The South African Defence Force (SADF), unique among Cold War militaries, sported distinctive Nutria Brown uniforms. Initially clad in older British patterned uniforms, South Africa would transition out of older khakis into the unique earth tone colors of Nutria Brown in 1971. Surprisingly effective in the dark bush of Southern Africa, Nutria Brown garments saw widespread adoption, from the regular national serviceman, to the most elite special forces operators. In all elements of South Africa's armed forces, Nutria Brown represented the distinctive look of South Africa' Border War. Without a standardized camouflage pattern for members of the SADF during the course of the war, Nutria Brown was used for uniforms, jumpsuits, headdress, and even webbing. Ultimately, camo won out, as evidenced by testing conducted by the SADF in the early 1990s as they fielded preliminary examples of what would become the Soldier 2000 pattern. The distinctive "Browns" would be replaced in 1994, coinciding with the end of Apartheid and the formation of the new SANDF. However, given the proven effectiveness of Nutria Brown, the distinctive color remains in service with various paramilitary and anti-poaching organizations. It remains in relatively widespread use, due to extremely restrictive laws across Africa, in regards to the non-military usage and wear of camouflage.
There remains a fair amount of surplus Nutria Brown uniforms from the SADF era, given it's widespread adoption, long service life, and the huge quantities that were manufactured for the tens of thousands of National Servicemen being drafted for South Africa's Border War. However, with the prices of surplus rising rapidly, we've taken matters into our own hands. We're proud to offer a full line-up of old school SADF Nutria Brown uniforms in their original cuts, with a slightly modernized 65-35 cotton polyester construction for comfort and durability.
We believe that these are the best repro offerings of the old "browns" available on the market, making them perfect for re-enactors and modern day adventurers alike! We have faithfully replicated the 100% cotton colors and cut on the original South African Defence Force issue 1st Pattern Bush Hats, down to the weight and orange helicopter signaling panel on the inside of the hat.
Keep the sun at bay, and tip your hat to the ladies.
Features:
- 65% cotton and 35% polyester construction in a 1-to-1 reproduction of South African Defence Force Nutria Brown color
- Shortened "giggle" style 2" brim
- Foliage loops
- Snap buttons to secure brims
- Ventillation grommets
- Day-glow orange visiblity panel inside for aerial recognition - based off the original 1st Pattern reference
Sizing Guide:
- 56 cm/Small- 7 inches diameter
- 58 cm/Medium - 7 1/4 inches diameter
- 60 cm/Large - 7 1/2 inches diameter
- 62 cm/XL - 7 3/4 inches diameter
All prices are in United States Dollars (USD). We ship internationally!
