The iconic black and gold Army physical training (PT) uniforms are not facing a redesign, despite earlier remarks suggesting a potential overhaul. Recent leadership comments sparked rumors of a change, but the Army has clarified that the classic design will remain, while soldiers may get more choices in workout attire for enhanced comfort and performance.
Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer’s statements at the Association of the U.S. Army’s Annual Meeting and Exposition initially hinted at a PT uniform redesign. “We’re redesigning the Army PTs,” Weimer said, suggesting a move away from the current T-shirt and shorts setup. This led to speculation about a significant change to the familiar PT gear. However, the Army has since clarified that these comments referred to exploring additional options for soldiers’ workout clothing, not a complete replacement of the existing black and gold uniforms.
According to Sergeant Major Weimer, the aim is to address soldier feedback concerning the comfort and fit of the current PT uniform. The focus is on providing more comfortable alternatives without incurring the expense of a full redesign or issuing a brand-new uniform. These potential options are scheduled to be presented to Army senior leaders by the end of 2025. Crucially, Weimer emphasized that the distinctive black and gold color scheme, introduced in 2017, is here to stay.
Sgt. Maj. Rob Haynie, from the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology, is spearheading the review of potential clothing options. This review, initiated a couple of months prior to the announcement, will continue into next year, focusing on gathering soldier feedback. Key concerns raised by soldiers include issues with the fit of the shorts, particularly fabric bunching, and the absence of pockets for essential items like ID cards.
Haynie’s team is currently evaluating existing clothing industry options that meet Army regulations, uniform standards, and maintain overall troop uniformity. The goal is to create a list of approved PT clothing types that offer improved comfort and functionality. This list will then be submitted to Army leadership for final approval.
Soldiers will continue to receive standard-issue PT uniforms during basic training and Advanced Individual Training. However, once they are assigned to their units, the new options, if approved, would become available. This could mean soldiers will have a broader selection of items within each PT clothing category, potentially including variations of short-sleeve and long-sleeve T-shirts, shorts, pants, and jackets, all while maintaining the black and gold aesthetic.
The current Army PT uniform ensemble includes short and long-sleeve T-shirts, shorts, pants, and a jacket, all adhering to the black and gold color scheme as outlined in Army regulations. Soldiers are also authorized to wear calf or ankle-length socks, athletic shoes, a fleece watch cap, compression shirts and shorts, and reflective belts for specific conditions.
This move towards offering more choices aligns with existing Army policies that allow soldiers some flexibility in personal equipment. For example, soldiers can choose from a pre-approved list of protective eyewear and select combat boots that offer the best individual fit. Some units also permit unit-specific T-shirts, further demonstrating a willingness to accommodate soldier preferences within uniform guidelines.
The Army’s focus on expanding PT uniform options reflects a commitment to soldier comfort and performance while preserving the recognizable identity of the force. By listening to soldier feedback and exploring readily available solutions, the Army aims to enhance the PT experience without abandoning the established black and gold Army Pt Uniforms.
The potential changes to Army PT uniform options are expected to be finalized and presented to senior leadership by the end of 2025. Soldiers should stay informed about updates through official Army channels and unit leadership for further details as they become available.
