Bear-Trax carries one of the largest selections of authentic military camouflage patterns from around the world. From the bold reds and greens of Swiss Alpenflage to the iconic mottled greens of German Flecktarn, the classic U.S. Woodland, modern OCP Scorpion W2, Czech vz.95 Leaf, Romanian Mozaic, and more — we have the real military surplus patterns collectors and tactical users love.
Browse our most popular patterns below or browse All Items:
Browse our most popular patterns below or browse All Items:
- Swiss Alpenflage – The legendary “pizza camo”
- German Flecktarn – The famous 5-color German pattern
- U.S. Woodland – Classic four-color U.S. military camo
- OCP Scorpion W2 – Current U.S. Army multi-terrain pattern
- Czech vz.95 Leaf – Distinctive Eastern European leaf camo
- British DPM – The iconic British Disruptive Pattern Material
Woodland Camo
The U.S. Woodland is a camouflage pattern that was used as the default camouflage pattern issued to the United States Armed Forces from 1981, with the issue of the Battle Dress Uniform, until its replacement in the mid to late 2000s. It is a four color, high contrast disruptive pattern with irregular markings in green, brown, sand and black.
It is also known unofficially by its colloquial moniker of "M81", though this term was not officially used by the U.S. military.
Although completely phased out of frontline use in the U.S. Armed Forces, U.S. Woodland is still used on some limited level by some branches such as MOPP suits, equipment and vests left over while some modernized uniforms (either BDU or commercial) were worn specifically by special forces such as USMC Forces Special Operations Command and United States Navy Seabees.
Development and History -
The woodland pattern is nearly identical to highland ERDL, only differing in that it is printed from an enlargement of the original. The woodland pattern was enlarged and the borders of the splotches were re-drawn to make them less regular. Part of the earlier pattern was left off the later pattern because the enlargement made them no longer fit on the width of the bolt of cloth. The pattern does not repeat horizontally across the width of the bolt, but only vertically along its length. The pattern was officially adopted in 1981.
The effect of enlarging the pattern was to make the pattern more visible at a distance, avoiding "blobbing", where smaller areas of color seem to blend into larger blobs. This also gave the pattern a higher contrast, making it stand out more sharply at close distances and defeating the camouflage effect at closer range. Digital and Flecktarn camouflage patterns resolve this problem by using a range of blob sizes to give a similar effect whatever the distance.
These changes reflected a shift in the tactical focus of the United States military from fighting an extremely close-range war such as the one in South Vietnam to a longer-range one such as on the fields of Europe.
It is also known unofficially by its colloquial moniker of "M81", though this term was not officially used by the U.S. military.
Although completely phased out of frontline use in the U.S. Armed Forces, U.S. Woodland is still used on some limited level by some branches such as MOPP suits, equipment and vests left over while some modernized uniforms (either BDU or commercial) were worn specifically by special forces such as USMC Forces Special Operations Command and United States Navy Seabees.
Development and History -
The woodland pattern is nearly identical to highland ERDL, only differing in that it is printed from an enlargement of the original. The woodland pattern was enlarged and the borders of the splotches were re-drawn to make them less regular. Part of the earlier pattern was left off the later pattern because the enlargement made them no longer fit on the width of the bolt of cloth. The pattern does not repeat horizontally across the width of the bolt, but only vertically along its length. The pattern was officially adopted in 1981.
The effect of enlarging the pattern was to make the pattern more visible at a distance, avoiding "blobbing", where smaller areas of color seem to blend into larger blobs. This also gave the pattern a higher contrast, making it stand out more sharply at close distances and defeating the camouflage effect at closer range. Digital and Flecktarn camouflage patterns resolve this problem by using a range of blob sizes to give a similar effect whatever the distance.
These changes reflected a shift in the tactical focus of the United States military from fighting an extremely close-range war such as the one in South Vietnam to a longer-range one such as on the fields of Europe.
FleckTarn Camo
Flecktarn (German pronunciation: [ˈflɛktaʁn]; "mottled camouflage"; also known as Flecktarnmuster or Fleckentarn) is a family of 3-, 4-, 5- or 6-color disruptive camouflage patterns, the most common being the five-color pattern, consisting of dark green, light green, black, red brown and green brown or tan depending on the manufacturer. The original German 5-color pattern was designed for use in European temperate woodland terrain. A 3-color variation called Tropentarn (formerly Wüstentarn) is intended for arid and desert conditions; the German Bundeswehr wore it in Afghanistan.
The original German 5-color flecktarn has been adopted, copied and modified by many countries for their own camouflage patterns.
The German Army started experimenting with camouflage patterns before World War II, and some army units used Splittermuster ("splinter pattern") camouflage, first issued in 1931. Waffen-SS combat units used various patterns from 1935 onwards. Many SS camouflage patterns were designed by Prof. Johann Georg Otto Schick.
In 1976, the Bundeswehr in Germany developed a number of prototype camouflage patterns, to be trialled as replacements for the solid olive-grey "moleskin" combat uniform. At least four distinct camouflage patterns were tested during Bundeswehr Truppenversuch 76 ("Bundeswehr Troop Trial 76"). These were based on patterns in nature: one was called "Dots" or "Points"; another was called "Ragged Leaf" or "Saw Tooth Edge"; another was based on pine needles in winter.
Designed by the German company Marquardt & Schulz, several patterns were developed and tested by the German military. The pattern named "Flecktarn B" was chosen as the final pattern for use. The word flecktarn is a composite formed from the German words Fleck (spot, blot(ch), mark or mottle) and Tarnung (camouflage). The Bundeswehr kept its green combat dress throughout the 1980s, however, while trials were conducted. Flecktarn was only widely introduced in 1990 in a newly reunited Germany.
The Dutch government considered Flecktarn, but it was dropped due to financial and political reasons.
In Germany, the Flecktarn camouflage pattern is used by all Bundeswehr service branches, the Heer (army), the Luftwaffe (air force), some Marine (navy) units and even the Sanitätsdienst (medical service). Its official name is 5 Farben-Tarndruck der Bundeswehr (5-color camouflage print of the Bundeswehr). This temperate Flecktarn 5-color scheme consists of 15% light green, 20% light olive, 35% dark green, 20% brown and 10% black. The Dutch military tested the pattern and rejected it, allegedly because it was "too aggressive". Flecktarn was seen as controversial because of its resemblance to the Waffen-SS "peas" and "oak leaves" patterns, which also used dots in various colors.
The original German 5-color flecktarn has been adopted, copied and modified by many countries for their own camouflage patterns.
The German Army started experimenting with camouflage patterns before World War II, and some army units used Splittermuster ("splinter pattern") camouflage, first issued in 1931. Waffen-SS combat units used various patterns from 1935 onwards. Many SS camouflage patterns were designed by Prof. Johann Georg Otto Schick.
In 1976, the Bundeswehr in Germany developed a number of prototype camouflage patterns, to be trialled as replacements for the solid olive-grey "moleskin" combat uniform. At least four distinct camouflage patterns were tested during Bundeswehr Truppenversuch 76 ("Bundeswehr Troop Trial 76"). These were based on patterns in nature: one was called "Dots" or "Points"; another was called "Ragged Leaf" or "Saw Tooth Edge"; another was based on pine needles in winter.
Designed by the German company Marquardt & Schulz, several patterns were developed and tested by the German military. The pattern named "Flecktarn B" was chosen as the final pattern for use. The word flecktarn is a composite formed from the German words Fleck (spot, blot(ch), mark or mottle) and Tarnung (camouflage). The Bundeswehr kept its green combat dress throughout the 1980s, however, while trials were conducted. Flecktarn was only widely introduced in 1990 in a newly reunited Germany.
The Dutch government considered Flecktarn, but it was dropped due to financial and political reasons.
In Germany, the Flecktarn camouflage pattern is used by all Bundeswehr service branches, the Heer (army), the Luftwaffe (air force), some Marine (navy) units and even the Sanitätsdienst (medical service). Its official name is 5 Farben-Tarndruck der Bundeswehr (5-color camouflage print of the Bundeswehr). This temperate Flecktarn 5-color scheme consists of 15% light green, 20% light olive, 35% dark green, 20% brown and 10% black. The Dutch military tested the pattern and rejected it, allegedly because it was "too aggressive". Flecktarn was seen as controversial because of its resemblance to the Waffen-SS "peas" and "oak leaves" patterns, which also used dots in various colors.
Six-Color Desert Pattern
The Desert Battle Dress Uniform (DBDU) is a U.S. arid-environment camouflage battle uniform that was used by the United States Armed Forces from the early 1980s to the early to mid 1990s, most notably during the Persian Gulf War. Although the U.S. military has long since abandoned the pattern, it is still in widespread use by militaries across the world as of the early 2020s.
The Desert Battle Dress Uniform was designed in 1976 and uses a camouflage pattern known as the Six-Color Desert Pattern or colloquially as Chocolate-Chip Camouflage and Cookie Dough Camouflage. The camouflage received its nickname because it resembles chocolate-chip cookie dough. It is made up of a base pattern of light tan overlaid with broad swathes of pale green and wide two-tone bands of brown. Clusters of black and white spots are scattered over, to mimic the appearance of pebbles and their shadows.
Although the chocolate-chip camouflage became well known during the Persian Gulf War, it was originally designed decades prior, in 1962. The U.S. Army, believing that it might one day become necessary to intervene in the Arab–Israeli conflicts, developed a test pattern using the deserts of the southwestern United States as a model. When the hostilities in the Middle East wound down, the test pattern was mothballed. The formation of the U.S. Rapid Deployment Force (RDF) in 1979, with its remit to operate in the Middle East, and protect U.S. interests in the Persian Gulf region, saw the need for desert camouflage clothing to emerge again.
With limited issuing dating back to the 1980 mission to the rescue American hostages in Iran, the DBDU was unique, in that when it was officially issued in 1981, the 6-color desert pattern was only issued in limited numbers to division personnel like the U.S. 82nd Airborne or 101st Airborne who deployed to Egypt and the Sinai desert to participate in the "Bright Star" exercise in December 1980. The DBDU was the U.S. Army's first fully functional desert combat pattern from 1981 to 1992.
Like the Army, the DBDU was seldom issued whenever Marines were deployed to participate in the "Bright Star" exercises, but became their standard arid combat uniform by 1985. The 6-color desert pattern was used by the U.S. Marine Corps from 1982 to 1995.
First issued in 1982 for their participation and deployments to arid regions, the DBDU became the United States Air Forces primary desert uniform from 1982 to 1993.
The Desert Battle Dress Uniform was designed in 1976 and uses a camouflage pattern known as the Six-Color Desert Pattern or colloquially as Chocolate-Chip Camouflage and Cookie Dough Camouflage. The camouflage received its nickname because it resembles chocolate-chip cookie dough. It is made up of a base pattern of light tan overlaid with broad swathes of pale green and wide two-tone bands of brown. Clusters of black and white spots are scattered over, to mimic the appearance of pebbles and their shadows.
Although the chocolate-chip camouflage became well known during the Persian Gulf War, it was originally designed decades prior, in 1962. The U.S. Army, believing that it might one day become necessary to intervene in the Arab–Israeli conflicts, developed a test pattern using the deserts of the southwestern United States as a model. When the hostilities in the Middle East wound down, the test pattern was mothballed. The formation of the U.S. Rapid Deployment Force (RDF) in 1979, with its remit to operate in the Middle East, and protect U.S. interests in the Persian Gulf region, saw the need for desert camouflage clothing to emerge again.
With limited issuing dating back to the 1980 mission to the rescue American hostages in Iran, the DBDU was unique, in that when it was officially issued in 1981, the 6-color desert pattern was only issued in limited numbers to division personnel like the U.S. 82nd Airborne or 101st Airborne who deployed to Egypt and the Sinai desert to participate in the "Bright Star" exercise in December 1980. The DBDU was the U.S. Army's first fully functional desert combat pattern from 1981 to 1992.
Like the Army, the DBDU was seldom issued whenever Marines were deployed to participate in the "Bright Star" exercises, but became their standard arid combat uniform by 1985. The 6-color desert pattern was used by the U.S. Marine Corps from 1982 to 1995.
First issued in 1982 for their participation and deployments to arid regions, the DBDU became the United States Air Forces primary desert uniform from 1982 to 1993.
Desert Camo
The Desert Combat Uniform (DCU) is an arid-environment camouflage uniform that was used by the United States Armed Forces from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s. In terms of pattern and textile cut, it is identical to the U.S. military's Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) uniform, but features a three-color desert camouflage pattern of dark brown, pale olive green, and beige, as opposed to the four-color woodland pattern of the BDU. It replaced the previous Desert Battle Dress Uniform (DBDU) which featured a six-color "chocolate chip" pattern of beige, pale olive green, two tones of brown, and black and white rock spots. Although completely phased out of frontline use in the U.S. Armed Forces, some pieces and equipment printed in the DCU camouflage pattern are used in limited numbers such as MOPP suits and/or vests.
History
Developed in the late 1980s and first issued in very limited quantity in 1990 as experimental test patterns, the DCU and its camouflage scheme, officially known as the Desert Camouflage Pattern and known colloquially as "coffee stain camouflage",[6] was developed to replace the six-color desert camouflage "chocolate-chip camouflage" uniform, which was deemed unsuitable for most desert combat theaters. As opposed to the original six-color DBDU, which was meant for a rockier and elevated desert battlefield that was often not encountered, the DCU was created primarily for a lower, more open, and less rocky desert battlefield space which became a common sight throughout the Persian Gulf War. As a replacement pattern, this meant a new arid region had to be utilized to test the effectiveness of the DCU. Desert soil samples from parts of the Middle East, namely Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, were used as testing locations to find the appropriate color palettes.
Though the DCU did exist during the Persian Gulf War, the vast majority of U.S. military personnel in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq wore the DBDU during the entirety of the war, with the exception of some select U.S. Army generals who were issued the DCU a month following the air campaign in Operation Desert Storm. Norman Schwarzkopf, then CENTCOM commander, and leader of U.S. forces during Desert Storm, was issued an M-65 field jacket as well as coat and trousers in the new DCU color pattern shortly before the war ended.
By 1992, the first wide scale batches of DCUs were issued first by the United States Army, and within a year to the United States Air Force, and replaced the majority of the DBDU by 1993, with the United States Navy and Marines replacing their older six-colored desert fatigues from 1993 through 1995.
History
Developed in the late 1980s and first issued in very limited quantity in 1990 as experimental test patterns, the DCU and its camouflage scheme, officially known as the Desert Camouflage Pattern and known colloquially as "coffee stain camouflage",[6] was developed to replace the six-color desert camouflage "chocolate-chip camouflage" uniform, which was deemed unsuitable for most desert combat theaters. As opposed to the original six-color DBDU, which was meant for a rockier and elevated desert battlefield that was often not encountered, the DCU was created primarily for a lower, more open, and less rocky desert battlefield space which became a common sight throughout the Persian Gulf War. As a replacement pattern, this meant a new arid region had to be utilized to test the effectiveness of the DCU. Desert soil samples from parts of the Middle East, namely Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, were used as testing locations to find the appropriate color palettes.
Though the DCU did exist during the Persian Gulf War, the vast majority of U.S. military personnel in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq wore the DBDU during the entirety of the war, with the exception of some select U.S. Army generals who were issued the DCU a month following the air campaign in Operation Desert Storm. Norman Schwarzkopf, then CENTCOM commander, and leader of U.S. forces during Desert Storm, was issued an M-65 field jacket as well as coat and trousers in the new DCU color pattern shortly before the war ended.
By 1992, the first wide scale batches of DCUs were issued first by the United States Army, and within a year to the United States Air Force, and replaced the majority of the DBDU by 1993, with the United States Navy and Marines replacing their older six-colored desert fatigues from 1993 through 1995.
TAZ 83
The Swiss Alpenflage camouflage pattern, officially tied to the TAZ 83 (Tarnanzug 83 or TASS 83), is one of the most distinctive and colorful military camo designs ever issued.
Its story begins in World War II with Germany’s experimental Leibermuster all-terrain pattern (used in limited quantities by the Waffen-SS and Wehrmacht). After the war, Switzerland acquired original German roller-printing machines through Czechoslovakia and adapted the design for its own neutral army.
Early Adoption: TAZ 57 (1955–1957 onward)The Swiss first rolled out the pattern in 1955–1957 as the TAZ 57 (also called TASS 57 or Kampfanzug 57/70 combat dress). This became the standard combat uniform for Swiss troops.
The bright colors might look flashy next to muted NATO patterns, but they actually worked well in Switzerland’s alpine forests, rocky terrain, and even fighting-in-built-up-areas (FIBUA) environments.
The TAZ 83: Lighter Version for Non-Combat Troops (1983–1993)In 1983, the Swiss Army introduced a simplified, lighter-weight uniform called the TAZ 83 (or TASS 83). This was specifically issued to non-combat troops while combat units kept the heavier Kampfanzug 57/70.
Phase-Out and Legacy
Both the TAZ 57/70 and TAZ 83 were replaced starting in 1990–1993 by the TAZ 90 (also called M92), a more subdued four-color version of the same basic drawings but with the red and white flecks removed for better blending in typical Swiss terrain.
A few TAZ 83-pattern shelter halves (Militärblachen) are still in Swiss Army use today alongside green camo versions. The pattern also saw limited foreign use — notably by the Kosovo Liberation Army during the Kosovo War.
When the uniforms hit the surplus market in the 1990s, the striking “pizza” look made Alpenflage an instant collector favorite. Even the International Bird Watching Society once jokingly called it the best camouflage ever made!
In short, the TAZ 83 Alpenflage represents the final chapter of Switzerland’s colorful, Leibermuster-inspired experiment — bold, practical for the Alps, and now a cult classic in militaria circles.
Its story begins in World War II with Germany’s experimental Leibermuster all-terrain pattern (used in limited quantities by the Waffen-SS and Wehrmacht). After the war, Switzerland acquired original German roller-printing machines through Czechoslovakia and adapted the design for its own neutral army.
Early Adoption: TAZ 57 (1955–1957 onward)The Swiss first rolled out the pattern in 1955–1957 as the TAZ 57 (also called TASS 57 or Kampfanzug 57/70 combat dress). This became the standard combat uniform for Swiss troops.
- Two main variants existed: an early lightweight canvas version (lighter colors) and a later heavier twill version with vinyl reinforcements in high-wear areas.
- The same pattern appeared on shelter halves (Militärblachen/zeltbahn), vehicle crew overalls (panzerkombi), helmet covers, and other gear.
- It featured a bold six-color scheme: tan background with random white flecks, a light green base, and overprinted green, red/reddish-brown, and black leaf/branch shapes.
The bright colors might look flashy next to muted NATO patterns, but they actually worked well in Switzerland’s alpine forests, rocky terrain, and even fighting-in-built-up-areas (FIBUA) environments.
The TAZ 83: Lighter Version for Non-Combat Troops (1983–1993)In 1983, the Swiss Army introduced a simplified, lighter-weight uniform called the TAZ 83 (or TASS 83). This was specifically issued to non-combat troops while combat units kept the heavier Kampfanzug 57/70.
- The camouflage pattern was essentially the same Leibermuster-derived Alpenflage (though some sources note minor differences in printing or fabric weight that could affect the final look slightly).
- It also appeared on rain jackets, fragmentation vest covers, and other equipment.
- Production of the entire Alpenflage family (both 57/70 and 83 versions) ran from 1957 until 1993.
Phase-Out and Legacy
Both the TAZ 57/70 and TAZ 83 were replaced starting in 1990–1993 by the TAZ 90 (also called M92), a more subdued four-color version of the same basic drawings but with the red and white flecks removed for better blending in typical Swiss terrain.
A few TAZ 83-pattern shelter halves (Militärblachen) are still in Swiss Army use today alongside green camo versions. The pattern also saw limited foreign use — notably by the Kosovo Liberation Army during the Kosovo War.
When the uniforms hit the surplus market in the 1990s, the striking “pizza” look made Alpenflage an instant collector favorite. Even the International Bird Watching Society once jokingly called it the best camouflage ever made!
In short, the TAZ 83 Alpenflage represents the final chapter of Switzerland’s colorful, Leibermuster-inspired experiment — bold, practical for the Alps, and now a cult classic in militaria circles.
MARPAT Camo
MARPAT Desert Camo
MARPAT (Marine Pattern) is a digital, multi-scale (fractal) camouflage pattern developed specifically for the United States Marine Corps. It uses small rectangular "pixels" of color to disrupt the human outline at both close range (texture blending) and longer distances (shape-breaking), making it more effective than traditional splotchy patterns in varied environments.
Pre-MARPAT Era and MotivationPrior to MARPAT, the USMC (like the rest of the U.S. military) relied on the woodland Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) and three-color Desert Camouflage Uniform (DCU) — shared patterns that didn't give the Marines a distinct identity. In the late 1990s, the Corps decided it wanted its own unique combat uniform to set Marines apart while improving concealment. The inspiration came from Canada's CADPAT (Canadian Disruptive Pattern), the world's first widely adopted digital camouflage introduced in 1996. Although the USMC claimed independent research, camouflage experts widely agree MARPAT is directly based on the CADPAT schematic, with refinements for Marine needs.
Development Timeline (Fastest in U.S. Military History)
Design Features and VariantsMARPAT is printed with natural, medium-toned colors that reflect light realistically. A unique "copyright" feature: tiny USMC Eagle, Globe, and Anchor (EGA) emblems are embedded throughout the fabric (visible on close inspection of authentic material).
Adopted variants:
Rollout and Adoption
Legacy and Current StatusMARPAT proved highly effective in combat (Iraq, Afghanistan, etc.) and influenced other services — the Navy’s NWU Type III is a darker derivative, and many foreign militaries (e.g., Georgia until 2014) adopted or copied it. It remains the standard USMC combat camouflage today, over two decades later, with no full replacement announced for the Corps (unlike the Army’s shift to OCP/MultiCam).
MARPAT marked the U.S. military’s big leap into digital camouflage — and gave the Marines a look that was instantly recognizable as their own.
Pre-MARPAT Era and MotivationPrior to MARPAT, the USMC (like the rest of the U.S. military) relied on the woodland Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) and three-color Desert Camouflage Uniform (DCU) — shared patterns that didn't give the Marines a distinct identity. In the late 1990s, the Corps decided it wanted its own unique combat uniform to set Marines apart while improving concealment. The inspiration came from Canada's CADPAT (Canadian Disruptive Pattern), the world's first widely adopted digital camouflage introduced in 1996. Although the USMC claimed independent research, camouflage experts widely agree MARPAT is directly based on the CADPAT schematic, with refinements for Marine needs.
Development Timeline (Fastest in U.S. Military History)
- April 2000: Preliminary development begins alongside the new Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform (MCCUU).
- 2000–2001: A team including USMC Scout Snipers Kenneth G. Henley and John Joseph Heisterman Jr. (plus civilian experts) evaluates over 150 patterns. They test finalists (including tigerstripe variants and Rhodesian DPM) before settling on a pixelated design. Field trials cover day/night use, optics, wet conditions, and infrared — MARPAT excels because it doesn't appear as a solid blob under IR illumination.
- June 19, 2001: Patent filed for the MARPAT pattern (U.S. Department of the Navy).
- November 7, 2001: Patent filed for the MCCUU uniform itself.
- 2001: First public wear by Lt. Gen. Frank Libutti and Sgt. Maj. Stephen Mellinger. Pattern chosen in a Scout Sniper School run-off against seven competitors.
Design Features and VariantsMARPAT is printed with natural, medium-toned colors that reflect light realistically. A unique "copyright" feature: tiny USMC Eagle, Globe, and Anchor (EGA) emblems are embedded throughout the fabric (visible on close inspection of authentic material).
Adopted variants:
- Woodland MARPAT (black, olive, brown, beige) — for temperate/forest environments.
- Desert MARPAT (tan, brown, coyote) — for arid regions.
Rollout and Adoption
- January 17, 2002: Official debut at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
- Late 2002: First standard issue to officer candidates at Quantico and recruits at MCRD San Diego.
- February 2003: MARPAT helmet covers enter production.
- October 1, 2004: Full replacement of the old BDU/DCU completed — a full year ahead of the original 2005 deadline.
Legacy and Current StatusMARPAT proved highly effective in combat (Iraq, Afghanistan, etc.) and influenced other services — the Navy’s NWU Type III is a darker derivative, and many foreign militaries (e.g., Georgia until 2014) adopted or copied it. It remains the standard USMC combat camouflage today, over two decades later, with no full replacement announced for the Corps (unlike the Army’s shift to OCP/MultiCam).
MARPAT marked the U.S. military’s big leap into digital camouflage — and gave the Marines a look that was instantly recognizable as their own.
MARPAT Woodland Camo
Different ratios and variations of colors were tested before final candidate patterns were actually printed to textile for field trials. A modified version of Vietnam War–era tiger stripe also made it to final trials but was eliminated due to MARPAT being superior in all environments. The purpose of the digitized pattern is to create visual "noise" and prevent the eye from identifying any visual templates. Thus, the pattern is intended to not register as any particular shape or pattern that could be distinguished.
There were initially three MARPAT patterns tested: Woodland, Desert, and Urban. While keeping the rights for Urban, only the Woodland and Desert patterns were adopted by the Marine Corps for general issue, replacing the U.S. Woodland pattern and the U.S. Three-Color Desert pattern. Webbing and equipment worn with MARPAT Woodland and MARPAT Desert is produced in Coyote Brown, a mid-tone color common to both the woodland and desert patterns. Although a digital snow pattern has also been adopted on cold-weather training over-garments, this uses a different pattern from the Canadian company Hyperstealth.
Authentic MARPAT material is distinguishable by a miniature "Eagle, Globe, and Anchor" emblem incorporated into the pattern above the letters "USMC", in both the woodland and desert patterns.
There were initially three MARPAT patterns tested: Woodland, Desert, and Urban. While keeping the rights for Urban, only the Woodland and Desert patterns were adopted by the Marine Corps for general issue, replacing the U.S. Woodland pattern and the U.S. Three-Color Desert pattern. Webbing and equipment worn with MARPAT Woodland and MARPAT Desert is produced in Coyote Brown, a mid-tone color common to both the woodland and desert patterns. Although a digital snow pattern has also been adopted on cold-weather training over-garments, this uses a different pattern from the Canadian company Hyperstealth.
Authentic MARPAT material is distinguishable by a miniature "Eagle, Globe, and Anchor" emblem incorporated into the pattern above the letters "USMC", in both the woodland and desert patterns.
Romanian M94 Mozaic Camo
Romanian M94 Mozaic Camo
The Romanian M94 Mozaic Camo (officially M1994 or "Mantaua model 1994") is a distinctive post-communist era camouflage pattern developed for the Romanian Armed Forces.
Background and DevelopmentAfter the 1989 Romanian Revolution ended communist rule, the military began modernizing its equipment and uniforms, moving away from older Soviet-influenced patterns (such as the 1960s "leaf," "inverse leaf," and "persilla" designs used mainly by reconnaissance units).
The first major new pattern was the M1990 "leaf" (black, brown, and light olive green leaf shapes on a khaki or field grey background), issued widely in the early 1990s. Just four years later, in 1994, Romania introduced the M1994 Mozaic as a completely different indigenous design. Some uniform labels date to 1993, suggesting development or limited production began slightly earlier.
It was created as a modernization effort and often nicknamed "Mozaic" (mosaic) in Romanian or "Fleck" / "spotted camo" in English because of its strong visual resemblance to German Flecktarn. Many collectors and surplus sellers describe it as a hybrid blending elements of US Woodland (larger irregular shapes) and German Flecktarn (dense small spots), though official records simply call it a unique Romanian spotted pattern. It was reportedly optimized for woodland environments like the Transylvanian forests.
Pattern DescriptionThe M94 Mozaic features black, brown, and green spots (sometimes described as "flecks" or mosaic-like shapes) printed over a khaki or light green/tan base. The result is a high-contrast, multi-tone camouflage that breaks up the silhouette effectively in temperate forests. It appeared on lightweight field shirts, parkas (with removable liners), pants, caps, and even tent canopies.
Usage and Service LifeThe M1994 was issued alongside the earlier M1990 pattern throughout the 1990s. Soldiers frequently mixed the two patterns in the same unit or even on the same individual. It saw service during Romania’s transition period and peacekeeping missions in the 1990s.
The pattern was phased out in 2002 when Romania adopted locally produced versions of British Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM / M2002 temperate and desert variants) as part of its preparations to join NATO (which it did in 2004). Both the M1990 and M1994 were gradually replaced.
Variants
In short: M94 Mozaic was Romania’s short-lived but effective 1994–2002 woodland camouflage — a bridge between Soviet-era patterns and modern NATO DPM — developed domestically during the country’s military modernization in the 1990s.
Background and DevelopmentAfter the 1989 Romanian Revolution ended communist rule, the military began modernizing its equipment and uniforms, moving away from older Soviet-influenced patterns (such as the 1960s "leaf," "inverse leaf," and "persilla" designs used mainly by reconnaissance units).
The first major new pattern was the M1990 "leaf" (black, brown, and light olive green leaf shapes on a khaki or field grey background), issued widely in the early 1990s. Just four years later, in 1994, Romania introduced the M1994 Mozaic as a completely different indigenous design. Some uniform labels date to 1993, suggesting development or limited production began slightly earlier.
It was created as a modernization effort and often nicknamed "Mozaic" (mosaic) in Romanian or "Fleck" / "spotted camo" in English because of its strong visual resemblance to German Flecktarn. Many collectors and surplus sellers describe it as a hybrid blending elements of US Woodland (larger irregular shapes) and German Flecktarn (dense small spots), though official records simply call it a unique Romanian spotted pattern. It was reportedly optimized for woodland environments like the Transylvanian forests.
Pattern DescriptionThe M94 Mozaic features black, brown, and green spots (sometimes described as "flecks" or mosaic-like shapes) printed over a khaki or light green/tan base. The result is a high-contrast, multi-tone camouflage that breaks up the silhouette effectively in temperate forests. It appeared on lightweight field shirts, parkas (with removable liners), pants, caps, and even tent canopies.
Usage and Service LifeThe M1994 was issued alongside the earlier M1990 pattern throughout the 1990s. Soldiers frequently mixed the two patterns in the same unit or even on the same individual. It saw service during Romania’s transition period and peacekeeping missions in the 1990s.
The pattern was phased out in 2002 when Romania adopted locally produced versions of British Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM / M2002 temperate and desert variants) as part of its preparations to join NATO (which it did in 2004). Both the M1990 and M1994 were gradually replaced.
Variants
- Standard woodland (most common)
- Urban variant (black, purple, and olive green flecks on light grey) — tested for service but never officially adopted or issued
- Minor color variations exist due to different fabric dyes or manufacturers (e.g., slightly different greens or background shades), but these are production differences rather than official sub-patterns.
In short: M94 Mozaic was Romania’s short-lived but effective 1994–2002 woodland camouflage — a bridge between Soviet-era patterns and modern NATO DPM — developed domestically during the country’s military modernization in the 1990s.
British DPM Camo
British DPM Camo
British DPM (Disruptive Pattern Material) is one of the most iconic and longest-serving camouflage patterns in military history.
When & Why It Was CreatedThe British Army introduced DPM in the early 1960s to replace the plain Olive Green uniforms used since World War II. British camouflage experts at the Royal Armament Research and Development Establishment designed it specifically for the temperate woodlands and rolling hills of Europe and the UK. The goal was a true “disruptive” pattern that would break up the soldier’s outline rather than just blend in.
The PatternThe classic four-color DPM (often called Temperate DPM) uses: Dark green, Olive green, Brown, & Black.
Later versions included a Desert DPM (sand, brown, and khaki) used in the Gulf War and a Jungle variant.
Major Conflicts & LegacyDPM became the standard British Army uniform from the late 1960s all the way through the 2010s. Soldiers wore it in:
Why Collectors & Airsofters Still Love ItDPM is legendary for its effectiveness in European and temperate environments. The pattern is bold yet surprisingly versatile, and the fabric used on original British uniforms was incredibly tough. That’s why so many collectors, airsofters, and reenactors still seek out genuine British DPM field shirts, smocks, trousers, and combat vests.
Shop our genuine British DPM gear → British DPM Camo Field Shirt | British DPM Camo Smock | British DPM Camo FLAK Vest
When & Why It Was CreatedThe British Army introduced DPM in the early 1960s to replace the plain Olive Green uniforms used since World War II. British camouflage experts at the Royal Armament Research and Development Establishment designed it specifically for the temperate woodlands and rolling hills of Europe and the UK. The goal was a true “disruptive” pattern that would break up the soldier’s outline rather than just blend in.
The PatternThe classic four-color DPM (often called Temperate DPM) uses: Dark green, Olive green, Brown, & Black.
Later versions included a Desert DPM (sand, brown, and khaki) used in the Gulf War and a Jungle variant.
Major Conflicts & LegacyDPM became the standard British Army uniform from the late 1960s all the way through the 2010s. Soldiers wore it in:
- The Falklands War (1982)
- Northern Ireland
- The Gulf War (1990–91)
- Bosnia, Kosovo, and many peacekeeping missions
- Early years in Afghanistan and Iraq (before MTP replaced it)
Why Collectors & Airsofters Still Love ItDPM is legendary for its effectiveness in European and temperate environments. The pattern is bold yet surprisingly versatile, and the fabric used on original British uniforms was incredibly tough. That’s why so many collectors, airsofters, and reenactors still seek out genuine British DPM field shirts, smocks, trousers, and combat vests.
Shop our genuine British DPM gear → British DPM Camo Field Shirt | British DPM Camo Smock | British DPM Camo FLAK Vest
British DPM Camo
Czechoslovakian M60 Camo
Czechoslovakian M60 "Raindrop" Camouflage is one of the earliest and most distinctive patterns from the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War. Officially introduced in the 1960s (with the M60 designation), it was developed by the Czechoslovak People's Army as a practical woodland/transition camouflage for Central European forests and fields.
Design & Characteristics
The pattern is nicknamed "Raindrop" (or sometimes "Dewdrop" or "Streak") because of its vertical, elongated streaks of dark green, olive, brown, and tan that run downward across the fabric. These streaks create a disruptive effect that breaks up the human silhouette when viewed from a distance, especially in tall grass, undergrowth, or rainy/dappled forest light. Unlike blocky patterns, the vertical flow mimics falling rain or foliage shadows — hence the name.
Historical Context
Design & Characteristics
The pattern is nicknamed "Raindrop" (or sometimes "Dewdrop" or "Streak") because of its vertical, elongated streaks of dark green, olive, brown, and tan that run downward across the fabric. These streaks create a disruptive effect that breaks up the human silhouette when viewed from a distance, especially in tall grass, undergrowth, or rainy/dappled forest light. Unlike blocky patterns, the vertical flow mimics falling rain or foliage shadows — hence the name.
Historical Context
- 1960s introduction: The M60 pattern was one of the first modern camo designs adopted by the Czechoslovak military after WWII. It replaced earlier plain olive uniforms and was issued during the height of the Cold War.
- Used until the 1980s: It remained in service through the 1970s and into the early 1980s, appearing on field jackets, parkas, trousers, and rain gear.
- Post-1989: After the Velvet Revolution and the end of the Czechoslovak communist regime, the pattern became surplus and highly collectible. It is now one of the most sought-after Cold War-era camos among collectors and airsofters.
- Extremely rare today — very few original pieces remain in good condition.
- The vertical "raindrop" streaks give it a unique, almost artistic look compared to blockier patterns.
- The fabric (usually cotton or cotton blend) was surprisingly durable for its era.
- Iconic for 1960s–1980s Eastern Bloc reenactment and Cold War displays.
Polish Puma Camo
Polish Puma Camo
Polish Puma Camo (also known as Puma wz. 93 or simply Puma pattern) is a distinctive Polish camouflage pattern introduced in the early 1990s. It was developed shortly after the fall of communism as the Polish Army transitioned away from Soviet-era uniforms and sought a more modern, effective woodland camouflage for its own terrain.
Design & CharacteristicsThe Puma pattern consists of bold, irregular “blobs” and streaks in several shades of green, brown, and black on a lighter olive or khaki background. The shapes are relatively large and have a somewhat “puma-like” spotted appearance, which gives the pattern its nickname. Unlike many Western patterns that use small pixels or fine dithering, Puma has a more organic, hand-drawn look with strong vertical and diagonal elements that break up the human silhouette very effectively in Central European forests.
Historical Context
Why Collectors Love It
Puma stands out because of its bold, almost artistic shapes and excellent effectiveness in mixed woodland environments. The pattern has a very “Eastern European” character that collectors find unique compared to Western NATO patterns like Woodland or Flecktarn. It is relatively rare on the surplus market today, making complete uniforms or parkas in good condition especially desirable.
Design & CharacteristicsThe Puma pattern consists of bold, irregular “blobs” and streaks in several shades of green, brown, and black on a lighter olive or khaki background. The shapes are relatively large and have a somewhat “puma-like” spotted appearance, which gives the pattern its nickname. Unlike many Western patterns that use small pixels or fine dithering, Puma has a more organic, hand-drawn look with strong vertical and diagonal elements that break up the human silhouette very effectively in Central European forests.
Historical Context
- Introduced in 1993: Puma was one of the first truly independent Polish camouflage patterns after the end of the Warsaw Pact.
- Primary use: It became the standard camouflage for the Polish Land Forces throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
- Phased out: It was gradually replaced in the mid-2000s by the newer wz. 93 Pantera (Leopard) pattern, which is still in use today.
- Current status: Original Puma uniforms and gear are now considered classic Cold War / post-Cold War surplus and are highly sought after by collectors and airsofters.
Why Collectors Love It
Puma stands out because of its bold, almost artistic shapes and excellent effectiveness in mixed woodland environments. The pattern has a very “Eastern European” character that collectors find unique compared to Western NATO patterns like Woodland or Flecktarn. It is relatively rare on the surplus market today, making complete uniforms or parkas in good condition especially desirable.