The Design And Development Of Military Clothing Part I The Selection Of A Fabric For An Australian Army Combat Uniform

It is planned to introduce a new combat uniform material of lighter weight than the current all cotton uniform. This report describes the selection of an accelerated wear course for assessing the relative durability of combat uniforms. The durability of a range of candidate cotton/polyester uniform fabrics is compared with that of the existing uniform. The durability of the lighter weight, blend uniforms was as good as that of the inservice garments. The analysis of a subjective comfort questionnaire is discussed, and it is concluded that the respondents can discriminate between factors relating to comfort and expected durability. Under the test conditions (cool, wet) the cotton/polyester fabrics were rated as significantly more comfortable than the all cotton uniforms. (Author).