Air Reserve Technicians previously wore civlian attire unless in military status. In 2010 dual status DoD military/civilians were mandated to wear the uniform on civilian duty. The change has increased the cost to the military.
Most dual status DoD civillians keep a uniform at work, willingly to don for meetings, ceremonies, and events; allowing civilians to optionally wear the uniform during operational hours will reduce clothing cost in the military.
AFI 36-2903 states the uniform will be neat, clean, and professional; to maintain these standards requires replacements. The following contains cost for the ABU's, the following does not include Blues or PT gear.
ABU costs:
Shirt $40
T-Shirt $5
Pants $42
Shoes $100
Hats $6
Socks $6
Belts $10