Last Updated on April 27, 2023

Deploying to the desert is no joke. The extreme heat, blistering sun, and harsh terrain can push even the most experienced soldier to their limits. To ensure that you can perform at your best, it’s essential to have the right gear and clothing.

From lightweight and breathable clothing to durable boots and accessories, there are many options available to help you survive and thrive in the desert. When it comes to desert deployment, having the right gear and clothing can make all the difference in staying safe, comfortable, and efficient.

Without proper equipment, the intense heat and rugged conditions can quickly take their toll, leading to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other health issues. That’s why it’s important to invest in high-quality gear that can withstand the rigors of desert deployment and keep you protected from the elements.

As part of the Amazon Associate programme, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Desert Deployment Gear List
Desert Deployment Gear List

Clothing

Shirts

When it comes to clothing for desert deployment, look for quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric, sun protection, and anti-odor technology.

  • Under Armour Men’s Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve T-Shirt – This shirt is made from quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you cool and dry in hot and humid conditions. It has anti-odor technology that prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes, making it ideal for extended wear.
  • Columbia Men’s PFG Tamiami II Shirt – This shirt is designed for hot and sunny conditions, with Omni-Shade UPF 40 sun protection and Omni-Wick technology that pulls moisture away from the body to keep you cool and dry.

Pants

For pants, lightweight and breathable fabric, UPF 50 sun protection, and pockets are important.

  • Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pants – These pants are lightweight, breathable, and provide UPF 50 sun protection. They can be converted into shorts for added versatility and have a zip-closed security pocket to keep your valuables safe.
  • PrAna Men’s Stretch Zion Pant – These pants are made from stretchy and durable fabric that resists water, abrasion, and wrinkles. They have UPF 50+ sun protection and multiple pockets for storage.

Underwear

The best underwear for desert deployment is made from breathable and moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly and resists odor.

Tactical Scarf

Tactical desert scarves (Shemaghs, Keffiyeh) are ideal for desert deployment due to their ability to provide protection from the sun, wind, and sand.

  • Condor Shemagh – This scarf is made from 100% cotton and is designed to provide protection from the sun, wind, and sand. It can be worn in a variety of ways and comes in a variety of colors.
  • Rothco Tactical Shemagh – This scarf is made from a cotton-polyester blend and is lightweight and breathable. It can be used as a head wrap, scarf, or face mask, providing protection and versatility.

Footwear

Tactical Boots

Having the right pair of boots is crucial for desert deployment. Here are two additional options to consider:

  • Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boots: These boots are made with breathable mesh and durable suede leather, making them a great option for hot weather. They also provide excellent support and traction, thanks to their Vibram outsole and air cushion heel.
  • Rocky Men’s S2V Predator Military Boot: This boot is made with durable leather and nylon and features a moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry. The Vibram sole provides excellent traction, and the boot has a supportive, cushioned footbed.

Socks

Wearing the right desert hiking socks can help prevent blisters and keep your feet comfortable during long desert hikes. Here are two additional options to consider:

  • Darn Tough Men’s Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion: These socks are made with merino wool and feature a cushioned footbed, making them a great option for long hikes. They also have a seamless construction to prevent blisters and hot spots.
  • Injinji Men’s Run Lightweight No-Show Toe Socks: These socks are designed to reduce friction between toes, preventing blisters and improving overall foot health. They’re also made with moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry and cool.

Accessories

Tactical Sunglasses

Protecting your eyes from the harsh desert sun is essential to avoid health issues and “sand” blindness. Two highly recommended options are:

  • Oakley Men’s Gascan Sunglasses: These sunglasses are made with Plutonite lenses that filter out 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400nm. They are also impact resistant and provide enhanced clarity.
  • Smith Optics Elite Aegis Arc Eyeshield Tactical Sunglasses: These sunglasses are designed for tactical use and provide superior eye protection with their high-impact lenses. They are also lightweight and offer excellent field of vision.

Tactical Watch

A reliable watch can help you keep track of time and stay on schedule in the desert. Two highly recommended options are:

  • Garmin Instinct Tactical GPS Watch: This watch is built to military standards and offers a range of tactical features such as GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite positioning. It also has a built-in 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, and heart rate monitor.
  • Casio Men’s G-Shock Mudmaster GG-B100-1AJF Watch: This watch is designed for extreme conditions and is mud-resistant, shock-resistant, and water-resistant up to 200 meters. It also has a built-in compass, thermometer, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Read also: Best Camo for Desert Deployment

Leave a Reply