Uniform material selection

[G35 Mass]

I've just changed departments, and have the choice of getting whatever uniform material I want, provided it's made by Blauer and meets the colors. (LAPD Blue).

I've never had the opportunity to have anything other than what was issued, so I didn't pay attention to material.

What are the differences between the different cotton/poly blends, wool, etc.?

I'm curious about what I should look for in both summer and winter uniforms. Also I'm curious about color-fastness, ability to wash at home, shrinking, etc..

Thanks for your input.



PS: Getting fitted in the next 48hrs, so I don't have time to get confirmed to post in the LEO section.

Thanks guys.

[JoetheGI]

Coming from experience in wearing...different uniforms, however, the similarities are there.

Some considerations...

Cotton:

- Far more comfortable in hot weather and dries faster.
- Laundered and starched, provides a crisp "professional" appearance.
- NOT as durable as blended fabrics.


Polly blends:

- Hotter in pretty much every environment as it doesn't "breathe" as well as cotton and retains moisture.
- More durable than cotton due to stronger synthetic fabric.
- Does not hold the "press" as long as cotton when laundered.

Over all assessment...

A comfortable uniform can make life a lot more enjoyable when required to conduct "business" in a wide variety of temperature ranges, and while carrying a wide variety of kit. While one will have to replace cotton uniforms more frequently, the added expenditure was worth the price to me, due to the added comfort and "professional" look cotton offers. Working in 100+ degree temps is bad, it is made worse doing so wearing a non-breathing poly uniform.

[Kimble]

PS: Getting fitted in the next 48hrs, so I don't have time to get confirmed to post in the LEO section.

This post seems to indicate you're a cop, and while you may not be verified in time to get your fitting, the site rules still require you be verified if you claim to be a cop. I assume you know what is needed for verification since you're familiar with our verification process, so please send me a PM with your info so you can be verified.

I know this doesn't answer your question (perhaps others who work in unformed LE will have some helpful insight for you), but since you brought up you're a cop you need to follow through promptly with the verification process. Thanks for you understanding.

[Samuel]

Personally, I like cotton for everyday use. Unfortunately, I only get to wear cotton or something comfortable during collateral instructing duties. Regular shift, I'm wearing polyester and wool - yuckkk.