Who wears scrub cap ? A must-have uniform

In the world of uniforms, the scrub cap holds an important place as an emblematic headdress. Worn by various professional and military bodies, it is a distinctive and symbolic element of their uniform. But who really wears the scrub cap, and what characterizes it? Discover the secrets behind this essential French headdress.

The scrub cap, kepi and police cap: historical origins

The scrub cap has its roots in the French military tradition, where it has evolved over time to give rise to a variety of different headgear styles. These include

• The kepi, worn by gendarmes and other French law enforcement officers, is characterized by its rigid, domed shape and short visor;
• The police cap, heir to the shako and worn by French soldiers until the First World War, features a flexible, foldable shape adapted to life in the field;
• The scrub cap itself, which is distinguished by its flat, close-fitting shape at the top of the skull, with side flaps protecting the ears and nape of the neck.

Today, these three types of headdress are still in use in the French uniform, each with its own specificities and occasions.

The various professional bodies carrying the scrub cap

Although it originated in the military, the scrub cap has been adopted over time by other professions, making this headdress an essential part of work attire for certain trades in France. Among the professional bodies that wear the scrub cap are :

• Military personnel, whose scrub cap is an integral part of the combat uniform for the various armies (army, air force, navy) and the Foreign Legion;
• Firefighters, who also wear scrub cap as part of their official uniform, with specific colors and insignia for each rank and function;
• Municipal police officers, whose scrub cap is a traditional headdress that complements the kepi for certain occasions and ceremonies;
• Customs officers, who also wear scrub cap as part of their border control and surveillance duties;
• Prison officers, for whom scrub cap is part of their uniform when on duty in prisons.
• Health professionals, for whom scrub cap is mandatory in certain professions due to health standards.
• Catering professionals, for whom scrub cap is important due to hygiene standards.

scrub cap in other countries

While scrub cap is particularly associated with French uniforms, it can also be found in the uniforms of other countries. Similar headdresses can be found in:

• In theU.S. Army, where the scrub cap (or "patrol cap") is part of the combat uniform and is worn by infantry soldiers in particular;
• In some European armed forces, such as Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, scrub cap is also used as military headgear;
• In some Anglo-Saxon countries, volunteer firefighters wear a similar scrub cap when out in the field.

scrub cap features: materials, colors and badges

The scrub cap is distinguished by its specific design, which meets several aesthetic and practical criteria:

1. Choice of materials: usually made from hard-wearing fabrics (such as cotton or polyester), scrub cap must offer good protection against the elements, while remaining comfortable to wear;
2. Colors: each professional body has its own color of scrub cap, generally matching the rest of the uniform. Shades can vary from navy blue to khaki green, and even red for specific functions (such as firefighters);
3. Badges: the central element of scrub cap, the embroidered or sewn badge on the front quickly identifies the wearer's rank and function. Depending on the profession, it may also be adorned with braids, bars or other distinctive signs.

Personalizing scrub cap : an expression of belonging and pride

Finally, beyond its practical and symbolic role, the scrub cap also offers the possibility of personalizing work attire, making it an object of pride for the wearer. Numerous options exist for customizing your scrub cap :

• The addition of patches representing specific units, operations or missions;
• The choice of a different color for the side flaps or border, to distinguish between different grades;
• Personalized embroidery, such as names, nicknames or slogans, to reinforce the sense of belonging to a group or institution.

In short, the scrub cap is much more than just a headdress: it is a true symbol of the French uniform, worn with pride by those who have chosen to serve their country or community. Whether in the military, the fire department, the police or other professions, the scrub cap is an integral part of the uniform, and a testament to the commitment and dedication of those who wear it.