Mishall RehmanAbove image courtesy of RCAF. According to the Media Liaison Office, the RCAF ball cap above is an example of the approved ball cap. It is available at CANEX stores.
All Royal Canadian Armed Forces (RCAF) members can now wear the RCAF Ball Cap with all versions of operational dress, according to a recently released memo from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
The RCAF Commander authorized the new dress change, which took effect on June 1, 2023.
However, it is of note that the RCAF Ball Cap cannot be worn with DEU 1, 2 or 3.
“The RCAF Ball Cap is an optional item to be procured at the member’s expense. The only authorized RCAF Ball Cap is the one sold through CANEX,” stated CANFORGEN 088/23.
The Ins & Outs of Wearing the Ball Cap
For those RCAF members wishing to wear the Ball Cap, there are a few things to keep in mind, as outlined by the RCAF.
“The RCAF Ball Cap is authorized for wear at all times where headdress is appropriate. When uniformity is required, or when safety or operational effectiveness dictate, members can be ordered to replace the ball cap with an authorized issued headdress,” added the CANFORGEN.
Other specifics include:
- The RCAF Ball Cap must remain clean and in good condition.
- No “accoutrements” are allowed to be attached to the Ball Cap, and it cannot be modified in any way.
- It must be worn securely and squarely on the head with the brim facing forward. Hair cannot be visible from under the brim or obstruct vision.
- The cap can be secured on the pants on either side when indoors.
- Unit ball caps are authorized but cannot be worn outside the flight line.
For questions, RCAF members can contact the RCAF Chief Warrant Officer EA MWO Sonia Darveau at 613-904-6555.
