The Boy Scouts of America has always been a uniformed body. Its uniforms help to create a sense of belonging. They symbolize character development, leadership, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Wearing a uniform gives youth and adult members a sense of identification and commitment. 

Personal equality. The uniform represents a democratic idea of equality, bringing people of different racial, economic, religious, national, ethnic, political, and geographic backgrounds together in the Scouting tradition.  

Identification. The uniform identifies youth and adult members of the Boy Scouts of America, visible as a force for good in the community. When properly and smartly worn, the uniform can build good unit spirit. When worn on the correct occasions, it can attract new members.  

Achievement. The uniform shows the wearer’s activity, responsibility, and achievement. What each youth or adult member has accomplished with program opportunities can be recognized by the insignia worn on the uniform.  

Personal commitment. The uniform is a constant reminder to all Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, Venturers, Sea Scouts, and adults of their commitment to the ideals and purpose of the Boy Scouts of America. The uniform is a way of making visible members’ commitment to a belief in God, loyalty to country, and helping others at all times.

Everyone in Scouts BSA should feel part of the troop, respected, and safe during Scouting activities. By following these guidelines, we can help create a positive environment where everyone can enjoy Scouting. 

TYPES OF UNIFORMS 

Field Uniform (Class A) - This is the official BSA uniform, and it's encouraged for activities, meetings, and events. It helps show our pride in being a Scout and part of Scouting America. 

Activity Uniform (Class B) - This is a more relaxed option for activities where a full uniform isn’t necessary or ideal. Usually, it includes a Scouting America or troop t-shirt that represents Scouting and keeps everyone feeling like part of the group. 

Uniforms are an important part of Scouting but they are not mandatory for participation. A Scout cannot be prevented from participation or advancement due to lack of uniform.

GENERAL CLOTHING GUIDELINES 

When choosing clothes for any Scouting activity, please follow these guidelines: 

Safety First: Choose clothing and footwear that’s safe for the activity. For example, we wear clothes that will protect us from the weather, won’t get in the way of any equipment, and follow Scouting America safety guidelines for the activities we are participating in. 

Respectful Choices: Avoid clothing with words, images, or symbols that could be seen as offensive, including anything political, violent, sexual, or promoting disrespect toward any group. 

Religious, Cultural, and Medical Needs: We may wear alternative headgear or clothing for religious, cultural, or medical reasons, if it’s safe to do so and doesn’t block vision. 

SPECIAL GUIDELINES FOR AQUATIC ACTIVITIES 

Swimwear should be secure, clean, and designed specifically for swimming. For extra sun protection, we may wear a rash guard or T-shirt as long as it’s safe for the activity.