Scout Uniforms

Sports teams and companies use uniforms every day to build teamwork and camaraderie. Uniforms in Scouting are an important part of the program. It reminds each member of their connection to the Scout next to them and helps represent the Scouting movement to the public.

Below is the list of uniform parts used by Troop 542 along with images to help guide Scouts and parents. Most of these uniform parts (including patches) are available in our uniform exchange for minimal or no cost.

Class A Uniform

  • Scout Shirt – Either short or long sleeves are fine. A pair of olive epaulets is worn on the shirt
  • Scout Pants: Most of us wear long Scout pants in cool weather and short pants in the summer
  • Scout Socks: Official Scout socks are required if the Scout is wearing shorts, and are desirable with long pants as well
  • Scout Belt: Either the standard issue BSA belt or a special BSA belt from a camp or high adventure base is acceptable
  • Patches: You need a Troop numeral (542), a Council shoulder strip, and a patrol patch (Find out which patrol your son is joining before buying this patch). Earned badges are presented by the Troop at courts of honor. Collectible patches are given out at special events or can be purchased at Scout camps. The insignia templates in the covers of your Scout handbook show where the patches should be placed
  • Neckerchief: A neckerchief and slide will be presented to your son by the Troop at the time of his investiture ceremony. Special slides can be purchased or handmade by Scouts as well.
  • Merit Badge Sash: Scouts need this sash once they have six merit badges

Class B Uniform

  • Scout Pants: Same as regular uniform; long Scout pants in cool weather and shorts in the summer
  • Scout Socks: Same as regular uniform; official Scout socks are required if the Scout is wearing short pants, and are desirable with long pants as well
  • Scout Belt: Same as Class A uniform above
  • Troop Tee Shirt: A Troop 542 Tee Shirt is worn in place of the official Scout Shirt, Neckerchief, and Slide. Troop Tees are available for sale in the uniform exchange at any meeting