And no, the answer isn’t because it makes them look delicious. So, why do the special forces have beards?

While folliculaphiles – someone who is attracted to a person with facial hair – is one of the first things that comes to mind, the reality is that it has more to do with the tactics and logistics of war. Some soldiers report that it was just easier given how gruesome war in places like Afghanistan gets. Meanwhile other sources suggest it’s to help the lads fit in better.

Relaxed grooming standards for special forces

One answer to why the special forces have beards is that they need to blend in. The military allows the special forces “relaxed grooming standards” not because of folliculaphilia but because of the jobs they do. For instance, showing up to the Middle East without a beard can put a soldier at a disadvantage. And in places like Iraq, clean-shaven men aren’t always taken seriously.

Into the thick of things

Operatives from the special forces are typically expected to work with the locals of the place they are being sent to. Showing up with a look that doesn’t match the cultural expectations can impede their ability to get the job done. Moreover, another reason why special forces need to have beards is that if they find themselves in a situation where they need to alter their appearance, they can do so quickly by shaving it all off.

Beards for special forces only? 

On the other hand, the rules for most branches of the military are pretty strict, with some leeway being given only recently for a more inclusive touch. Normal rank and file soldiers who don’t have a cultural or religious reason for having facial hair won’t have the option. If anything, when stationed back home, even those in the special forces with beards are expected to revert back to factory settings and chop their hair down.

Why is facial hair so controversial?

It’s frowned upon for similar reasons as to why it’s allowed for the special forces. Aside from the prim and proper look that is expected of military men, there is gear that requires clean faces, such as anti-gas masks. Facial hair was seen as a safety issue.

The rule may have a set of logical reasons behind it, but all it does is add to the mystery of the special forces. The lads are a trigger for anyone who has folliculaphilia.