The Army Combat Uniform (ACU) is the current combat uniform worn by the United States Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force and some elements of the U.S. Coast Guard. Within the Air Force and Space Force, it is referred to as the OCP (Operational Camouflage Pattern) Uniform, rather than the Army Combat Uniform.
1. ACU vs OCP
We're throwing a lot of abbreviations at you, but it's beneficial to note that OCP is the pattern of camouflage, while ACU stands for Army Combat Uniform. OCP is the pattern of camo worn on Army Combat Uniforms (ACU) for the US Army, Air Force, and Space Force.
2. ACU and BDU
Key features of the ACU include: Modern Design: Unlike the button-up design of the BDU, the ACU uniform is designed with Velcro closures for ease of use and faster adjustments in the field.
Primarily used in the U.S. Army's Combat Uniform (ACU), the Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP), also known as ACUPAT or "digicam", was developed as a "universal camouflage" that works equally well across various environments, be it desert, woodland/jungle or urban settings.
The Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) is a camouflaged combat uniform that was used by the United States Armed Forces as their standard combat uniform from the early 1980s to the mid-2000s. Since then, it has been replaced or supplanted in every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Battle Dress Uniform.
BDU pants have a distinct six-pocket configuration, with drawstring leg closures. These pants should sit comfortably at the natural waist, with adjustable waist tabs for a secure fit. They should also be roomy enough for movement, without being bulky. The legs should be long enough to tuck into boots if needed.
Still, if you're looking to prioritize comfort and breathability, go with 100% cotton. BDUs made in a 65% polyester / 35% cotton twill are ultra-durable. They maintain great color integrity (which means they won't lose their color when they're washed), and they're resistant to shrinkage.