What is MOLLE?

MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment. It is a special type of tactical gear which is considered as the current standard of Army equipment used for carrying load-bearing packs that combat soldiers wear.

The MOLLE system is used by NATO troops, specifically from Great Britain and the USA. These systems are also usually employed by different law enforcement agencies.

Its modularity comes from its use of the PALS, also known as the Pouch Attachment Ladder System. This PALS system consists of nylon strips sown to the equipment in a ladder pattern  to allow for the attachment of other MOLLE compatible gear.

Who Uses the MOLLE System?

As a specialized gear carrying system that can be used with body armor and plate carriers, MOLLE is suitable for all occupations whether military, security or for personal use. Even civilians will find this very useful for various activities such as hunting, camping, and even used on range bags.

This tactical gear system is also superior for general hiking and backpacking and for your Bug Out Bag (BOB) and other types of survival gear.

Benefits of Using the MOLLE System

The MOLLE system is helpful for allowing even distribution of equipment around the body of the carrier allowing the user to carry even more gear that's easy to reach without having an negative impact on mobility.

PALS for attaching gear are not only limited to MOLLE systems as they can also be attached to vests, belts, and chest rigs that all use the similar modular component system of carrying and attaching gear.

Since the mid 50s, the military decided to replace the previous All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment (ALICE) system, also a PALS, which was used in some form with the MOLLE I system. This was then replaced almost immediately thereafter with the MOLLE II system that was produced exclusively for Army Combat Uniforms or ACU. There are still some military branches that use the older ALICE system, but are now starting to favor the newer and more efficient MOLLE system.

The Bottom Line

The MOLLE system is undoubtedly an extremely versatile system for carrying gear which can be used for virtually any type of arrangement. Even if you are not part of law enforcement or military, the MOLLE system is an extremely flexible piece of equipment that you can find almost anywhere and utilize for any function.

Indeed, the MOLLE system was a true breakthrough in the world of tactical gear permeating in all aspects of equipment available today.