Padres unveil their new camouflage uniform

The Padres unveiled their new camouflage jerseys on Tuesday and there's already some speculation that the team's attention to detail might prove to be a little too effective in 2011.

While the Padres have worn two other camouflage jerseys since adopting the tradition in 2000, the previous versions used bolder prints worn by the Army and Navy. These new threads are meant to honor the Marines, these Marine Patterns
was computer design that features smaller splotches that are much harder to detect. It's called "Digital camouflage".

While these jerseys probably won't play major visual tricks on the fans' eyes — it's not like the players are going to completely disappear from sight when framed against green grass. Some Marines say the Padres' tribute to the military won't be as easy to recognize as it has been in the past.

The Marines quoted in that article above say they're still honored that the Padres have adopted their pattern, but not everyone likes the continued use of camouflage on uniforms. Uni Watch's Paul Lukas made his case against the practice a few years ago and the Padres' alternates were recently named the third-worst uniform in sports.

While other teams donned copycat camo uniforms, like the White Sox and the Reds in recent years, the Padres' tribute has always been top notch. It's actually one of the better community outreach efforts by a team, considering the city's military history and the composition of its fan base.

What's even cooler is that the team made the effort to recognize a third branch with these new tops. The authenticity of the Marines' uniforms might cause problems, sure, but it's that commitment to realism that keeps it a tribute that is rooted in honor and respect. 

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