Are Knockoff Combat Uniforms Just as Good? | Night Vision Clothing

Published on November 2, 2024
Duration: 25:17

This video tests the Near-Infrared (NIR) compliance of various combat uniforms, comparing knockoffs to genuine US-made gear. It reveals that while some knockoffs perform similarly, fabric composition (NYCO is best) and pattern (M81 Woodland and Multicam excel) are more critical than brand for stealth under night vision. Washing with optical brighteners like Tide did not significantly degrade NIR properties on modern fabrics.

Quick Summary

NIR compliance ensures tactical clothing doesn't 'glow' under night vision by matching surrounding IR radiation. Testing shows M81 Woodland and Multicam patterns excel, while 50/50 NYCO fabric is ideal. Modern fabrics resist degradation from optical brightener detergents.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Glowing Gear Under Night Vision
  2. 00:51What is NIR Compliance?
  3. 02:11Testing Methodology & Questions
  4. 08:22Test 1: Real vs. Knockoff Uniforms
  5. 11:04Test 2: Washing & Detergent Effects
  6. 12:39Test 3: Patterns vs. Solid Colors
  7. 14:40Test 4: Fabric Composition Analysis
  8. 16:39Final Observations & Best Gear

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NIR compliance for tactical clothing?

NIR (Near-Infrared) compliance means clothing maintains its camouflage properties under night vision. It ensures the fabric doesn't reflect excessive IR light, preventing it from appearing as a bright, solid shape against the background environment.

Do washing detergents ruin NIR properties in combat uniforms?

Testing suggests that modern, high-quality fabrics are surprisingly resilient. Washing with detergents containing optical brighteners like Tide did not show a discernible negative impact on NIR compliance in the tested uniforms.

Which combat uniform patterns are best for NIR stealth?

Patterns with large, dark shapes perform best. M81 Woodland was found to be superior, followed closely by Multicam variants. Solid colors like Ranger Green and Black can be less effective or even counterproductive under night vision.

What fabric composition is best for NIR compliant uniforms?

The gold standard for NIR compliance is 50/50 NYCO (Nylon/Cotton) fabric, commonly found in standard issue gear. Fabrics with high polyester content or those treated with water repellents tend to reflect more IR light.

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