This article was first published in July 2016.
By Charles Bausman
MTI initiated its research project on combat uniform comparison this week with the Crye Precision G3 Pant and Shirt. This uniform will undergo two weeks of field-testing, where our lab rat will wear the uniform for every training session. This is the end of one week’s wear and the resulting feedback from the lab rat in regards to our criteria of:
- Fit/comfort
- Function
- Durability
Uniform Wear Procedure
The uniform was washed once before wear according to the Crye instruction. It will not be washed going forward in order to observe the effect of sweat on the uniform over the two-week period. No undershirt is worn beneath the uniform. All activities are done in either Garmont NFS Boots or running shoes (unloaded running only).
Sizing
Total Training Conducted in Week 1
- Rucking – 14 miles in Hilly Terrain
- Ruck Running – 6 miles on trail
- Running – 8.5 miles
- Sand Bag Run – 1 mile
- Sand Bag Squat/Lunge – 158
- Push ups – 310
- Sit Ups – 260
- Pull Ups – 72
- Leg Blasters – 6
- 25m Shuttle Run – 48
- Vertical Climb and Descent – 1.5 hr.
- Sandbag Get Up – 56
Fit and Comfort
The Crye Precision G3 Combat shirt sizing is quite baggy in the sleeves and abdomen, despite following the sizing chart that Crye provides on their website for the athlete’s measurements.
The pants fit according to the sizing chart, and the tabs along the waistband allow for tightening without the use of a belt. The velcro on the back of the knee would allow for the built-in kneepad option (not purchased for use in this test) to secure well. The overall fit is comfortable and sits well on top of a boot without unneeded bagginess.
The material has a tough, canvas feel which is not ideal for comfort and breathability. The lab rat found that going “commando” is not preferred with the roughness of the pants.
The softer material on the shirt around the chest, abdomen, and back is breathable and performed well under a plate carrier or ruck straps. However, it does tend to untuck with movement and create excess material bunching above the waistline.
Function
The spandex material which is found in key pivot points of the pants (upper buttocks, knee) is a fantastic addition and allows for a full range of motion without forcing the pants down or up during squatting, lunging, or running movements.
The canvas material, while slightly uncomfortable, is a great component in protecting the elbows, forearms, and knees from abrasion during sandbag get ups on rough turf material.
The shirt does allow for full range of motion in the shoulder and arms, but the excess in the sleeves might allow for snagging if not rolled up.
The pocket placement is well designed. The side pockets are vertical and fairly shallow, ensuring that you can grab items quickly without having them potentially fall out while lying in the prone position. The cargo pockets are large and positioned high on the thigh, allowing the athlete to reach items without having to bend over to the side significantly to reach into the pocket.
Additionally, there is a smaller cargo pocket located on the front of the thigh and along the ankles for smaller non-essential items.
All pockets with exception of butt pockets utilize velcro for closing, which certainly secures your items but can be a major concern in sound discipline environments.
After one week, the uniform has retained a decent amount of sweat residue, creating slight stiffness in the canvas material and may cause weakening in the stitching over time.
Durability
The tough material is undoubtedly durable to abrasion. The athlete observed no weakening or thinning of the uniform thus far.
The spandex material on the upper buttocks and knees reduces the amount of stress on the seams, especially in the crotch area where “blowouts” are most common.
Overall Impressions
While not particularly comfortable out of the box, the toughness of the material in conjunction with well-placed spandex seemingly ensures a durable and long-lasting uniform. The uniform seems ideal for urban and mountain environments, but less ideal for dessert or jungle due to the breathability of the material. Pocket placement is excellent, but the soldier should be wary of velcro if remaining quiet is critical to the mission.
Questions, Comments, Feedback? Comment below or email rob@mtntactical.com
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