Military<The Real McCoy's TIGER CAMOUFLAGE PARKA / ADVISOR KHAKI

The TIGER CAMOUFLAGE PARKA / ADVISOR is a showcase of Vietnamese tailoring during the conflict in Vietnam. The camouflage parka was not a standard issue garment, though US serviceman would enlist local tailors to craft souvenirs or custom uniform using different patterns. In this instance, the crafting of a tiger stripe camo parka or poncho which doubled as essential wet weather clothing.

The origins of Tiger Stripe camouflage trace back to the French 'lizard' pattern, also known as Tenue Du Leopard. The pattern is often credited to the Vietnamese, due to the Republic of Vietnam Marine Corps making subtle changes to the lizard camouflage and using it to reflect the thick jungle conditions and intense tropical heat of Vietnam, by incorporating bold black stripes over shades of green and brown.

The Tiger Stripe pattern gained significant recognition during the Vietnam War when it was unofficially embraced by the U.S. Armed forces. Many young servicemen opted for the Tiger Stripe over the official issue ERDL pattern. USMAAG advisors were even authorised to wear the combat uniform of their Vietnamese units, leading to the production of many uniforms by local tailors. This diversity in production explains the myriad variations seen in the pattern.

Among the various tiger stripe iterations, the Advisor Tiger Stripe emerged as a mid-war pattern in Vietnam, prevalent from 1968 until the conflict's conclusion. Widely utilised by LRRP/Ranger Units, SF, SOG, CIDG, and ARVN units, they earned the moniker "Gold Tigers" due to their characteristic fading into golden tones and purple-blacks. This particular pattern stands as a testament to the adaptability and practicality of military attire in responding to the unique challenges posed by different theatres of operation.

In recreating this iconic camouflage pattern, we have hand printed and dyed on to a dense cotton twill fabric, achieving an authentic weight and overall atmosphere. Details include, an adjustable drawcord hem and hood, full zip through closure with deerskin tab and glass bead detailing.