Among the many tiger stripe camouflage patterns created during the Vietnam War era, these tiger stripe pants—commonly known as the “Zig Zag Pattern”—are renowned for their distinctive appearance.
Although this is a relatively late-model tiger stripe that appeared in the late 1960s—a time when the U.S. military was gradually transitioning to ERDL camouflage—it remains a highly sought-after, rare model due to its unique design.
Its most distinctive feature is a bold camouflage pattern that clearly differs from standard tiger stripes. Sharp, zigzagging stripes cover the entire surface, creating a very powerful impression unlike the traditional flowing tiger stripes.Due to this distinctive camouflage pattern, it is affectionately known among collectors as the “ZIG ZAG Pattern.”
Additionally, this item is a specially cut pair of pants featuring a distinctive single-button cargo pocket design. The rear pocket is a patch pocket. Pants of the same style have been identified in the "Okinawa Tiger" line, which featured a lime green base color, from the same period, leading scholars to believe this is a special variation produced for only a limited time.
However, this period coincided with a transitional phase when the ERDL camouflage was just beginning to be fully adopted. Consequently, there are very few examples of its use in actual combat. As many units transitioned to ERDL or successor equipment, the ZIG ZAG pattern quickly disappeared from the mainstream.By the early 1970s, Okinawa-made souvenirs featuring this pattern, primarily intended for the Marine Corps, began to appear.
In that sense, this pattern represents the final chapter in the history of Tiger Stripe camouflage; it is a fascinating model that could be called a "phantom late-model" that never had the chance to see sufficient action.
Furthermore, this particular item belongs to a production lot that used relatively sturdy, thick fabric—a rarity among the few confirmed ZIG ZAG patterns. Tiger Stripe products are known for variations in fabric and color depending on the manufacturing plant or contract, but this item’s thick, substantial fabric is its main appeal, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique presence of an authentic Tiger Stripe.
Above all, its condition is truly remarkable.
Although this is a model rarely seen in actual use, most examples show damage from wear or storage. However, this item maintains excellent condition—with superb fabric tension and color—and can be considered unused.
The ZIG ZAG pattern is highly sought after even among Tiger Stripe collectors. Furthermore, when it comes to items in unused condition, opportunities to find them on the market are extremely rare.
This is an extremely collectible piece, indispensable for any discussion of the history of camouflage in the later stages of the Vietnam War.
Product Name: Tiger Stripe Camouflage ZIG ZAG Pattern Pants
Country of Manufacture: Presumed to be South Vietnam
or Thailand Date: Late
1960s Camouflage: ZIG ZAG Tiger Stripe Pattern
Condition
In very good condition, believed to be unused. The fabric has excellent body and the colors are vibrant; aside from slight traces of long-term storage, there are almost no signs of use. This is a rare item highly recommended for any collection.
Please note that this is a used item and cannot be returned.
Size (Flat Measurements)
Waist: 38 cm, Hip: 52 cm, Rise: 30 cm, Inseam: 73 cm
