Frequently Asked Questions

What uniform do I need? 

Cadets will get issued standard kit when joining but we offer a range of starter kit bundles. All cadets will need to purchase their own boots, we recommend the Kammo Combat Pro or Kammo Delta Patrol Boot for cadets starting out. Depending on whether you are joining the Army Cadets or Air Cadets, different uniform may be required. Call our sales team on 01892 662 230, if you have any questions or would like to discuss the kit you require.

What size shoes should I order?

We advise customers to go with their current school shoe size when purchasing cadet boots or parade shoes. It is better to buy shoes that are slightly too large rather than slightly too small. Shoes that are slightly too large can still be worn comfortably with two pairs of socks (if appropriate) and insoles and provide more growing space. If still in doubt, consider visiting your local shoe shop and having your feet measured.

How do I place an order? 

You can either call us on 01892 662 230 or you can place an order via cadetdirect.com and arrange collection from our store or delivery to your address. 

What is the difference between ‘in stock’ and ‘available’ products on the website? 

‘In stock’ means the item is currently held in our warehouse and is available to ship to you immediately. ‘Available to Order’ means the stock is available from our supplier. We will order the item immediately and ship it to you as soon as it arrives to us. The website displays an estimated delivery date for each item. Orders comprising of in stock and available products may be shipped separately or held back until your entire order is complete.  

What is the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 Uniform? 

Grade 1 (used) items are supplied in a used but fully serviceable condition. They may have small but difficult to notice repairs and may be marked on the inside with pen. They may need to be washed before use. We cannot guarantee blanking patches being on the sleeves. 
Grade 2 (used) items are supplied in second hand condition and will show signs of wear. These items are likely to have or require noticeable small repairs. They may also have been marked with service numbers on the inside and outside. These items may require laundering before being worn. We cannot guarantee blanking patches being on the sleeves. They should be considered as suitable for use in the field and not for parades. 

How will my order be sent? 

Depending on the size of the order and your location, we will send orders by either Royal Mail Tracked or Parcelforce. Once your order is shipped, you will receive tracking updates via email or text with various options and preferences.  

How long will my order take to deliver? 

If you place your order on a weekday before 2pm, your order will be with you on the next working day, Monday to Saturday. If you order over the weekend, it should be dispatched on Monday and delivered on Tuesday or Wednesday. 

Do you offer click and collect? 

Yes, we now offer a click and collect service which can be used for orders placed on our website. At checkout, carefully select the click and collect option and you then have up to 30 days to collect from our store at Unit 4, Sybron Way, Crowborough TN6 3DZ.  
You can collect between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. We’ll contact you as soon as your order is ready for collection, so you’ll know exactly when to come by. 
If you change your mind and want the item posted please contact us and we can arrange a shipping quote for you. 

How do I use a discount code? 

When you view your basket, there is an option to add your ‘Discount/Voucher Code’. If you sign up to our Cadet Direct newsletter, you can get a 5% off code to use towards your purchase.

How do I make a payment on your website? 

We accept credit and debit cards (except American Express). Payments can be made over the phone, if that is how you choose to place an order. For any 18+ products on our website, the purchase does require a credit card to confirm that you are over the age of 18.  

I am a school CCF/CEP unit – can I buy discounted products from you? 

We have a dedicated CCF/CEP sales team who can assist you directly. Please call 01892 603 472 or use the contact form. 

Where can I stay up to date with new kit and industry changes? 

Sign up to our newsletter to get information about cadet changes and new kit alerts. By signing up, you can receive 5% off your next purchase.

Do you have a shop I can visit? 

Yes, we do. We operate a sales counter at our head office in Crowborough, East Sussex. You can ask our staff for items that you are interested in and you can try on shoes and clothing. The shop is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

If unsure of footwear size, can I order two pairs and send one back? 

Yes, we offer a 14 day returns policy. Footwear must not have been worn outside and should be returned in the original carton. You will need to pay for the return postage, please choose the lowest cost option (usually 2nd Class) at your post office and ask for a certificate of posting. 

How do I return an item? 

Please head to our returns page and follow the instructions.

My item is faulty – what can I do? 

Please contact us to discuss the fault and we can advise on next steps.

Still have a question? 

Please use the contact form or call us on 01892 662 230.