News

PT uniform guidance helps Reservists stay fit, stylish

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Grant Saylor
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS MCCHORD, Wash. --  It's been said that when you look good, you feel good. The same principle applies when it comes to wearing the Air Force physical training uniform. While the official guidance in the wear of the PT uniform is designed to help Reservists here comply with Air Force standards, one can't help but notice an additional benefit: sharp-looking Reservists, fit, and ready to fight.

While most Reservists are diligent about the wear of all their uniforms, there has been some confusion about what is and isn't allowed when it comes to the wear of the PT uniform. After all, there are several different combinations of the uniform that are allowed.

Some of the most overlooked items include not tucking in the PTU shirt, whether it's the standard short sleeve or the optional long sleeve version. Also, the PTU jacket, if worn, must be zipped at least halfway between the waistband and the collar.

"It's important to take note of these regulations when you go to take your fitness test," said Capt. Vanessa Balint, 446th Force Support Squadron operations officer.

Captain Balint is one of the wing fitness monitors and she cringes when talking about some of the guideline violations. "White socks only, please!"

Think Shoeless Joe Jackson and the Black Sox scandal of 1919.  No black socks allowed with the PT uniform.

Captain Balint also wants Reservists to remember that shoes can have stripes or subtle designs, but they must be conservative. "No hot pink or neon yellow shoes." However, notes Captain Balint, the new style five-toe shoes are authorized as long as they are, again, conservative... not flashy.

So, while wearing the PT uniform may not necessarily make Reservists break out into song with raucous renditions of Right Said Fred's "I'm too sexy," it nonetheless looks sharp. And, oh by the way, it's not against regulations to rock out to Right Said on your iPod as you cruise around the track... especially if he makes you run faster.

According to Master Sgt. Wendy Beauchaine, 446th FSS first sergeant, it's important to note that these uniform regulations will be enforced at the fitness assessment center, where Reservists go to check in for their PT test. As a former fitness monitor herself, Sergeant Beauchaine helps put the regulations into perspective.

"It's an official uniform and we need to maintain a professional appearance in uniform," said the first sergeant. "It's why we win wars -- we pay attention to details."