Everything You Need to Know About Ghillie Suits

Blending into your environment is critical when you’re hunting or facing a military tactical situation. Enter camouflage patterns. They keep soldiers and outdoor enthusiasts disguised when—and where—it matters most. But certain situations require something more unconventional: ghillie suits. What is a ghillie suit, exactly? Let’s explore the history of ghillie suits!

About Ghillie Suits

Ghillie suits are military clothing designed to help camouflage wearers in their environment. Military ghillie suits are usually made of net or cloth garment, then covered in loose burlap straps, cloth, or synthetic thread to imitate the foliage. The ghillie suit’s design makes it virtually impossible to detect a person in their environment – even at close range.

Like camo patterns, you can find ghillie suits that suit an array of surroundings, including desert and snow ghillie suits.

Ghillie Suit History

Now that you know what a ghillie suit is, you’re probably wondering where they came from. They actually have Scottish origins! In Scottish folklore, a solitary forest faerie or spirit known as the Ghillie Dhu roams the Scottish Highlands and protects its inhabitants from harm. The Ghillie Dhu is described as being clothed in leaves, moss, and other foliage, allowing it to remain camouflaged in the environment and evade capture. 

What is a ghillie suit used for? Early ghillie suits were believed to have been created by Scottish gamekeepers in the Scottish Highlands. They used similar clothing to blend into their environment and stealthily hunt game for their lords. The term “ghillie” comes from the Scottish Gaelic word for “servant” or “lad.” That’s a direct reference to the gamekeepers and servants who would wear the clothing. But that’s not all ghillie suits are good for.

The History of Military Ghillie Suits

The ghillie suits we know today were first seen during the Second Boer War at the turn of the 20th century. The Lovat Scouts, a Scottish Highland regiment and the British Army’s first sniper unit, began using these suits as camouflage. This is not surprising, considering that many of the Lovat Scouts recruited were gamekeepers and hunters in the Highlands. 

These suits reappeared during WW1, and other nations took notice. What is a ghillie suit called abroad? It’s called a ghillie suit, camo suit, or even named after other mythological creatures! Similar suits used by the Australian Army are called “yowie” suits. This is in reference to the Aboriginal legend of the yowie, a mythical creature or spirit not unlike the Yeti or Bigfoot.

By WW2, ghillie suits had undergone significant advancement. Materials like burlap were added to create a more realistic appearance, leaving snipers undetected.

What is a Ghillie Suit Used For?

The primary use of ghillie suits is camouflage, whether for professional or recreational reasons. One great example of their use is legendary US Marine Corps sniper Carlos Hathcock. He’s known for his incredible skills and use of camouflage during the Vietnam War. Clad in a ghillie suit and rifle in hand, Hathcock “wormed” his way into enemy territory, which took a grueling four days. The sniper was the epitome of stealth, remaining imperceptible to enemy patrols despite their proximity.

What else is a ghillie suit used for? It’s still used by snipers today for its unparalleled camouflage. Military personnel, special law enforcement units, hunters, airsoft or paintball enthusiasts, and even wildlife/nature photographers can use this clothing to remain hidden. They can also be worn as military costumes!

Benefits of Ghillie Suits

• Camouflage - They break up your shape and help you blend into your environment.
• Adaptable - Buy or create a ghillie suit with vegetation similar to your terrain.
• Versatile - Can be used in different environments.
• Multi-Purpose - Great for military usage or for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Easy to Wear - Early ghillie suits were heavy and crude. Modern suits can be worn over BDU shirts, fatigue pants, and other clothing without sacrificing movement or agility.

What is a Ghillie Suit?

Used by military personnel across history, ghillie suits provide ultimate camouflage. For ghillie suits, military name tapes, and more gear, trust Army Surplus World. Shop our high-quality and affordable surplus now!