New fits for PTIs rolling out

The first new uniform in more than 30 years has been rolled out for ADF PTIs.

Every new article features a modern, athletic design, with the changes aimed at making the clothing more fit for purpose.

Some of these changes include an update on Air Force’s iconic sky-blue shirt and the old navy shorts replaced with black ones.

The current outfit has been in service since 1994 and advancements in athletic-wear technology meant the cut and materials were showing their age.

According to PTI capability adviser WOFF Luke Hamilton, the new uniforms will address a number of issues.

“The old uniform didn’t have a male and female cut. We also didn’t have anything for those cold environments where we're outside observing or running a session,” WOFF Hamilton said.

“People don't often think about PTIs being cold because they assume we are always running around doing physical things and are staying warm.”

The new suite of garments includes cold and wet weather clothing, lightweight long and short sleeve activity wear, and polo shirts for the office.

Previous uniforms were general purpose rather than sports specific, so new garments will be made from materials with better moisture wicking, range of movement and temperature control.

There will also be a broad-brimmed hat, baseball cap, lightweight running cap and a range of compression garments.

The PTI uniform modernisation was a triservice effort, with each taking part in the design and testing process to ensure the finished product met each service’s requirements.

WOFF Hamilton said the new outfits were highly anticipated.

“People are really keen to get access to this new uniform and are genuinely excited to have a fit-for-purpose suite of uniforms that are professional in appearance and functional,” he said.