LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
One of the qualities of a sharp Airman is ensuring your uniform is properly worn in regulations. This quality includes the proper wear of the physical training uniform.
Lt. Gen. Richard Newton III, deputy chief of staff for Manpower and Personnel, recently signed and sent out a message regarding PTUs and the importance of proper wear, replacing previous guidance published in Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel.
The guidance clarifies questions or concerns regarding PTU wear to emphasize safety and a professional appearance.
Updated PTU guidelines:
Headgear
- Commanders may authorize either a solid black or dark blue baseball cap with the Air Force symbol or "U.S. Air Force" logos.
- Headgear is to be worn outdoors only.
- Bandanas are authorized for a medical waiver condition only.
Shirt/sweatshirt/jacket
- The PTU jacket must be zipped at least halfway between the waistband and collar. Sleeves will end within one inch off the wrist.
- The short-sleeved PTU shirt will be tucked into shorts or running pants at all times. Do not remove or cut sleeves.
- The long-sleeved PTU shirt will be tucked into the PTU shorts or running pants at all times. Do not push up, remove or cut sleeves.
- The optional IPTU sweatshirt will extend no lower than six inches below the natural waistline. Do not push up, remove or cut sleeves.
Pants/shorts
- The PTU running pants will rest at or within two inches of the natural waistline. Both pant legs will extend below the ankles and will be zipped to within one inch of the bottom. - The PTU shorts and running shorts will rest at or within two inches of the natural waistline.
- Black or dark blue short or full-length spandex may be worn under the PTU and IPT.
- The IPTU running suit top or bottom may not be mixed with the current PTU running suit top or bottom.
- The lining of the PTU/IPTU shorts may be removed, but no other uniform alterations are authorized.
Footwear
- Footwear is to remain conservative. No bright colors or excessive ornamentation is to be worn.
- Socks must be white, but small trademark logos are acceptable
Cold weather accessories
- Cold weather accessories may be worn outdoors only.
- The knit watch cap will be plain solid black, dark blue or sage green without any logos.
- Gloves will be plain solid black or dark blue without any logos.
- Scarves and earmuffs will be solid black or dark blue, and may wrap around either the top or rear of the head.
- Green or black fleece is not authorized with the PTU/IPTU.
Mix and match
-PTU/IPTU items are authorized for wear with conservative civilian/personal attire during individual/personal PT or while off-duty. Examples include PT shirt with personal shorts/pants, PT jacket with personal shirt/pants/shorts etc.
-No civilian/personal items with offensive wording, graphics or photos are to be worn with the PTU/IPTU items at any time
Miscellaneous
- Headphones are authorized inside fitness centers or on designated running areas, unless prohibited by the installation commander.
- Undergarments must be appropriate and worn with all uniform combinations.
- Personal grooming and appearance standards apply during physical fitness activities with one exception: Long female hair will be secured, but may have loose ends.
- Proper military customs and courtesies to honor the flag during reveille and retreat will apply; however, saluting for rank is not mandatory when wearing the PTU.
-During periods of low light, reflective belts and armbands are required when wearing the optional running shorts. Reflective accessories are optional when wearing the standard PTU, which includes reflective material.
PTUs are mandatory during physical fitness assessments, and while participating in organized PT events as designated by the commander. Unit commanders will determine the PTU configuration.
Exceptions to the policy are at the discretion of commanders for accessions, professional military education or academic training when unit distinction is required, such as identifying instructors from students. Temporary adjustments may also be allowed when safety is a concern or in a deployed location.
Long-term exceptions must be submitted through the respective major command to Headquarters Air Force A1 for approval. Questions regarding the PTU policy should be addressed through the proper chain-of-command.