Tiger Stripe Camo FAQs

Tiger stripe camo, closely associated with the South Vietnamese Army and influenced by earlier French camo patterns that were introduced during the First Indochina War, such as lizard patterns and the tenue de leopard pattern, is a unique and memorable camouflage pattern that still has applications, even just if for fashion. Here are some things you should know; see if your questions are answered here, and if not, get in touch with us and we will see if we can help.

What Is Tiger Stripe Camo?

Tiger stripe camo is a type of camouflage consisting primarily of brown and green macros that are arranged in an interrupted horizontal pattern. This pattern is designed to break up the outline of a wearer when the backdrop consists primarily of (or at least contains) broad-leafed foliage that mimics the pattern. 

The very first tiger stripe pattern was developed sometime in the 1950s and was derivative of a French lizard pattern that was created for the Vietnamese Marine Corps. This first tiger stripe pattern consisted of broad black and brown stripes with light green traces over a background of an olive green color. 

While tiger stripe camo in general is associated with Vietnam, specifically South Vietnam, variants known as “John Wayne Dense” or JWD, were produced for use in parts of Japan, specifically Okinawa. 

While most tiger stripe camo patterns were produced during the Vietnam War, it is also the case that Thailand produced some tiger stripe patterns, retaining the same or similar elements that were designed and used after the war. Ecuador is also notable for having produced a few tiger stripe patterns, and unique in that the Ecuadorian patterns contain some red elements that are missing in other tiger stripe patterns produced elsewhere. 

Where is Tiger Stripe Camo Effective?

Because tiger stripe pattern uses a predominantly green and drab earth tone color scheme, and because the macros and micros are horizontally aligned, like foliage, tiger stripe patterns are most effective in deciduous jungle, such as tropical or equatorial jungle. This should come as no surprise considering the fact that it was used during the Vietnam War. 

It can offer limited effectiveness in northern latitudes, but it would not be particularly effective against a sparse, arid or snowy backdrop.

What Happened to It?

Tiger stripe camo didn’t really ever disappear, at least not from an American lens, since it was never formally or officially adopted by any branch of the United States military. Wherever it was used by American servicemen, patterns were purchased, tailored or customized locally and were not issued by official sources. 

Regardless, tiger stripe camo patterns remain popular not just among collectors for their niche historic value, but among those that are looking for a unique camouflage pattern for use in certain outdoor sports like airsoft and paintball, especially those who appreciate patterns with a historic tinge that can still be effective against a green, wooded background. 

Also, tiger stripe camo, partially as a result of its vintage appeal, is popular for its use in fashion, which we will cover in more detail here. 

Are There Any Militaries That Still Use It?

Today, there are units in several countries that use some or other variant of tiger stripe camouflage, including in Argentina, the Dominican Republic, France (the French Foreign Legion), Haiti, the Philippines, Russia and Thailand, in their Border Patrol, the Royal Thai Police, and Thai Police Aerial Reinforcement Unit. 

Are There Other Tiger Stripe Camo Colorways?

There are many modern tiger stripe camo colorways, some of which are not particularly effective for camouflage but which have aesthetic value for fashion purposes. For instance, here we sell some tiger stripe patterns that are predominantly blue or pink. 

How Can I Pair Tiger Stripe Camo Clothing and Accessories?

Tiger stripe camo can be paired with other clothing and accessories as long as you keep to a few maxims: 

• Try not to mix camo patterns. 
• If possible, pair other clothing and accessories that match the colors in the tiger stripe camo pattern of your choice. 
• Don’t wear all camo. 
• Don’t mix camo with other clothing (especially shirts) that have graphics or patterns, as it will likely clash with your camo pattern. 

These are just a few high level pointers but of course you should try a few experiments to see what looks good together and what doesn’t. That’s the best way to cultivate your unique sense of style. 

Shop Tiger Stripe Camo Here 

In the market for some new tiger stripe camo cargo shorts or a new camo t-shirt? Check out our collection and stock up, and if you’re looking for ways to match your camo, see our previous blog, A Camo Cargo Shorts Style Guide, and of course, if you still have questions, get in touch with us.