Ask anyone what a British Army jumper looks like and they will describe the same thing: a heavy ribbed wool crew-neck in green, with cloth patches on the shoulders and elbows. Soldiers call it the woolly pully, and it is one of the most recognisable pieces of British military clothing.
What the patches are for
The cloth patches are not decoration. The shoulder patches take the wear from rifle slings and pack straps, which would otherwise rub through the wool. The elbow patches protect the place every jumper wears out first. On issue jumpers the shoulder patches often carry epaulettes, so a rank slide can be worn on them.
Army, Navy and RAF
The three services each have their own colour:
- Army: olive green.
- Royal Navy: navy blue.
- RAF: air force blue-grey, and the RAF also has a V-neck utility jumper.
Genuine issue or military-style?
- Genuine issue jumpers are ex-forces stock, graded by condition. Some come with badges still sewn on, which collectors like.
- Military-style commando jumpers are new, in more colours, and made to the same classic pattern.
Sizing
Issue jumpers are sized by chest measurement in centimetres, often in steps such as 88, 94, 100 and 106. Measure around the fullest part of your chest and choose the nearest size, going up if you want to wear a shirt underneath. Our listings show the size on each label.
Looking after wool
- Wash cool by hand or on a wool cycle. Hot water shrinks wool for good.
- Dry it flat, not on a hanger, or it will stretch out of shape.
- Store it folded, with something to keep moths away.
Shop the kit
Commando and utility jumpers in stock now.
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Navy Commando Jumper British Forces Issued Combat Pullover
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Army Type Jumper Commando Pullover Sweater Crew Neck Warm
Army Commando Jumper With Sewn Badges British Military Iss
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