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There’s a lot to be said about “tacticool” attire, trinkets, and gizmos. So much so that I’ve dedicated an embarrassing amount of time to writing silly posts on bespoke tactical vests, combat kicks, overpriced dress blue knockoffs, $30 reflective belts, and so much more.

And it’s time for another.

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Mota, mota, got a lotta faux motivation!Ralph Lauren

This Fleece Graphic Sweatshirt from Ralph Lauren was originally priced at $125, but is now just $34.99. Who can believe it? Now, if you’re looking at that and thinking “hmm, there’s something familiar about this,” you’re not alone.

https://twitter.com/iAmTheWarax/status/1089661109496360963

Originally surfaced on Twitter by The Warax, along with a number of other mil-inspired items, the sweater features a logo that’s visually similar to the Marine Corps’ Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem. However, when reached for comment, the Marine Corps Trademark Licensing Office could not confirm at this time whether or not the logo violated the service’s existing trademarks — which are extensive, and were the subject of a previous Task & Purpose article.

The designer’s site doesn’t include any additional information on where the inspiration came from, nor does it say it who Ralph Lauren’s Marauders were, though some Twitter users have speculated:

While these items are a source of amusement for most, and the cause of vein-popping rage for a few, clothing companies have been making bank on military-inspired swag for decades, and they’re not going to stop anytime soon. And why should they? In fact, I say we flip the script: It’s time some active duty service-members shell out outrageous sums of money for knock-off military swag, just to see what happens when they sport it on base.

https://twitter.com/iAmTheWarax/status/1089951118417977347

And here’s a totally accurate rendering of what that might look like:

https://twitter.com/iAmTheWarax/status/1089992908781117442

SEE ALSO: USM©: Inside The Marine Corps’ Heated Campaign To Protect Its Sacred Brand

WATCH NEXT: Jack Mandaville’s Guide To Vetsplaining

James Clark
James Clark

James Clark is the former Deputy Editor of Task & Purpose. He is an Afghanistan War veteran and served in the Marine Corps as a combat correspondent. Contact the author here.

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