If you've not seen it already, the big news today is that more
than half of the squaddies in the British army buy their own gear
rather than use MOD standard issue kit.
According to an article
on the BBC News site, around 55 per-cent of troops and 42 per-cent of
officers have handed over their own dosh to outdoor retailers with
the focus on boots, clothing, sleeping bags, torches and pack and
other load-carrying things.
|
|
|
Very nice, but do you have it in
khaki?
|
The figures come from a poll in the Army's own magazine 'Soldier' and
make either damning or unsurprising reading depending on where you're
coming from. Speaking on Radio 4's Today programme - it woke me up
this morning - an Army representative basically said that boys will
be boys and like any young men, soldiers lust after high tech
outdoors kit.
He went on to defend the Army's standard issue kit saying that it
was perfectly adequate and very well thought of. The truth is
probably somewhere between the two extremes. As OM regulars - who
include a number of HM Forces members - will know, civvy outdoor kit
is getting better and better, with breathability, cut and ergonomics
all improving constantly.
Nor will it come as a surprise to the outdoors industry. Many top
outdoor manufacturers, including the likes of Berghaus, produce packs
in standard drab military colours with just this market in mind.
Meanwhile, keen-eyed observers of the recent Afghan conflict will
have noticed members of the SAS togged out in what looks like Paramo
clothing.
Of course, if you are a squaddy reading this then you'll want to
check out the OUTDOORSmagic user review section to decide on the best
alternatives to your issued khaki kit - just don't go winning the
Vango Storm Shelter for the best review of the month. It's not
available in DPM, just bright orange.
Click here
to join the Army.
Alastair Dent
