PT uniform wear standards often violated

Published Feb. 5, 2009
By Master Sgt. John Facemire
21st Civil Engineer Squadron

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Have you ever walked into the fitness center and seen someone wearing their physical training uniform incorrectly? If not, you probably are not paying attention to how personnel are wearing the uniform or maybe you are unsure of the proper standards for wear.

Violations of these standards happen often and are normally not corrected when noticed. Proper wear instructions are outlined in the May 27, 2008 21st Space Wing supplement to Air Force Instruction 36-2903. Interim changes will be incorporated into the 21st SW supplement that is currently being routed for approval. Ensure you are familiar with this information and share your knowledge with those who may not know the standard.

     -- PT shirt (short- or long-sleeved style when available) must be worn tucked into the shorts and pants at all times.

     -- Hats are not authorized to be worn during formations with the exception of black and navy blue wool or knit caps which may be worn Oct. 1 through April 15 (Squadron commanders may extend wear date according to unusual/extended local weather conditions. Ball caps may be worn during PT when not in formation, but are prohibited while in formation. Ball caps must be navy blue, black, gray or white in color, and will not contain commercial or non-Air Force logos).

     -- Personnel are not authorized to add civilian clothing items to PT gear when attending organized squadron PT formations, except as otherwise specified.

     -- Headphones and earphones are not authorized when exercising on roadways, sidewalks, or on any paths that requires the crossing of any street. Headphones and earphones are not authorized when attending wing PT per the installation commander. Sunglasses may be worn to prevent injury due to glare, wind, or dust while in formation. Members will not place sunglasses on top of their head or hang them around their neck.

     -- Personnel will wear Air Force PT gear when attending organized unit PT sessions and Wing Warrior Day PT. When attending unit PT, gear may be worn in any authorized combination. Members may wear black or navy blue leggings under the PT shorts. They may wear a gray or white, long-sleeve T-shirt under the PT T-shirt.

     -- Personnel will not stand or walk with hands in their pockets other than to insert or remove items.

The new Air Force PT sweatshirt is on sale at the base exchange. The long-sleeve PT shirt should follow and be on the shelves soon. These are optional items, but based on the weather, they should be a welcome addition.

With the high operations tempo to multiple deployed locations and those locations having their own policy or guidance, know the laws of the land where you are. Team Pete also has a steady influx of newly assigned personnel arriving, and it is our responsibility to ensure they are aware of the wing's policy on the wear of PT gear. Take the time to educate yourself and those you work with. Also make the decision to correct those who are not meeting the standards.