New Centennial Uniform BOY SCOUT UNIFORM GETS FIRST UPDATE IN NEARLY 30 YEARS

 Available August 15, 2008, the new Boy Scout uniform marks its first redesign since the early 1980s, when Oscar de la Renta was commissioned to provide the existing look. There have been five major revisions and some minor tweaks of the uniform since the organization began in 1910. This new “centennial uniform” is part of many planned activities to celebrate the coming 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America.

The Boy Scouts of America turned to its members for inspiration for the design of the centennial uniform. The new look is a representation of thoughts, ideas, and opinions from a committee of Scouts and their parents. “It is important to us that our members feel pride when wearing their uniform and contribute to the evolution of our organization,” said the Boy Scouts of America, three Fires Council Scout Executive, Matthew Ackerman. “We are extremely pleased with the end result.”

The uniform is available in cotton-rich canvas or in Supplex nylon, a cotton-soft, yet highly durable, moisture-control fabric that wicks away moisture in the hottest of conditions, dries quickly, and offers SPF 50+ sun protection. Elements of the new design include a new uniform cap, bellows pockets, shoulder loops, an updated uniform belt, and convertible pants. The durable, high-performance fabrics are in toned-down khaki and forest green and feature multifunction pockets, zippers, and gadget loops suitable for today’s outdoor explorer.

“We try to teach Scouts to always be prepared, and the updates to the uniform reflect that mission,” said Mr. Ackerman.  “We anticipate positive reactions to the new ‘gear-inspired’ uniform and look forward to what lies ahead for our troops throughout the council.”

Scouts are not required to buy the new centennial uniform, and all Scouts may continue to wear their old ones until new ones are needed. New Scout uniforms and merchandise can be bought online at www.scoutstuff.org and www.bsauniforms.org. They can also be found at Roesch Scout Service Center, 1900 N. Meridian, Indianapolis, IN 46206 317/921-3468 x209, fax 317/921-3474 IndyScoutShop@crossroadsbsa.org .