Let’s face it. There’s a reason why you are looking for tactical pants. You need a pant that can stand up to any demanding endeavor, maintain performance and will last. Tactical pants are made to be durable, have extra carrying capacity and mobile enough to keep you on the move. No matter if you’re buying your first tactical pants or looking for something new, this guide will hit the important highlights to help you find the perfect pair.
Types of Tactical Pants
To improve their functionality, tactical pants have undergone technical modifications to be lightweight and durable to meet any of your on-the-job demands. Whether you’re going to be in wet environments and need tactical waterproof pants or need tactical cargo pants to support all of your survival gear, it’s important to get a handle on the many types of pants you can choose from.
When it comes to tactical pants, there are three overarching types.
Overt
Overt tactical pants maintain a classic military look. The prominent features of this style are specifically reinforced areas for added strength, multiple features that improve functionality and a larger carrying capacity. If you need a pant for the range, tactical situations or outdoor adventures over the weekend, this style is for you.
Covert
For those who need to be a little more discreet, covert tactical pants deliver the same high-quality tactical pant but are modified to keep pockets – and what’s in those pockets – hidden. These features have popularized this style with law enforcement and undercover agents.
EMS and EMT Pants
On the surface, EMS/EMT pants look as though they mirror most tactical cargo pants, however, they have much more specialized pockets for medical tools and emergency gear.
Tactical Pants Features
The biggest two features for tactical pants are their carrying capacity and their durability. When it comes to carrying capacity, the number of pockets and the types of pockets are important considerations. If you need to carry a concealed weapon, deep inset pockets and magazine pockets with straps are two variations of pockets to consider. For law enforcement, you may want tactical pants that feature handcuff key pockets that are inside the waistband. EMS and EMTs may want tactical pants that feature slash pockets or specific tool-related pockets.
In terms of durability, consider the material that each pair of tactical pants are made of as well as specific reinforcement features that you may need. Nylon and cotton blends are used to provide a lightweight option that is quick drying and wrinkle resistant. Polyester and cotton blends are similar to nylon and cotton blends, in that they provide a breathable and stronger option. Ripstop is a weave fabric meant to prevent abrasions. And while Ripstop may not be as breathable as the blends above, it makes up for it, in terms of durability.
With that in mind, we give you our list of must-haves for our Tactical Pants Guide.
If you’re looking for a clearer picture on features that take a pair of pants from apparel to a mission-critical item, give our article ‘5 Features to Look for in Tactical Pants’a read.
The Best Tactical Pants
Need a couple of suggestions to start your research? We’ve highlighted a few options from our most popular and trusted brands.
5.11 Stryke Pants
The 5.11 Tactical Stryke Pants have quickly become a favorite pant for a wide variety of performance reasons. It’s quite simple, these pants have just about everything you’d want in a tactical pant. They have 12 pockets to meet all of your carrying needs. They’re made from Flex-Tax ripstop fabric, which makes them extremely durable. And finally, they are Teflon fabric treated to provide even more protection against moisture and soil. They leave no doubt that they can stand up to any environment.
Tru Spec 24-7 Pants
True to its name, the Tru Spect Original 24-7 Tactical Pants is pretty much the perfect pant for any occasion. It’s easily one of the more functional and comfortable tactical pants on the market. Made with DuPont Teflon and a ripstop poly-cotton blend, these pants are both water resistant and an all-around tough pair of tactical pants. They also feature 14 separate pockets, two of which – the cargo pockets – have two magazine compartments. Between the storage capacity and comfort, these pants are perfect for EMTs, law enforcement and military.
Under Armour Storm Patrol Pants
No longer known for just athletic gear, Under Armour tactical pants have hit the market with some high-quality pants. With the release of their Storm Tactical Patrol Pants, Under Armour introduced their Storm Technology, a finish that repels water without sacrificing breathability. Essentially, you get that same lightweight tactical pants but with water repellent fabric.
Tactical pants serve many purposes. It’s important to invest in a pair that enables you to perform. To keep you combat ready or simply ready for any rugged environment, check out our top tactical pants today. So how’d we do? Did our Tactical Pants Guide cover all your questions? Let us know in the comments.
