
Propper Celebrates 50-Year Anniversary
Started in 1967 by William S. Propper, the company’s first contract was making the iconic white Dixie Cup hats for the US Navy. Over the next five decades, Propper grew to become the largest supplier of military BDUs and ACUs.

Law enforcement and military apparel company Propper International turns 50 this year. To honor the company’s strong history and its commitment to build upon that heritage, Propper is celebrating all year long with promotions and special events throughout 2017, starting with the launch of a redesigned website (propper.com), an iconic 50th Anniversary logoed badge and a brand new corporate video chronicling the company’s heritage and vision for the future.
Started in 1967 by William S. Propper, the company’s first contract was making the iconic white Dixie Cup hats for the US Navy. Over the next five decades, Propper grew to become the largest supplier of military BDUs and ACUs. Some of Propper’s many achievements over the years include:
Over 120 million garments produced for the US military
Over 30 million military personnel have worn Propper garments
Over 8.1 million tops (combat shirts, ACU coats, jackets) to the US military
Over 11.8 million trousers to the US military since 2001
Over 1.5 million gloves to the US military since 1999
Nearly 1 million ABUs and RABUs to the US Air Force
Over 1.4 million coveralls to US military since 1998
Over 260,000 Marine Corp ILBE Systems since 2003
Over 260,000 USMC 3S 3-season sleep systems since 2009
Over 1.2 million MOLLE bags, pouches, and accessories
Over 1 million Gore-Tex units for Air Force, Army, Marine Corp, and Coast Guard since 2004
Over 2 million FR sets (starting with the Marine Corp Frog combat shirt) since 2007
Over 1 million MCCUU sets to the US military since 2004
Over 500,000 ACUs to the US military since 2005
Building on its success as a military supplier, Propper added a commercial division in 1991 and today has a strong presence in the law enforcement and civilian tactical industries with offerings that include men’s and women’s tactical pants and shirts, jackets, boots, everyday carry bags, backpacks and a full selection of NIJ-rated concealed and tactical body armor, including the innovative 4PV 4-panel vest line.
To see the newly redesigned website and the complete line of products, visit propper.com/50th.
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