15 Best Tactical Pants

In a high-energy environment or tactical scenario, regular cargo pants or jeans won’t cut it. Instead, you’ll want to get your hand (or legs, as it were) on the best tactical pants you can find. Tactical pants provide exceptional storage space to keep extra magazines and other tools and equipment in convenient locations for fast retrieval.

They’re far preferable to keeping all of your extra stuff in a static location where it can’t be of help in a dicey situation. In addition, tactical plans are generally flexible and durable so they won’t rip easily but can maintain a high degree of freedom as you run, jump, or slide in the pursuit of your objective.

Overall, tactical plans are a great investment. But how can you know which to choose?

In this guide, we’ll go over the best tactical pants you can find online, whether they’re CQR, TRU-SPEC, or Scollor tactical pants. We’ll also explain any possible flaws a particular pair might have. Let’s dive in.

The 15 Best Tactical Pants

1. Helikon-Tex

These lightweight tactical pants are some of the most comfortable around and are ideal for operations in hotter weather.

Key Features

• Patented design
• Lightweight material
• Patented, diverse pocket arrangement

These tactical jeans are imported and use a combined US and EU patented design. It utilizes two-way elastic fabric to keep you comfortable and allow for increased motion without sacrificing the seams or the slim aesthetic. The waistline alone gives you two extra inches to improve fit and comfort.

The material is both lightweight and breathable which makes it a great pair of pants for extended use in hot or humid climates. The low-profile design makes it so that you don’t easily stand out, but it maintains enough pockets and padding to allow for increased storage capacity and durability.

The pockets are perfectly arranged to carry all the essential equipment you might need.

Pros

• Very comfortable
• Fit nicely
• Breathe in humid climates

Cons

• Pricey

These tactical pants are great if you overheat frequently during tactical excursions.

2. Defender-Flex

These tactical pants are durable and promote casual or serious wearing depending on preference.

Key Features

• Made from 24 percent polyester
• Looks casual despite extra pockets
• Quality construction

This set of pants benefits from quality construction. It uses mechanical stretch denim containing 24% polyester. This improves both strength and durability to allow you to continue to wear the pants throughout the year as a staple clothing item if you so choose.

Despite being tactical pants, this set is sleek and can be used for daily events and activities. It doubles as both casual and serious wear depending on your needs.

The pants have specially designed pockets: dual back pockets, two rear hip pockets, and mag pockets that provide for plenty of storage and access to all of the gear or supplies you could need during any tactical event or expedition. The combination of stylish design and practical pockets make this a versatile set of pants for just about anyone.

Pros

• Affordable
• Casual and tactical
• Stretchy

Cons

• Not as durable as some other tac pants

These are ideal if you go from tactical pants to casual pants situations frequently.

3. 5.11

These tactical pants are among the most flexible and comfortable while still promoting tactical use.

Key Features

• Twill
• Side cargo pockets
• Teflon treated
• Elastic waistband

These pants are some of the most comfortable you’ll find that still maintain some extra storage space for any supplies or components that you might need for your tactical exercises. It uses side cargo pants to provide you with plenty of room for storage and transportation.

At the same time, it’s been treated with Teflon to provide exceptional stain and soil resistance. Even rolling around in muddy terrain won’t result in a lasting color change or abnormal damage. You can, therefore, continue to wear these pants multiple times in the foreseeable future.

They’re also quite comfortable with a self-adjusting comfort waist. The waistband is made with elastic to let it flex and stretch with your shape and your weight range. They’re perfect for people of many sizes.

If you have a backup belt, these pants are compatible with such a device as well.

Pros

• Compatible with a backup belt system
• Elastic waistband improves comfort
• resistant to stain or soil damage

Cons

• Not good for casual use

These are great if most tactical pants are uncomfortable for you.

4. EMS Pants

These tactical cargo pants are well-made and have pockets that promote organized storage.

Key Features

• Self-adjusting waistband
• Internal dividers and pockets
• Web strap

These pants are heavy-duty and definitely look the part of a piece of tactical clothing. They utilize a lightweight, breathable, and durable fabric that can resist ripping and tearing much more effectively than typical pants fabrics.

They also feature a self-adjusting waistband that helps keep the pants comfortable across multiple size ranges. There’s also a fully gusseted inseam to provide exceptional durability alongside double reinforced seating and knee spaces, which are ready for kneepads. All of these aspects combine to make a pair of pants that are not likely to degrade anytime soon even with heavy use.

It has multiple cargo pants pockets for storage, and the thigh mounted pockets have internal dividers that let you sort your gear efficiently. Finally, a web strap is included to customize your loadout.

Pros

• Customizable storage
• Very durable
• Comfortable
• Lots of extra space

Cons

• Dividers are relatively weak/tear easily

These are the best tactical pants for folks who like to organize more than anything.

5. Pro Tactical

These tactical pants are tough and perfect for storing sharp objects.

Key Features

• Ripstop fabric
• Wear-resistant finish
• External knife pocket

These pants are ideal for those who like to hold many different types of equipment and components at the same time. There’s an external knife pocket to take advantage of as well is too large cargo pockets that are ideal for holding things like magazines or cell phones.

The pockets make use of a signature rear strap and slash pocket design that’s easy to get into yet secure once the zippers and snaps are in place.

The pants are lightweight yet durable and made with ripstop fabric that’s already inherently resistant to tear damage. To make things even better, the pants are treated with an HT Teflon finish to reduce the likelihood of them being worn down even further. Combined with a reasonable asking price, these pants show great value for money.

Pros

• Affordable
• Versatile pocket designs
• Wear and tear-resistant

Cons

• Not ideal for colder weather

Get these tactical pants if you frequently store sharp or pocket tearing objects.

6. CQR Tactical Work

These tactical pants have plenty of space and special Duratex fabric to promote maneuverability and strength.

Key Features

• Flexy Duratex fabric
• 8 cargo pockets

These pants provide a huge amount of storage space for magazines, tools, and other equipment while providing exceptional comfort and flexibility. The Duratex fabric that makes up the pants can repel liquid, dirt, and other contaminants while still allowing maximum mechanical flexibility. Duratex fabric is essential in any pair of waterproof tactical pants.

The pants are also designed to stretch up to a certain extent to allow for variable size ranges and potential water retention. In addition, they’re made of ripstop material to prevent easy tearing while in use.

8 cargo pockets are available to use. The pants are clearly designed with military and law enforcement aesthetic inspiration without directly copying either design. The pants are both shrink and wrinkle resistant even if you wash them in a traditional washing machine.

Pros

• Durable but highly flexible
• Repels all kinds of contaminants
• Lots of storage space
• Excellent aesthetic
• Affordable

Cons

• A little hot in warm weather

These tactical pants are a great balance between flexibility and durability.

7. CQR Men’s

These tactical pants are hard to rip or damage, so use them as hard as you like.

Key Features

• Ripstop fabric
• Metal alloy snap button and zipper
• 8 cargo pockets
• Duratex fabric

These cheap tactical pants are also among the most durable you’ll find in any market. They’re made with the same Duratex fabric described above that repels dirt and liquids from seeping through and contaminating the pants themselves for anything underneath. They also make use of ripstop material to prevent easy tearing.

The pants also utilize a high-density metal alloy for their snap button and zipper. By doing this, the manufacturers ensure that the button and zipper will work even after excessive use. This reduces the likelihood of repair work.

The pants are further useful since they had eight multipurpose cargo pockets that are variable in size and design to allow for versatile equipment storage. There’s also a single upgraded front flap pocket that you can use for placing your most-used tool or magazine; it’s perfect for retrieval in a pinch.

The pants are designed with a tried-and-true military aesthetic and are fade, shrink, and wrinkle-resistant. They’re purchasable for a very affordable asking price so even those on a budget should be able to afford all of the benefits that these pants bring.

Pros

• Versatile storage solutions
• Durable fabrics and buttons
• Great aesthetic
• Super affordable

Cons

• Not very stretchy compared to other pants

These are tactical pants for those who play hard all the time.

8. CQR Men’s Rip-Stop

These tactical pants have so much space you won’t know what to do with it all.

Key Features

• Duratex/Ripstop fabrics
• 12 cargo pockets

These pants have some of the most storage options you’ll see on any pair of tactical pants on an online market. There are a whopping 12 different pockets you can use that are sized differently and positioned in easy to access places around your legs and waist. Being able to grab what you need in a snap has never been easier.

The pants are used with effective Duratex and ripstop fabrics to prevent tearing and repel liquid and other potential contaminants from seeping through. At the same time, the pants are decently flexible a longer length although their waistline is not very flexible comparatively.

The aesthetic is designed with law enforcement and military use in mind. To that end, the pants are fade-resistant to ensure that they keep their traditional color scheme and don’t appear too weathered too quickly. Speaking of color scheme, you can choose between many different shades to customize your appearance

In addition to all these benefits, these pants are purchasable for a very reasonable asking price so get them before they’re gone.

Pros

• Lots of color options
• Tear and contamination-resistant
• Tons of pockets
• Fade-resistant
• Affordable

Cons

• Not too stretchy at the waistline

These are tactical pants that are perfect for those who store tons of accessories.

9. Tru-Spec

These tactical pants have exceptional pocket design and long-lasting fabric.

Key Features

• Teflon coated
• Expandable back pockets
• 6 pockets in total

These pants may not have the highest amount of storage pockets available, but each pocket design more than makes up for this apparent limitation. To knife or accessory pockets are included that have a stiff using interlining. This makes them excellent choices for storing accessories that often shred the inner lining of weaker pockets.

There are also two thigh cargo pockets that have a hoop and loop closure to allow for easy closing and opening. Finally, there are expandable back pockets that can carry larger accessories for more magazines than the others.

Even besides the pocket pros, these pants have several benefits including a Teflon coating that combines with ripstop fabric. Put together, these elements ensure that the pants do not tear easily and maintain exceptional wind and fading resistance.

They’re also quite quick to dry after being washed and are wrinkle resistant as well. The pants are typically very comfortable so long as you fit within their recommended sizing ranges, as the waistband isn’t as flexible as many other tactical pants you can find.

Pros

• Lots of color choices
• Excellent durability/resistances
• Pocket designs are good
• Dry quickly

Cons

• Expensive
• Relatively few pockets

These are great tactical pants for those who like easy-access pockets in smart locations.

10. Men’s STRYKE

These tactical cargo pants have a special fabric and a self-adjusting waistband to promote flexibility.

Key Features

• Uses Flec-Tac proprietary fabric
• Self-adjusting waistband
• 12 pockets

These EDC pants are some of the most thorough you’ll be able to find. They include 12 different pockets all across the pants’ surface area, including low-profile angled pockets for quick access and double-deep cargo pockets for storing extra accessories and equipment.

There are also front pockets sized for EDC items, as well as a secret interior kneepad pocket. The knees are sewn for exceptional durability just like the rest of the pants. They use a proprietary fabric that allows for flexibility and tear resistance at the same time.

The pants also utilize a Teflon finish to prevent wear and tear and stop the pants from losing their color over a short period of time. Efficient and durable zippers and snaps ensure that pocket security is maintained even with heavy use and the aesthetic is clearly modeled after traditional military and law enforcement designs.

Overall, these are an exceptional pair of pants that are only marred by a high asking price. Still, if you’re after the best these may be the best tactical pants around.

Pros

• Lots of color options
• Durable yet flexible
• Lots of versatile pockets
• Pocket security is long-lasting
• Secret kneepad pocket

Cons

• A bit expensive

These tactical pants are great for folks who need a little extra flexibility and who hate when pockets tear.

11. ZAPT Combat

These are tactical pants with extra padding in critical locations and plenty of storage space.

Key Features

• 12 pockets
• Double layer seat/knee areas
• Velcro strap system in the waist

These pants make good use of 12 different pockets aligned up and down the legs. The pockets and the pants as a whole are made of a durable and breathable ripstop fabric that allows flexibility and comfort even in hot or humid climates. Its durability is nothing to sneeze at; the seating and kneepad areas are double layered to prevent easy tearing and ensure a long effective lifespan.

The YYK zipper is made from a rugged metal that is sure to last as long as the fabric. In addition to these aspects, the waistband uses a simple Velcro strap system. This keeps the pants tight and fitting but allows for quick size adjustments on the fly.

Overall, these pants are some of the heaviest duty tactical pants you’ll find. They’re a bit pricey but exceptional for those who plan to be in rugged terrain frequently.

Pros

• Very long-lasting
• Super durable
• Flexible and breathable
• Lots of storage space

Cons

• Expensive

These are an ideal choice for those tired of their pants ripping at the knees.

12. FREE SOLDIER

These tactical pants have plenty of pockets and strengthened knees to allow for a long lifespan.

Key Features

• 11 multi-purpose pockets
• Teflon fabric
• Strengthened knees

These pants are another durable and versatile option and are a lot more affordable than the pricier pants we reviewed above. This set uses 11 multipurpose cargo pockets across multiple accessible areas. There are two front/pockets for easy access, two front thigh pockets and two back thigh pockets with Velcro covers.

You can also take advantage of one secret concealed pocket for storing your most valuable equipment and two back hip and two back shank pockets for even more storage space. Even with all of these pockets, the pants are durable and even possess strengthened knee areas to prevent tearing.

This functionality is largely accomplished thanks to its DuPont Teflon fabric, which repels stains and liquids and helps ensure that the pants last for a long time. They’re both scratch-resistant and wear-resistant without sacrificing maneuverability.

They’re not the most flexible tactical pants you can find in the waistband area, but other than this they’re great choices. Those who are on a budget but who still want a lot of functionality would do well to check these pants out.

Pros

• Lots of color options
• Cargo pockets are versatile and effective
• Affordable
• Durable design

Cons

• Not too flexible in the waistband

These are great pants for those who need budget but heavy-duty tactical pants.

13. LA Police Gear

These tactical pants allow for easy access pockets for less money than many competitors.

Key Features

• Features articulated knees and gusseted crotch
• Slanted cargo pockets for easy access
• Elastic waistband

These pants are another affordable and versatile alternative that provides an excellent use for folks on a budget. There are only a handful of pockets compared to many other tactical pants options, but each pocket has a slanted opening for easy access. Some of the pockets have flaps to prevent your equipment or components from falling out while being seated.

The front pockets, in particular, are optimized for cell phones, knives or other small devices that you may need to retrieve quickly. All of the pockets are durable and utilize a ripstop fabric that reduces the likelihood of wear and tear.

There are articulating knees and a gusseted crotch area that improve mobility and comfort while retaining long-term durability even under heavy use. A locking brass YYK zipper ensures that this aspect of the pants will last just as long, if not longer, than the fabric itself.

There’s also an elastic waistband that improves comfort and allows for folks of variable sizes to use the pants without issue.

Combined with the low asking price, these pants are some of the best in terms of total value for money. Be sure to browse their collection of colors to choose the one that fits your aesthetic best.

Pros

• Great durability and pocket design
• Durable zipper
• Flexible waistband

Cons

• Not super breathable

These tactical pants are great for folks on a budget who need plenty of pockets for fast equipment retrieval.

14. Mars Gear

These are tactical pants with tough stitching and tons of extra space.

Key Features

• 12 pockets
• Gusseted crotch
• Elastic waistband

These pants have a high number of cargo pockets: 12, among the highest on the pants we’ve reviewed so far. These pockets all strategically placed in optimal locations for easy access while retaining mobility options. The pockets are all additionally sized perfectly for electronic gadgets or other equipment like magazines.

There’s also a hidden inner knee pocket where you can store your most valuable equipment in secret. All of the pockets are made from a ripstop material that reduces the likelihood of wear and tears and lets you safely store things like knives or keys without compromising the integrity of the pocket itself.

The pants make good use of a gusseted crotch and elastic waistband. Both of these aspects allow for flexible movement and for folks of various sizes to comfortably wear the pants without sacrificing long-term durability.

The highest cargo pockets also use a hook and loop flap for extra security. The pants can be purchased for a very reasonable asking price, although they don’t have many colors to choose from in comparison to most other tactical pants options.

Pros

• Excellent pocket placement
• Lots of storage space
• Flexible yet durable
• Affordable

Cons

• Not too many colors

They’re a great choice for those who like a balance between storage space, flexibility, and durability in their tactical pants.

15. ZAPT

These tactical pants have extra-tough kneepads for increased strength and movement.

Key Features

• Kneepads
• Gusseted crotch stitching
• Velcro waist adjustment system
• Kneepad adjustment system

These pants stand out as relatively unique compared to many competing options. First and foremost, there are dedicated kneepads located right atop the pants’ knees. These kneepads provide extra durability and comfort and prevent the pants from being torn easily even if you roll or kneel frequently.

The kneepads can be removed, but they can also be adjusted via a rope located in each front thigh pocket. This means the pants can be worn by many folks with variable leg lengths, so don’t worry if you have longer or shorter legs than most.

The pants have plenty of pockets to provide optimal storage options and a low-profile Velcro waist adjustment system. Combined with crotch stitching, these pants are among the most flexible and durable options at your disposal.

Pros

• Flexible and durable
• Kneepads can be adjusted for comfort and effectiveness
• Plenty of storage space

Cons

• Not the most breathable pants

Get these tactical pants if the padded kneepads are something that appeals to you.

Bottom Line

As you can see, there’s plenty of great tactical pants to choose from. Whichever you end up going with, be sure to pair them with a solid belt and some good boots. You’ll be prepared for any situation. Thanks for reading!