Many professionals rely on specialised clothing and equipment to perform their duties effectively, from plate carrier vests, covert shirts down to waterproof boots. Their tactical uniform becomes a second skin, it protects and defends the individual making them prepared for anything their job throws at them.
One of the most important items in a uniform is arguably the tactical trouser, they are designed to handle rigorous environments where professionals find themselves regularly. The best tactical trousers are designed uniquely to fulfil the needs of these individuals.
When in the field, these individuals need clothing that is both comfortable and sturdy enough to resist rips and tears. The trousers they wear should have reinforcements in all the right places and have plenty of space to carry everyday items needed for the job.
With so many different variations of tactical trousers, it can be overwhelming to know which ones are right for the job. We’ve broken down a range of tactical trousers and their features to help you find the right pair.
Types of Tactical Trousers
Overt: These are the original tactical trouser based on the traditional cargo trouser. They have deep-set cargo pockets allowing for storage space, some pockets will also have specialised purposes such as magazine holder. These are the most functional of trousers and can provide quick access to all your priority equipment. Perfect for outdoor excursions, range days and combat situations.
Covert: Worn by more operational and specialist professionals, covert tactical trousers offer the functionality of an overt trouser but without the detection. Tactical brands have begun to expand on this style more and more as they provide a modern look compared to the traditional overt trouser. These are ideal for individuals who are after a more discrete trouser but who want the full functionality of a full overt trouser.
Jeans: Getting even more casual we have the tactical jean, perfect for a day at the shooting range or any casual occasions. A more laid back approach to the tactical trouser but the similar characteristics are why they are a firm favourite with those already owning tactical trousers.
EMS: These trousers have been specifically designed for emergency service professionals. These trousers are similar to the overt trouser but the pockets on these have been custom made for specific medical tools that are needed on the daily.
TDU: These trousers have been designed with the police force and security in mind. TDU stands for Tactical Duty Uniform as this is exactly what these trousers are. They are engineered for maximum durability and feature a tough lightweight polyester/ cotton ripstop fabric. The trousers are designed to be worn over long periods of time so comfort is key, they will usually feature a self-adjusting waistband and come with a double-reinforced seat. They will also feature additional storage pockets such as an integrated magazine compartment.
Material
Ripstop: Feature thicker yarns woven in a grid pattern with the fabric’s normal weight yarns. This creates a fabric that is more durable than one with a single weight yarn. Should a rip or tear happen, the thicker yarns help prevent a hole from enlarging beyond the grid. 5.11 offers several ripstop fabrics in a range of weights and performance features. Flex-Tac®, FlexLite, Fast-Tac® and Taclite fabrics are all available in a ripstop weave. Ripstop is a rugged and durable fabric suitable for hard use and hard work.
Canvas: Are a plain weave fabric with the warp and weft yarns crossing at 90o angles in an alternating over-under pattern. Typically woven in a single fabric for appearance and versatility. 5.11 offers several canvas fabrics in a range of weights and performance features including Flex-Tac. Canvas is a common weave for traditional outdoor and casual clothing. It is often washed, sanded or finished for a soft, pre-worn look and feel.
Cotton & Polyester: Cotton is an organic (natural) fibre grown throughout the world and manufactured for general and specific applications. Cotton offers advantages in comfort and feel, breathability, versatility, ease of care and appearance. Polyester is a synthetic (man-made) fibre with a wide range of manufacturing processes for different applications. Polyester offers advantages in durability, colourfastness, ease of care, wrinkle resistance, and in its ability to dry quickly.
Twill: Are woven into a pattern of parallel diagonal lines. As the weft is passed through the warp during weaving it is offset with each pass. This process creates a distinct diagonal pattern look and allows the fabric to drape. Denim is a common twill fabric. 5.11’s dress uniforms are generally made in a twill fabric for a clean, polished appearance.
5.11 Fabrics
Flex-Tac®
Flex-Tac® fabrics are available in a wide range of 5.11 products including the 5.11 Stryke trousers and shirts, 5.11 Stryke Tactical Duty Uniforms (TDU), Stryke Patrol Duty Uniforms (PDU), Icon trousers and more.
Flex-Tac® fabrics are home laundry friendly and made with a blend of polyester and cotton fibres. The poly/cotton mix is adjusted to provide the best blend of durability and colour fastness from the polyester with comfort and appearance from the cotton.
MOVE MORE - Mechanical stretch fabric provides lasting durability that moves with you.
WEARS STRONGER - Fabric is manufactured for maximum durability to stand up to hard use.
RESIST ELEMENTS - TeflonTM finish resists water, dirt and stains for longer wear.
Flex-Lite®
FlexLite fabrics are available in a select range of 5.11 products purpose-built for durability, comfortable wear and easy care.
FlexLite fabrics are home laundry friendly and made with a blend of polyester and cotton fibres. The poly/cotton mix is adjusted to provide the best blend of durability and colour fastness from the polyester with comfort and appearance from the cotton.
RESPOND FASTER - Lighter weight fabric for maximum performance and movement.
MOVE MORE - Mechanical stretch fabric provides lasting durability that moves with you.
RESIST ELEMENTS - TeflonTM finish resists water, dirt and stains for longer wear.
Fast-Tac®
Fast-Tac® fabrics are available in a select range of 5.11 products designed with long-term durability, lightweight comfort and value in mind.
Fast-Tac® fabrics are home laundry friendly and made with 100% polyester in lightweight ripstop and twill weaves. The polyester fibres offer exceptional durability and colour fastness in a lightweight fabric.
WEARS STRONGER - Fabric is manufactured for maximum durability to stand up to hard use.
RESPOND FASTER - Lighter weight fabric for maximum performance and movement.
STAYS SMOOTH - Fabric is engineered to avoid snagging for long-term durability.
Features
Knife Pockets: The majority of all tactical trousers will have knife pocket, these all have reinforced stitching to carry the weight of folding knives.
Cargo Pockets: Obvious by the pocket closure this pocket is known for the storage space, coming in different shapes and sizes you can be sure to find a cargo pocket big enough for your EDC.
Hidden Pockets: Found on the covert trouser these pockets are hidden in side seams and behind other pockets allow you to carry sensitive items undetected.
Magazine Pockets: Gun enthusiasts and competition shooters swear by tactical trousers for one premier reason: the magazine pocket. Never run out of ammo when your magazines are stored securely on your person in a pocket-sized specifically for this purpose.
Handcuff Key Pockets: This pocket type is a helpful advantage for law enforcement, security and corrections professionals. Handcuff key pockets are usually located in either the inside cuff of trouser legs or inside the waistband, ideal for discreet key storage.
Media Pocket: As technology advances, so do tactical trousers. Most styles designate a cell phone pocket designed to fit modern phones and media devices.
Slash Pockets: Ergonomically designed for the movement of an individual’s hand in and out of the pocket quickly.
Knee Pad Pockets: A must-have for operators, these pockets allow for knee-pad inserts to cushion joints during strenuous combat situations.
Technology
Gusseted Crotch: Is a diamond-shaped piece of fabric sewn into the crotch area creating freedom of movement and a more comfortable wearing experience
Articulated Knees: In more expensive trousers, the majority will come with articulated knees. Similar to the purpose of the gusseted crotch, the material around the knee has additional darts sewn into the front panel. This offers a more comfortable fit and provides extra freedom.
Expanding Waistband: The expanding waistband means your trousers will fit perfectly. It offers that extra stretch making the trousers more comfortable to wear for longer periods.
Moisture-Wicking: Fabric fibres close to the skin pull moisture away from the skin through capillary action and push it to the exterior of the fabric where it can more easily evaporate. This is generally achieved through the use of synthetic fibres that are often treated to enhance this trait. Wool is inherently moisture-wicking and offers superb performance across a wide range of conditions. Moisture Wicking fabrics help keep you feel comfortable even when you’re working up a sweat and help to keep you cool in normal conditions.
Teflon: A finish applied to many garments that help repel stains, soil and liquids. This finish helps keep your garments looking clean longer and allows stains (should they occur) to be removed easier.
Anti-Odour: generally achieved through an engineered fabric and/ or treatment applied to the fabric. This feature prevents bacteria and microbes from building up and creating their own ‘funk’. Anti-Odour (also called Odour Control) features help you - and your associates - stay socially acceptable. Wool has natural odour control properties.
Shop our entire range of tactical trousers online here, if you need more advice on the right pair for you, don’t hesitate to call one of the team on 01952 56 56 70.