If you’re on the market for tactical pants, you are going to find that there is an endless array of options to choose from. If you’ve never purchased a pair of these specialty pants before, shopping may feel a little overwhelming.
What type of features should you look for? How do you know which pair will best suit your needs? Have no fear, because we’re here to help!
To help make your quest for finding the best pair of tactical pants, we’ve done some exhaustive research and compared dozens of tactical pants. After our research, we narrowed down the choices the eight best tactical pants currently available on the market.
Below, you’ll find reviews of our top eight picks, as well as a buyer’s guide that highlights some key factors that you should take into consideration to help you select the right pair of tactical pants for you. Additionally, we’ve included answers to the questions that consumers frequently ask about these multi-purpose utility pants.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Tactical Pants Reviews
- 2.1 Free Soldier Tactical Combat Pants
- 2.2 5.11 Tactical Men’s Stryke Operator Uniform Pants
- 2.3 LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants
- 2.4 Caterpillar Men’s Trademark Pants
- 2.5 Tru-Spec 24-7 Tactical Pants for Men
- 2.6 Under Armour Men’s Tactical Patrol Pants li
- 2.7 Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pant
- 2.8 Blackhawk Men’s Pursuit Tactical Pants
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 Tactical Pants Buyer’s Guide
- 5 Tactical Pants FAQs
- 6 Conclusion
Before we discuss our eight picks for the best tactical pants, we wanted to spotlight the top three options for best overall, best premium, and best budget options.
- Best Overall: Free Soldier Men’s Tactical Combat Pants
Our pick for the best tactical pants overall is Free Soldier’s Relaxed Fit Tactical Combat Arm Cargo Pants. Made of a blend of 35 percent cotton and 65 percent ripstop polyester, these pants are treated with premium-quality DuPont Teflon water repellent coating, which repels liquids, stains, and soils, that will keep you dry in the dampest environments. - Best Premium Pick: 5.11 Tactical Men’s Stryke Operator Uniform Pants
If you’re on the market for a pair of high-end tactical pants, the 5.11 Tactical Men’s Stryke Operator Uniform Pants are a great choice. Comprised of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton mechanical stretch Flex-Tac ripstop fabric with a Teflon finish, these pants can repel all types of liquid and stains and are highly durable and breathable. - Best Budget Pick: LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants
If you’re looking for a high-quality pair of tactical pants that won’t break the budget, consider the LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants. They’re also made of a blend of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton Rip-Stop fabric, but they’re more affordably priced.
Tactical Pants Reviews
Now that you have read through a brief review of our top picks for the best overall, best premium, and best budget tactical pants, let’s take a more in-depth look at each option – as well as five additional high-end options, too.
Free Soldier Tactical Combat Pants
Free Soldier’s Men’s Water Resistant Tactical Combat Pants are our pick for the best overall tactical pants, and for good reason: they offer everything that you could possibly want in a pair of tactical pants – comfort, durability, reliability, and convenience – all at an affordable price.
These pants are made up of 35 percent cotton and 65 percent Ripstop polyester, which is treated with a DuPoint Teflon Coating. The materials combined with the Teflon make these pants durable, yet lightweight and breathable, as well as water-, scratch-, fade-, and wrinkle-resistant.
Featuring more than 10 built-in pockets, including 2 front slant, 2 large hook-and-loop, 2 hip flap hook-and-loop, and 2 military EDC on the thighs, you’ll be able to keep all of your gear just a reach away.
- Material - TC Ripstop Polyester fabric with Great Water Repellent treatment keep you dry all day long. DuPont TEFLON Coating repel the stains, liquids and soil. This work pants for men feature breathable, scratch-resistant, wear-resisting, water resistant, durable, anti-wrinkle, anti-fading, comfortable and flexible
- Multi-Pockets - This mens tactical pants up to 10+ pockets for store various equipment. 2 front Slant Pockets, 2 large Hook&Loop Pockets and 2 hip Flap Hook&Loop Pockets, it's convenient for carrying phone, wallet and other daily necessities, safe and reliable, 2 military EDC Pockets on each side of the thigh perfect for a tactical pen. No matter outdoor adventure, working, hiking or combat, this pant is built for versatility and extra storage
- Ergonomic Design - The articulating knees are designed with 12 pleats to improves the comfort and flexibility of the knee at wide range of movement and enhance the wear resistance and scratch-resistant of the knee. The tactical waterproof pants men are ergonomically designed, hips and legs with 3D tailoring, fits better and make your body feel free
- Upgrade Details - Partial Elastic at waist with widen belt loop for extra comfort. YKK Zipper closure, much practical and effectively avoid the embarrassment. High quality D-ring, can hang keys chain and tactical accessories on the Free Soldier pants
- FREE SOLDIER waterproof pants mens apply to heavy duty operating, tactical, cycling, motorcycle, military, combat, hunting, fishing, climbing, hiking, working, outdoor adventure etc
Articulating knees and 3D tailoring with 12 pleats add to the comfort of the pants and allow for easy movement. A partial elastic waistband and wide belt loops further enhance the comfort and a Duraflex D-ring can be used to attach keys and any tactical accessories that you may need to keep nearby.
These Free Soldier tactical pants are available in a wide range of sizes and several colors, including black, brown, gray, moss green, dark camo, and khaki, you’ll be able to take on whatever task comes your way with ease, including cycling, biking, hiking, combat, hunting, fishing, and so much more.
- Made of 35 percent cotton and 65 percent Ripstop polyester
- DuPont Teflon water- and stain-resistant coating
- Won’t fade or wrinkle
- Features more than 10 pockets
- Articulating knee with 12 pleats and partial elastic waistband for enhanced flexibility and comfort
- Available in several sizes and colors
- Affordably priced
- A few wearers said that the pockets were a bit difficult to access
5.11 Tactical Men’s Stryke Operator Uniform Pants
For shoppers who are looking for high-end tactical pants and have a bit of room in their budgets to spare, the ]5.11 Tactical Men’s Stryke Operator Uniform Pants with Flex-Tac Mechanical Stretch are definitely an option that we would recommend considering.
Made of 65 percent Ripstop mechanical stretch Flex-Tac polyester and 35 percent cotton, they’re lightweight, breathable, and extremely durable. The fabric is treated with a Teflon coating, too, to prevent moisture penetration.
The gusseted construction further adds to the comfort and the 12 pockets, which includes front pockets that are specifically designed to hold EDC items and double-deep cargo pockets, you’ll have plenty of space to keep those essentials close at hand.
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL - Constructed using premium patent-pending two-way Flex-Tac mechanical stretch fabric, this pair of pants is sturdy and flexible to ensure maximum performance in the field.
- TEFLON-TREATED FABRIC - Coated with Teflon, these pants have a protective finish that resists stain, soil, and moisture without compromising breathability. The coating also makes it easier to clean this garment!
- FULLY GUSSETED CONSTRUCTION - Featuring a gusseted inseam and a fitted appearance, this pair of pants offers optimum flexibility and a comfortable fit to eliminate your worries about rips and tears.
- SPECIALIZED POCKETS - Specially designed for professionals on the go, this pair of pants has 12 pockets including double-deep cargo pockets to provide ample storage and easy access to all your mission-critical gear.
- TRUSTED BRAND - Developed with quality in mind, 5.11 Styke Pants are available in 12 colors; TDU Green, Charcoal, Black, Khaki, Stone, Storm, Battle Brown, Burnt, Coyote, Ranger Green, Tundra, and Dark Navy-Blue.
Articulated knees and bar-tacking at all major stress points ensure that the pants won’t give out on you. YKK zippers and Pyrm snaps ensure easy closure and a self-adjusting tunnel waistband with Flex-Tac mechanical stretch offers long-lasting durability and high-performance functionality.
Available in an assortment of sizes and several color options, from light khaki to dark charcoal, you’ll be able to purchase the perfect color to suit your uniform or style preference.
- Made of 35 percent cotton and 65 percent Ripstop Flex-Tac polyester
- Treated with a Teflon coating
- 12 pockets, including EDC customized and double-deep cargo pockets
- Articulated knees and bar-tacking at key stress points ensure durability
- Gusseted construction and self-adjusting tunnel waistband with Flex-Tac mechanical stretch for superior durability
- Available in a wide range of sizes and colors
- They’re a bit pricey and may be cost-prohibitive for some
- A few wearers said that they felt stiff
LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants
For the budget-conscious shopper, the LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants are an excellent choice. Like most tactical pants, they’re made of a blend of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton Rip-Stop fabric.
Articulated knees and a gusseted crotch ensure durability and easy movement, while the elastic waistband provides superior comfort. Multiple pockets, including a front slip pocket that can easily accommodate a cell phone, an AR-15 magazine, or a knife, and large slanted seated pockets for easy access, provide plenty of storage space.
- Reliable & Functional: LA Police Gear Men's Urban Ops Tactical Pants are designed to suit various needs, from outdoor activities to professional use. With the combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design, it can be worn as hiking pants, work pants, duty pants, or EDC pants without looking out of place.
- Durable Fabric Construction: The RipStop fabric in our men’s pants aids in preventing small tears and rips from spreading, while a special fabric treatment makes these pants water and stain resistant. With the addition of reinforced bar tack stitching, articulating knees, and a gusseted crotch, it provides freedom of movement and rip/tear resistance to ensure these tac pants will hold up in rough and unforgiving conditions.
- Functional Pocket: Our pants feature 7 pockets for comprehensive storage including 2 front pockets, 2 rear pockets, 1 front slip pocket, and 2 large cargo pockets. These cargo pants offer plenty of room to store and organize all your EDC or duty gear.
- Stretch Waistband: These tactical trousers have a self-adjusting elastic waistband that offers a precise fit for added comfort while also giving you more room for concealed carry of an IWB holster or to tuck in your uniform shirt.
- Reliable Craftsmanship: With a reputation built on reliability, we combine expert craftsmanship with quality materials to create tactical gear that stands up to the toughest challenges, ensuring you stay prepared and protected.
With 22 individual barktacks at the key stress points, these pants are built to last. There are also a total of 6 belt loops that can accommodate belts that measure up to 2 inches. The LA Police Gear tactical pants are also available in several sizes and colors, including black, sierra, navy, khaki, charcoal, coyote brown, old green, boulder, and gray, ensure that you have plenty of options to choose from.
These durable, lightweight, and comfortable tactical pants are also extremely affordable.
- Made of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton Riptop fabric
- Multiple pockets for easy storage
- Articulating knees and gusseted crotch allow for easy movement
- Elastic waist provides great comfort
- 22 individual bartacks for increased durability
- Available in an assortment of sizes and colors
- Affordably priced
- Sizes seem to run small
Caterpillar Men’s Trademark Pants
The Caterpillar brand is famous for producing high-quality products, from heavy-duty equipment and parts to power systems and attachments, so you know that just like the rest of the products they make, their tactical pants are high-quality, too.
These poly-cotton blend (40/60) pants are specifically designed with comfort and durability in mind. The reinforced Oxford double layered knees are so tough that it’s virtually impossible to tear through them, and they feature a top loading knee pad opening, so you can easily add protection extra protection if you need to.
- DURABLE men’s pants made from tough 8.8 oz. C2X cotton-polyester canvas fabric with 900D oxford panels to protect against wear and tear
- WIDE RANGE OF MOVEMENT AND COMFORT provided by a diamond shape gusset at the crotch and articulated knees for kneeling, bending, and reaching
- VERSATILE CARGO PANTS for men who need to keep their tools handy. Front holster pockets, secure cargo pockets, a rear tool pocket, cell phone pocket with secure closure, ruler pocket with a carpenter loop, and tool loop on right thigh to accommodate all your gear
- TOOL BELT HOLDERS on the side waistband with hook and loop fastener to easily attach even more work necessities
- TOP-LOADING KNEE PAD POCKETS provide protection working down on the ground
Featuring plenty of built-in pockets, including multi-purpose tool pockets on the front and back of the pants, as well as a carpenter loop at the thigh, you can stow just about any tool or accessory that you need right on your person.
The 20 inch leg openings are wide enough to ensure you can move about with ease and fit the pants over boots, and they are outfitted with scuff guards for added strength. Made in a wide variety of colors, including natural hues, like a dark earth/black and a gray/black combo, and orange/black and yellow/black for high visibility, these tactical pants from Caterpillar are ideal for just about any activity or job, including hiking, biking, trekking, emergency services work, roadwork, and so much more.
- Made of high-end poly-cotton
- Features Oxford double layers knees with top loading knee pad openings
- Plenty of pockets, including a multi-purpose tool pocket on the front and back
- Carpenter loop at the thigh
- 20 inch leg openings with scuff guards can easily fit over boots
- Machine washable
- Extremely durable, yet lightweight, breathable, and comfortable
- Available in an assortment of sizes
- Numerous color options, including muted tones and high-visibility colors, such as orange and yellow
- Buttons may be a weak point
Tru-Spec 24-7 Tactical Pants for Men
Comprised of ripstop poly-cotton material, just like the other high-quality tactical pants that we’ve featured on our list so far, the Tru-Spec 24-7 Tactical Pants for Men are lightweight and breathable, yet durable and reliable.
With an adjustable slider waistband, there’s no need for gathered elastic or slide tabs like other tactical pants feature, and they’ll easily accommodate both interior or paddle-style holsters.
These tactical pants are packed with pockets, including deep front, dual deep cargo, dual expandable back pockets, and even extra hidden pockets so you can keep your weapons concealed and stow any tools that you may need at just an arm’s reach away.
- Straight-Leg Cargo Pants: Our classic cargo pants for men are designed to combat harsh weather when on tactical missions, camping, or hiking; Their durable construction makes these tactical pants a closet staple for years to come
- Efficient Design: Our men's cargo pants come with an inside opening for knee pads and a YKK brass zipper; Lightweight fabric is comfortable and allows for wide range of activities
- Multiple Pockets: These hiking pants feature deep front pockets, 2 cargo pockets, 2 expandable back pockets with hook and loop closures, and additional hidden pockets for essentials
- Comfortable Fit: Our cargo work pants for men have an adjustable slider waistband that eliminates the need for gathered elastic or side tabs and accommodates paddle-style or inside-the-pants holsters with 2-inch belt loops
- Lightweight Men's Tactical Pants: These tactical pants for men are made with a polyester-cotton blend and engineered for on-duty or off-duty wear; Suitable for casual and outdoor activities like hiking, traveling, walking, camping, and more
Treated with high-end water repellant technology, these pants won’t absorb moisture, so you’ll be able to remain dry while you’re working or adventuring. The knees are double reinforced and feature built-in pockets for knee pads, so you can add extra protection if you need to.
Like all of the tactical pants we’ve featured so far, the Tru-Spec 24-7 are available in a large assortment of sizes and 13 colors, ranging from multi-camo to neutral greens and browns.
- Made of Ripstop poly-cotton fabric
- Treated with high-end water repellent
- Lightweight and breathable, yet durable and reliable
- Double reinforced knees with built-in knee pad pockets
- Numerous pockets, including hidden pockets to keep items concealed
- Available in a variety of sizes and 13 color options
- A few users said that the legs weren’t as wide as they would have liked them to be
Under Armour Men’s Tactical Patrol Pants li
Under Armour is famous for their high-end performance gear, and their Patrol tactical pants are no exception. Unlike the other tactical pants that have been mentioned so far, these are made of 100 percent polyester, which may seem like the pants would get hot, but they are actually breathable.
Treated with revolutionary UA Storm Technology, these pants repel all types of moisture with ease, so you don’t have to worry about getting even the slightest bit damp while you’re working or exploring. They’re also treated with an anti-odor technology, which prevents the pants from harboring and growing odor-causing microbes.
- UA Storm technology repels water without sacrificing breathability|Ultra-durable ripstop fabric is tough enough to put up with anything in the field|Anti-odor technology prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes|Stretch-engineered waistband for superior mobility & insane comfort|Reinforced knees & crotch provide superior durability|Offset belt loops allow proper holster placement|Dual cargo pockets with internal mag holders
A stretch-engineered waistband provides ensures mobility and provides exceptional comfort. The reinforced knees and crotch are highly durable, so you can go about your business without having to worry about the risk of tearing your pants.
Offset belt loops ensure proper placement of a holster and the dual deep cargo pockets and internal mag holders allow you to keep your gear and accessories close at hand. With a straight leg design and 7 neutral color options, these pants are as stylish as they are comfortable, durable, and reliable.
- Made of 100 percent Ripstop polyester
- Treated with UA Storm Technology for exceptional moisture resistance
- Anti-odor technology prevents the pants from harboring odor-causing microbes
- Stretch-engineered waistband ensures comfort and mobility
- Reinforced knees and crotch provide exceptional durability
- Lightweight and breathable
- Available in several sizes and 7 neutral colors
- Some wearers said that the pants were stiff
Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pant
The Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pant is made of – you guessed it – poly-cotton blend fabric for reliable durability, breathability, and comfort. Treated with a Teflon fabric protector, these pants repel all types of liquids and stains.
The fabric is fade-, wrinkle-, and shrink-resistant, so you can just grab them out of the dryer and toss them on without having to worry if they’ll look good. The reinforced knees and seam ensure long-lasting wear and with a total of 9 pockets, you’ll have plenty of space to store all of your EDC gear.
- READY FOR DUTY: Designed with the job in mind, our Uniform Tactical Pant has all the premium, multifunctional features at an affordable price, so can you report to duty with a classic and professional look
- CARRY IT ALL: Extra large belt loops are designed for a nylon duty belt. There are 2 back pockets with hook and loop closure, 2 front pockets with reinforced opening for folding knife or tool clip, and 2 double cargo pockets with open-top slash pockets
- COMFORT + PERFORMANCE: Made with 60% cotton 40% polyester ripstop with an action stretch waistband for enhanced comfort, Vision zipper fly with button closure, and knees are reinforced for extra durability, while still allowing the addition of knee pads
- RELAXED FIT: These men’s cargo pants have a side elastic waistband that sits comfortably at the waist. The pants stay relaxed through the hip and thigh and are straight through the leg
- COMPLETE COLLECTION: Propper’s rugged and durable Uniform Collection features men’s performance polos, pants, and BDUs designed to hold all your gear while providing unmatched comfort, function, and value
The action-stretch waistband moves with you to ensure your comfort and knee pad openings allow you to add extra protection if you need to. These tactical pants are NTOA member tested and approved, come in an assortment of sizes, and a total of 13 neutral color options.
They’re also quite stylish, so you can wear them to work, on adventures, or out and about and will always look put-together.
- Made of high-end poly-cotton fabric
- Treated with Teflon moisture- and stain-resistant fabric protector
- Features ample pockets for all of your EDC gear
- NTOA member tested and approved
- Reinforced knee and crotch provides added durability
- Built-in knee pad pockets
- Super lightweight
- Stretch waistband for added comfort
- Available in a variety of colors and sizes
- A few users said that they felt like they were too lightweight
Blackhawk Men’s Pursuit Tactical Pants
Last on our list of the best tactical pants are Blackhawk’s Pursuit. These pants are made of the Ripstop fabric that all well-made tactical pants are made of and are treated with a Teflon protectant to repel water, oil, and stains.
If they do get wet, they dry fast. With a total of 8 multi-purpose pockets, including cargo pockets that contain 3 AR magazine compartments, you won’t have any trouble finding space to store your must-have essentials.
Double front belt loops are perfect for holding clips or badges, and the action waistband and gusseted crotch provides exceptional comfort. Reinforced knees with interior pockets for knee pads round out the features that the Blackhawk Men’s Pursuit Tactical Pants offer.
- 100% Cotton
- Hidden expandable waistband slides for increased mobility and comfort and gusseted crotch allows for increased movement
- Reinforced hems on leg cuffs and hand pockets for increased durability
- Do not Dry Clean. Machine Wash Temp 30C. Non -Chlorine Bleach When Needed. Tumble Dry, Normal , Medium Heat Iron, Low Heat. No Steam.
- Indonesia
They’re available in multiple sizes and four color options, which may not be quite as many as some of the other pants that are featured on our list, but the four colors that are offered are classic and include black, stone, fatigue, and navy.
- Made of premium-quality Ripstop fabric
- Treated with Teflon protectant to repel moisture and stains
- Fast drying
- Features 8 multi-purpose pockets, including cargo pockets with 3 AR magazine compartments
- Action waistband provides increased comfort
- Gusseted crotch and reinforced knees for increased durability
- Interior pockets for knee pads
- Available in an assortment of sizes
- Stylish design
- Some users said that the fit was too tight
Other Best Selling Options
- CQR Men's Tactical PantsSeries designed for law enforcement, military, and outdoor activities.
- [Materials] Mix of Polyester & Cotton (Ripstop Fabric) is breathable, wrinkle-free, and comfortable.
- [Duratax Ripstop Fabric] Ripstop fabric has excellent durability and has water-resistant and stain-resistant.
- Exclusive Tactical Belt is NOT included ***
- [Elastic Waistband] Side waistband is to make a secure fit and support the active movement.
- Pants for men sits at waist, loose fit, straight leg, ties at the waist and legs,A comfortable casual pant for outdoor activities and relaxing weekends.
- This ripstop tactical pants men offers versatile, relaxed fit,camo cargo pants for men sits at waist ,straight leg openings with drawstring tie to fit with boots are great for hunting pants, working pants, military style BDUs, costume pants.
- Solid camouflage cargo pants for men/Casual style with multi-pockets for convenience/The belt in the picture is not included.
- Men's cargo work pants for outdoor activities,Front slant pocket x2; thigh buttoned flap pocket x2;leg buttoned flap pocket x2; rear buttoned flap pocket x2; Left slant decoration zipper pocket x1. Easy care wrinkle resistant fabrics, roomy pockets & sturdy zippers & buttons.
- Mens casual pants are ideal for relaxing weekends and outdoor activities as paintball, climbing, hiking, skateboard, fishing, hunting, travelling, backpacking, camping, jogging, walking.
- All-Purpose Pants: These LA Police Gear core cargos are streamlined to eliminate unnecessary bulk found in standard tactical pants. Designed to endure rugged conditions, they offer exceptional comfort and durability while remaining lightweight for enhanced wearability.
- Multiple Pockets: Equipped with 6 spacious cargo pockets, including 2 angled front pockets, 2 rear slip pockets, and 2 large cargo pockets, these pants offer ample storage to carry all your essential EDC gear.
- Premium Fabric Construction: Ripstop fabric is woven in a crosshatch pattern to add reinforcement, making the fabric more resistant to tears and rips. The lightweight and flexible design allows for unrestricted movement which is ideal for everyday use & outdoor activities.
- Stretch Waistband: These tactical trousers have an elastic waistband that offer a precise fit for added comfort as well as giving you more room for concealed carry of an IWB holster.
- Reliable Craftsmanship: With a reputation built on reliability, we combine expert craftsmanship with quality materials to create tactical gear that stands up to the toughest challenges, ensuring you stay prepared and protected.
- READY FOR DUTY: Designed with the job in mind, our Uniform Tactical Pant has all the premium, multifunctional features at an affordable price, so can you report to duty with a classic and professional look
- CARRY IT ALL: Extra large belt loops are designed for a nylon duty belt. There are 2 back pockets with hook and loop closure, 2 front pockets with reinforced opening for folding knife or tool clip, and 2 double cargo pockets with open-top slash pockets
- COMFORT + PERFORMANCE: Made with 60% cotton 40% polyester ripstop with an action stretch waistband for enhanced comfort, Vision zipper fly with button closure, and knees are reinforced for extra durability, while still allowing the addition of knee pads
- RELAXED FIT: These men’s cargo pants have a side elastic waistband that sits comfortably at the waist. The pants stay relaxed through the hip and thigh and are straight through the leg
- COMPLETE COLLECTION: Propper’s rugged and durable Uniform Collection features men’s performance polos, pants, and BDUs designed to hold all your gear while providing unmatched comfort, function, and value
- CQR Men's Tactial Pants Series is designed for law enforcement, military, and outdoor sports activities. (Note: The exclusive Tacticle Belt is not included.)
- [Dura-Flex Fabric] Provides maximum mobility, durability, and water/stain-resistant.
- [Build-Materials] A stretchy polyester, cotton, and spandex blend for mobility with long-lasting durability.
- [Elastic Waistband] The side-action waistband is to ensure a secure fit and support active movement.
- [Tactical Layout] 8 multi-purpose pockets for transport carry of various tools and equipment, giving you free use of your hands.
Tactical Pants Buyer’s Guide
Whether you’re hitting the Pacific Crest Trail or scaling Cascade Mountain in the Appalachians, you work in landscaping or are an emergency service provider, or are doing anything else that involves a lot of activity, you know how important wearing the right type of clothing is.
When it comes to your pants, you need something that’s durable, yet lightweight, easy to move in, and can keep you protected from the wind, rain, and any other elements that Mother Nature (or the project you’re doing) might throw your way. Tactical pants are the perfect choice.
Similar to cargo pants but with a few notable modifications, tactical pants were initially worn by mountain climbers (hence why they’re such a great choice if you, yourself, are planning on climbing a mountain), their uses have become so varied that now they are available in a wide range of styles and designs.
Made of lightweight materials (usually a cotton-poly blend), these pants feature large belt loops, external pockets, and reinforced knees – among a variety of other features. In other words, tactical pants offer plenty of storage space and can keep you protected from the elements; hence why they’ve become so popular for so many different activities.
Now that you’ve read through our reviews of the eight best tactical pants on the market, you’re probably wondering how to decide which option will best suit your needs. Whether you’re wearing them for hiking, biking, trekking, construction work, emergency services work, or any other type of activity, you want to be sure that the tactical pants that you choose will meet your specific needs.
They need to be comfortable, yet durable and reliable. Before you shop, take a look at some of the key factors that you should take into consideration to narrow down the options and pick the right pair of pants for you.
Fabric
Fabric is one of the most important factors that you’re going to want to take into consideration when you’re purchasing a pair of tactical pants. Why? – Because the fabric has a direct impact on the durability of the pants, as well as the comfort.
As you probably noticed from the above-mentioned reviews, most tactical pants are made of a blend of Ripstop polyester and cotton; typically, the percentage of polyester is higher than the cotton.
That’s because polyester is more durable; however, it can also get hot, which is why cotton is also used because it increases the breathability of the pants. However, that’s not to say that all tactical pants are made of a poly-cotton blend. Some are made of 100 percent polyester, which would be better suited if you’re going to be wearing the pants in cold environments, as this material will keep you warmer.
Pockets
Another key feature to consider is the pockets that the pants feature. Some tactical pants are equipped with an assortment of various types of pockets, while others are made with just a few. The amount of pockets depends on how much you want to be able to move, as more and larger pockets may restrict movement.
If you’re going to be wearing the pants for mountain climbing, for example, then you might want to consider a pair that features just a few key pockets that have a flat design, as you’ll be able to move more freely; however, if you will be wearing them for work (EMS, construction, etc.) and you need to keep a variety of tools close at hand, then more pockets in a variety of shapes and sizes may be a better option for you.
If you’re going to be using the pants for various activities, then a pair that balances carrying capacity with movement would likely be the best option for you.
The Waist
Tactical pants should be comfortable, and the design of the waist has a direct impact on their comfort level. Pants that feature a full elastic or semi-elastic waist will provide the most comfort, as the pants won’t constrict you and instead, they will be able to move with you.
Durability
Durability is another extremely important factor that should be taken into consideration when you’re purchasing a pair of tactical pants.
High-end fabrics certainly impact the durability of the pants; however, to further ensure the pants are strong enough to take on just about anything that comes there way without splitting, the best tactical pants have reinforced knees and a reinforced seat.
Fit
Just like a pair of jeans or work trousers, it’s important to purchase tactical pants that will fit you properly; in fact, the fit of your tactical pants is even more important than the fit of any other type of pants that you wear.
The reason being that you’re going to be active while you’re wearing them, and as such, you want to be sure that they are spacious, yet not too loose, and that the length is appropriate. Make sure you consider the sizing of the pants to ensure that they will fit you properly. For example, if they run small, you may want to purchase a larger size than you would normally wear, but if they run large, than you may want to buy a pair that run smaller than what you would usually wear.
Color
Look for tactical pants that offer color options that will work for your needs. For example, if you are going to be wearing them in a hazardous environment, such as road construction, you may want to look for pants that come in high-visibility colors, and if you’re wearing them for hunting, pants that come in camo prints or neutral colors would likely best suit your needs.
Tactical Pants FAQs
In this section, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions that consumers ask about tactical pants.
What are the benefits of tactical pants?
Tactical pants are made of high-end materials, are exceptionally durable, and are usually treated with special protectants that make the material moisture-resistant. They can also feature a variety of pockets to keep important gear close at hand, and they’re highly comfortable.
Who are tactical pants for?
Anyone can wear tactical pants; however, they’re intended for people who engage in activities that involve a lot of movement or that require a lot of tools. They’re kind of like the utility knife of pants. That said, tactical pants are often worn by first responders, hikers, bikers, cyclists, trekkers, construction workers, military, and hunters.
Is the color really important?
It depends. If you’re purchasing pants for a uniform or a certain task, then yes, the color is pretty important. For example, if you’re wearing them for hunting or military training, than camo or neutral-colored pants would be a better option than something brightly colored.
How many and what type of pockets do you need?
It really depends on what you’ll be doing while you’re wearing the pants. For instance, if you’re hunting, you may want a lot of deep pockets to keep your gear close at hand, while if you’re mountain climbing, fewer, more streamlined pockets may be a better bet.
Conclusion
If you’re on the market for a pair of tactical pants, one of the eight options featured in our review should certainly meet your needs; however, whether you opt for one of the options listed above or you choose something else, make sure you take the above-mentioned factors into consideration to help you choose the best tactical pants.
