Afghanistan and much of the middle east is well known for it's several-thousand-year long traditions: Fending off wars, and garments like this, the  Pakol (Pack-ohll).  While it's origins are hazy, its been one of many enduring icons of traditional garments in the area. Mainly adopted as the staple headwear of  Afghanistan, the  Pakol  is extremely practical, comfy, and even adaptable to colder conditions. It's worn much like a beret, covering the crown of the head and rolling up and down to change it's shape. In the winter, it can be rolled down to cover the ears, and in the summer it wicks away sweat. So what's a middle eastern cap doing on KommandoStore? During early missions in Afghanistan, particularly in late 2001, CIA agents, Delta force operators, and other were seen wearing these practical caps as a means of true urban camouflage - a  'when in rome'  approach to blending in to the populace. Pairing up with a Patu shawl  (and a big beard), an operator from afar could appear as just another mountain man, but concealing all of his kit & weapon underneath. This strategy, including  ditching their vehicles for horses,  were some of the guerilla tactics employed on the (initial)