Uniform Information
Every Scout needs two types of uniforms: the formal “Class A” uniform and the more casual “Class B” uniform, which is simply the Pack t-shirt. Scouts wear uniforms to foster camaraderie and display their personal achievements. Uniforms also reinforce the importance of neatness and encourage positive behavior.
For new Scouting parents, getting the uniforms (especially the Class A) can be a bit challenging. This page is here to help!
CLASS A UNIFORM
The Class A uniform in Cub Scouts, or “field uniform,” is the formal attire Scouts wear to display their achievements and show pride in their membership. This uniform promotes camaraderie and unity, while also providing Scouts a way to showcase their ranks, badges, and other accomplishments.
The main elements of the Class A uniform include a blue shirt (for younger Scouts) or a tan shirt (for Webelos and AoL) with specific patches like the rank patch, council patch, and World Crest. Scouts often also wear a neckerchief and slide or a Cub Scout cap, color-coded by rank to help identify Scouts’ dens. Pack 318 allows Scouts to wear any suitable bottoms with the Class A uniform shirt and belt, so the official Scout pants and socks are optional, though Scouts are welcome to wear them.
The best place to purchase Class A uniforms is in person at the Rancho Army-Navy Store, located at 27999 Jefferson Ave in Temecula. When you arrive, let the store associate know your Scout’s grade level, and they’ll help you find the appropriate items. They may ask about specific patches needed, like your Scout’s pack and den number (details on patches are in the “Patches” section below).
NOTES:
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Grades K-4: Scouts in kindergarten through 4th grade should wear either a neckerchief or a cap, or both. These colorful items make it easy to see which den a Scout belongs to.
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5th Grade: Starting in Fall 2024, 5th graders do not have a designated neckerchief or cap. The plaid neckerchief and cap are now intended only for 4th graders.
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4th Grade Transition: Fourth grade marks a transition from the blue uniform shirt to the tan one. If a 4th grader’s blue Class A shirt still fits, they may continue wearing it for the year. However, if you’re buying a new shirt for a 4th grader, it’s best to purchase the tan one, as it will carry over into 5th grade and beyond. All 4th graders should wear the Webelos plaid neckerchief or cap, regardless of shirt color.
The Class A uniform is worn to pack meetings, formal events, and occasionally for campouts and overnights as specified by the Pack. This uniform fosters the values of respect, responsibility, and pride in the Scouting journey.
CLASS B UNIFORM
The Class B uniform in Cub Scouts is a more casual, activity-oriented uniform that consists of a Pack 318 t-shirt. Scouts wear this shirt at various Scouting events, outings, and activities when the formal Class A uniform is not required. It provides a comfortable and practical option for Scouts while maintaining Pack unity and identity.
The Class B uniform t-shirt can be purchased in person at the first few pack meetings of the year or through our Pack’s online store that will be coming soon!
Pack Closet: A Resource for Families
Uniform costs can add up, so our Pack offers a “pack closet” with a limited supply of gently used hand-me-down items, including Class B t-shirts. These items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Look for the pack closet at the initial pack meetings each year, or speak with a pack leader if you have questions about available items.
Choosing the Right Size (Buy Large!)
When purchasing a new uniform shirt, it’s often best to buy one that’s a bit larger so that your Scout can grow into it and wear it for a few years. This is especially helpful for Scouts in K/1st grade and 5th grade, as the shirt they start with at these stages can carry over for several years if they don’t outgrow it.
The Class B t-shirt is a versatile, durable option that lets Scouts engage in activities with comfort and pride, all while representing Pack 318.
PATCHES AND PLACEMENT GUIDE
Cub Scouts proudly display their accomplishments and pack pride on their uniforms. As they progress through the program, they earn patches, loops, and pins that represent their growth and achievements. Here’s everything you need to know about required patches, earned patches, and placement.
REQUIRED PATCHES
To start, each Scout’s uniform needs a few essential patches. These include:
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American Flag: This comes pre-sewn on all official BSA uniforms
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California Inland Empire Council Shoulder Patch: This patch shows pride in our local council.
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World Crest Patch: A symbol of belonging to the worldwide Scouting movement.
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Unit Number Patch: This red and white “318” patch signifies our Pack. The Rancho Army-Navy Store in Temecula carries this patch, or families may purchase individual digits (3, 1, and 8) to sew together.
These required patches will need to be purchased by families, but our Pack is here to help with any questions!
EARNED PATCHES
Throughout the year, Scouts participate in adventures where they learn valuable skills like personal fitness, community service, citizenship, personal safety, family values, reverence, and more. Here’s how they earn and display their adventure achievements:
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Scouts in Grades K-3 (Lions, Tigers, Wolves, and Bears): For each adventure completed, they’ll receive an Adventure Loop to wear on their official BSA belt. Once they complete the year’s required adventures, they earn a Rank Badge, which will be sewn onto the left chest pocket of their uniform. Our Pack provides these Rank Badges at no cost to families.
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Scouts in Grades 4-5 (Webelos and Arrow of Light): Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts earn and Adventure Colors Pin. For each adventure completed, they receive a pin to place on their colored ribbons, symbolizing their rank progression and achievements.
