Tan 499 vs. Coyote Brown: A Tactical Color Showdown

In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between Tan 499 and Coyote Brown, helping you decide which color best fits your needs.

What Is Tan 499?

Tan 499 is a specific shade of tan used extensively in the U.S. military. It’s part of the military's color palette and is designed to blend seamlessly with various environments, especially desert landscapes.

This color was developed to work well with MultiCam, the camouflage pattern that replaced the older Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP).

Tan 499 is versatile and blends well with different terrains and other gear colors. It’s particularly effective in sandy or arid regions, making it a top choice for military uniforms, vests, and tactical equipment used in these areas.

What Is Coyote Brown?

Coyote Brown, on the other hand, is another color frequently used in military and tactical gear.

It’s a darker, richer brown and has been popular for years, particularly among U.S. Marines and other branches of the military.

Coyote Brown is favored for its versatility. It’s effective in multiple terrains, from sandy deserts to wooded areas.

It also pairs well with other tactical gear colors, which adds to its appeal.

Differences Between Tan 499 and Coyote Brown

1. Color Shade and Tone

Tan 499 is lighter, with a more sandy hue, making it ideal for blending into desert environments.

Coyote Brown, by contrast, is darker, with a more earth-toned appearance.

This gives it a broader range of use, as it can blend into different terrains, including deserts, forests, and even some urban settings.

2. Camouflage Effectiveness

The effectiveness of these colors largely depends on the environment. Tan 499 excels in desert and arid environments, where its lighter tone helps soldiers and gear blend into the surroundings.

While effective in deserts, Coyote Brown offers better concealment in more diverse environments. Its darker tone makes it less likely to stand out in mixed or shaded terrains.

3. Compatibility with Other Gear

Both colors are highly compatible with other tactical gear.

However, Tan 499 is specifically designed to complement the MultiCam pattern, which is widely used by the U.S. military. This makes it a preferred choice for those who rely on MultiCam.

While not tied to a specific pattern, Coyote Brown is versatile and pairs well with other tactical colors, such as Olive Drab and Ranger Green.

4. Popularity and Use

Tan 499 is primarily used by the U.S. Army and other military branches, especially in operations that require desert camouflage. It’s a relatively newer color, developed to meet specific needs in modern combat scenarios.

Coyote Brown, however, has been a staple for years. It’s used not only by the military but also by law enforcement and tactical enthusiasts who appreciate its versatility.

5. Durability and Wear

In terms of durability, both colors hold up well under harsh conditions. However, because Tan 499 is lighter, it may show dirt and wear more quickly than Coyote Brown.

Coyote Brown’s darker hue can help mask stains and wear, making it a practical choice for those in the field for extended periods.

Considerations and Restrictions for Using Tan 499 and Coyote Brown

1. Military and Law Enforcement Use

• Uniform Regulations: In the military, specific colors like Tan 499 and Coyote Brown may be regulated as part of official uniforms. These regulations typically apply to service members who must adhere to strict uniform codes. For example, a soldier might be required to wear gear in Tan 499 if it’s part of their issued uniform, particularly in desert deployments.

• Authorized Use: Some military or law enforcement agencies may reserve certain colors or patterns for their official use. While civilians can buy and wear gear in these colors, they cannot impersonate military personnel, which is illegal in many countries.

2. Trademark or Proprietary Concerns

Camouflage Patterns: While Tan 499 and Coyote Brown themselves are not trademarked, some camouflage patterns that use these colors might be. For instance, if a specific pattern like MultiCam includes Tan 499, the pattern might be protected by trademarks or other intellectual property rights. However, this generally applies to the pattern rather than the color alone.

3. Cultural and Social Considerations

• Public Perception: Wearing colors like Tan 499 or Coyote Brown, especially in combination with tactical gear, might attract attention or carry certain connotations. For example, wearing a full set of tactical gear in these colors in a public place could be perceived as aggressive or out of context, depending on the environment.

• School or Workplace Policies: Some institutions, such as schools or certain workplaces, might have dress codes that restrict military-style clothing or gear, which could include items in Tan 499 or Coyote Brown.

4. Sales and Distribution

Export Restrictions: In some cases, exporting certain military-grade gear, even in specific colors, might be restricted by international regulations. However, this typically applies to the gear itself rather than the color.

Which Should You Choose?

If you’re primarily working in desert or arid regions, Tan 499 might be the better choice due to its excellent blending capabilities in these settings. It’s also the go-to color if you’re using MultiCam gear.

On the other hand, if you need a more versatile color that can handle a variety of environments, Coyote Brown is a solid option. Its darker tone makes it a reliable choice for mixed terrains and even urban areas.

Plus, its popularity across different military branches and law enforcement speaks to its effectiveness and adaptability.

Conclusion

In summary, both Tan 499 and Coyote Brown have their strengths. Whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or just an outdoor enthusiast, understanding these colors can help you make the best choice for your gear.

As tactical gear continues to evolve, so too will the colors that define it.
But for now, Tan 499 and Coyote Brown continue to be popular choices, each offering something unique for those who rely on their gear to keep them hidden and protected.