Arid Multicam

Arid Multicam is the desert-tuned version of Multicam, optimized for open sand, rocky deserts, and dry savanna. Developed by Crye Precision in 2013, it removes dark greens and blacks of original Multicam and replaces them with light tan and brown for arid environments.

History & Origin

Crye Precision launched Multicam family in 2002, Arid variant released 2013 after US Army OCP adoption. Designed after feedback from Afghanistan Helmand desert. Officially licensed to 200+ factories worldwide, including Egyptian military suppliers.

Specifications

• Pattern: 7-color gradient blend - no sharp blobs, organic flow
• Pantone: Tan 7527C, Brown 7510C, Dark Brown 476C, Sand 7506C, Light Tan 4685C
• Fabric: 50/50 NyCo Ripstop, 100% Nylon Taslan, Polyester Mesh
• NIR: Full NIR and SWIR compliant, low gloss
• Repeat: 25x36 inch non-directional, micro and macro layers
• Feature: No black - darkest is brown 476C for desert shadow

Color Analysis

• Light Tan 35% - open sand base
• Dark Brown 20% - shadows and rocks
• Sand Brown 25% - mid transition
• Off-White 20% - sun-bleached glare
• No green, no black - pure arid palette

Uses

• Terrain: Open desert, dunes, rocky wadis, dry savanna, Middle East
• Branches: US SOCOM, US Army in Middle East, UKSF, Australian SASR, Egyptian Thunderbolt Forces
• Gear: Combat shirts, plate carriers, backpacks, hats, uniforms for desert ops

Comparison vs Original Multicam

Original Multicam has green and dark brown for woodland transition. Arid removes all green, lightens base by 30%, better at 100m+ in open sand. At short range under 25m, original Multicam better in mixed terrain. Arid best above 50m desert.

Why It Works

Gradient blending tricks human eye, no hard edges, mimics sand shadows. Works both day and dusk because brown shades match desert sunset. Low gloss fabric reduces detection by scopes.

Care & Authenticity

• Original Crye has Crye tag with lot number and NIR stamp
• Wash cold 30°C, no fabric softener, NIR degrades with heat over 60°C
• Licensed versions have Multicam hologram on selvedge
• Fake often too yellow or missing micro-pattern dots