How to Roll Sleeves on BDUs

Rolling the sleeves of battle dress uniforms, or BDUs, serves a number of purposes. It, of course, keeps the wearer cool in warm weather. It also keeps baggy sleeves from getting caught or stuck in machinery or equipment, making it a safety measure. Regulations regarding rolled sleeves also ensure the uniform looks crisp. Furthermore, these regulations ensure everyone looks the same. Although members of the various armed services wear BDUs, the regulations are, for the most part, the same across the board.

Things You'll Need

• Ruler
• BDU jacket

Instructions

1. Put on the jacket and button it up. Attach all patches or insignia before rolling so you know the placement of all the pieces.

2. Pull the sleeve up so the excess fabric is above the top of your arm and elbow.

3. Fold the excess fabric over onto the sleeve so the sleeve is now snug, although not tight.

4. Measure 3 inches from the bottom of the sleeve.

5. Roll the sleeve up, with the underside of the fabric now exposed. Make sure the excess fabric you folded on itself remains tucked. The cuff you make should be 3 inches wide.

6. Continuing rolling up the arm, until the bottom of the sleeve is 3 inches above your elbow.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow your service and command regulations regarding uniforms. Your particular command may not permit rolled sleeves.

References

• Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service (Corps): Uniforms by LCDR Kyle Lyons
• Atlantacoa.com: Everything You Need to Know about Battle Dress Uniform