The last thing you need when you’re on a mission, working out or just taking part in other activities is subpar gear. You know what we’re talking about: old and ratty workout gear, bags and packs that just don’t cut it, or glasses that don’t fit right. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We’ve picked some of the coolest and best gear upgrades you need going into 2021. So go ahead and upgrade your gear, you deserve it.
Gear for the Tactical Athlete
2021 is your year. Get ready to reach new heights, make new gains, and accomplish your goals. Here’s the gear that’s going to take your training to the next level and help you get there.
1. Training Mask 3.0 Performance Breathing Trainer
Back in the day, you would have had to travel to the Rockies or another high-altitude place if you wanted to get serious about respiratory conditioning. But today, you can just pop on your Training Mask 3.0 Performance Breathing Trainer, choose your intensity level and get to work. Training with this mask on will help increase your stamina, endurance, and recovery – so get ready to grab some PRs in 2021.
2. Garmin Forerunner 35 GPS Watch
What we love about this watch is that it’s simple enough to wear as an everyday watch but with enough features to compete as a training watch. Track your steps, calories, and heart rate throughout the day, or switch to the sports tracking mode and track your run, walk, cardio, and cycling workouts.
3. Tru-Spec Gen-III ECWCS Level II Baselayer Top
Make 2021 the year you say goodbye to that ratty old cotton workout shirt and upgrade to this incredibly functional and comfortable Tru-Spec shirt. It’s moisture wicking to keep you at a comfortable temperature, has odor defense, and it’s breathable.
Gear for the Tactical Operator
No one knows what 2021 holds, but you know it’s best to be prepared. Get the gear you need to feel confident in the new year.
4. Wiley X Combat Assault Gloves
No matter what 2021 has in store, these gloves will be up to the task. They’re flame-resistant, have injection molded knuckle protection, Kevlar weaving, and are leather reinforced. Not only will they hold up to whatever gets thrown at them—they also just look awesome.
5. Gatorz MIL-SPEC Ballistic Magnum Sunglasses
You might not need your sunglasses to withstand two hits from a .15 caliber projectile at a speed of between 700-725 feet per second, but it’s kind of nice to know that they can. These shades can take a hit, have 100% UV protection, and superior water and oil resistance. Stylish for everyday wear but strong enough for combat—we’re definitely going to be upgrading to these glasses in 2021.
6. 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack
We don’t know about you, but we plan to spend a lot of 2021 outside. This pack is perfect for any trip or tactical deployment. It can hold three days’ worth of storage, is compatible with MOLLE and a Backup Belt System, and it’s waterproof. Plus, it comes with an easily accessible fleece-lined sunglasses pocket.
Gear for the Law Enforcement Officer
You’ve worked hard in 2020, now reward yourself with some great new gear.
7. 5.11 XPRT Tactical Long Sleeve Shirt
2021 is all about making an upgrade. We love that this shirt looks sharp but is also comfortable thanks to its moisture wicking properties. The Teflon finish helps the shirt resist grime, soil, and liquids so you don’t have to worry about ruining it even during the dirtiest jobs.
8. Pelican 1495 Large Laptop Protective Watertight Case
When you have a tough job, you need tough protection for your tools. This laptop case really stands up to whatever gets thrown at it. It’s dustproof, watertight, resistant to varying temperatures, and comes with a 3-dial combination lock. You can bet your laptop is staying safe from the elements in 2021.
9. Blackhawk T-Series Non-Light Bearing Duty Holster
Unpredictability can be exciting, but not when it comes to your holster. This holster is extremely reliable with a predictable action every time you draw. Throw in the moisture repelling, sound-reducing liner and we’re sold.
Gear for Service Members and Vets
What do you want in 2021? More comfort for your home? Tools to help make your travel more organized? Or just a little more fun in your life? We’ve got the gear to help set you on the right path.
10. Woobie USA Poppies of War
When it comes to Woobies, if you know then you know. And if you don’t know—well then, it’s time to learn. These are hands down the best, most comfortable blankets out there. The new patterns are a huge upgrade from the military issue that you might be used to, and is a great addition to any home or travel bag.
11. Blackhawk Medium A.L.E.R.T Bag
You’ve upgraded your gear, now it’s time to keep it organized. This bag has compartmentalization down to a science. It’s not just a combat bag either – the sleek exterior and convenient wheels make it easy enough to use as an airport carry on for your next big trip.
12. Disgruntled Decks
It’s like Apples to Apples or Cards Against Humanity but only those who have served will appreciate Disgruntled Deck humor. Choose from four different decks featuring jokes about the Navy, the Army, the Air Force, and Veterans. This game is going to have you laughing your…well, we’ll save the unsavory language for the game.
Gear for When You Want to Go Big
Sometimes it’s not enough just to upgrade, what you really want is to buy the coolest and best product on the market. And you know what? After 2020, we all deserve the coolest gear in 2021. Here’s what we have our eye on.
13. Montague FIT Folding Bike
Big bulky bikes are so outdated. This year, we’re upgrading to this high-performance folding Montague bike. It’s fast, versatile, and it folds together for easy storage. Basically, everything we’re looking for in a bike for 2021.
14. Exxel Outdoors Kelty VariCom Complete System USA
We’re done avoiding cold weather camping trips because we don’t have the right gear. This sleep system is rated for 30 degrees all the way down to negative 40. If you need us in the winter of 2021, we’ll be hanging out on top of a mountain.
15. SureFire X300-A Ultra WeaponLight
This weapon light has everything we’ve been looking for – 600 lumens of white light, ambidextrous switching, and weatherproof construction. You simply can’t go wrong with this beauty.
We don’t know about you, but 2021 is suddenly looking a little brighter now with all this gear in mind. Looking for something that’s not on this list? We have a ton of other great gear too.
