Tactical Pants Comparison

[@LoneRangerSuperDave]

Thank you for making this video comparing the three together as I have been looking at buying this style of pants and was wondering about some of the differences. Thumbs up.

[@SnareMan]

@chucknoir If you are ordering any of the 100% cotton version of them of them though I'd recommend going up a size in the length as they will most definitely shrink, including the 100% cotton (allegedly pre-shrunk) EOTAC pants I recently bought and reviewed and washed exactly as instructed in cold water and lightest drying temp.

[@SnareMan]

Sorry you didn't like it. This was very early in my "tactical pant career". I only owned 3 brands at the time. Now I probably have 10 brands. I've stopped wearing the Taclites as there are too many better choices these days, both of the other pants in the vid included. And you must have missed parts of the vid because there were some things I didn't prefer on the 5.11's (zipper, pockets). Blackhawk pockets were already showing wear at the time as I pointed out.

[@SnareMan]

Agreed. The teflon stuff works great at the beginning, but does wear off after awhile. I'm not good enough to turn them inside out though. I guess that's too much effort for me. :-) I'm picking up my Woolrich pants tomorrow. The only thing that kept me away from the Propper is that there is only 1 cell phone pocket and I need 2 for work (cell phone/work phone) otherwise I might have picked up a pair of those too. Haven't had any problems with my Truspecs. They have faded a bit though.

[@SnareMan]

I don't think I ever got around to saying it in the video, but I think that Tru-spec did hit the mark on creating a pant that blurs the lines between tactical and casual. Wearing the Tru-specs doesn't give off nearly the tactical look/impression as the 5.11's or Blackhawks.

[@SnareMan]

I mentioned the 5.11's feel lightest so I weighed a 32x30 pair of each. 5.11: 1 lb 5 oz Truspec: 1 lb 8 oz Blackhawk: 1 lb 12 oz I'm impressed that I could feel a 3 and 7oz difference in weight.

[@theunknownguy265]

Lol

[@SnareMan]

You're welcome. Although I think I have about 17 pant vids now. I'd do a comparison of them all, but I don't think I could do one with about 8 different brands. :-)

[@12345farris]

I've heard that before 5.11 was 5.11, that they used to make clothing and gear for mountain climbers. at some point some SWAT guys started using the pants for work and they asked them to make a dedicated tactical pant. And that loop on the right side was used to hold carabiners, they just never got rid of it I guess. Or something along those lines, I wouldn't be surprised if someone already pointed this out though.

[@raphaelbeinhauer9242]

Every thing you said was correct but now 5.11 is marketing the loop as a drag handle for dragging injured people out of danger.

[@royhurley7572]

I cut the strap off.

[@SnareMan]

@frips1000 Out of these 3 I think the Tru-specs are cut the most generous. Its one of the things they sort of advertise about their pants.

[@SnareMan]

@chucknoir Hey Chuck. I wear a 32x30 and ordered that size in most of the pants I think. I may have ordered 1 or 2 pairs (of the 10 I have) in a 32x32 and they are long enough that I had to have them shortened. I've never had a problem with the waist size though. I've ordered 32's in all of them and they all fit great. Now, if you are going to carry IWB I could see that being a reason to go up a size. They all have elastic in the waist which will allow them to stretch.

[@SnareMan]

I don't own any of the Propper pants because they look just like the 5.11 Taclites which I think were once good, but have now been replaced by too many other better designs. I prefer having 2 cell phone pockets for work and the Propper only have one. This was also very early on in my pant reviewing career as I think I'm now up to 16 pant reviews or so.

[@SnareMan]

@derrickgl Glad you found it useful. Thanks!

[@SnareMan]

Yea. I wear my Taclites very infrequently now that I have so many other options (check out my 16+ pant reviews). The new Stryke pants are an improvement though.

[@SnareMan]

@tekknorat Again, thanks for the kind words. Glad I could provide some useful info for you! :-)

[@SnareMan]

Thanks. Yea, the original Taclites have been surpassed by a lot of better options these days. Vertx is my favorite as they look the most like normal pants.

[@SnareMan]

Vertx is my favorite. They are coming out with their new Phantom Fighter pant in the next month or two.

[@jgharts4949]

Pros: excellent comparison Cons: excellent comparison, lol You man it hard to choice because you did such a good job comparing the 3 products. I have it down to 2 after much thought. Blackhawk and 5.11:. I like a lighter pants but I like the features of the Blackhawks. I just wanted to compliment you on the fine job you did and thanks for sharing it!

[@SnareMan]

LOL. Thanks. I think I have about 18 pant review vids now just to make things harder. This one was early on in my pant reviewing career. :-)

[@vincentnobel5435]

Nice review. Just to add another option - Railriders - I've been wearing the same two pairs of VersaTac Lights for almost 3 years and they have not worn out - just wish the cut was a little more generous. A little pricey at $90 each though.

[@SnareMan]

@Sandbag1300 I wear all 3 of these for work in the ER. They all look pretty equally "tactical". Check out my Vertx pant review. They appear much more like normal pants.

[@philchristmas6818]

Great comparison video sir! Thanks for your insights too.

[@SnareMan]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@KingQ4444]

Really like all of your reviews. I have a pair of TrueSpec 24/7, Vertx, 5.11 Taclite Pro's and 5.11 Original's. The Tru-Spec are my favorite. As you mentioned, don't like the corner stitching on the small cargo pocket and wish it had a gusseted crotch. Vertx a close second - don't like the back pocket design, followed by the 5.11 Originals and in last place the 5.11 Taclite Pro's. All however are much better than what I was wearing/using previously. I use them in the office and in the warehouse.

[@BigFish6839]

I have 2 pairs of 511 and love them TY for letting me see things about other brands i have been wandering about :)

[@SnareMan]

YOu're welcome! I have a bunch of other pant videos you should check out if you want to see some more brands.

[@gummybear41283]

SnareMan how come you havent bought the 5.11 traverse pants?

[@SnareMan]

Bob johnson They don't look like pants that would be useful to me, especially for the high cost. I don't really like the pocket layout.

[@JuduWeed]

I prefer Propper tactical pants for a few reasons 1)DuPont Teflon infused, though its effectiveness does wear off over time. I've got a few pair, over a year old that water, pop, beer will still bead off of. just be sure that when you wash, turn em inside out and don't use fabric softener and all free soap. 2)choice between heavy canvas or lightweight ripstop. 3)you get a belt with every pair. 5.11's are my 2nd choice.Cant speak for BH never had em, Truspec are junk, faded quick then ripped.

[@Sandbag1300]

Great review. Two questions. 1. which pants do you wear?, 2. I don't want to telegraph that I'm a conceal carry permit holder and carry. Should I stay away from pants like these?

[@gregvance]

Owning a pair of 5.11 taclite pros and now the Blackhawk lightweight tacticals my opinion is the Blackhawk's are better just for all the extra features. One thing I love about the Blackhawks is they used the same ripstop material for the inside of all the pockets. The 5.11s are still a great pant I love to wear but the inside pocket material feels like it could rip easily, they haven't, but I've had other pant pockets with similar material that have. 5.11 really should address that.

[@alexanderhidalgo5925]

Hi, viewers like me always get very useful info from your reviews, this is to request if I may, a video comparison of 5.11 Traverse pants and Columbia Royce Peak pants. Thanks!

[@SnareMan]

+alexander hidalgo I'd be happy to if someone can get me some pairs of them. I have to pay for most of the stuff I review.

[@prestongeron7654]

I wear an EDC belt and the tru-speck having the larger belt loops is a better choice for me.

[@SnareMan]

Those do look like nice pants. They are a little pricey, but it seems that all of these pants just keep getting more and more expensive. If they last that long it might just be worth the price.

[@johnst.martin5716]

Great job on this video; I like the point-by-point comparison but you may want to add a few more. The "service life" of each brand is different, you focused on the knife-clip protection which is fair, but the 511 front slash pockets are an achilles heal for these pants. One reason you may prefer the fit and feel of 511 is the pocket material is so much lighter than the other brands. Lastly, the 511 zipper-top hidden cargo pockets are a fantastic design not on the pair you reviewed and the Warrior Wear spill-proof zipper pockets are truly great for access while seated. JS

[@SnareMan]

+John St.Martin Thanks and good points. This was very early on in both my youtube and pant reviewing career. I have so many different brands now I could never hope to do another comparison video. I've gone a bit off the deep end with them.

[@SnareMan]

@MrDonutboi None of these 3 are really what I'd call slim fit. 5.11 probably the most out of these. The Tru-Specs are apparently designed more generously. Check out my Vertx pants review though. They don't have pleats and seem to be slimmer cut.

[@sdushdiu]

Shop around! They can be had for significantly less than list. One such source (not intending to slight or omit anyone!), assuming you have fitted them, is LAPolicegear. Good luck!

[@SnareMan]

@murfmeef Glad you found it useful

[@SnareMan]

Also not sure where you see that I said the Blackhawk pockets fail. I said they have that notch so you your knife, etc can sit straight vertical, but it doesn't work out that way. 5.11 doesn't have that setup so the size of what I was putting in it wasn't relavant. You must have been watching a different video because I don't think I implied that the 5.11's were a win over the other 2. End of the vid "There's not one clear winner. All have their strong points and room for improvement."

[@torpeybar]

Great review. I've worn the 24/7's for a couple of years now and always wondered about the other brands. After seeing this I'm glad I never bought anything else. Love my 5.11 parka, boots, everything else but pants I'll stick with tru spec.

[@SnareMan]

Thanks. This was early on in my YT pants reviewing career. :-) My current favorite are the Vertx pants. I still love my Tru-specs though.

[@ScoutsNOA]

Great comparison…need your opinion on the best pants for an outdoors activity like a tough mudder type of event… I would need form fitting in the legs, light weight, dry quick, and knee pad pockets… Thanks for your help…

[@SnareMan]

Hmm... Not sure what would be best with that combo. I don't really know many that are form fitting and have knee pad pockets. There is the 5.11 Traverse pant which they show walking through a river, but I don't think it has knee pad pockets and doesn't look too form fitting. And it isn't very cheap! :-(

[@murfmeef]

thanks for posting this. it was a big help!

[@thehourshower]

Fuck it, i'm going to get all 3 of them.

[@11spitdms]

Could you do a video comparing or showing the Galls GTAC Tactical Pants? They seem to have the same casual yet tactical look like the 24/7s

[@cah027]

I would say that if the 5.11's are the most comfortable ,then get them. Especially if they are all made with the same material and quality.

[@SnareMan]

@tekknorat Got a pair of LA PoliceGear pants on the way! Review is forthcoming. Stay tuned! Got a pair of Vertx pants coming too.

[@SnareMan]

If I did a pant comparison today I'd have like 8 brands in the vid. It'd be pant overload! :-)

[@SnareMan]

This was early on in my tactical pant reviewing career. Although I still don't actually own and Proppers. They look awfully similar to the 5.11 Taclites which I really don't care for any more. Just don't like the pocket layout.

[@Kellum_family]

You didnt note the fit, which is most important to me. I need something SLIM SLIM SLIM. Which is the slimmest fit through the thighs?

[@apglaser]

Did you find any of the tactical pants to be more baggy or roomy than any of the others in terms of general fit? do you think any are better suited for chubby or stocky guys?

[@tyronewalker5764]

Gotten fed up with jeans, going to get a pair or two of tactical/Cargo pants!

[@SnareMan]

You'll probably never look back.

[@tyronewalker5764]

I like the idea of more storage capacity! In a post -911 world, I can't carry enough stuff.

[@SeniorChief1991]

Excellent video. One thing you did not mention was the fit and wearability. Any difference or all about the same? Thanks for posting this.

[@SnareMan]

Thanks. All 3 of these fit fairly loose. All very comfortable, but just a little looser than some other pants like the 5.11 Stryke pants or Vertx pants.

[@senchaichow2193]

Can send me the link for the individual pants review? Thanks

[@SnareMan]

Thanks!

[@Uisci81]

Thanks for the review. I am looking at picking up a few pairs of pants for my trip to the Front Sight Shooting academy. I tend to run warm (usually never wear a jacket etc.) are any of these pretty thick to the point where they are uncomfortable to wear in warm environments?

[@SnareMan]

These are all kind of thick. Check out the Vertx Airflow pants. I haven't tried them outside, but they are supposed to be really good for the heat. Or if you don't like the mesh stuff in them just try the regular 65/35 Vertx pants.

[@SnareMan]

You can check out my vertx review.

[@SnareMan]

@kidplunge How do you know?

[@70athens]

My opinion: the pocket opening is (for me) a deal killer. IF I have to spend extra time trying to get my hand in there and then who knows how I will get whatever is in that pocket OUT ! then forget it. Also, while I agree that the extra material around the elastic waist can be a issue, I would say that it can be easily replaced, as the material in these things (like boxers) get worn out easier as it is bend all the time. I think the choice is clear: 24/7 for the city or less sporty look, and the Blackhawk for the more serious beating/outdoors.

[@SnareMan]

My choice now are the Vertx pants. This video was early on in my pant reviewing career. :-)

[@70athens]

I saw your comment about the Vertex, but to be fair, pants that retail $50 and $60 r not the same as $100. Let alone the Lapolicegear brand name for $20! I like to "upgrade" my clothes and equipment in most cases, but paying double or more (no one can say that any of these 3 pair of pants are "low end") is a bit too much for me! and the way sometimes pants just get damaged or even ruined. Maybe if I find them on a good sale, I might look them up; Keep up the good work with the vids :)

[@pattymac1114]

SnareMan In the video it looks like you severely mismeasured the pocket size opening. I mean... badly. I watched it twice and I still can't figure out why you short measured the 5.11 but not the other two. And honestly looks like you over measured the blackhawk.

[@SnareMan]

Patrick McCauley I'll check that out when I get home tonight.

[@pattymac1114]

SnareMan I wouldn't pay me too much mind. Hahaha I don't know the pants that well. Just what it looked like.

[@FighterDesignUSA]

Have you tried the new Airflow VertX pants? They're awesome. Question: How do these pants "size" compare to the actual size in inches?

[@SnareMan]

I looked at them at SHOT show. They were touting how great and breezy they are, but I didn't get to try a pair on. Since I wear all of my pants inside I probably don't see me buying a pair. The waist size seems to be fairly accurate. Not like the LA Police gear pants.

[@70athens]

FighterDesignUsa: as these retail for $99 ! i don think they can be compared the same way. especially since the lapolicegear has their "operator" pants for $20!

[@frips1000]

Hi! may i ask wich one of the 3 pants is the, how can i put it the most loose fit model. thanx!

[@MrDonutboi]

I am a skinny guy. Do you know which one of these pants offer "slim fit" design? I tried 5.11 and i look like some gang banger wearing baggy clothes from the 80s. Thanks

[@SnareMan]

Video annotated with available colors.

[@SnareMan]

@iluvmym4 I guess the deal isn't quite what it once was... :-(

[@plutoplatters]

let me guess... the inseam isn't longer that 32" !!! was i right ?

[@SnareMan]

Uh, you are correct. Good job

[@KEVINJOBY]

Wooooah, is that a Rolex GMT on your hand? (Sorry couldnt help but notice)

[@SnareMan]

Yea, its a bad habit I have. :-)

[@SnareMan]

Actually, all of these are pretty generously cut.

[@cptnmandudeguy6270]

Question for anyone that can answer. I work as a security guard and I'm looking into other companies. I currently wear cargo pant with my uniform. My question is how close I are cargo pants to tactical pants? And could I get away with just wearing cargo?

[@SnareMan]

It probably depends on the particular cargo pants and how strict the company you are working for is.

[@MrCaveman762]

Great review, thanks!

[@agelosmata]

very helpful review. Thank you

[@70athens]

A++ for the vid, thank you :)

[@senchaichow2193]

How deep is the front pocket and how deep is the cargo pocket? Thanks

[@SnareMan]

Watch the individual reviews on each of these pants. I think I go into that.

[@russr]

Lapolicegear has there pants on sale as low as 18$ not bad

[@the_righte0us_way]

What colour are the 5.11's

[@iluvmym4]

I called BlackHawk & they told me they only pay for the shipping?I might still send them my 5.11 reg pant 'they realy suck!

[@Mortalcoil100]

great video. very helpful. thx.

[@russr]

LapolicegearDOTc0m has there pants on sale as low as 18$ not bad

[@BethYeshuaMacon]

I saw where this brand was made in China. As Americans I say we should buy American!

[@N7ECVQRPLIFE]

The tabs .... Damn right ! Whose wants to dance around trying to zip your fly? I am not even looking at 511 any more ..

[@SnareMan]

They still make good pants. I just have to fight with the zipper sometime...

[@SnareMan]

YOu're welcome!

[@Rio-uv1gs]

The 5.11 Stryke pants are better than the tactlite

[@SnareMan]

Almost anything is better than the Taclites these days

[@mikeg4292]

True spec for me.

[@SnareMan]

Well, that's what I always tried to suggest to people when I was selling clothes. :-) But don't look now... I have a ton of other new pant vids since this one. Could be rough on your wallet.

[@Rolley65]

I want your Pepsi !

[@SnareMan]

You can have it as long as you buy me one of the new white gold ceramic bezel Pepsi's! :-)

[@ACE9647]

purple

[@vonshango6311]

wear a mic to get rid of echo. each brand makees dozens of models, so best to name the models you compare. blackhawks are hot and sweaty over 75F. 1:19 the reason the 5.11 feels lighter is because it is lighter at 1lb 5oz.

[@SnareMan]

I made this vid 7 years ago when I was new at this YT stuff. The sound (because of a lapel mic) is vastly improved in my more recent vids. Check them out. ;-)

[@FDNY101202]

forgot propper :-\