Tactical pants are similar to the cargo pants but with several modifications. It is designed not only for the number of compartments it offers but also in its durability and its armor-like capabilities. The best tactical pants were originally used by mountain climbers but are now also popular with law enforcement personnel, EMTs and fire fighter professionals.
Tactical pants are lightweight while still offering high levels of protection. It is normally made of polyester and poly cotton rip stop. One of the biggest changes tactical pants have is its extra protection on the seat and knee areas.
There are several factors to consider if you plan on buying a reliable tactical pant. Below are some tips on what to look for when purchasing one.
Protection from the Elements
Tactical pants should be water resistant. However, merely being water resistant may not be enough during certain occasions when near complete submersion is needed. In this scenario, a water resistant fabric that is treated with Teflon works best as water will roll off and will not weigh you down.
Materials
This is another important factor that you should keep in mind. Tactical pants usually use 3 types of materials: cotton, canvas and synthetic. Cotton is the lightest and most comfortable of the bunch but is not waterproof. However, there cotton tactical pants that are treated with silicone so look for those. Canvas is extremely durable and tough but weighs heavier. Synthetic material based tactical pants on the other hand offer extreme flexibility and are completely waterproof.
Maneuverability
One of the most important factors of a tactical pant is not just its durability and level of protection but also the maneuverability it offers to a wearer. In this regard, choose one that uses fabric with a little bit of stretching capability.
Pocket and Cargo Placement
Law enforcement personnel, EMTs and outdoor enthusiasts know the importance of having easy access to your essential tools when you need it. Look for tactical pants that offer various types of pockets.
Now that you know what to look for when it comes to buying a tactical pant, we will makes things even easier for you with a list of the top 5 best tactical pants around today.
The Best Tactical Pants — Top 5
5.11 Tac Lite Pro Pants
The 5.11 Tac Lite Pro Pants is one of the lightest and most comfortable tactical pants that you can get your hands on today. It is perfect for individuals who love the great outdoors. It features a seven pocket system which is all easily accessible.
It also comes with the signature 5.11 “strap and slash” rear pockets. For water resistance capabilities it incorporates Teflon treatment. It features an action waistband for extra gear, full gusseted crotch and a hip mounted-ring that can hold your keys and ID.
Buy 5.11 Tac Lite Pro Pants here!
Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pants
The Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pants uses a combination of polyester material and cotton which gives it a good balance between protection and comfort. The fabric is also treated with Dupont Teflon which further helps keep moisture at bay.
It utilizes a nice looking nine pocket design that allows wearers to access all their important gear when they need them. It features an action stretch waistband and the pants itself is fade, shrink and wrinkle resistant.
It also comes with a D-ring that will be able to hold keys, IDs and other important tools. It also has Propper’s signature “pocket in a pocket” included which further increases compartment versatility.
Buy Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pants here!
Blackhawk Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pants
The Blackhawk Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pants is another exceptionally lightweight tactical pant that is quite popular. It features polyester material construction. Specifically, it utilizes 65% polyester and 35% cotton.
It comes in with a large top opening cargo pockets that is equipped with 2 inch elastic webbing for enhanced security of items. These pockets are also designed to properly hold up about three weapon magazines, a tactical knife, flashlights and other essential survival tools.
It features a wider belt loop which is designed for use with the Blackhawk CQB Rigger’s Belt. The belt loops can support about 1.75 inch wide belts. The waist area also has a silicone grip strip that will keep your shirt tucked in even when conducting tough maneuvers.
Buy Blackhawk Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pants here!
Rothco BDU Tactical Pants
The Rothco BDU Tactical Pants is known for its ability to withstand wear and tear as well as offer maximum protection to the wearer. It is made of 55% polyester material and 45% cotton. It also features reinforced knee and seat areas.
It features drawstring bottoms, an adjustable waist tab, and a total of 6 pocket and double stitched seams which helps increase its durability. It also uses a button fly which is secure and can be easily removed or put on.
These BDU tactical pants are available in men’s sizes but are designed to be unisex and can be worn by everyone.
Buy Rothco BDU Tactical Pants here!
Under Armour Storm Tactical Patrol Pants
Under Armour is well-known when it comes to delivering high quality sports gear and they seem to have the tactical pants construction down to pat as well. The Under Armour Storm Tactical Patrol Pants features 100% polyester materials. It uses DWR treatment which helps in repelling water without sacrificing breathability.
It is equipped with rip stop fabric which helps prevent wear and tear and elevates its durability significantly. An additional feature is the anti-odor technology which helps in keeping odor causing bacteria away.
The waistband uses highly stretchable material which helps enhance comfort as well as the wearer’s mobility. For added protection the pants are also equipped with knee and seat guards.
Buy Under Armour Storm Tactical Patrol Pants here!
If you are an outdoor lover, a law enforcement personnel or an EMT then having a tactical pant is a necessary investment. Ensure that you are only purchasing the best tactical pants available to receive the advantages these tough and practical pants offer on the field.