How to Military Roll Shorts: A Step-by-Step Guide
The military roll, also known as the " military fold" or "fat fold," is a method of folding shorts in a compact and neat manner. This technique is often used by military personnel to store their uniforms and personal items, but it can also be useful for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and anyone who wants to keep their shorts organized and tidy. In this article, we’ll show you how to military roll shorts like a pro.
Why Military Roll Shorts?
There are several reasons why you should learn how to military roll shorts:
- Compact storage: Military rolled shorts take up less space than traditional folded shorts, making them ideal for camping, hiking, or travel.
- Easy to carry: Rolled shorts are easier to carry than bulky, folded shorts, especially in backpacks or gear bags.
- Prevents wrinkles: The military roll method helps prevent wrinkles and creases, ensuring your shorts look neat and presentable.
- Easy to find: When stored in a military roll, it’s easy to see which shorts are which, making it simpler to locate the pair you need.
How to Military Roll Shorts
The process of military rolling shorts involves several steps. Follow along, and you’ll be rolling like a pro in no time!
Step 1: Lay Out the Shorts
Start by laying the shorts flat on a surface, with the front side facing up.
Step 2: Fold the Waistband
Fold the waistband of the shorts down towards the hem, creating a straight line. This will help prevent the waistband from bunching up when you roll the shorts.
Step 3: Fold the Legs
Fold the legs of the shorts inwards towards the crotch, creating a straight line from the waistband to the hem. Make sure the edges are aligned and the fabric is smooth.
Step 4: Fold the Crotch
Fold the crotch of the shorts up towards the waistband, creating a compact shape. Make sure the fold is smooth and the edges are aligned.
Step 5: Roll the Shorts
Starting from the folded crotch, begin rolling the shorts towards the top, using the waistband as a guide. Apply gentle pressure to help maintain the shape of the roll.
Step 6: Secure the Roll
Once you’ve reached the top of the shorts, use a small amount of elastic, a hair tie, or a small piece of twine to secure the roll in place. This will prevent the roll from coming undone.
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to help you master the military roll:
- Use a towel or cloth: If you’re rolling multiple pairs of shorts, consider using a towel or cloth to help separate the rolls and prevent them from sticking together.
- Roll with a bias: If you want to add an extra layer of protection to your rolls, try rolling them with a bias (at an angle) instead of straight.
- Use different folds: Experiment with different folds, such as a French fold or a triangle fold, to create a more compact or unique roll.
Comparison of Military Rolling to Other Folding Methods
Here’s a comparison of the military roll to other popular folding methods:
| Folding Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Military Roll | Compact, easy to carry, prevents wrinkles | Can be time-consuming, requires some practice |
| Folded Waistband | Quick and easy, preserves shape of shorts | Can be bulky, may not prevent wrinkles |
| Tri-Fold | Compact, easy to store, great for bulky items | May not work well for lightweight fabrics, can be difficult to achieve |
Conclusion
The military roll is a versatile and effective way to store and carry shorts. With a little practice, you can master this technique and enjoy the benefits of compact, wrinkle-free, and easy-to-carry shorts. Whether you’re a military personnel, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who likes to keep their gear organized, the military roll is an essential skill to learn. So next time you need to pack your shorts, remember: military roll your way to a more efficient and stylish you!
