5.11 Taclite Pro Pants
Sometimes you want something other than your standard BDU cut (or the like) for your Kit. We all know there are several brands and types of “tactical pants” out there. Read on to see how the 5.11 Brand Taclite Pro versions stand up.
Features
Well lets get down to what you really want to hear. What do these pants offer? We will just start at the top. The zip up fly utilizes a YKK® zipper and a Prym® snap at the top. The belt loops are all extra wide and very very tough. If there is one thing that these 5.11 Taclite Pro Pants have its pockets. Being that these are not meant to be ‘covert’ in any way, all of your pockets are external for easy access. The front pockets are very large to allow for easy access while wearing gloves. The rear main pockets are also slashcut for the same reason. Both the front and rear main pockets feature reinforced edges to prevent an Operators knife from wearing them down.
Knife Pocket - Phone Pocket
images from 511tactical.com
Just below the front main pockets are located an open top knife pocket (also reinforced edges) and a Velcro cell phone pocket. Look just a bit lower and you will find the two EXTRA LARGE thigh high cargo pockets. One cargo pocket located on each leg. There is also a rear web strap located on the back right just above the rear main pocket (for unknown use).
Construction
The 5.11 Taclite Pro Pants share the same cut as the traditional 5.11 Tactical Pants (cotton version). However they are constructed from a 65% polyester/35% poly cotton RIPSTOP material. Thats right… RIPSTOP! In addition to all this the Taclite Pros have a Teflon coating to repel grease, dirt and to resist wear. The draw back is that the coating somewhat prevents the pants from being able to breath. If it is hot outsite, you will know it. The rear side of the waist is elastic to ensure a good snug fit at all times. All stitching seems to be of the highest quality. In addition the knees and seat are”reinforced” (these areas seem to be about twice as thick as other areas although you cannot put knee pad inserts into these pants).
Options
The Taclite Pro Pants are available in a wide range of colors. Black, Coyote, TDU Green, Tundra, TDU Khaki and Dark Navy should be enough selection for anyone.
Sizes are available in 2 inch increments (waist and length). Waste 28-54, length 30-36.
Final Thoughts
Great Pants! If you need a good combination of storage, flexibility, stain and wear resistance and functionality then these might be the pants for you. There is also nothing stopping you from wearing the Taclite Pro Pants as everyday civilian wear. They can get a bit ’sticky’ in the heat but that isn’t to much of a problem.
Cost and Links
From the 5.11 website (www.511tactical.com) the Taclites are a bit pricey at $49.99 a pair. However with a little online shopping you can find them for much better prices. At the time of this article Firearms & Tactical Supply listed their price at $39.95. OutdoorPros.com, MidwayUSA.com and LAPoliceGear.com all had similar prices.