I grew up wearing jeans. I like the feeling of "rugged and durable, but comfortable at the same time". I don't like wearing sweats or softer material pants because my legs feel... unprotected? That may sound crazy, but I've gotten so used to feeling something substantial on my legs and it gives a sense of security (yes, possibly false security and it's purely psychological). Jeans, however, can be heavy and restrictive. I always look for "relaxed fit" or "loose fit", and that seems to help.
Over the past few years I've discovered that products designed for military and law enforcement use tend to be high quality and work very well for their intended purpose. I'm not in the military or a cop, and I'm sure those who ARE might laugh at what I just said, because they probably use some gear that was poorly designed or has other issues. My experience with tactical clothing and gear for civilian use has been very positive. So I thought I'd give these pants a try as a stubstitute for the carpenter jeans I normally wear for everything that isn't work or church. Town, hiking, around the house, etc.
I couldn't be more pleased! These pants fit perfectly when I ordered my normal jean size. They are very comfortable and more flexible than jeans. I really like they way they feel. I don't think they are baggy, but I do prefer looser fitting pants. Because they are 60% polyester 40% cotton, they don't breath quite as well as 100% cotton, but this blend also makes them more durable and resistant to spills. I got caught in the rain wearing them, and when I got inside, I literally slapped the water off them leaving them mostly dry. They aren't waterproof if you really get soaked, obviously.
I ordered a pair of Blackhawk Lightweight Tactical pants at the same time for comparison. The Blackhawk feel heavier and have more pockets. I probably prefer the 5.11 because of the lighter, more comfortable feel and more colors available. I like "charcoal" and "coyote brown" better than regular "khaki tan". Both are great pants and I put them right back on as soon as I wash them. One thing to note, the 5.11 Taclite Pro have an gathered material, elastic waistband, while the Blackhawk Lightweight Tactical have a smooth, expanding waistband (internal elastic bands and sliding tabs, instead of gathered material) which might be more comfortable, but again, heavier feeling.
So bottom line, I use them for a wide range activities from shopping to weekend hiking and photography. They are handy for just about any activity. Are they worth paying a little more than jeans? In my opinion, definitely!
5.11 Tactical Men's Taclite Pro Lightweight Performance Pants, Cargo Pockets, Action Waistband, Style 74273
4.5 | 22,577 ratings
Price: 46.4
Last update: 10-20-2024
From the manufacturer
Professional details and performance fabrics ensure you will always be ready.
About 5.11
The right mindset, training, and gear are what separates those who are ready and those who are not. Ready to help those in need, ready to protect and serve, and ready to crush goals. 5.11 embodies this mindset of preparedness. We make the gear for those individuals who are ready for any mission.
- Trusted by those who demand the most out of their gear
- Innovative fabrics and thoughtful design
- Purpose-built gear for the most demanding missions
- Always Be Ready
Men's Taclite Pro Pants
Style# 74273
All but invincible, the Taclite Pro Pant provides outstanding comfort and performance in almost any activity, recreational, operational, or otherwise. Few things in life are this reliable. Or this useful.
- 6.2 oz. poly/cotton TACLITE ripstop fabric, with an Action waistband and 8 pockets including strap-and-slash seat pockets
- Double-reinforced seat and knees (kneepad ready), bartacking at major seams and stress points, and triple-stitching
- Lightweight, durable Taclite fabric
- Gussetted construction for flexibility and strength
- Extra pockets sized for tactical use
- Hip-mounted D-ring
- Teflon finish with YKK zippers and Prym snaps
Men's Taclite Pro Pants Features
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Stretch WaistbandGussetted construction for flexibility and strength. Double-reinforced seat and knees |
Fixed Built-in D-RingHip-mounted D-ring. |
Multi-Use Extra PocketsExtra pockets sized for tactical use. There are 8 total pockets including strap-and-slash seat pockets. |
YKK ZippersTeflon finish with YKK zippers and Prym snaps. |
Men's Taclite Pro Pants In Action
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Top reviews from the United States
Eric Griffith
Most comfortable and functional pants I've owned!
Reviewed in the United States on September 30, 2013Paul Rainn
Superior Quality and Style
Reviewed in the United States on August 30, 2024Mike
Love these
Reviewed in the United States on September 6, 2024matt
Great pants but I receieved the wrong color
Reviewed in the United States on April 18, 2024Bear
Great Tactical Pants
Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2024Todd Osborne
I always buy these
Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2024Chris B.
Good fit
Reviewed in the United States on September 25, 2024The Doctor
Might work for some
Reviewed in the United States on July 31, 2024