Women :: Best Military Surplus

Air Force Flight Jacket

May 26th, 2010

The Air Force Flight Jackets are available for civilians to buy these days, whether a pilot or not. Similar to the Navy flight jacket, they are easily recognized from other military jackets.

What makes the flight jacket so special?
Generally 100% leather or nylon
The unique pilots look

Is the jacket expensive?
For the all leather variety they are very reasonable, and very inexpensive for the nylon jackets.

When is a good time to wear it?
Unless your Tom Cruise, you probably won’t be sporting one in San Diego. If your a pilot, any time is good.

The Air Force Flight Jacket can keep you stylish and warm while you fly. We didn’t want to just say so, we wanted to test it ourselves. See Military Surplus Girl Carla Blackston test the jacket in Military Surplus Weekly if you need more convincing.

Categories Clothing, Men, Women
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Armed Forces Day 2010

by craigkent

May 14th, 2010

Armed Forces Day will be celebrated on Saturday, May 15th for the 62nd time in U.S. history. Many organizations, military bases, and clubs across the nation celebrate this day in various fashions.

The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated in 1949 to honor those who have served and who are currently serving in the five branches of the U.S. military. It was designed to replace Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Days, representative of the unification of all five branches under the Department of Defense. Although the days set aside for each military branch continue to be celebrated. President Truman called Americans to use the day to honor “the work of the military services at home and across the seas,” stressing the importance of the service to the country’s freedom and liberty.

The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated with parades of military personnel and vehicles, including flyovers by military aircraft. Currently, Armed Forces Day is still celebrated by parades, the most notable one being in Bremerton, Washington. The city parade has taken place every year since the inception of Armed Forces Day.

It’s not only cities that hold celebrations in honor of military personnel, but Major League Baseball has given itself an image of promoting Armed Forces Day. At each game played there is usually some form of a ceremony in which current soldiers take part in, and oftentimes fighter jets flyover the stadiums.

What does military surplus have to do with Armed Forces Day? Everything! You can show your support for our troops fighting for our freedom each time you use military surplus. An easy way to do that is by wearing military clothing and accessories, such as an Army, Navy or Air Force shirt.

In 1963 President John F. Kennedy said, “”… Our Servicemen and women are serving throughout the world as guardians of peace–many of them away from their homes, their friends and their families. They are visible evidence of our determination to meet any threat to the peace with measured strength and high resolve. They are also evidence of a harsh but inescapable truth–that the survival of freedom requires great cost and commitment, and great personal sacrifice.”

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.

Categories Articles, Clothing, Men, Women
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Reflective Aviator Sunglasses

by Administrator

May 9th, 2010

Reflective Aviator Sunglasses….and why you need a pair.

Every since a photographer snapped General Douglas MacArthur on the beaches of the Philippines, the reflective Aviator Sunglasses became known to the general public. That was before Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer sported them in Top Gun, and they became a national phenom.

The difference between reflective aviator sunglasses and regular sunglasses is the size and the bulge. They bend out and go around to cover as much of the eyes as possible.

Pilots like them because they can keep the sun out from almost every angle. They can be polarized, but often aren’t because they can miss enemy jets in the air and some of their onscreen display. The reflective aviator sunglasses come in multiple sizes and colors.

Categories Clothing, Clothing Accessories, Men, Women
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BDU Replacement – Air Force Uniform (ABU)

by craigkent

March 27th, 2010

The new Air Force uniform, called the Airman Battle Uniform (ABU), is the most distinguishable of all the new military uniforms. This Air Force uniform was announced to the public in 2003 and is currently in the process of being fully instituted into the Air Force. It will completely replace the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) by 2011.

The most obvious difference of the new Air Force uniform is its camouflage design, which is a tiger stripe design. This pattern first came into existence during the Vietnam War era. The updated version of the pattern has been “digitized,” and looks similar to the Army’s ACU, the Marine Corps’ MARPAT, and the Navy’s Navy Working Uniform in that regard.

Close-up of the new tiger stripe pattern

In terms of items included in the new Air Force uniform, they are very similar to the old BDU. A patrol cap or boonie hat is worn on the head. A moisture-wicking, sand-colored t-shirt is used under the blouse. The trousers are basically the same as the BDU, and combat boots are required to be sage green (tan boots are allowed for a limited time).

The original blouse was supposedly too thick and caused soldiers to get too hot, but revisions are being made to correct this problem.

We’re so excited that the new Air Force uniform is one of the new military uniforms you can actually get for yourself! For everything you want in the new tiger stripe pattern, check out this selection. These military surplus items are sure to be a favorite!

Read about the other BDU replacements here.

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.

Categories Boots, Camouflage, Clothing, Clothing Accessories, Hats, Men, Women
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BDU Replacement – ODU

by craigkent

March 19th, 2010

The Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) is the Coast Guard’s most recent update to standard-issue uniforms. The ODU may be the least “flashy” of all the newest uniforms in the U.S. military, but it nonetheless gets the job done.

The ODU was introduced in 2004, and was meant to replace the “Undress Duty Uniform.” The ODU is very similar to the BDU in many regards. The biggest changes involve the two lower pockets on the blouse being removed, and a requirement for the blouse to be tucked into the trousers. Although, an alternative version of the blouse becamse available in 2008 that is not required to be tucked in. The blouse and trousers are made from a nylon/cotton ripstop, and are navy blue in color. The Coast Guard ball cap is the form of headgear used with the ODU. Footwear for the ODU is the Super Boot II, which has a safety toe.

The ODU is not used for combat situations, or for Coast Guard personnel stationed overseas. Instead, they continue to use the BDU.

Like any military uniform, the ODU is rugged and durable. It’s the perfect type of clothing for tinkering on your car in the garage, hiking through a dense forest, or wearing in public for a fashion statement. It’s tough to come by an actual ODU, but since they are so similar to the BDU, that’s the best military surplus uniform to get to be like the Coast Guard. You can get a BDU shirt that has two pockets like the ODU right here, pants that are very similar to ODU pants here, a ball cap here, and military-style boots here.

Read about the other BDU replacements here.

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.

Categories Clothing, Clothing Accessories, Hats, Men, Women
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Military Poncho – Don’t Let Rain Ruin Your Day

by craigkent

March 16th, 2010

The military poncho has been field-tested by soldiers since the American Civil War. It’s a popular military surplus item that brings its wearer happiness on those cloudy, rainy days.

The U.S. military did not invent the poncho, but it did make it a dependable item to keep its soldiers dry during wet days. The original military poncho used for protection from rain was made of a latex-coated material. Those ponchos were multipurpose, giving soldiers a covering from the rain and a mat to sleep on. Later the U.S. military started to make rubberized canvas ponchos to give to soldiers. Around the time of World War II, hoods were made for the military poncho. Finally, after the second world war, nylon was used in making the military poncho and has been the material of choice ever since. The current military poncho can be used as a shelter in emergencies.

Poncho liner

Another military surplus item that’s similar to the poncho is the poncho liner. It’s made of a durable nylon and doubles as a blanket. To wear it around your body, you just tie together the strings on the corners. Check it out here.

Everyone has a need for a poncho at some point. The usual occasions to use one are while hunting or camping, but there are several other situations that call for one. A poncho will keep you dry while packing sandbags during a flood, walking in the city during a rainstorm, or strolling around a fair or amusement park while it’s drizzling.

So why not get the poncho that keeps our soldiers dry? The military poncho comes in all the great military colors, including olive drab, black, and several camouflage patterns (including “digital” camo). They’re also made with high-quality nylon, and feature a hood to keep your head dry. And the best part is, the ones you get here are made in the U.S.A. Check out this selection. If you’re looking for a way to stay warm and dry for the whole night, you might like our Family Coleman Instant Tent review.

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.

Categories Camping, Clothing, Clothing Accessories, Gear, Men, Survival/Emergency, Tents, Women
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BDU Replacement – ACU (Army Combat Uniform)

by craigkent

March 12th, 2010

The Army Combat Uniform (ACU) is the Army’s replacement for the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU). This is the second article in our series about BDU replacements. As mentioned in the first one, the BDU used to be the standard uniform for all branches of the military. But recently, the BDU has been in the process of being replaced. Lucky for us civilians, the BDU will continue to be a staple military surplus item that we will be able to buy for a long time to come.

The Army’s change to the new ACU occurred during the period of 2005 to 2007. Like the MCCUU, the ACU uses the Universal Camouflage Pattern. The pattern uses “digital” pixels colored green, tan, and gray, and is effective in a number of different environments, including wooded areas and desert.

Army Combat Shirt

The jacket used with the ACU is only slightly modified from the one used with the BDU. An alternative to the jacket is the new Army Combat Shirt, which can be worn in hot weather and is resistant to fire. The M-65 field jacket (heavier than the regular jacket) is again part of the uniform, with the only change being no shoulder epaullettes. The trousers are pretty basic, made in nylon/cotton ripstop. They feature a nylon belt and pockets on the thighs and calves. Army Combat Pants are a flame-resistant version of the trousers. The t-shirt worn is a moisture-wicking shirt that’s sand-colored. The standard combat boot is the footwear of the ACU. There are three options for headwear with the ACU: the MICH TC-2000 Combat Helmet, a boonie hat, or a patrol hat.

The ACU uses hook-and-loop (commonly known as “Velcro”) to attach name tags, rank insignias, and other patches to the jacket. The jacket makes use of the Near Infrared (NIR) Signature Management Technology to protect soldiers from NIR Information Converters. These devices detect radiation variances in order to spot enemy personnel. Infrared IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) pieces are sewn into the shoulders of the ACU jacket, which allow wearers to appear to have the same radiation levels as surrounding objects, thus making them appear invisible to those using a converter device.

Well different from the MCCUU, the ACU can be easily purchased by civilians. You can get all pieces of the uniform, from the jacket, to the combat boots, to the patrol hat. The one exception is that the jacket available for sale does not contain the NIR technology. The ACU components have nearly an unlimited number of alternative uses outside of the military. The combat boots work great for hiking and hunting. The patrol cap and boonie hat are awesome protection from the sun during those summer days. The t-shirt is an excellent work-out shirt, as it will wick away any moisture. And the regular ACU jacket (which comes in colors other than camo) can be worn at any time, whether you’re doing yard-work or just relaxing. The get every piece of ACU that you need, check out this selection. Wearing the new ACU is a great way to show your support for our troops!

Read about the other BDU replacements here.

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.

Categories Boots, Camouflage, Clothing, Clothing Accessories, Hats, Men, Women
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BDU Replacement – Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform, MARPAT

by craigkent

March 6th, 2010

The Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform (MCCUU) with the MARPAT (MARine PATtern) design is the Marine’s replacement for the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU). We did an article a little while ago on the BDU (you can read it here), which at one point was the standard uniform for all branches of the U.S. military. But that changed when the Marines began their shift to the MCCUU earlier this decade. The Army and other military branches have also begun changing over from the BDU to respective new uniforms.

Marine soldiers sporting the MCCUU

The change to the new MCCUU took place from 2001 to 2004. The most noticeable change is the new MARPAT design. It makes use of tiny green, tan, and gray pixels to make for a digital effect.

This design is effective for woodland and desert conditions. The components of the uniform include a blouse, trousers, utility cover or boonie hat, t-shirt, and combat boots.

The blouse (shirt) is similar to the M-65 field jacket. It has four pockets its elbows have padding and uses the MARPAT design. The trousers have a reinforced seat and knees, and are also made with the MARPAT design. The t-shirt is part of the Flame Resistant Organizational Gear system used by the Marines.

The MARPAT desert pattern and MARPAT woodland pattern

As the group of clothing suggests, the shirt is resistant to fire, and it also has moisture-wicking properties. The utility cover, also known as an 8-point cover, is similar to the Army’s patrol cap. The combat boots are the standard issue boots used by other branches of the military.

The thing about the newest military uniforms is that are hard to come by for purchase, including the MARPAT MCCUU. As of right now, the only part of the uniform that’s available is the combat boots, which you can get right here. As soon as we have the uniforms available for purchase, we’ll let you know. In the meantime, check out the BDU military surplus items you can get in the MARPAT woodland and desert design right here (Amazon calls the pattern “Digital Woodland” and “Desert Digital”).

Read about the other BDU replacements here.

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.

Categories Boots, Camouflage, Clothing, Clothing Accessories, Hats, Men, Women
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Military PT Gear

by Administrator

February 21st, 2010

So you want to be a SEAL?

How about Army Special Forces? Either way it’s going to take a lot of sweaty days of physical training. Your going to need some good military pt gear.

Most branches have their own sets, to make sure everyone matches. Outside of official command pt functions, most servicemen and woman use their own civilian style pt gear, because in general it’s higher quality and more comfortable.

There are many unofficial military pt gear items that stay with the military theme, but also get the comfort of civilian pt gear. The time of year and the type of training you want to do will determine which clothing is the best fit for you (especially with spring approaching).

USMC Warm Up Suit: Physical Training Gear

Click to see more details

US Marine Core Warm Up Suit

Nylon outershell, comes with reflective strips for night time use.

The Logo says “the few, the proud”.

Comes with poly/cotton lining to make it useful in cold weather as well. Also comes in Army style.
See it here

Grey Military Pullover Hood Sweatshirt: Physical Training Gear

Available at Outinstyle

The Classic Military Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt

Comes in Army, Navy or Marines. Good for all types of pt.
Many people wear these indoors to sweat more, and of course outdoors in the cold.
If you want to pretend your rocky while you train, this is for you. Outinstyle has them

Tank Top P/T Marines: Physical Training Gear

Comes in small - 3XL

Tank Top Marines Shirt

These are pretty popular around the military. For hot days in the sun, or indoor basketball games. Made of Poly/cotton.
See the Tank Top Shirt

Official Navy Seal Workout

Earlier I asked if you wanted to be a SEAL? This will not give you your trident, but it could help you get in excellent shape. This is the official United States Navy Seal Workout. It is a little bit old school, but I think SEALs have been pretty awesome for a while.

People have been interested in SEALs and special forces from all branches for a while. The almost spy-like nature of their work. The pure excellence they represent, the toughness of passing their schools to become elite. They are definitely the best of the best, especially by physical standards.

If you want to become a SEAL go to your local recruiter, and get ready for months of workouts. If you just want the workouts, get this book.

Protect This House – Under Armor

It’s easy to see why it’s so loved. Even if the military doesn’t allow it in official pt sessions (most likely because it’s from China). It keeps athletes and the workoutee feeling dry, warm and is very light. It looks good too. You can see the reviews it has on Amazon here.
Of course there are many more military pt gear items that are available.

We recommend Outinstyle and Amazon to find what you are looking for.

Written by Bill Wayne, member of the Best Military Surplus team

Categories Clothing, Men, Women
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Cold Gear Undergarments – Extreme Protection for Extreme Weather

by craigkent

February 10th, 2010

For those frigid temperatures in cold places, every soldier needs cold gear to wear under his uniform. Staying warm is important for a clear mind and a steadiness when aiming a gun on the battlefield. But it’s not just soldiers who need to stay warm. Anyone can use cold gear for a variety of activities.

Cold gear undergarments have changed a bit in the past couple hundred years. In the past, they would just be long johns and shirts worn under military uniforms, perhaps made of wool or some other material. Undergarments were not made as efficient and custom as they are today.

There are are few different materials to choose from when selecting cold gear undergarments. The most common is probably cotton. This is going to be the cheapest choice, but also is of lesser quality. Polypropylene is another material used, due to its moisture-wicking feature. Cold gear made from polyester is also a good choice. The undergarments used by the U.S. military’s Extended Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) are either made from polypropylene or polyester (or both). The ECWCS includes a polypropylene undershirt and drawers (it also include nylon/cotton trousers). Polypropylene is not very flammable, which is good news for soldiers caught in firefights. The downside is it retains heat very well (which is what it’s designed to do), which can cause burns when exposed to extreme heat for any reason. Also available are polypropylene balaclavas and socks.

This cold gear is great for all kinds of outdoor activities. Some of the most common activities include skiing and snowboarding, hunting, camping, hiking, or just taking a walk in the cold.

All right: now that you’ve heard our take on cold gear, it’s up to you to choose what kind you want. It comes in all sizes and colors, including camouflage. You may not have to go on a super secret mission in the plains of Serbia, or be ordered by your captain to climb the mountains of Tibet, but you can still use the cold gear that our soldiers use to ensure your warmth in the cold conditions you do face.

Here’s a great selection of cold gear to choose from.

Written by Craig Kent, member of the Best Military Surplus team.

Categories Clothing, Men, Women
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