NCJ Number
147112
Journal
Law Enforcement Volume: 21 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1994) Pages: 36,38-40
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Uniforms for police officers have been changing over the past five years, due in large measure to the development of new fibers and fabrics, new technologies, and new performance- and comfort-oriented designs.
Abstract
The trend in style and design is toward ease of use, performance, and comfort. Visibility, in particular, is becoming a standard feature of daywear, nightwear, and rainwear. Jackets, coats, and uniforms in general are becoming more flexible, lightweight, and less bulky. More trousers are being designed in a military style, with extra cargo pockets built into them. Ease of care is also becoming an increasingly important consideration in uniform design. A lot of agencies are updating their looks and becoming more fashion-conscious; the uniform industry is being influenced by the hunting, outdoors, and sport specialty markets. Uniforms will also begin to incorporate materials that can protect officers from bloodborne pathogens, including hepatitis and the HIV virus. One designer predicts that the police look of the future will be a layering system that will include turtlenecks, work shirts, pants, liners in the pants, sweaters, and shell garments worn as outerwear.