Functional underwear from Recon Company – base layers for duty, operations and the outdoors

Functional underwear is the most frequently underestimated piece of kit. Anyone who is on the move for hours on end – whether on training exercises, on duty or on long marches – will realise, by the second kilometre at the latest, whether their base layer is up to scratch or not. At Recon Company, we put together our range of underwear based on the same requirements we apply to procurement projects for public authorities: moisture management, fit under load and durability in continuous use. Having been in the business for over 30 years, we know which materials and cuts stand the test of time.

Merino or synthetics – choose your material based on duration of use

If you need to go several days without changing your underwear, opt for merino base layers: merino wool regulates body temperature, wicks moisture away and prevents odours thanks to its antibacterial properties – even after your second bivouac. Synthetic base layers made from polyester or polyamide dry more quickly after periods of exertion and can withstand more wash cycles without losing their shape, making them the more economical choice for training and operational use. Blended merino and synthetic fabrics combine both properties and are therefore a top choice for many emergency services personnel.

Long or short – choose the cut according to temperature and activity level

Short functional underwear and boxer shorts are the standard for moderate temperatures and physical activity: they fit snugly against the skin, are quiet under trousers and do not slip under the hip belt. In cold weather, long thermal underwear bridges the gap between the skin and combat trousers, forming the first thermal layer in the layering system. In sub-zero temperatures, a well-fitting pair of long thermal underpants is more effective than any additional outer layer. Flat seams or seamless constructions prevent pressure points, which can otherwise become a real nuisance during long marches with heavy loads.

Fit under tactical gear

Tactical base layer trousers fit close to the body without being restrictive. The waistband must not bulge or slip under the hip belt or combat belt; wide elasticated cuffs without metal parts are the right choice here. The compression properties promote blood circulation and reduce muscle fatigue during long periods of standing or marching. If you want to build a complete system, you’ll find suitable functional vests and mid-layer shirts right here.

Our range: suitable for duty from the barracks to the field

We stock functional base layers from brands such as Under Armour, Woolpower, Brynje, Aclima, Helikon, Pentagon and others – manufacturers we know from years of collaboration and whose products we have assessed ourselves under real-world conditions. The range extends from robust training options made from quick-drying synthetic fibres to merino base layers – familiar to men who have survived three days of winter bivouacking without a resupply of kit. Anyone who wears a plate carrier or rucksack for hours on end should always test the fit under a full load, not on a hanger.

• Odour-free even after several days’ use: the long merino base layer makes changing your underwear an option, not a necessity.
• Quick-drying and machine-washable: synthetic base layers withstand frequent washing during training without losing their shape.
• As the first thermal layer in the layering system, the long thermal base layer fills the gap between the skin and combat trousers in cold weather without restricting freedom of movement.
• Boxer shorts with compression properties stabilise the muscles during long-distance marches and reduce pressure points under the hip belt.
• Seamless base layer design: Prevents chafing on the thighs and groin, particularly important during long deployments carrying heavy loads.

Recon Company – Expert advice backed by 30 years of field experience

Our team can advise you on choosing the right functional underwear, either online or in-store in Salzgitter. We know the difference between a summer exercise with a daily change of underwear and a winter march involving three days’ bivouacking.

• For emergency services and their families: a discount for public sector staff available on request
• Emergency services personnel worldwide can contact us via field post
• Direct expert advice from the Recon Team, by telephone, email or in-store in Salzgitter
• ISO 9001 certified: audited quality processes for procurement and order fulfilment