BASICS: MOLLE versus PALS

MOLLE loops, a well-known term, but not quite right. MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment, and was developed by the US Army to replace ALICE - that is All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment. This is an equipment system that ranges from the bag to the vest to the backpack. To make everything modular, a loop system called PALS was developed. This abbreviation stands for Pouch Attachment Ladder System, and these are actually the much-cited "MOLLE loops".

The correctly named PALS loops in the MOLLE system are standardized with 1-inch wide webbing and 1-inch spacing. The stitches are all 1.5 inches. This results in a matrix structure into which pouches are woven.

On the back of the pouches, these loops can also be found, usually with vertical reinforced strips of webbing, through which the pouch and vest come together. If a pouch does not have vertical strips, you will need special clips for mounting, such as MALICE clips.

Until now, webbing was often sewn onto the standardized grid, but since 2012 manufacturers have started cutting slots directly into the CORDURA with lasers. This saves weight and the camouflage pattern is less disrupted by the absence of horizontal stripes. Above all, you don't have to sew on strips.

We have introduced the new SPARTANAT BASICS category for you. With this, we present you with the basics you've always wanted to know about, how they work.