The Best Tactical Pants for Men, Tested By a Style Writer

Nov 04, 2024

We recommend pants from Carhartt and 5.11.

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THE BEST TACTICAL PANTS get the job done, full stop. This workwear staple has been marketed to contractors, firefighters, policemen, and guys that need to carry their tools everywhere. That's because tactical pants house a suite of pockets and zippers for storage, and feature tough-as-nails fabrics that can handle all sorts of wears and tears. And while fashion isn't top of mind when shopping for tactical pants, we found a few that happen to look great, too, and some even work as casual, everyday bottoms.

Shop the best tactical pants, below

In fact, some our favorite menswear brands like 5.11, TruSpec, and Carhartt create tactical pants with flattering, straight-legged silhouettes that happen to be back in style. Plus, they use synthetic blend fabrics that are almost as stretchy as joggers, but with much tougher finishes that can take a beating. These are basically a souped up version of cargo pants. In general, the best tactical pants should feature durable, stain-resistant fabrics so you won't have to worry about damaging them on the job. We also appreciate tactical pants that have a hint of elastane, so they easily bend and move with you during your most grueling tasks. When it comes to pockets, look for tactical pants with a secure closer, typically velcro or snaps, that can be opened and closed while you're wearing bulky work gloves. Ahead, we found the best tactical pants to shop online.

Back in 2003, 5.11 began a partnership with the FBI’s Quantico, VA training facility to design tactical apparel. This collaboration, along with extensive field testing, has turned the California-based outfitter into one of the most popular brands among law enforcement, firefighting, and EMT professionals.

The Stryke Pant is one of the brand's bestsellers thanks to its incredible versatility. We love the two-way mechanical stretch fabric that's easy to move in, while still containing plenty of reinforced stitching for extra durability. Cargo pockets are placed higher on the hip for easier access. Based on our testing, we also found that this placement helps keeps our storage items from shaking. Two slots on the waist carry small EDC essentials and large cell phones. A Teflon finish—yes, the same as your frying pan—is added for maximum water resistance, and easy cleanup. In short, this tactical pant is great for all sorts of tasks.

Read more: Best Work Pants for Men

The Tru-Spec 24-7 series offers an update on traditional cargo pants. We like the heavy duty fabric that's made with cotton. In my testing, I found that it can take a beating during a typical day at my work shed, and has gotten softer after a few months of use, without losing its durability. It comes in a looser fit that is more comfortable, but less flexible than other options on this list.

Each hip features two slimmed down cargo pockets, a smaller one stacked on top of a larger one, to compartmentalize gear for simple organization. The hand pockets are extra deep to keep items securely tucked away. Slim EDC pockets are located at the waist for easy access.

Whether you’re into hiking, training, or carpentry, these are tactical pants we'd recommend. The best part about going with 100% cotton is that the fabric is easier to repair when rips and holes happen, which they inevitably will.

Cqr built a lightweight and breathable tactical pant to handle hot weather. The fabric is both breathable and moisture wicking to regulate sweat. Two closable vents on the inner thigh allow for extra air flow. We like that the slim fit is flattering, but still loose enough to allow ventilation to pass through your legs. Plus, the hand pockets are lined with mesh to allow air flow from the top. On top of all that, the fabric is treated to be water resistant, in case of any spills or sudden downpours.

Even without cargo pockets, the Sedona pant packs plenty of carrying space. I found that the dual carpenter-style pockets on the left hip made it easy to slip in my tools. The right hip has a large top-zip inset pocket. Two inch-wide belt loops create an extra sure waist.

These tactical pant us great for outdoor construction work, active errands the summer heat, or warm weather hiking and climbing. The slim fit and subtle pocket designs also make it a great every-day option, as far as tactical pants go.

Read more: Best Summer Pants for Men

As one of the most trusted brands in workwear, we're not surprised that Carhartt makes great tactical pants. If we had to pick one, it would be the Cargo Work Pants in stretch ripstop fabric. The design is simple and straightforward, but it does everything you need a pair of work pants to do. The straight leg fit is comfortable without being too loose, while the fabric is tough without being too heavy.

All the storage you will ever need on the go is provided by two double-layer cargo pockets on the hips, a back thigh slide pocket, a snug EDC slot in the right hand pocket, and a hammer loop next to the left hand pocket. The fabric is breathable and flexible. but strong enough to handle any job.

Carhartt has become so popular in modern fashion that it is easy to forget the brand makes professional gear, first and foremost. This heavy-duty tactical pant can even cross over into the streetwear space, thanks to the brand's rise in popularity with fashionable guys.

Another great option from 5.11 is the Ridge Pant. We think this one is ideal if you need a tactical pant that is super durable, but you don't need a lot of storage. The multiple hidden pockets, as well as two larger cargo pockets, offer ample storage, and there's even a hidden pocket tucked into the left leg hem that can fit keys or other small objects. A Teflon coating protects the pants from moisture and allows for easy cleaning of dirt and dust.

This is the tactical pant for anyone on the move or who may be required to run a lot on the job. That's because of its signature stretch fabric that allows for an excellent range of motion and minimal friction movement. All of the pockets are designed to keep items snug against the body while in motion.

Even though the Ridge Pant is designed for tactical use, it is also great for hiking and other outdoors activities. The snug pockets make for easy access storage on trails and mountains. Plus, the treated fabric is super easy to clean up.

Proof built the Rover pant for outdoor adventures and EDC storage. Its proprietary fabric regulates body temperature when you're active. Plus, it's lightweight, breathable, and durable. All of the pocket space is small and snug to the body. A knife pocket is tucked away in the right pocket, and the left hip has a slide pocket with side zip entry. All of this storage was designed for easy access when you're on the move, or catching a flight.

Despite the technical properties, it still has a faded chino look that works well for every-day style. You can rock it with a jean jacket and sneakers just as easily as a full trail outfit. All three colors fit into any wardrobe, but the black looks the best with most things in your closet.

Read more: Best Travel Pants for Men

Fjallraven prides itself on producing eco-friendly products. The Vida Pro Trouser is a perfect example, using recycled polyester and organic cotton to produce a lightweight and agile hiking gear. Where many brands use PFC coatings (read: not as great for the environment) for water resistance, this tactical pant keeps you from soaking with a natural wax treatment. This also allows for ample breathability.

In our testing, we found that ths is a great pant for hitting the outdoors in warm weather, whether that means for work or for pleasure. Three separate cargo pockets are placed higher on the hips to decrease motion, and each one has a secure snap closure. The light and flexible fabric wears like athletic training pants, allowing for easy running and climbing.

We like the slim fit and unique cargo design as stylish every-day pants as well. It pairs well with a hoodie and sneakers or chambray shirts and boots. There is the added benefit of being much more comfortable in hot weather than standard cotton chinos.

Read more: Best Hiking Pants for Men

You don’t have to be an avid mountain climber to make good use of this tactical pant from La Sportiva. Sure, that is what it was designed for, but the lightweight flexible fabric with easy-to-access pockets are handy in a whole range of activities. From mountain hiking to gardening and painting, the Talus Pant is also super comfortable. The only drawback: we found that this has way less pockets than other tactical pants we've tested.

The Talus pant is great for when you need to stay light on your feet. You can secure a few small items in the pockets, but agility and mobility are top attributes here, thanks to its lightweight build. The material is also water resistant, and doesn't rip easily.

The Atlas Tactical Pant from LA Police Gear is optimized for tactical training and field performance. An update on cargo pants, each hip pocket is inset and bellowed. There is a top zipper and two inside slide pockets, along with a D-ring to secure items. Along with two reinforced hand pockets, there is a slide pocket designed to securely stash larger cell phones.

What really makes this tactical pant shine is the fabric. The poly-blend ripstop has four-way stretch and is soft and breathable. There are also large reinforced sections on the back thighs, knees, and ankles. The cut is slim, allowing for easy running and flexible movement.

We also like that the Atlas Pant comes in a huge selection of colors. There is black, along with multiple shades of blue, tan, gray, brown, and green. This allows for easy uniform matching or styling, if you are buying for personal use.

A bonafide classic, Dickies work pants have been a favorite of everyone from carpenters and welders, to skaters and punk rockers. This cargo version is a classic take on tactical pants. It has only seven pockets—two hand, two back, two cargo, and one hip vent pocket—so the design is much simpler than any other option on this list. However, that is exactly the appeal. Sometimes, the old fashioned way is still the best.

The Cargo Work Pant is great for painting and carpentry. A looser fit and soft twill fabric has a more relaxed feel than other tactical pants, closer to chinos and jeans. That also makes it a much easier pant to style off the clock. The old school cargo look goes with everything from streetwear to preppy attire. You can rock it with a hoodie and sneakers or a rugby shirt and loafers.

Hands down, the best part about the Dickies Work Cargo pant is the price. Coming in at just under $25, it is an excellent value. The fabric and construction is certainly not cheap.

Fabric: The best tactical pants can handle all sorts of wear and tear. In general, look for a pant with modern synthetic fabrics, typically involving polyester and cotton, for a durable build. There are some good options that are made with 100 percent cotton. Just make sure that it is a beefy heavyweight cotton that can take a beating.

In most cases, tactical pants should have some degree of water resistance and be quick drying. Some professions and uses may not require this attribute, but it is best to have in general. Look for any indicators of how fabrics perform with moisture before buying.

Fit: Oversized baggy cargo pants may be in fashion right now, but that look is not practical when it comes to tactical apparel. The best tactical pants are form fitting but not snug. This balanced fit will provide ample range of motion on the move while keeping any stowed away items from rocking around too much. Look for a straight leg or slim-straight fit to avoid too much loose fabric.

Pockets: Half of the job for tactical pants is to allow every item you may need in the field to be within reach. Not only do you want several more pockets than average pants, but they have to be strategically located for easy access.

Also, in most cases, it is best to have a higher number of smaller pockets than a couple really big pockets, because smaller pockets will keep items from bouncing around on the go.

Brad Lanphear is a style pro with more than a decade of experience testing and styling menswear essentials, including tactical pants. For this story, he tested more than 10 tactical pants and evaluated their construction, storage, breathability, and just how great they looked. He also combed through hundreds of five-star reviews from e-commerce websites he trusts. Lanphear wears most of these pants regularly.

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