ASTEC AMERICA Unveils Revolutionary "Enlisted Dress Blue" - Comfort & Pride, Reimagined for Service Members

Denver, CO – November 8, 2023 – ASTEC AMERICA LLC, a leading provider of innovative textile solutions, today announced the launch of “Enlisted Dress Blue,” a groundbreaking uniform component designed to dramatically improve comfort and durability for enlisted personnel across all branches of the U.S. military. Based out of Denver, Colorado, ASTEC AMERICA has spent the last two years quietly working with veterans, active duty service members, and materials scientists to completely rethink the traditional dress blue uniform. For decades, service members have voiced concerns about the fit, feel, and wearability of their dress blues. Common complaints include restrictive movement, uncomfortable fabrics, excessive wrinkling, and a lack of breathability, particularly during warm-weather events or extended wear. ASTEC AMERICA took those concerns to heart, embarking on a mission to deliver a uniform component that honors tradition while prioritizing the wearer's experience. “We didn’t just want to make another blue uniform,” explains Sarah Miller, CEO of ASTEC AMERICA. “We wanted to solve the issues service members have been dealing with for years. We wanted to give them something they could be proud to wear, something that felt good, and something that performed flawlessly. That’s the core of ‘Enlisted Dress Blue.’” What Makes "Enlisted Dress Blue" Different? The key to the revolutionary new component isn’t just one thing – it’s a combination of advanced materials and thoughtful design. Here's a breakdown: Next-Gen Fabric Blend: Forget stiff, scratchy wool blends. “Enlisted Dress Blue” is crafted from a proprietary blend of high-performance polyester and a touch of premium, ethically sourced merino wool. This combination provides exceptional durability, wrinkle resistance, breathability, and a surprisingly soft hand feel. It’s built to withstand rigorous wear and tear, while keeping service members comfortable even during long hours. We’ve tested it extensively, and it consistently outperforms traditional fabrics in abrasion resistance and colorfastness. Moisture-Wicking Technology: Service members often face demanding physical requirements, even while in uniform. The fabric's integrated moisture-wicking technology draws sweat away from the skin, keeping the wearer cool, dry, and comfortable. This is a game-changer for those attending ceremonies or working in hot climates. Strategic Stretch: Unlike traditional dress blues that restrict movement, "Enlisted Dress Blue" incorporates strategically placed stretch panels. These panels, located in the shoulders, elbows, and knees, provide a full range of motion, allowing for comfortable and unrestricted activity. This is especially important for those involved in ceremonial duties requiring precise movements. Enhanced Durability: ASTEC AMERICA understands the importance of a uniform that looks sharp and stands the test of time. "Enlisted Dress Blue" features reinforced stitching in high-stress areas and a robust construction that’s designed to withstand repeated washing and wear. Reduced Ironing: Let's be honest – nobody likes spending hours ironing. The fabric's wrinkle-resistant properties dramatically reduce the need for ironing, saving service members valuable time and effort. A quick touch-up is usually all that's needed to maintain a crisp, professional appearance. Modernized Fit: We didn't just change the fabric; we updated the cut. “Enlisted Dress Blue” features a more tailored, athletic fit that looks sharp and professional while providing maximum comfort and mobility. We worked with a team of fit specialists to ensure a flattering and comfortable fit for a wide range of body types. Sustainability Focus: ASTEC AMERICA is committed to responsible manufacturing practices. The fabric used in “Enlisted Dress Blue” is sourced from sustainable suppliers, and the manufacturing process is designed to minimize waste and reduce our environmental impact. Developed with Veterans, for Veterans Throughout the development process, ASTEC AMERICA actively sought feedback from veterans and active duty service members. Numerous focus groups and wear tests were conducted to ensure that “Enlisted Dress Blue” met the real-world needs of those who would be wearing it. “We listened carefully to their concerns and incorporated their suggestions into every aspect of the design,” says David Chen, ASTEC AMERICA’s Head of Product Development. “This isn’t just a uniform we think they’ll like; it’s a uniform they helped create.” One veteran involved in the testing process, Sergeant First Class (Ret.) James Riley, shared his experience: “I’ve worn dress blues for over 20 years, and this is a game-changer. It’s comfortable, it looks great, and it doesn’t feel like I’m fighting my uniform all day. I wish I had this when I was still on active duty.” Availability and Future Plans “Enlisted Dress Blue” is currently available for purchase directly through the ASTEC AMERICA website (astecamerica.com) and through select military supply stores. ASTEC AMERICA plans to expand distribution in the coming months. The company is also exploring the development of complementary uniform components, including shirts, trousers, and outerwear, all utilizing the same advanced materials and thoughtful design principles. “We’re committed to providing service members with the best possible uniform experience,” says Miller. “This is just the beginning.” About ASTEC AMERICA LLC: ASTEC AMERICA LLC is a Denver, Colorado-based textile innovation company dedicated to developing high-performance uniform solutions for military, law enforcement, and industrial applications. Founded on a commitment to quality, comfort, and durability, ASTEC AMERICA leverages cutting-edge materials and innovative design to deliver products that meet the demanding needs of professionals in challenging environments. Contact: (254) 634-2299 or [email protected]. 1595 WYNKOOP ST, SUITE 800, DENVER, CO, 80202-2649, UNITED STATES.