The Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), in collaboration with the Air Force Uniform Office, has introduced the improved physical training uniform (IPTU) to select military clothing sales stores starting in July. This updated PTU, featuring a running jacket, pants, trunks, and a T-shirt, is now an authorized optional uniform, offering Airmen a modern alternative for physical training. While designed to closely resemble the original PTU, official policy released on October 28, 2009, specifies that mixing components between the old and new running suits is not permitted. This means the new IPTU jacket should not be worn with the original PTU pants, and vice versa.
Master Sgt. James Lynn, subject matter expert at the Air Force Uniform Office (AFUO), clarified the distinction, stating, “The new IPTU was made to look like the original PTU, but wear policy prohibits mixing the new jacket with the current version pants or the current jacket with the new running pants.” The material differences between the two running suits, including a noticeable shade variation, make intermixing impractical. However, the shorts and shirts from both the current PTU and IPTU are interchangeable and can be worn with the IPTU running suit.
According to Capt. Nick Ferry, IPTU program manager, the IPTU represents a significant advancement in athletic wear technology. “Much time and effort from a lot of folks has gone into the research, development, and testing of the IPTU,” Captain Ferry noted. The new uniform leverages cutting-edge textile innovations to deliver enhanced comfort and functionality compared to the existing PTU. Key improvements include a quieter fabric that eliminates the distracting “swish-swish” sound during movement, enhanced reflectivity for better visibility, a lighter overall weight for improved performance, and advanced moisture-wicking material integrated with a quick-drying, anti-microbial liner. These features collectively address common concerns and frustrations previously expressed by Airmen regarding their PT uniform.
IPTU availability is being rolled out based on deployment locations, which will receive priority shipments, followed by the Pacific and European commands. The IPTU trunks became available worldwide through AAFES in July, with the running suit expected to follow later in the same month. The release date for the IPTU T-shirt is still pending confirmation. AAFES anticipates initial supply to be limited but expects full stock in all military clothing stores soon, with worldwide internet purchase options becoming available around October. For Air Force personnel stationed at locations that receive clothing supplies from Army stores, IPTU availability will be more restricted but can be accessed through special orders at their local military clothing store. To find your nearest Usaf Uniform Store and check for IPTU availability, especially at AAFES locations or military clothing sales stores, it is recommended to contact your local base exchange or visit the AAFES website for the most up-to-date information.
