WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Washington Office Uniform Program and the National Technology and Development Program announce new uniform pants are now available. Additionally, a new uniform measurement video aims to help employees with taking proper measurements for correctly ordering their uniform items.

The Uniform Program and NTDP heard the field’s concerns and desire for updated, more comfortable, and better-fitting pants. Employees wanted separate pants for office and field work. After considerable development and testing, two new styles of pants are now available through the uniform vendor:

• Office/light-duty pants (FS280 and 281): These pants are 64% polyester, 3% cotton and 2% Lycra. They are soft and stretchable fabric pants that offer a business-casual look for office or light-duty work. Relaxed and standard-fit options are available for men and women.

• Field/arduous-duty pants (FS270 and 271): These battle dress uniform, BDU-style pants (like the Nomex fire pants) are 100 percent cotton ripstop. Lightweight but durable, these pants will withstand the rugged nature of field work while still providing comfortable movement. They include cargo pockets and reinforced knees. Both men’s and women’s options are available.

Employees who order either of the new pants will receive a survey to rate their quality, design, fit and comfort. Your feedback will help the Uniform Program and NTDP further refine and adjust the pants to increase their fit, comfort and durability. With the arrival of the new pants, the Uniform Program will phase out the casual trousers, lined casual trousers, cargo pants and cotton jeans.  

The Uniform Measurements Guide video will help Forest Service employees order uniform components that fit properly. The video describes tips for taking measurements and techniques for accurately measuring your head, neck, sleeve length, chest, waist, hips and inseam. The video also provides suggestions for which measuring tools to use. If uniform components do not fit as expected, please return them to the uniform vendor. This will aid further refinement of available uniform components.  

There are some exceptions covered by uniform regulations that are worth mentioning. Line officers with delegated authority may approve exceptions to wearing the uniform, as follows:

• When pregnancy, medical conditions, physical disabilities or climatic conditions require special consideration.

• When wearing the uniform would jeopardize the employee's safety or when the visibility of the uniform is not in the best interest of the Forest Service.

• For medical conditions and physical disabilities, special orders may be submitted to the uniform vendor to meet these needs or accommodations.

Uniform Measure Project.