Tactical clothing has evolved beyond military uniforms, becoming essential gear for law enforcement, security professionals, outdoor adventurers, and even style-conscious civilians. It's not just about camouflage; it's about durability, functionality, and designs built for real-world demands.
In this blog, we’ll explore 20 brands that specialize in tactical clothing, highlighting their unique offerings and what makes them stand out. This list focuses on brands where high-performance clothing is a core part of their identity.
Key Considerations When Choosing Tactical Clothing
- Mission Profile: Duty wear, combat deployment, training, outdoor adventure, or concealed carry?
- Critical Features: Pockets/load carriage, reinforced areas, moisture management, flame resistance (FR), weather protection, articulation for mobility.
- Materials: Look for technical fabrics like NyCo ripstop, Cordura, Schoeller dryskin, G-Loft insulation, and proprietary blends for specific needs (FR, water resistance, stretch).
- Fit & Sizing: Ranges from traditional uniform cuts to modern athletic fits. Know your measurements and the brand's typical sizing.
- Compliance: Adherence to relevant standards like the Berry Amendment for US-made materials in DoD contracts or NFPA 2112 for FR gear.
TOP 20 Tactical Clothing Brands
To give you a quick overview, here’s a summary of the brands we’ll cover, showcasing their specializations and standout qualities.
| Brand | Country | Core Clothing Focus | Key Innovations & Strengths | Ideal For | Price Tier |
| Propper | USA | Military/LE Uniforms & Duty Wear | Berry Compliant options, excellent value, proven durability, wide size range. Extensive uniform program experience. | Daily duty, patrol, uniform standards, cost-effective quality. | Mid-Range |
| 5.11 Tactical | USA | Duty Gear & Tactical Apparel | Iconic Tac Pant design, functional pockets (TDU style), reinforced seams, widespread retail availability. | Law enforcement, security, training, EDC enthusiasts. | Mid-Range |
| Crye Precision | USA | Advanced Combat Uniforms & Systems | G3/G4 Combat Uniform articulation, MultiCam® patterns, LaserCut Molle, high-tech materials science. Sets the benchmark for integrated combat clothing. | Special Operations, demanding deployments, professionals requiring peak performance. | Premium |
| Beyond Clothing | USA | Technical Performance Apparel | Advanced insulation systems, excellent layering, extreme weather focus, lightweight durability. | Military, expeditionary forces, severe cold/wet environments. | Premium |
| UF PRO | Slovenia | Technical Combat & Duty Wear | Striker XT Combat Pants (ventilation zips), P-40 durable stretch fabric, focus on knee/elbow protection integration, modular design. | Professional operators, high-mobility roles, demanding field use. | Premium |
| TRU-SPEC | USA | Uniforms & Tactical Clothing | 24-7 Series (duty staple), authentic BDUs/ACUs, military-grade quality, consistent sizing. Reliable supplier to agencies. | Law enforcement, security, military personnel needing standard uniform items. | Mid-Range |
| Vertx | USA | Everyday Concealed Carry (CCW) Apparel | Discreet carry pockets (Phantom), modern casual aesthetics, comfortable stretch fabrics, blends into non-tactical settings. | Concealed carriers, detectives, professionals needing low-profile functionality. | Mid-Range |
| First Spear | USA | Innovative Combat Apparel & Materials | TUBES™ closure systems (silent, fast), Strandhögg™ construction (seamless shoulders), advanced stretch materials, focus on mobility/reliability. | Professionals valuing cutting-edge design and silent operation. | Premium |
| Helikon-Tex | Poland | Versatile Outdoor/Tactical Clothing | Wide range of shirts, pants, fleece; good value, practical features ( removable liners, multiple pockets), popular in Europe. | Airsoft, bushcraft, hiking, general outdoor/tactical use. | Value/Mid-Range |
| Arc'teryx LEAF | Canada | Tactical/Outdoor Apparel | Technical fabrics (Gore-Tex, N80p-X), precision construction, weather protection, mobility. LEAF (Law Enforcement & Armed Forces) line. | SOF, mountain/cold weather ops, professionals needing top-tier technical performance. | Premium |
| Drifire | USA | Flame Resistant (FR) Tactical Workwear | NFPA-compliant FR fabrics, inherent FR treatments (not coatings), durability, focus on protection for hazardous environments. | Military vehicle crews, LE/SRT, firefighters, industrial workers needing FR. | Mid-Range/Premium |
| Claw Gear | Switzerland | European Combat & Tactical Clothing | Focus on combat pants/shirts (Raider series), distinct European patterns/cuts, quality construction. | European military/LE, airsoft, tactical users preferring Euro styles. | Mid-Range |
| Viktos | USA | Stylish Performance Tactical Wear. | Modern cuts, performance fabrics, focus on footwear/apparel integration, founded by veterans. "Operationally inspired" lifestyle gear. | Enthusiasts, training, casual wear with tactical features. | Mid-Range |
| Arktis | UK | Load-Bearing Integrated Clothing | Durable fabrics, designs often integrating or compatible with load carriage (webbing), classic British military heritage/style. | Military, police units, outdoor professionals valuing integrated systems. | Mid-Range |
| Rothco | USA | Military-Style & Surplus Clothing | Huge variety, very affordable, classic military looks (BDUs, field jackets). Great for basics, training, costumes. | Budget buyers, airsoft, surplus enthusiasts, training gear. | Value |
| Tactical Performance Corp (TPC) | USA | Performance-Driven Tactical Apparel | Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics, mobility features, often geared towards high-intensity use. | Training, tactical athletes, security requiring lightweight uniforms. | Mid-Range |
| Carinthia | Austria | Extreme Cold Weather Systems | High-loft insulation (G-Loft), sleeping bags, designed for sub-zero survival. Trusted by mountain/military units. | Arctic/mountain operations, extreme cold weather specialists. | Premium |
| Pentagon Tactical | Greece | European Tactical & Outdoor Clothing | Diverse range (military, outdoor, urban), incorporates Cordura and technical fabrics in many lines, good value for EU market. | European users, airsoft, outdoor activities needing durable clothing. | Value/Mid-Range |
| Varusteleka | Finland | Military-Grade Tactical Clothing | Budget-friendly but durable (Cordura-reinforced knees/seat), designed for field use. | European military, budget-conscious operators, bushcraft. | Mid-Range |
| Snigel Design | Sweden | Military & LE Combat Uniforms | Patented T.A.C.S™ ventilation, Seamless shoulder construction, Plate carrier-integrated designs | Special Forces, Arctic operations, high-mobility units | Premium |
With this snapshot in mind, let’s dive into the details of each brand to help you find the perfect tactical gear for your needs.
1. Propper
Founded in 1967, Propper is known for producing uniforms and tactical clothing. They supply products to military and law enforcement agencies, ensuring high standards and durability.
Propper’s clothing includes tactical shirts, pants, and outerwear, which are designed to withstand tough conditions while providing comfort and mobility.
Their F5248 tactical pants are a favorite for their rugged design.
2. 5.11 Tactical
5.11 Tactical is one of the most recognized names in tactical clothing. Founded in 2003, the brand started with its signature Tactical Pant, which became a cornerstone for high-quality gear aimed at law enforcement and military personnel.
Their products, including pants, shirts, and outerwear, are known for their durability and practical features, like extra pockets and reinforced seams.
3. Crye Precision
Crye Precision is renowned for its advanced tactical gear and clothing. They are recognized for their innovative designs—like the MultiCam pattern— and use of high-tech materials.
Their products, including uniforms and combat gear, are often used by military forces worldwide. Crye Precision emphasizes functionality and comfort in harsh conditions.
4. Beyond Clothing
Masters of technical layering and insulation for extreme environments. Their L5 ECWCS contract speaks to their capability in keeping operators functional in the harshest conditions.
5. UF PRO
UF PRO is one of the top brands for tactical clothing, known for combat shirts, pants, and advanced outerwear.
It's a Slovenian company specializing in high-quality tactical clothing for military and law enforcement professionals. Their Striker XT pants are renowned for flexibility, offering durability and innovative design.
6. TRU-SPEC
A brand under ATLANCO, TRU-SPEC has provided uniforms and tactical equipment since 1996 for military, law enforcement, and public safety personnel. Their 24-7 Series pants are a staple for law enforcement, alongside other offerings like BDUs and outerwear built for rugged use.
7. Vertx
Vertx is known for creating tactical clothing that blends everyday style with functionality. Their products are designed for those who need reliable gear but don’t want to look overly tactical.
Vertx offers a variety of clothing, including pants and shirts that are suitable for both tactical and casual settings.
8. First Spear
Innovators in materials and closures. TUBES™ replaced velcro for silent, fast closures, and Strandhögg™ construction eliminates shoulder seams for maximum comfort under load.
9. Claw Gear
A Swiss brand founded in 2011, Claw Gear specializes in tactical clothing like combat pants, shirts, and jackets. Products like the Raider Mk.IV Pants are popular among European tactical users. Their apparel is designed for military and law enforcement, emphasizing precision and comfort.
10. Helikon-Tex
Helikon-Tex offers a wide range of tactical clothing and gear. Founded in Poland, the brand has gained popularity in the tactical community for stylish designs and practical features.
The brand offers a variety of products, including tactical backpacks and urban tactical clothing, favored by airsoft players and outdoor adventurers alike.
11. Arktis
Established in the UK in 1985, Arktis leverages its British military heritage to manufacture high-quality tactical clothing and gear. Their product range includes jackets, trousers, and load-bearing equipment known for durability and functionality.
Arktis products are popular among military units, police forces, and outdoor professionals worldwide.
12. Tactical Performance Corp
Tactical Performance Corp (TPC) is a niche brand offering specialized tactical clothing and gear for military and law enforcement use.
Established with a focus on performance-driven apparel, TPC provides products like combat uniforms and tactical vests that prioritize durability, mobility, and lightweight construction.
13. Arc'teryx LEAF
Arc'teryx is a premium outdoor brand that also offers tactical clothing. Known for their high-quality materials and craftsmanship, Arc'teryx products are designed for harsh conditions.
Their tactical line includes jackets, pants, and other gear that provide excellent protection and mobility. This brand is perfect for those who demand the best from their clothing.
14. Rothco
Rothco has been in the tactical clothing business for over 60 years. They offer a wide range of military and tactical gear, including clothing, bags, and accessories.
Rothco’s products are known for their affordability and variety, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious shoppers. Their appeal extends to surplus shoppers and costume buyers alongside tactical users.
15. Viktos
Viktos is an American brand founded by military veterans in 2017. They offer tactical apparel, footwear, gloves, and bags for both professionals and enthusiasts.
Their Core Tactical Pants blend style and utility, delivering performance-driven designs with a modern edge.
16. Drifire
Essential for anyone operating where heat/flame is a hazard. Their inherent FR fabrics provide life-saving protection without sacrificing (too much) comfort or durability, meeting critical NFPA standards.
17. Carinthia
Carinthia, an Austrian brand, excels in tactical cold-weather clothing and sleeping bags for extreme conditions. Their G-Loft jackets excel in sub-zero environments, making them a trusted choice for military and outdoor use.
18. Pentagon Tactical
Based in Greece, Pentagon Tactical specializes in professional tactical apparel and gear, including military and law enforcement clothing, outdoor sportswear, and urban stylish clothing.
Their product lineup includes jackets, pants, shirts, and accessories, all crafted to provide durability and functionality.
19. Varusteleka
A Finnish brand producing military-grade tactical clothing with a focus on durability and field performance. Their Särmä TST combat pants and jackets are highly regarded in Europe.
20. Snigel Design
Snigel is the official supplier to Swedish Special Forces (SSG) and NATO units operating in Arctic conditions. Their key products include combat pants, cold-weather systems, and plate carrier-compatible jackets.
Where can I find reviews for these tactical clothing brands?
You can find reviews for these tactical apparel companies through several online platforms and retailers that specialize in tactical gear. Here are some recommended sources for reviews:
- TacticalGear.com: This site features a dedicated section, where customers share their experiences with specific products like jackets, pants, and pouches. You can find detailed feedback on the quality and functionality of their gear.
- LA Police Gear (LAPG): LAPG offers a wide selection of tactical gear from various brands. They often include customer reviews on product pages, providing insights into the performance and durability of the items.
- Amazon: Many tactical brands like 5.11 Tactical, have their products listed on Amazon. Customer reviews on these listings can give you a broad perspective on the quality and usability of the products.
- YouTube: Video reviews can be helpful. Many outdoor and tactical enthusiasts post reviews and demonstrations of products from brands, allowing you to see the gear in action. Search "[Brand Name] [Product Name] review". Look for channels run by professionals, instructors, or experienced enthusiasts (not just unboxings).
- Forums and Community Websites: Websites like Reddit (in subreddits related to tactical gear or outdoor activities, such as r/tacticalgear, r/preppers, r/military, r/Survival, r/airsoft, r/gear, r/EDC) and specialized forums often have discussions and reviews from users who share their personal experiences with different brands.
- Brand Websites: Many brands, such as Propper and Mil-Tec, have sections on their websites where customers can leave reviews. This can be a good source of information directly from users who have purchased and used the products.
- Retailer Websites: Other retailers that specialize in tactical gear, such as OpticsPlanet, also feature customer reviews on their product pages, providing additional insights into the performance of various brands.
In Closing
The best tactical clothing blends durability, functionality, and comfort tailored to your specific needs. This list highlights brands excelling in apparel design and manufacturing, from battle-proven combat uniforms to innovative concealed carry solutions and specialized protective wear.
As manufacturers ourselves, we respect the engineering and quality control that goes into these top-tier products. Whether outfitting a unit or gearing up personally, prioritizing quality, fit, and mission-specific features ensures your clothing performs when it matters most.
