Uniform Guide

The T5 Uniform

The T5 uniform is a visible symbol of a 5er’s commitment to the organization’s ideals and a way to foster a sense of belonging. It’s more than just clothing; it’s a representation of a 5er’s journey and achievements. This page details the components of the uniform, proper placement of patches and insignia, and what is not considered part of the official T5 uniform.

The Field Uniform (Nickname: Class A)

The Essential Items

  • Uniform Shirt: The official tan Scouts BSA short sleeve shirt is the most recognizable piece of a T5 uniform. It features shoulder loops and serves as the canvas for displaying various badges and insignia. The words “Scouting America” are embroidered in red just above the right pocket.
  • Pants/Shorts: Olive green cargo pants or shorts are the standard legwear. Most common are “switchback” pants, which are long pants that can convert to shorts by zipping off the pant legs. You may wear official Scouting America brand, or purchase a different brand with a similar look and color. Long pants are required for formal occasions, and for trail hiking to protect you from bugs and ivy. You can wear shorts on any other occasion at your preference. It’s recommended to get your pants a size larger so you don’t have to buy new ones as often as you grow. Jeans are discouraged but not prohibited. Other types of pants are prohibited.
  • Official T5 Neckerchief: A colorful, triangular scarf unique to our troop. The neckerchief is worn loosely around the neck, adding a touch of identity and tradition. This will be provided to you by T5 when you join up.
  • Official Scouts BSA Neckerchief Slide: The slide, often a simple design, secures the neckerchief in place. T5 will also provide you with one of these. Don’t lose it! You’ll end up having to sit with Ms. Adrienne while she teaches you neckerchief knots.
  • Official Scouts BSA Belt: The olive green webbed belt with the official Scouts BSA buckle is both functional and a part of the uniform’s distinct look. There are also official tan leather belts available. You may also wear a non-official tan leather belt as long as it is plain (no logos or insignia on it).

Additional Items

  • Hats: T5 does not currently have a hat requirement. Hats are not worn by T5 Scouts at formal events, however T5 Scouts are invited to wear official Scouting America hats during other occasions. Other type of headwear can be approved on a case-by-case basis by your Patrol Leader.
  • Socks: You may purchase official green scout socks, or wear any other socks of your choosing as long as they are a solid color. Try to choose socks in a color that complements the uniform, such as dark or neutral tones.
  • Footwear: Most types of footwear are acceptable as long as they have a rubber sole. Sandals and other open toed shoes, Uggs, Crocks, and similar types of shoes are strictly prohibited.

Insignia Placement

  • Right Sleeve:
    • American Flag Patch: Positioned just below the shoulder seam, with the blue star field facing forward. Comes with the uniform.
    • Patrol Patch: 4 inches down from the shoulder seam, centered below the American Flag patch. Your Patrol Leader will give you’ll get one of these when you’re assigned to a patrol.
    • Temporary Patches: Below the patrol patch, as space allows. Patches may include a unit of excellence award, or a color guard patch. Nothing goes here when you first join.
  • Left Sleeve:
    • Council Shoulder Patch (CSP): Typically a wide yellow, arched patch, placed directly on the left sleeve, snug against the shoulder seam. Buy this from the shop.
    • Veteran Unit Bar: A slim tan patch centered just below the CSP with the no. 40 on it. This is because we’re over 40 years old. We’ll give you one of these when you join.
    • Troop Number: A tan/green no. 5 patch, centered just below the veteran unit bar. We’ll also give you one of these when you join.
    • Leadership Position Patch: below patrol patch, if applicable. You’ll be issued this by the Senior Patrol Leader.
  • Left Pocket:
    • Rank Patch: Centered on the left pocket of the uniform shirt.
    • Arrow of Light. If you earned the Arrow of Light in Cub Scouts, the emblem goes directly below the pocket. This is the only rank insignia that you can carry forward from Cub Scouts.
    • World Crest. The emblem and ring are worn centered on the pocket and vertically halfway between the top of the pocket and the shoulder seam.
    • Service Star. Shows how many years you’ve been involved in Scouting. Goes 3/4″ above the pocket flap seam.
    • Medals. The medals you earn, such as your Eagle medal will hang centered on the pocket, pinned just above the flap seam.
  • Right Pocket:
    • Logo. “Scouting America” is embroidered in red just above the pocket flap.
    • Interpreter Strip. Optional. If you speak another language, your interpreter strip goes directly above the red embroidery.
    • Name Tag (optional). You can wear a nametag directly above the Scouting America logo or interpreter strip.
    • Pocket Flap. If you join the Order of the Arrow, your Nentico Lodge patch goes on the right pocket flap.
    • Pocket Patches. Temporary patches and insignia are hung from the button of this pocket. Nothing is ever permanently added here. Nothing goes on the pocket when you first join. If you have a woodworking patch, such as a Totin’ Chip, this can be temporarily placed at the bottom of the pocket at the “v.”
    • Recruiter Patch. If you earn a recruiter patch, it goes directly below the pocket.
  • Merit Badge Sash: Worn over the right shoulder, crossing the body to the left hip. Merit badges are displayed on the sash in rows of three, front and back. Temporary patches are only worn on the back of the merit badge sash. Only one sash is worn at a time.
  • Shoulder Epaulets (straps): These are reserved for shoulder loops. Currently, 5’ers must wear official green loops. Den Chief cords are also worn from the right epaulet.

Important Considerations for Uniform Wear

  • Proper Fit: The uniform should fit comfortably, allowing for a full range of motion. Avoid clothing that is too tight or excessively loose. Your shirt must always be tucked into your pants when wearing your Field Uniform.
  • Maintenance: A clean, non-wrinkled and well-maintained uniform reflects pride and respect. Ensure your uniform is in good repair and free of stains or damage.
  • Completeness: Wearing all required parts of the uniform is essential. Missing elements like the neckerchief or belt can detract from the overall appearance and professionalism.
  • Non-Regulation Wear: Only official badges, patches, and awards earned through Scouting should be displayed on the uniform. Things like excessive jewelry, non-Scout related pins or patches, or trendy hats are not part of the official uniform and can’t be worn.
  • Troop-Specific Guidance: Always consult with your Patrol Leader or Senior Patrol Leader for any specific uniform requirements or local traditions within your troop. They are the best source of information for your particular unit.

When is the Field Uniform Appropriate?

The field uniform is appropriate for:

  • Formal Events: Regular meetings, Courts of Honor, boards of review, banquets, and other formal Scouting occasions.
  • Flag Ceremonies: When participating in formal flag ceremonies, the Field uniform is typically required.
  • Meetings with Dignitaries: Meetings with important figures or officials usually call for the Field uniform.
  • Any other event where the Scoutmaster or Senior Patrol Leader has specifically required a Field uniform.

The Activity Uniform (Nickname: Class B)

The Essential Items

  • Uniform Shirt: A T5-approved tee shirt (or tee-five shirt, if you want to be accurate and ridiculous), typically short-sleeved, featuring T5’s an approved T5 design. The design may be a general one, or one for a specific event.
  • Uniform Pants: Just as with Field Uniforms, Olive green cargo pants or shorts are the standard legwear for Activity uniforms. Most common are “switchback” pants, which are long pants that can convert to shorts by zipping off the pant legs. You may wear official Scouting America brand, or purchase a different brand with a similar look and color. Long pants are required for trail hiking to protect you from bugs and ivy but otherwise you can wear short or long at your preference. Jeans are allowed. All other types of pants are prohibited.
  •  

Additional Items

  • Socks: You may purchase official green scout socks, or wear any other socks of your choosing as long as they are a solid color. Try to choose socks in a color that complements the uniform, such as dark or neutral tones.
  • Hats: T5 Scouts are invited to wear official Scouting America hats with their Activities uniform. Other type of headwear can be approved on a case-by-case basis by your Patrol Leader.
  • Footwear: Most types of footwear are acceptable as long as they have a rubber sole. Sandals and other open toed shoes, Uggs, Crocks, and similar types of shoes are strictly prohibited.

When is the Activity Uniform Appropriate?

The activity uniform is typically worn for:

  • Informal Meetings: Regular troop meetings where a full uniform isn’t necessary.
  • Outdoor Activities: Hikes, camping trips, service projects, and other outdoor events where comfort and practicality are prioritized.
  • Casual Events: Events like picnics, camporees (sometimes), or other informal gatherings.
  • Service Projects: When working on service projects where the full uniform might be impractical or at risk of damage.
  • Travel: When traveling to and from events, especially for longer distances.

Where to Find Activity Uniforms

  • Troop T-shirts: The troop tee shirts are designed and ordered by the troop itself. Ask the Scoutmaster or another adult leader how to obtain a troop tee shirt. You can own multiple different T5 tee shirt designs and color and wear any of them.
  • Official Pants/Shorts: These can be purchased from the Scout Shop on Sisson Street, the online Scout Shop, or off Amazon.  

Additional Considerations

  • When to Wear: When you can or cannot wear the Activity uniform will vary. Always check with your Patrol Leader.
  • Cleanliness and Appearance: Even though it’s a casual uniform, the activity uniform should still be clean and presentable. Avoid wearing excessively worn or dirty shirts.
  • Appropriate Attire: While the tee shirt is the main component, the activity uniform still includes the official pants. This maintains a connection to the overall uniform and ensures appropriate attire for Scouting activities.  
  • Footwear: Appropriate footwear is still essential, even with the activity uniform. Opened-toe shoes are not allowed for most scouting activities.
  • Weather: Consider the weather when choosing your activity uniform. You may need to layer clothing underneath or over the tee shirt for warmth or protection from the elements.

The activity uniform provides a practical and comfortable option for many Scouting events. By understanding when it’s appropriate and following your troop’s guidelines, you can be prepared for any Scouting adventure.

Are There “No Uniform” Occasions?

For the most part, no. But during certain types of occasions, such as swimming, uniform requirements will be waived.  Sometimes during long activities, such as camping and wilderness hiking, or if the activity is messy or requires specialized clothing, uniform requirements may be softened or waived.  If in doubt, ask the Senior Patrol Leader!

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