Most UBACS sleeves feature Ripstop fabric (see our article on blouses and combat shirts for more) and are often equipped with tactical pockets on the shoulders. The torso section is made from lightweight, elastic fabric that wicks away sweat, regulates temperature, and keeps you comfortable.

UBACS – Under Body Armour Combat Shirt  - Combat shirt designed to be worn with a plate carrier

In short, a tactical combat shirt combines a breathable, elastic top with durable, rip-resistant sleeves, perfectly suited for wearing under plate carriers or chest rigs.

UBACS in Military and Police Use

While primarily designed for military personnel, UBACS shirts are also used by specialized police units. For example, the Czech Police forces wear an all-black UBACS and tactical pants, rather than camouflage patterns.

UBACS vs. Combat Blouse: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a breakdown of the main differences and pros/cons between a UBACS and a traditional combat blouse:

1. Flexibility – Thanks to elastic materials, a UBACS allows for a greater range of motion in shooting positions and is generally more comfortable than a blouse.
2.  Breathability – The torso fabric is designed to wick moisture and release heat. A blouse, on the other hand, uses the same heavier material across the entire garment, making it hotter and sweatier over time. Note: A combat blouse provides better insulation and overall protection for the body.
3.  Design Purpose – A blouse can double as a lightweight jacket, while a UBACS acts more like a base layer shirt. UBACS is ideal for warm weather but layering (e.g., throwing a hoodie over it) is tricky.
4.  Visual Appearance – Blouses are uniform in camo throughout, while UBACS shirts feature contrasting colors/materials between the torso and sleeves. However, when worn with tactical gear, UBACS looks cohesive and professional.
5.  Practicality – UBACS wins hands-down. It allows for better heat regulation and smoother integration of plate carriers and chest rigs without "overheating."

What materials are UBACS made from?

Typically, UBACS shirts combine two types of materials:

•  Torso area: ~70% polyester and ~30% cotton (polyester provides elasticity, cotton improves breathability).
•  Sleeves: Heavy-duty cotton reinforced with Ripstop weave for durability and tear-resistance.

Interested in learning more about Ripstop fabrics, cotton vs polyester? Check out our article on combat blouses and shirts!

How to choose the Right UBACS for you?

Think about what matters most during your games:

•  What equipment you wear
•  Your desired style and functionality
•  Weather conditions you usually play in

Airsoft isn't just about skills — it's also about how you present yourself!

If you use a plate carrier, chest rig, or need maximum flexibility, breathability, and a modern tactical look, then a UBACS is perfect for you.

One downside: during early mornings or at night, the lighter UBACS might feel chilly — but you can easily fix that by tossing on a light jacket (e.g., a Snugpak).

If you're playing in colder weather or prefer a classic old-school military style, we recommend a Combat blouse instead.

Recommended UBACS Brands?

For beginners or budget-conscious players:

· Specna Arms, CONQUER, EMERSON or Invader gear, Sixmm offer excellent entry-level options.

For players seeking premium quality:

· Clawgear and produce higher-end UBACS shirts that are worth the investment in the long run.

· Premium UBACS shirts maintain colors better and often feature licensed camouflage patterns (e.g., genuine Multicam by Clawgear).

TIP: Investing in a quality UBACS shirt ensures durability, comfort, and performance across countless airsoft games.