Army Uniforms Aren't Making the Grade

Army uniforms have an embarrassing problem—they’re tearing open at the crotch. New uniforms rolled out in 2005 use single stitching at the inseam, and soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan report "crotch durability problems" in combat. The troops are “literally sliding down steep hills and mountains," an Army spokesman tells USA Today.

A million pairs of pants have been repaired to bolster seams, the Army reports. "Any well-made uniform should maintain its stitch in virtually all combat situations except direct fire," an analyst notes. The Army is investigating improvements, including a new uniform of more rugged material and a garment to be worn over the current uniform. (More uniforms stories.)