After a delayed rollout, the U.S. Air Force’s updated physical training (PT) uniform is finally set to hit shelves in July, according to an official announcement on May 1st. This highly anticipated release marks a significant upgrade for Airmen’s workout gear, promising enhanced comfort and performance.
The new apparel was initially unveiled in 2021 and slated for a 2022 launch. However, global supply chain disruptions caused multiple postponements, leaving Airmen waiting for the modernized uniform. Chris Ward, spokesperson for the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), confirmed to Air & Space Forces Magazine that the wait is nearly over, with availability expected next month. In the interim, recruits at Basic Military Training have already been equipped with the new PT gear, providing an early glimpse of the improved design and functionality.
The updated Air Force PT uniform comprises a comprehensive set of clothing designed for optimal physical training. It includes a jacket, pants, and two distinct types of shorts: one tailored for running and another versatile option for all-purpose activities. The workout T-shirt is a core element, featuring a grey base with the Air Force logo prominently displayed on the upper left chest and a stylish “Air Force” pattern emblazoned across the back.
Air Force 2nd Lt. Maverick Wilhite models the updated physical training uniform at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, showcasing the jacket and pants in February 2021.
The design of the new uniform retains a familiar aesthetic, reminiscent of the previous PT uniform introduced two decades prior. However, mirroring advancements in civilian athletic wear, the new Air Force PT uniform incorporates significant improvements. The most notable upgrade is the adoption of “performance” fabric. This modern material is designed to be softer, quicker-drying, and excels at moisture-wicking, ensuring greater comfort during intense workouts. Addressing past criticisms of the bulky and heavy unisex uniforms, the new PT gear is available in both men’s and women’s styles, offering a more tailored and comfortable fit for all Airmen.
This modernization of PT uniforms across military branches has been ongoing for about a decade. The Army initiated this trend with new workout gear that aligned more closely with contemporary civilian athletic apparel. The Navy followed suit in the late 2010s, and the Space Force recently introduced its inaugural PT uniforms for Guardians. With the Air Force now joining this wave of updates, the Marine Corps remains the only service yet to adopt a redesigned PT uniform after abandoning their redesign plans in late 2023.
Air Force 1st Lt. Avery Thompson demonstrates the new PT uniform t-shirt and running shorts at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, in February 2021, highlighting the athletic fit and design.
Airmen will have a grace period to transition to the new workout attire. The Air Force has announced a four-year transition period before the new physical training uniform becomes mandatory. This allows ample time for Airmen to procure the new gear and integrate it into their fitness routines. The arrival of the Air Force Physical Training Uniform represents a significant step forward in providing Airmen with comfortable, performance-oriented athletic wear suited for the demands of modern military training.
