The New MultiCam Camouflage Pattern for Tactical Clothing

Tactical clothing changes and revises itself to new conditions and requirements every few years. The GEN III ECWCS system, for example, was developed over the past decade in response to conditions in Afghanistan; the new clothing system, which consists of seven layers, was lighter and less bulky and can be used in varying climates and weather conditions. Aside from clothing systems, another change for uniforms in recent years was the introduction of MultiCam. As the latest camouflage pattern, MultiCam has replaced the older Universal Camouflage Pattern gradually. Not all units use the new pattern yet, however.

Crye Associates developed the MultiCam pattern in conjunction with the U.S. Army Soldier System Center to replace the three-color desert and wood camouflage patterns. As a replacement for Universal Camo, MultiCam is being introduced and used by soldiers all over and is in use by American Special Operations units and law enforcement. The pattern, as of recent, is replacing Universal Camo for soldiers in Afghanistan.

The ability to hide in varying conditions and environments is an advantage for MultiCam. Tactical clothing with MultiCam blends in with seasons, elevations, and lights and is designed to reflect the surrounding environment. More specifically, the MultiCam takes an overall green or tan appearance through a blending effect and also disguises volume and shape.

MultiCam is composed of several shades dispersed over the fabric. The basis of the pattern is a brown to light tan gradient, with lime green added in between. The lime green uses a yellow-green gradient and has light pink and brown blotches mixed in. The gradient combination tricks the human eye’s perception of color and allows all tactical clothing designed with this pattern to camouflage the wearer nearly anywhere. In some cases, however, location-specific MultiCam patterns are used.

Tactical clothing isn’t the only gear using the MultiCam pattern. In fact, nearly all pieces of tactical equipment, ranging from harnesses, vests, and packs to weapons accessories, are designed with the pattern.

write by Iphigenia