Developed in the late 1990s by the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center (NSSC), the MOLLE system (pronounced ‘Molly’) is a modular gear attachment system used primarily by military personnel. It was conceived to address the weaknesses and limitations of the US ALICE (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) system that had been in use since the early 1970s.
Since its adoption in the early 2000s, MOLLE has become the standard for military forces worldwide, as well as being widely used in law enforcement, survivalist, and outdoor communities. The primary benefit of MOLLE is that it’s not a specific set or piece of equipment but rather a universal system for kit customisation consisting of nylon webbing stitched onto assault vests, bergens, chest rigs, webbing, daysacks, shooters belts, and other load-bearing equipment.
The key feature that enables such a high degree of modularity is the Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS) webbing, which consists of horizontal rows of heavy-duty nylon stitched at intervals. By allowing for the secure attachment of pouches, holsters, and other equipment in a personalised configuration, the MOLLE system is not only practical and easy to manage but also incredibly versatile and adaptable.
How Does MOLLE Work?
Unlike older carrying systems - such as the US ALICE system, LBV (Load-Bearing Vest), UK 58 pattern webbing or LBE (Load-Bearing Equipment) - where pouches were permanently fixed or attached with unreliable metal clips, MOLLE allows users to rearrange or change pouches depending on their mission, environment, or personal preference. The PALS webbing serves as an anchor point for MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories, which are attached using integrated straps that weave through the webbing in a secure interlocking pattern. These interwoven straps create a tight and stable connection, preventing pouches from shifting, bouncing, or becoming detached during movement.
In short, the key components of MOLLE functionality can be broken down as follows:
-
PALS Webbing: Found on MOLLE-compatible gear, consisting of evenly spaced horizontal nylon webbing rows.
-
MOLLE-Compatible Accessories: Pouches, holsters, and other attachments feature vertical straps designed to weave through PALS webbing.
-
Weaving Process: Users thread the attachment straps through alternating layers of PALS webbing to create a secure, stable connection.
-
Snaps or Velcro Securing: Once fully woven, the straps are snapped or Velcroed shut, ensuring a tight fit that prevents movement or sagging.
By using this reinforced interwoven attachment method, MOLLE provides an ultra-secure and fully modular system that enables military personnel, law enforcement officers, and outdoor enthusiasts to configure their kit precisely how they need it.
Benefits Of The MOLLE System
As already established, one of the greatest advantages of the MOLLE system is its modularity and customisation. Whether it's military personnel preparing for an exercise or mission, law enforcement officers configuring their tactical vests, or outdoor enthusiasts optimising their backpacks, MOLLE offers a highly adaptable system that can be readily adapted as situations and scenarios change. This isn’t the system's only benefit, however.
Another key benefit is the secure attachment and improved weight distribution. The interwoven strap system ensures that pouches and accessories remain firmly in place, preventing unwanted movement or sagging. This stability is crucial in high-mobility situations - such as combat, tactical operations, exercise or rugged outdoor environments - and because MOLLE distributes weight more evenly across the body, it reduces strain and discomfort to make carrying heavy loads over long periods easier.
The durability, comfort and reliability of MOLLE also sets it apart from older pouch and equipment attachment methods. Made using military-grade nylon, MOLLE webbing is resistant to tearing, fraying, and harsh environmental conditions. Whether exposed to extreme heat, cold, moisture, or rough terrain, MOLLE-equipped gear maintains its strength and functionality, which makes it a long-lasting investment for both professional and recreational users.
Another important advantage is interoperability. The MOLLE system is standardised across military, tactical, and outdoor industries so pouches, holsters, and accessories from different manufacturers can be used interchangeably. This gives users a wide range of choices when expanding or upgrading their kit, particularly military units and law enforcement agencies that may need to adapt their equipment based on mission requirements.
Finally, MOLLE is easy to maintain and repair. Unlike older carrying systems where worn-out pouches often meant replacing the entire vest or pack, MOLLE allows for individual components to be swapped out as needed. This not only extends the lifespan of the equipment but also provides cost savings over time.
Who Uses The MOLLE Webbing System?
While still primarily used by Military Personnel around the world, the MOLLE system has expanded far beyond its military roots and has become a widely adopted carrying solution for tactical professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday users alike. Whether in combat zones, law enforcement operations, wilderness expeditions, or urban environments, MOLLE’s modular, durable, and secure design makes it a reliable and convenient option for people across all walks of life.
Below are just a few examples of the kind of people who use the MOLLE system every day (whether they know it or not)...
1. Military & Tactical Personnel
The MOLLE system is widely used by modern military forces around the world, particularly in combat vests, plate carriers, daysacks, bergens, shooters belts, webbing and belts. Soldiers rely on MOLLE to attach ammunition pouches, grenade holders, medical kits, hydration packs, radio pouches, and utility tools, allowing them to customise their kit based on the mission at hand.
Special forces units also benefit from MOLLE’s flexibility, as they can quickly adapt their gear for different operational environments; from urban warfare to jungle or desert combat. The secure attachment system also ensures that gear does not shift or become loose during intense physical activity, such as running, climbing, or engaging in combat.
2. Emergency Services
Police officers, SWAT teams, ARV teams, SFO, CTSFO and security personnel frequently use MOLLE vests and belts to carry essential equipment, including weapon holsters, extra magazine pouches, taser, flash bangs, torches, handcuffs, and communication devices. The ability to configure gear placement allows officers to keep high-priority items within easy reach, improving response times in critical situations.
Paramedics and firefighters also use MOLLE-compatible medical vests and bags to carry first-aid kits, trauma supplies, tourniquets, and oxygen masks. This modularity is particularly useful in mass casualty incidents or search-and-rescue operations, where medical personnel need quick access to life-saving equipment.
3. Outdoor Enthusiasts
Hikers, campers, and survivalists have adopted MOLLE due to its practicality in outdoor settings. MOLLE-compatible backpacks and belts allow users to attach water bottle holders, knife sheaths, fire-starting kits, multi-tools, first-aid pouches, and sleeping bag straps, making it easier to carry essential supplies without overloading internal storage
4. Airsofters & Paintballers
MOLLE gear is highly popular in airsoft, paintball, and tactical training communities. Enthusiasts use MOLLE vests and rigs to carry spare magazines, smoke grenades, hydration bladders, and protective gear, allowing for a more realistic and functional loadout during gameplay. Many law enforcement and military units also use airsoft and paintball for training exercises, making MOLLE an essential component of tactical simulations.
5. Everyday People
Elements of the MOLLE system are becoming increasingly found in everyday accessories, especially in tactical-style backpacks, messenger bags, and waist-packs. Commuters and professionals have begun using MOLLE-inspired attachments for carrying mobile phones, tablets, laptops, tool organisers, hydration bladders, and so on.
Cyclists and couriers have also started using MOLLE-equipped bags to securely attach extra pouches for water bottles, lock holders, and phone cases, making urban travel more efficient. Some fashion brands have even incorporated MOLLE elements into streetwear and utility-style clothing, blending function with modern aesthetics.
MOLLE Bags, Webbing, Pouches & Accessories On Taskforce Military
We stock a number of MOLLE-compatible products on Taskforce Military, from Bergens and Daysacks to utility pouches and tourniquet holders. Below are just a few examples of these products, but you can explore our entire collection by visiting our MOLLE and MOLLE Drybag categories.
Berghaus Munro II Multicam Daysack
With a 35-litre internal capacity, the Munro II Multicam daysack has been built to military specifications. Hardwearing, durable, and abrasion-resistant, it comes with additional PALS webbing at the front, a padded back system that provides extra support and comfort, and four shock cord accessory attachment points.
Camelbak Thermobak™ 3ltr Multicam Crux Reservoir
The CamelBak ThermoBak 3L features an upgraded Mil Spec Crux Reservoir, delivering 25% more water per sip. Designed for durability with 500D Cordura® fabric, it offers MOLLE compatibility, insulation, quick-release straps, and a self-sealing bite valve. In short, it’s a rugged, efficient hydration system that’s perfect for military, tactical, and outdoor use.
Dragon Supplies MOLLE Classic Utility Pouch
While perhaps a little unassuming, the Classic Utility Pouch is rugged and versatile, making it ideal for storing Jet-boils, cutlery, water bottles, and field essentials. It features a Velcro and buckle closure for secure storage, loops for additional MOLLE pouches, and a durable design based on the trusted Airborne Webbing Utility Pouch.
