An icon in surplus-wear, this is the British Desert DPM Windproof smock. Like the US Military's M81 Woodland camo, British DPM had a very long service history in many military organizations around the world, particularly in countries that were formerly British colonies.
DPM can be traced all the way back to the hand painted Denison smock used by British commandos in the 1940s. Early patterns continued to be used for some field uniforms until it was more widely adopted in 1968. Until 2016, DPM was the standard camo pattern used by the British Armed Forces, and is still the issued pattern in many countries. And this time around we got our hands on a some Desert DPM variants.
Desert DPM originally consisted of subdued sand and khaki hues when it was first developed in the late 1980's. However, some rather intrepid Middle Eastern countries figured that the original four toned desert pattern worked pretty darn well. Thus the British had to replace the sand and khaki hues with a light brown on sand derivative. Something to do with a Storm in the Desert.
The Desert DPM Windproof Smock is an excellent example of a quality over-layer that is basically load bearing. Its large chest pockets allow you to store everything from IFAKs to magazines, MRE’s, and a whole lot more. Add in your preferred belt kit and you're ready to ruck in almost any condition. Perfect for any “hiking” you might be doing in the Helmand Province, (Lord Miles, represent).
The adjustable waist and hem of the smock let you seal out any wind incursions from below, and with a wire-reinforced adjustable hood you can keep your tactical awareness while keeping your bussin fr fr no cap hairstyle safe and protected. Especially since the hoods are oversized to fit large unshapely Bri’ish helmets. If you paid attention in science class, note that these windproof smocks aren’t necessarily rain-resistant. But a quick trip to the local sporting goods store for some rattle can waterproofing could fix that in a jiffy.
Specifications
- 50/50 Cotton/Poly
- Adjustable Hem and waist
- Wire stiffened Oversized Hood
- Four 8in x 10in Exterior Pockets
- Two 13in x 12in Zipper Pockets
- Glove-friendly Buttons
Care Instructions
- Wash as Synthetic Medium wash
- DO NOT BLEACH
- Tumble Dry Higher heat setting
- Warm Iron (Steam iron to improve water repellency)
- DO NOT DRY CLEAN
- To maintain water repellency with spray-on waterproofing, re-apply every third wash
Sizing
These smocks are measured in cm using height and chest circumference. The sizing intervals are decently far apart, so you may want to round up or down depending on how you want the shirt to fit (tight like a shirt, or looser like a jacket).
Condition
Smocks are in great condition, with only minor signs of use and no holes, cuts, or tears.