The use of the color pink to differentiate between boys and girls (boys wore blue) was in common use in French orphanages since the 18th century. Hence, the color pink has taken on a feminine look as law enforcement officers have also worn pink clothing in the line of daily duty. In recent times, police officers have carried pink-colored equipment such as handcuffs, which they use to handcuff people they have arrested. Its use on people who are considered very macho is considered degrading to the inmate.
Pink equipment items used by law enforcement officers
The handcuffs are the highlight of this pink outfit and are made of high-strength stainless steel, which are comparatively lightweight. Such handcuffs are available in varieties that allow for hinges or chains and with single and double locks. When it comes to pink gear, female law enforcement officers can even choose that color pistol grips that can fit on any weapon issued to them. They can also opt for pink gloves that are designed for outdoor use. Such gloves have elastic mesh for airflow and are made of suede. Caps of the same color, knives, rifle covers and hip flasks complete the ensemble.
Wearing pink for men is considered demeaning.
While women wearing men’s clothing has received acceptance around the world, the reverse is still not acceptable. Women still wear masculine-style clothing that has been feminized to fit their bodies, and they have become style statements ever since. However, it is still considered demeaning for a man to wear women’s clothing. Pink has been associated with women, and therefore for many men that color is feminine. So anything associated with that color has a slightly demeaning effect. This fact has been exploited by law enforcement officers, who use pink restraints and pink clothing to intimidate those they have arrested. Recently, the pink changing rooms in a converted stadium were heavily criticized, especially by soccer players who considered it an insult to wear such changing rooms. Psychologists have established that pink has a calming influence on people, so using it in these locker rooms will help players calm down before going out on the pitch.
Cancer and the color pink
Awareness for breast cancer has been raised through the use of the color pink. Various manufacturers of all kinds of products have used the color pink in their products to create pink garments that accentuate their own commitment to the fight against breast cancer. So you’ll even find self-defense products like pepper sprays made in the color pink to add to this association. The fact that pepper sprays find a lot of appeal among women for their advocacy and preference for color has aided in the marketing efforts of these types of pink gear products. You’ll also find stun guns in that color that are just as effective for self defense with pink gear.
Today, many female police officers wear pink clothing. It gives them a distinctive look among their peers, while still remaining true to the requirements and functions that pink gear is used for.