resistant.

Balaclava

A close-fitting head and face covering designed to protect the head, neck and portions of the face from cold, wind, sun, dust or debris.

Battle Belt

A load-bearing waist belt designed to carry compatible pouches, holsters and field equipment. Attachment systems and belt sizes vary by model.

BDU

Battle Dress Uniform. The BDU was a U.S. military combat and field uniform design widely used before newer uniform systems were adopted. BDU-style shirts, pants and shorts remain popular for work, tactical, outdoor and casual use.

Berry Amendment

A U.S. law that generally requires certain products purchased by the Department of Defense, including specified textiles and clothing, to be produced in the United States from qualifying domestic materials. “Berry compliant” is not identical to every type of “Made in USA” claim.

Beret

A soft, round cap with a flat crown. Berets are worn as fashion accessories and as parts of military, law-enforcement and organizational uniforms.

Blousing Garters

Elastic bands or straps used around the lower leg to hold pant cuffs in place and create a neat bloused appearance above military or tactical boots.

Body Armor

Protective equipment designed and tested to reduce specific ballistic, stab or impact threats. A carrier, tactical vest or plate carrier is not body armor unless it includes properly rated protective components.

Boonie Hat

A soft, wide-brim field hat commonly featuring ventilation openings, a chin cord and loops around the crown for adding foliage or small camouflage materials.

Breathable

A description for materials or garment construction that permits heat and moisture vapor to escape. Breathability varies by fabric, coating, weather conditions and activity level.

Button Fly

A front garment closure that uses buttons instead of a zipper.

C

California Proposition 65

California’s Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986. It requires warnings for certain exposures to chemicals identified by California as causing cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. An applicable warning does not necessarily mean that a product is unsafe or violates a product-safety standard.

Calisthenics

Exercise that primarily uses body weight for resistance, including push-ups, pull-ups, squats, sit-ups and similar physical-training movements.

Camouflage

Colors, shapes or patterns intended to help a person or object blend into a surrounding environment. Fashion camouflage may be inspired by military patterns without being currently issued or officially adopted.

Canvas

A strong woven fabric commonly made from cotton, synthetic fibers or a blend. Canvas is frequently used for duffel bags, tool bags, tents, tarps, belts and outdoor equipment.

Capri Pants

Pants designed to end between the knee and ankle, commonly around the mid-calf area.

Carabiner

A loop-shaped clip with a spring-loaded gate used to organize, attach or suspend compatible items. Accessory carabiners should not be used for climbing, fall protection or life-support applications unless specifically rated and certified for that purpose.

Cargo Pocket

A large exterior pocket, often located on the thigh, sleeve or side of a bag. Cargo pockets may use buttons, snaps, zippers or hook-and-loop closures.

Chest Rig

A harness-style platform worn around the torso for carrying compatible pouches and equipment across the front of the body.

Chin Strap

An adjustable strap that helps secure a hat, helmet or other headwear beneath the wearer’s chin.

City Camouflage

A fashion camouflage pattern typically combining black, gray and white shapes. It may also be called urban camouflage and is generally not a current U.S. military issue pattern.

Closure

The component used to open, close or secure an item, such as a zipper, button, snap, buckle, hook-and-loop panel, drawstring or side-release buckle.

Colorfast

A fabric’s ability to retain its color and resist noticeable fading or color transfer during normal wear, washing or exposure. Results depend on care and conditions.

Compression Strap

An adjustable strap used to tighten a bag, stabilize its contents or reduce its overall volume.

CoolMax

A branded family of performance fabrics designed to help move moisture away from the skin and support evaporation. Exact fabric construction and performance vary by product.

Cordura

A brand of durable fabrics commonly used in packs, luggage, tactical equipment, footwear and workwear. Fabric weight, fiber content, coating and performance vary by Cordura product.

Coyote Brown

A muted tan-brown color widely used in military-inspired clothing, boots, packs and tactical equipment. Shade may vary by material and manufacturer.

Cross-Draw

A carrying arrangement in which an item is positioned to be reached by the opposite hand across the body.

D

D-Ring

A D-shaped attachment point used on bags, clothing and equipment for connecting compatible straps, keys or accessories. It should not be used for climbing or life support unless specifically rated for that purpose.

Dacron

A brand name associated with polyester fiber. Polyester is valued for strength, dimensional stability and resistance to wrinkles.

Daypack

A smaller backpack designed to carry supplies for daily travel, commuting, hiking or short trips rather than extended expeditions.

DCU

Desert Combat Uniform. The DCU is associated with the three-color desert camouflage uniform used by the U.S. military after the six-color Desert Battle Dress Uniform.

Denier

A unit used to describe the linear mass of fibers or yarns. In comparable fabrics, a higher denier often indicates a heavier or more robust material, but denier alone does not determine overall durability.

Desert Camouflage

A broad term for camouflage patterns designed or styled for arid environments. Examples include six-color desert, three-color desert and various commercial desert patterns.

Digital Camouflage

A camouflage style made from small block-like or pixelated shapes. “Digital” describes the visual appearance and does not identify one specific military pattern.

Distressed

A finish intentionally made to look aged, faded, worn or weathered. Distressing may be applied to fabric, leather, printed graphics or hardware and is not necessarily a product defect.

Dog Tags

The informal name for identification tags worn by military personnel. Commercial dog-tag sets are also sold for identification, commemorative, fashion and costume purposes and may differ from issued tags.

Double-Stitched

Construction using two rows of stitching in a seam or hem to add reinforcement or create a finished appearance.

Drawstring

A cord or fabric tie used to tighten or adjust a hood, waistband, bag opening or garment hem.

Drop-Leg Platform

A panel or carrier secured around the thigh and connected to a waist belt for mounting compatible equipment below the belt line.

Duffel Bag

A soft-sided cylindrical or rectangular bag commonly used for uniforms, travel, sports equipment and general storage.

E

Eagle, Globe and Anchor

The emblem associated with the United States Marine Corps, commonly abbreviated EGA. Merchandise displaying military emblems is not necessarily official, issued or endorsed unless expressly stated.

ECWCS

Extended Cold Weather Clothing System. ECWCS refers to a layered U.S. military cold-weather clothing system. Different generations use different garments and insulation or weather-protection layers.

EDC

Everyday carry. A general term for the tools, accessories and personal items someone routinely carries for daily use.

Elastic Waistband

A waistband containing elastic material that stretches to improve fit and comfort. Some elastic waistbands also include a drawstring or belt loops.

Elastane

A highly stretchable synthetic fiber also commonly called spandex. It is blended with other fibers to add stretch and shape recovery.

Embossed Leather

Leather that has been pressed or stamped to create a raised or recessed texture, grain or decorative pattern.

Embroidery

A design, name or emblem created by stitching thread directly into fabric or onto a separate patch.

Eyelet

A reinforced opening used for laces, ventilation, drainage or attachments. A metal-reinforced eyelet may also be called a grommet.

F

Fatigue

An informal term historically used for military work or field clothing. “Fatigue pants” commonly refers to rugged utility trousers with a military-inspired design.

Field Jacket

A military or military-inspired outer jacket designed for field wear, typically featuring multiple pockets and room for layering. The M-65 is one well-known field-jacket design.

Flame Resistant

A material property intended to resist ignition or reduce the spread of flame. Flame resistant does not mean fireproof. Protection depends on the fabric, certification, garment condition and hazard involved.

Fleece

A soft insulating textile, commonly made from polyester, used in jackets, liners, hats, gloves and blankets. Fleece is lightweight, quick drying and able to retain some insulating ability when damp.

Flight Jacket

A jacket style originally associated with aviation personnel. Common designs include the MA-1, CWU-style and leather aviator jackets. Commercial versions may differ from issued garments.

Flight Suit

A one-piece garment designed or styled for aviation use. Costume and commercial flight suits should not be assumed to provide flame resistance or occupational protection unless specifically stated.

Full-Grain Leather

Leather that retains the natural outer grain surface of the hide. Full-grain leather is generally valued for durability and its ability to develop a patina with use.

G

Garrison Cap

A foldable, brimless side cap associated with military uniforms. It may also be called an overseas cap or flight cap.

Genuine Leather

Leather made from animal hide. “Genuine leather” identifies the material but does not by itself specify the leather’s grade, surface treatment, thickness or overall quality.

GI

A common abbreviation associated with U.S. military personnel and government-issued equipment. In a product listing, “GI” should be read together with qualifiers such as “genuine,” “issue,” “style” or “type.”

GI Issue

A term indicating that an item was manufactured for government or military use or entered the military supply system. Condition may be new, used or surplus and should be confirmed in the individual listing.

GI Style or GI Type

A commercial product inspired by the design or function of government-issued equipment. GI-style or GI-type products are not necessarily government-issued, military-approved or made to a particular military specification.

Gore-Tex

A registered brand used for waterproof, windproof and breathable membrane technologies. Performance and care requirements depend on the specific Gore-Tex product construction.

Grommet

A reinforced ring around an opening in fabric, leather or another material. Grommets may be used for ventilation, drainage, lacing or attaching compatible equipment.

Gusset

An extra piece of material inserted into a garment, bag or pocket to increase room, improve movement or reinforce a high-stress area.

H

Hardshell

An outer layer designed to provide substantial protection from wind and precipitation. Hardshell garments typically prioritize weather resistance over softness and insulation.

Hook-and-Loop

A two-part fastening system made from opposing hook and loop surfaces. It is commonly used for closures, adjustments, name tapes and removable patches.

Hydration Compatible

A pack feature indicating space or routing intended for a hydration reservoir and drinking tube. A reservoir is not included unless the product listing says so.

Hydration Pack

A backpack or carrier designed to hold a water reservoir with a drinking tube for convenient access while moving.

Hyvat

A proprietary three-layer performance fabric used in certain outerwear. It is designed to provide weather protection while allowing moisture vapor to escape. Performance depends on garment construction and use.

I

ILBE

Improved Load Bearing Equipment. ILBE refers to a load-carrying pack system developed for the U.S. Marine Corps and associated with large packs, assault packs and compatible components.

Insulated

Constructed with material intended to slow heat transfer and help retain warmth. Insulation type, weight and performance vary by product.

Insignia

An emblem, badge, patch, pin or other identifying symbol representing rank, branch, unit, occupation, organization or affiliation.

IRR

Infrared reflectance or infrared remission. In military textiles, IRR may refer to material treatment intended to manage visibility under certain night-vision conditions. A product should only be described as IRR compliant when specifically confirmed by the manufacturer.

Item Number

A product identifier used to distinguish a particular item, design, color, size group or configuration in a catalog.

J

Jersey Knit

A soft, flexible knitted fabric commonly used for T-shirts and lightweight apparel. Jersey fabric typically has a smooth face and more stretch than woven fabric.

Jungle Boot

A military-inspired boot designed for warm, wet environments, often combining leather or synthetic overlays with breathable textile panels and drainage features.

Jungle Hat

A brimmed field hat similar to a boonie hat. Construction details such as vents, brim width, loops and chin cords vary by model.

K

Kevlar

A registered brand of strong, heat-resistant aramid fiber used in various industrial and protective applications. The presence of Kevlar fiber does not by itself establish that a finished product is bullet-resistant, cut-proof or certified for a particular hazard.

Key Clip

A small internal or external clip used to secure keys or other lightweight accessories inside a pocket, pouch or bag.

Khaki

A tan or light earth-tone color commonly used in uniforms, workwear and outdoor clothing. The exact shade varies among manufacturers.

L

Laminate

A layered material created by bonding two or more components. In outerwear, a membrane may be laminated to face fabric to improve weather protection.

Leather

A durable material produced by treating animal hide. Leather characteristics vary depending on the animal source, hide section, tanning process, finish and grade.

Liner

A removable or permanent inner layer used to add warmth, comfort, structure or protection to a garment, glove, helmet, bag or boot.

Load-Bearing Equipment

Belts, suspenders, vests, harnesses, packs and attachments designed to distribute carried equipment across the body.

Lycra

A registered brand of elastane fiber used to add stretch and shape recovery to apparel. Elastane is also commonly called spandex.

M

M-51

A designation associated with U.S. military clothing and equipment introduced around 1951, including field jackets, parkas and trousers. Commercial M-51-style products may vary from original specifications.

M-65

A well-known U.S. military field-jacket design introduced in the 1960s. Typical features include four front cargo pockets, a concealed hood and provisions for a liner. Commercial versions may differ.

MA-1

A classic waist-length flight-jacket design associated with military aviation. Common features include a knit collar, cuffs and waistband, front zipper and sleeve utility pocket.

Made in USA

A U.S. country-of-origin claim generally indicating that a product is all or virtually all made in the United States under applicable Federal Trade Commission standards. Qualified claims may describe more limited U.S. manufacturing or assembly.

MARPAT

Marine Pattern, a family of digital camouflage patterns associated with the U.S. Marine Corps. Commercial digital camouflage may resemble MARPAT without being authentic MARPAT or an issued Marine Corps product.

Merino Wool

Fine wool obtained from Merino sheep. It is valued in base layers, socks and accessories for softness, temperature regulation and moisture-management properties.

Mesh

An open textile construction designed to increase airflow, reduce weight or permit drainage. Mesh may be used in caps, vests, bags, footwear and garment linings.

Mil-Spec

Military specification. This term should indicate compliance with a specific government specification or standard. A military appearance alone does not make a product mil-spec.

Moisture Wicking

A fabric property designed to move perspiration away from the skin toward the material’s outer surface, where it can spread and evaporate more readily.

MOLLE

Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. MOLLE-compatible equipment commonly uses rows of webbing that allow compatible pouches and accessories to be attached in different positions.

MOLLE Webbing

Rows of stitched webbing used as an attachment platform for compatible modular pouches and accessories. It is frequently associated with the PALS grid.

MultiCam

A commercially developed camouflage pattern and registered brand designed for use across varied environments. Similar-looking patterns should not automatically be assumed to be genuine MultiCam.

N

N-3B

A cold-weather parka design associated with U.S. military aircrew and extremely cold conditions. Common features include a long cut, insulated construction and fur-trimmed or faux-fur-trimmed hood.

NATO

North Atlantic Treaty Organization. In product descriptions, NATO may identify an adopted standard, common equipment style, color, size or stock-number system, depending on context.

NATO Phonetic Alphabet

A standardized set of code words used to communicate letters clearly: Alfa, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, Hotel, India, Juliett, Kilo, Lima, Mike, November, Oscar, Papa, Quebec, Romeo, Sierra, Tango, Uniform, Victor, Whiskey, X-ray, Yankee and Zulu.

Neoprene

A synthetic rubber used in gloves, footwear, supports, cases and water-resistant products. It provides cushioning and flexibility but is not automatically waterproof in every product construction.

NIJ

National Institute of Justice. NIJ publishes standards and testing programs for certain law-enforcement equipment, including ballistic-resistant body armor. A product should only claim a specific NIJ rating when supported by applicable testing and documentation.

Nomex

A registered brand of heat- and flame-resistant aramid material used in industrial, emergency-service, aviation and military clothing. Protection depends on the garment’s complete construction, condition and certification.

NSN

National Stock Number, a 13-digit identifier used within government supply systems for standardized items of supply. An NSN may identify an item but does not by itself establish the condition or source of a particular product being sold.

Nylon

A strong synthetic fiber valued for abrasion resistance, flexibility and relatively low moisture absorption. Nylon is widely used in packs, straps, clothing, tents and outdoor equipment.

O

OCP

Operational Camouflage Pattern. OCP is associated with current U.S. military uniforms and should not be used as a generic name for every multicam-style camouflage product.

OD or Olive Drab

A muted olive-green military color commonly used on clothing, packs and field equipment. Shade can vary by era, material and manufacturer.

Officially Licensed

A product manufactured or sold under authorization from the owner of a trademark, emblem, artwork or other protected property. Officially licensed does not necessarily mean government-issued.

Original Issue

A product represented as having been manufactured for and distributed through an official military or government supply system. Condition and authenticity details should be reviewed in the individual listing.

Overseas Cap

A foldable, brimless military-style side cap, also commonly called a garrison cap.

P

PALS

Pouch Attachment Ladder System. PALS is the grid of horizontal webbing commonly used on MOLLE equipment to attach compatible pouches and accessories.

Paracord

Lightweight kernmantle cord originally associated with parachute suspension lines and now used for utility, crafting and outdoor applications. Strength and construction vary. Commercial paracord should not be used for climbing, fall arrest or life support unless specifically certified for that use.

Parkas

Longer outerwear garments designed to provide protection from cold, wind or precipitation. Insulation and weather resistance vary by style.

Patch Panel

A loop-surface area designed to accept compatible hook-backed name tapes, identification patches or morale patches.

Plate Carrier

A wearable carrier designed to hold compatible armor plates and, in some models, additional equipment. A plate carrier sold without armor does not provide ballistic protection by itself.

Polar Fleece

A lightweight synthetic fleece fabric used for insulating garments and accessories. It is soft, quick drying and able to retain some warmth when damp.

Polartec

A brand of performance textiles that includes fleece, insulation, weather-protection and moisture-management fabrics. Features vary by the particular Polartec material.

Poly-Cotton

A fabric made from a blend of polyester and cotton. Blend percentages vary and can affect breathability, durability, drying time, feel and shrinkage.

Polyester

A synthetic fiber known for durability, shape retention, quick drying and resistance to wrinkles. It is used alone or blended with cotton and other fibers.

Polypropylene

A lightweight synthetic material with low moisture absorption. It is commonly used in thermal base layers, boot liners, webbing and outdoor equipment.

PT

Physical training. PT clothing commonly includes shorts, shirts, sweatpants, reflective belts and other garments designed or styled for exercise.

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride, a synthetic material used in coatings, waterproof gear, patches, identification holders and other products. Flexibility and composition vary by application.

Q

Quarter-Zip

A pullover garment with a zipper extending partway down from the collar, allowing ventilation and easier on-and-off use.

Quick-Release Buckle

A buckle designed to open rapidly when its release points are pressed or pulled. The term does not indicate suitability for safety, climbing or load-bearing applications unless specifically stated.

R

Raglan Sleeve

A sleeve extending to the collar in one piece with a diagonal seam from the underarm toward the neckline. This construction can provide comfortable shoulder movement.

Ragg Wool

A durable wool yarn, often with a heathered appearance, used in rugged socks, gloves, hats and sweaters.

Rain Shell

A lightweight outer layer intended to help block rain and wind. Some rain shells are waterproof, while others are only water resistant.

Reinforced

Constructed with extra material, stitching or components in an area subject to stress or wear, such as knees, elbows, seats, handles or seams.

Ripstop

A woven fabric construction incorporating reinforcing yarns in a visible or subtle grid to help limit the spread of small tears. Ripstop does not mean that the fabric cannot rip.

Rothco

A commercial brand and supplier of military, tactical, workwear, outdoor and uniform products. A Rothco product is not necessarily government-issued or made in the United States unless the individual listing states otherwise.

S

Safety Green

A bright fluorescent yellow-green color used to increase daytime visibility. Visibility depends on lighting, surroundings and garment condition.

Safety Orange

A bright orange color used in high-visibility clothing and equipment. A color description alone does not establish compliance with a specific safety standard.

Screen Printing

A printing method that transfers ink through a prepared mesh screen onto garments, bags and other products.

Seam Sealed

A construction in which seam areas are taped or treated to help prevent water from entering through stitch holes. Sealing methods and coverage vary.

Security-Friendly

A general product description that may refer to convenience during screening or reduced metal components. It does not guarantee passage through any security checkpoint without inspection.

Shell

The outer fabric or outer layer of a garment, glove, sleeping bag or other product. A shell may provide wind, water or abrasion resistance but may contain little insulation.

Side-Release Buckle

A two-piece buckle commonly opened by squeezing tabs on both sides. It is widely used on packs, straps and belts.

Softshell

A flexible outerwear material designed to balance mobility, breathability and protection from light wind or precipitation. Most softshell garments are water resistant rather than fully waterproof.

Spandex

A highly elastic synthetic fiber, also called elastane, blended into garments to improve stretch and shape recovery.

Split Leather

Leather made from a lower layer of a hide after it has been separated from the top-grain portion. It is commonly used for suede and coated leather products.

Storm Flap

An extra panel of fabric positioned over or behind a zipper or opening to help reduce entry of wind and precipitation.

Suede

Leather with a soft, napped surface. Suede may be made from the underside of a hide or from split leather and generally requires material-appropriate care.

Surplus

Excess goods originally produced, purchased or held by a military or government organization and later released for sale. Surplus products may be new, unissued, used, repaired, marked or show storage wear. The listing should identify the applicable condition.

Suspenders

Straps worn over the shoulders to support trousers, a belt or load-bearing equipment.

SWAT

Special Weapons and Tactics. The term is associated with specialized law-enforcement units and is also commonly used to describe tactical-style clothing and equipment.

T

Tactical

A broad commercial term for clothing or equipment designed with features useful for duty, training, outdoor, security or organized field use. The word does not by itself indicate military issue, professional certification or suitability for every mission.

Tactical Boots

Duty-oriented footwear commonly featuring supportive construction, traction outsoles and durable uppers. Safety toes, waterproofing, puncture resistance and uniform compliance are product-specific features.

Tactical Pants

Utility pants designed with features such as cargo pockets, reinforced areas, gussets, equipment pockets or stretch panels for work, duty and outdoor use.

Tactical Vest

A wearable platform containing pockets or attachment points for equipment. Unless armor is included and properly rated, a tactical vest should not be considered ballistic protection.

Taffeta

A smooth, tightly woven fabric often used as a lining or lightweight shell material in jackets, sleeping bags and other gear.

Tear-Away

A design intended to detach rapidly from a mounting panel or carrier, commonly using hook-and-loop material, straps or buckles.

Teflon

A registered brand associated with fluoropolymer technologies and certain fabric-protection treatments. Product benefits depend on the specific treatment and application.

Thinsulate

A registered brand of synthetic insulation used in gloves, hats, footwear and outerwear. Warmth depends on insulation weight, garment construction, fit, weather and activity.

Three-Color Desert

A camouflage pattern using tan, brown and greenish shapes and associated with the U.S. Desert Combat Uniform. It is also called tri-color desert camouflage.

Top-Grain Leather

Leather made from the outer portion of the hide with the grain surface retained but potentially sanded, corrected or finished for a more uniform appearance.

Tricot

A closely knit fabric often used for linings because of its smooth surface, flexibility and resistance to snagging.

U

Uniform

Standardized clothing worn by members of an organization, workforce, team or service. Buyers are responsible for confirming that a product meets their organization’s current uniform requirements.

Unisex

A product designed or sized for use by people of any gender. Unisex apparel often follows men’s sizing proportions, so customers should review the specific size chart.

Universal Fit

A design intended to fit a broad range of users or compatible equipment. Universal does not guarantee fit in every situation, so dimensions and compatibility details should be checked.

Urban Camouflage

A camouflage style commonly combining black, gray and white. It is generally a commercial or fashion pattern rather than a current standard U.S. military camouflage.

USGI

United States Government Issue. This designation is generally used for items made for or distributed through U.S. government supply channels. Condition and issue history vary by item.

V

Ventilation Eyelet

A small reinforced opening intended to improve airflow or allow moisture to escape from hats, footwear, bags or garments.

Vintage

A term that may describe an older item or a new product intentionally given a worn, washed or aged appearance. “Vintage-style” does not mean that the item is genuinely old.

Visor

The projecting brim of a cap or a shield used to protect the eyes and face. The meaning depends on the product.

W

Watch Cap

A close-fitting knit cap designed to cover the head and help retain warmth. It may also be called a beanie or knit cap.

Water Resistant

A product’s ability to resist limited water penetration for a period of time. Water resistant does not mean waterproof, and performance can decrease with wear or improper care.

Waterproof

Designed to prevent water penetration under specified conditions. Overall performance depends on fabric, seams, closures, construction, pressure, exposure time and product condition.

Web Belt

A belt made primarily from woven webbing, often secured with a friction, clamp or quick-release buckle.

Webbing

Strong woven strap material used in belts, handles, pack straps, harnesses, PALS grids and equipment attachments.

Whistle Buckle

A side-release buckle incorporating a small emergency signaling whistle. The sound level and performance vary by model.

Wind Resistant

Designed to reduce the amount of wind passing through a fabric or garment. Wind resistant is not necessarily windproof.

Woodland Camouflage

A broad term often used for green, brown, black and tan camouflage. It may specifically refer to the U.S. M81 Woodland pattern or more generally to commercial woodland-style designs.

Wool

A natural animal fiber valued for insulation, moisture management and its ability to retain warmth when damp. Texture and performance vary by wool type, fiber diameter and fabric construction.

X

X-Static

A registered textile technology using silver bonded to fiber. It is used in certain socks, apparel and technical textiles for odor-control, antistatic and thermal-management properties.

X-Large

An apparel size commonly abbreviated XL. Measurements are not standardized across every manufacturer, so the product-specific size chart should be used.

Y

YKK Zipper

A zipper manufactured by YKK, a major global manufacturer of zippers and fastening products. Zipper size, material and performance vary by product.

Yoke

A fitted or reinforced panel across the shoulders, upper back or waist of a garment or pack that helps shape the item and distribute stress.

Z

Zipper Fly

A front garment opening secured by a zipper rather than buttons.

Zipper Garage

A small fabric cover at the end of a zipper track that helps shield the zipper pull and reduce rubbing against the skin or nearby material.

Zipper Pull

The tab, cord or attachment used to operate a zipper slider. Extended pulls can make a zipper easier to use while wearing gloves.

Product Information Notice: This glossary provides general explanations only. A term may have different meanings depending on the manufacturer, product category or context. It does not create a warranty, certification or representation that every product bearing a term has every characteristic described above. The specifications, materials, condition, origin, included components and intended use stated on the individual product page control.