WASHINGTON -- Adm. Mike Mullen, chief of naval operations (CNO), recently approved the first Navy physical fitness uniform: a gold short-sleeved shirt and navy blue shorts. The shirt is moisture-wicking, made of odor-resistant polyester and has “Navy” in reflective lettering on the back and front.
“The goal was to design a uniform for wear during command-directed group and unit [physical training] activities and that our sailors will be proud to wear,” says Vice Adm. John C. Harvey Jr., chief of naval personnel. “What the CNO has delivered more than meets that goal.”
The shorts come in 6- and 8-inch lengths, providing standard appearance among sailors with different heights. The shorts also have side pockets with a hidden ID card pocket inside the waistband.
“We carefully evaluated the materials, styling and functionality in designing this uniform,” Harvey says. “We looked at the lessons learned from the other services and got feedback from our sailors -- young, mature, male, female, officer and enlisted -- and arrived at this design.”
The uniforms will be delivered to the fleet next spring and will be worn during all command-directed physical training and semi-annual physical fitness tests, according to a report from the Navy. The uniform does not have to be worn during individual exercise.
“Sailors may still wear personal [physical training] gear when not participating in command PT activities or the semi-annual fitness tests,” says Robert Carroll, head of the Navy Uniform Matters Office.
More clothing options are in the works, including a long-sleeved shirt, compression shorts, head gear, running shoes and even a Navy wind suit, Carroll says.