Blog

Training is at the heart of every Army Cadet’s journey, and having the right resources can significantly enhance both learning and performance. The ACF Basic Training Posters, now available at Cadet Direct, offer essential guidance in key areas such as drill and turnout, communication systems, weapon handling, kit preparation, and cadet values. Designed to support cadet development at every level...

The British Army's cap badges have long been a symbol of heritage and tradition. However, a significant update has recently been made to the design of these badges, marking the beginning of a new era. The latest images of the redesigned British Army Crowned Cap Badges have been released, showcasing the King's Crown (Tudor Crown), which is set to replace...

The UK MoD have finally listened to the concerns of the UK cadet forces by launching a range of new British Army ration menus specifically geared towards the tastes of young people. This development was announced amid concerns that traditional 'stews' and 'casseroles' simply don't appeal to a new generation of young people who are used to snacking on fast food...

Another British Army Boot at Cadet Direct The Bates Ultra Light Patrol Boot, one of a current range of British army boots,  has been specifically developed for the UK military. They meet the official MoD specification for “Boots Patrol (BP)”. This specifies that the BP is “primarily for use where the combat threat is medium to low and patrol pack...

After extensive trials involving UK forces personnel, the British Army has announced it will be adopting the AKU Pilgrim as it's newest high liability combat boot. High liability means the boot will be worn by front line operational troops in combat zones around the world. The AKU Pilgrim has many qualities which makes it well suited to this role. AKU...

Quite a surprise last week when Cadet Direct staff received an urgent order from the organisers of the ITV show 'Dancing on Ice'. The customer required a full FAD (Future Army Dress) suit, No.2 Dress shirt, tie plus all the accoutrements for contestant Anthony Cotton, better known as Sean Tully from Coronation Street. Anthony was born and raised in Manchester...

Personnel from the Army, Royal Navy, and RAF can choose from a range of MoD-approved boots depending on their role and location. However, many serving personnel often prefer to privately purchase boots for personal comfort and performance. Whether you're in the military, cadet forces, or a member of the public searching for high-quality brown combat British Army boots, our guide...

Which is the best wax polish for your cadet footwear? Whether you're brush polishing or bulling  this has to be one of the longest running debates within the cadet forces. We thought it was about time someone finally lay the issue to rest by putting 5 of the most popular polishes to a proper test. What we did... We started by...

The Monster Basha The Helikon Supertarp is undoubtedly the biggest basha on the block. Measuring a whopping 3x3metres in size this monster basha is the first of it's kind. Survival Tech have gone ahead and patented the design and here you'll find out just why. The Helikon Supertarp Built from waterproof PU-covered polyester ripstop tarpaulin, the Supertarp is MTP compatible which provides great...

Which pack is the best for you? We recently published a kit layout for CEMO (complete Equipment Marching Order) which comprises everything you might need for an overnight stay in the field. In this Best Tactical Backpacks article we've decided to review a range of popular bags to see which have the capacity to actually carry a realistic CEMO load...