Afghanistan and much of the middle east is well known for it's several-thousand-year long traditions: Fending off wars, and garments like this, the Pakol (Pack-ohll). While it's origins are hazy, its been one of many enduring icons of traditional garments in the area.

Mainly adopted as the staple headwear of Afghanistan, the Pakol is extremely practical, comfy, and even adaptable to colder conditions. It's worn much like a beret, covering the crown of the head and rolling up and down to change it's shape. In the winter, it can be rolled down to cover the ears, and in the summer it wicks away sweat.

So what's a middle eastern cap doing on KommandoStore? During early missions in Afghanistan, particularly in late 2001, CIA agents, Delta force operators, and other were seen wearing these practical caps as a means of true urban camouflage - a 'when in rome' approach to blending in to the populace. Pairing up with a Patu shawl (and a big beard), an operator from afar could appear as just another mountain man, but concealing all of his kit & weapon underneath. This strategy, including ditching their vehicles for horses, were some of the guerilla tactics employed on the (initial) hunt for Bin Laden.

Specs 

• Authentic Import from the middle east
• Comfortable Wool construction
• "Roll Up" design adaptable to most head sizes
• Extra fabric included in rolled portion to tighten fit or add extra cushioning
• Available in earthy tones & Black — perfect for matching with LARP gear or blending in to an Afghani mountain side
• Colors may vary from pictures, as these are handmade in the middle east!

 

Wearing Your Pakol (based)

To prepare a Pakol hat for your head, roll up from the sidewall tube to the top. This forms a thick band which rests on the head like a beret. To get a tight and even roll, block the hat around a cylindrical object for equal tension as you roll. Your knee is great for this. The band can be tightened by rolling a strip of fabric inside the sidewall. This also makes the band appear thicker (bonus style).

If it is cold outside, the band can be unrolled until it covers your ears. This looks sort of goofy but it very warm :)