As a police officer and firearm instructor, I’ve worn about every major brand of tactical pants on the market. Tactical pants are designed to be practical, versatile and durable for demanding environments. They need to be ready to go on scene and professional enough for a meeting with management.
Comfort ranks high on the list of key features, but it doesn’t stop there. Before getting into specific recommendations, here are five things to look for to ensure your tactical pants meet your expectations and the demands of your job while providing the durability, comfort and functionality you require:
- Comfort: The pants should fit comfortably during long shifts. When working in warm or humid environments, select moisture-wicking fabrics to help dissipate sweat and moisture. Gusseted crotches and articulated knees can provide added comfort and room during activity. Pants should have belt loops designed for belts that support holsters, magazine pouches, duty gear and medical kits.
- Fit: When selecting your waist size, make sure you can fit the flattened palm of your hand between your abdomen and the waistband. This gives you room for movement, as well as the option to wear an inside-the-waistband holster. Expanding waistbands provide additional room to move and security.
- Durability and material: Tactical pants are typically made from abrasion-resistant fabrics like ripstop or blends of polyester and cotton. Some pants may also include elastane or other stretchable fabrics for added flexibility. These materials ensure the pants can withstand the demands of our jobs. Tactical pants often have extra reinforcement in critical areas like the knees, seat, pocket corners and belt loops to withstand wear and tear.
- Pockets: The pants you select need to have well-designed pockets of different shapes and sizes to hold gear and equipment. Some pockets may have secure closures like Velcro or snaps that can be opened and closed while wearing gloves. Many tactical pants have integrated or removable knee pad compartments for extra protection when kneeling or crawling.
- Mission applicability: Pants for SWAT may not be acceptable for paramedics working a MVC, so select tactical pants that meet your needs, as well as your agency’s policies and procedures. There are a variety of styles and colors available, so pick the pants that best suit your mission.
With that in mind, here are my top picks for tactical pants:
First Tactical A2 Pants
The First Tactical A2 Pants are built to perform. Made with ultra-stretch A2 micro-canvas fabric, these pants are durable and flexible. The A2 Pant’s clean styling, quality construction and high-performance fabric blend make these pants perfect for everyday wear. A professional appearance for detectives and durable for tactical professionals. These pants feature a water- and stain-repellent finish to protect you from the environment and keep you looking good. Two oversized utility pockets provide room to carry cell phones and other kit, while the discreet zippered cargo pockets hold valuables safe and sound. The pockets are mesh-lined for breathability with internal organization throughout to help make this pant perfect for everyday wear.
5.11 Tactical Apex Pant
Flexible and functional, the 5.11 Tactical Apex Pant sets the standard for speed and versatility with 5.11’s Flex-Tac mechanical stretch canvas. Featuring a waistband that’s comfortable while using an inside- or outside-the-waistband holster, the Apex Pant can adapt to whatever environment you’re working. There are 10 pockets in total including an internal flex cuff pocket, hidden handcuff key pocket, zippered low-profile thigh pockets with internal magazine storage, and deep, reinforced main pockets. Crafted using 5.11’s innovative Flex-Tac mechanical stretch canvas, Apex Pants have gusseted construction and articulated knees keeping them ready for action. Rounding it out are the high quality YKK zippers used for long-lasting performance. Women should note they have their own unique line of 5.11 Tactical Apex Pants, but they may find some pants feature right-hand zippers while others may feature left-hand zippers.
Kuhl REVOLVR Pant
Born in the mountains, Kuhl is well-known in the outdoor world and is fast becoming a fixture in the tactical community because of the Kuhl REVOLVR Pant. These pants feature lightweight, durable and breathable fabric. An articulated design and gusseted crotch combine with a hint of stretch for complete freedom of movement and superior mobility. The durable, anti-abrasion UPF 50+ fabric provides maximum UV protection. The Kuhl REVOLVR Pant also feature roomy pockets to carry everything you need. The design of the thigh pockets, including the stealth cell phone pocket, is unique in the tactical pants market making the REVOLVR an excellent choice for your tactical and professional needs.
Vertx Recon Pant
The Vertx Recon is a tactical pant modernized to withstand modern SWAT missions. The Recon uses a new lightweight 5.8oz stretch mini-ripstop fabric for superior durability and performance. This update also includes an athletic fit for additional comfort and more mobility. Vertx even redesigned the cargo pockets for more storage capacity. The new Recon Flex pant features kneepad panels that can easily be cinched down with hook and loop closures. This added convenience among other loaded features of the Recon Flex pant keeps you prepared for the rigorous encounters of the job This modern take on Vertx functionality will allow you to perform at your absolute best when you need it the most.
LA Police Gear BFE Stretch Tactical Pants
Available for men and women, the LA Police Gear BFE Stretch Tactical Pants are tough, practical and stylish. The company started with a stretchable 67% polyester/33% cotton blend fabric and a modern athletic cut that isn’t baggy. The stretch fabric and articulated points make these pants comfortable and help them move with you. Durability is enhanced thanks to reinforced construction and bar tacks in key areas, a gusseted crotch, seven belt loops and a YKK locking brass zipper. The LA Police Gear BFE Stretch Tactical Pants feature 11 pockets including two zippered cargo pockets with interior organization for magazines, tourniquets, or any other items. LA Police Gear’s BFE Stretch Tactical Pants look good in the office and in the field.
Under Armour Tactical Elite Cargo Pants
The Under Armour Tactical Elite Cargo Pants are also available for men and women. These pants give you the stretchy, lightweight athletic performance you expect from Under Armour plus the durability you need for the job. They feature an ultra-durable, ripstop stretch-woven fabric that is tough enough to put up with anything in the field, and the Under Armour Storm technology repels water without sacrificing breathability. A comfortable waistband stretches with you as you move, and articulation is built into the knees for added mobility. The Under Armour Tactical Elite Cargo Pants have a built-in badge clip on the front belt loops, open hand pockets with interior knife pockets, zip back pockets, and flap closure cargo pockets.
Whatever your objective, there’s a comfortable pair of tactical pants ready to help you accomplish your goals. If you’re looking for a set of pants for SWAT operations, a comfortable pair of duty pants, or a good-looking and utilitarian set of pants to throw on for detective callouts, these are solid choices. These tactical pants are designed to be comfortable, durable and ready to help you focus on your mission.
