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
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 :)
It's awesome, it makes me think about my buddies who have served in Afghanistan (most made it, some didn't), and will probably be welcome warmth in winter.
A nice warm cap for any weather, super useful!
It is exactly as described in all if it's mountainous glory. Smells sweetly of goat and itches like the comforting hand of a loving Afghani mommy.
Very swag, very functional too. Wore it in a snowstorm and my head stayed dry. Very much recommended
very high quality
