You may have heard the term “grey man” mentioned before in the context of urban survival. It’s a concept that surmises that you’ll have a better chance of surviving an urban emergency if you are able to seamlessly blend in and be utterly forgettable.

What NOT to do

Imagine a stock photo of a burglar or criminal. He has a dark hoodie on with the hood up, maybe a sneer on his face. Perhaps he’s looking around suspiciously, lurking in a corner glaring up from under hooded lids. As we mentioned in the clothing section, you don’t want to tip too far into the realm of looking suspicious. You should appear bland, boring, and forgettable.

Don’t wear tactical gear. This turns you into a target.

Don’t make eye contact with everyone you see. People are much more likely to remember you if you’ve made eye contact.

What to Wear to Become a Grey Man

As the name suggests, a grey man will likely be dressed in neutral tones such as grey or brown. Nothing that draws the eye- no graphics on your shirt, no shiny jewelry. Wear well-worn and comfortable shoes that will carry you far. Avoid flashy designer logos.The idea is to be instantly forgotten as soon as someone takes their eyes off of you. Or rather, to be seen through. You want to be effectively invisible.

There’s something of a balance here: you don’t want to tip too far in one direction and end up looking homeless, but you can’t look like you’ve got cash either. Images of a “grey man” will often show someone in a bland sweatshirt and jeans, which tends to be a safe

Another point worth noting is that the neutral baseline may vary depending on your surroundings and what is normal for the other people around you. In an office building where everyone is dressed in suits and ties, the stereotypical gray man attire stands out like a sore thumb. The key is to blend in to the environment. When in Rome, so to speak. Dress however you need to dress to avoid standing out.

How to Act

There is nothing about a grey man’s behavior that draws attention. You should be keenly aware of your surroundings, but don’t look like you’re casing the joint or searching for exits. Make your observations discreetly.

Weapons and gear must be completely hidden.

Move naturally and go with the flow. Melt into the scenery. This requires thoughtfulness and practice. If the crowd moves together or everyone directs their attention in one direction, follow suit to avoid raising suspicion.