Desert Camo 1972 Experimental Six-Color Desert Pattern Mesh Shorts

Desert Camo 1972 Experimental Six-Color Desert Pattern Mesh ShortsBefore it was chocolate chip, it was mint chip. What most people recognize as the iconic six color chocolate chip desert camo of Desert Storm fame actually started its weird little life back in the 1960s, when the U. S. military began experimenting with camouflage suitable for arid environmentsthanks in large part to rising tensions in the Middle East. By 1972, the Natick Labs had developed a version of the desert camouflage that looked quite

Before it was “chocolate chip,” it was mint chip.

What most people recognize as the iconic six-color “chocolate chip” desert camo of Desert Storm fame actually started its weird little life back in the 1960s, when the U.S. military began experimenting with camouflage suitable for arid environments—thanks in large part to rising tensions in the Middle East. By 1972, the Natick Labs had developed a version of the desert camouflage that looked quite different from the Gulf War classic. Instead of the warm beige and brown palette we now associate with desert camo, this early contract featured muted green tones mixed with khaki and sand—like it couldn’t quite decide if it was headed to war or a safari.

This rare pattern never saw large-scale deployment. It was shelved for years—mothballed until the late 1970s and eventually resurrected (with edits) for testing in desert environments. It wasn’t until the 1980s that it evolved into the six-color desert camouflage used in the Gulf War. But this 1972 version? It’s where it all started.

Dan recreated this rare camo from scratch, reverse-engineered from a vintage USAF flight jacket. No scans. No shortcuts. Just a labor of love, a heat gun, and a lot of staring at faded nylon under a magnifying lamp.

These shorts are the perfect choice for those who need flexibility in their attire. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running errands or enjoying an outdoor activity, they’ll be your trusty companion. Look good, feel good, and stay comfortable, all with the unisex mesh shorts.

• 100% recycled polyester fabric
• Fabric weight in the EU (may vary by 5%): 5.61 oz./yd.² (190 g/m²)
• Fabric weight in the US (may vary by 5%): 4.42 oz./yd.² (150 g/m²)
• Two-way stretch fabric
• Moisture-wicking material
• Regular fit
• UPF50+ protection
• Elastic waistband
• The fabric is OEKO-TEX 100 standard certified
• The recycled content of this product is certified by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) for EU-manufactured items, and by the Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) for items manufactured in the US

Size guide