How to Select the Right Tactical Pants for Fieldwork (2023)?

Introduction

As researchers, photographers, or NGO workers, we know that fieldwork can be demanding and requires the right gear to get the job done.

When it comes to dressing for fieldwork, it’s important to choose clothing that is practical, robust, and comfortable. For example, high-quality materials that can withstand rugged conditions, as well as clothing that is moisture-wicking and breathable to help keep you cool and dry.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the environment in which you’ll be working, as well as any specific activities you’ll be engaging in. For instance, if you’ll be working in a hot, dry climate, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, while in colder conditions, you may need to layer up to keep your body warm.

What are tactical pants?

One essential piece of clothing for any fieldwork is a pair of tactical pants. Tactical pants are the ultimate choice for those who need to be prepared for any situation. These pants carry many different compartments or pockets, pen slots, and even sunglasses hanging loops sewn on.

These rugged, durable trousers are designed for modern fieldwork and conditions, one never knows what the day will bring but knows that they need to be ready for anything. Whether you’re trekking through the jungle, navigating a bustling city, or just need a reliable pair of pants for your daily fieldwork adventures, tactical pants have got you covered.

Made from tough, high-quality materials like nylon or cotton, these pants are built to withstand even the toughest conditions. They often feature a variety of pockets and storage options, allowing you to keep all of your gear close at hand. And with a comfortable, flexible fit, you’ll be able to move freely and tackle any challenge that comes your way.

But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. That’s why we want to share some tips on how to select the right pair of tactical pants for your fieldwork. Whether you’re in the field for a few hours or a few weeks, having the right pants can make all the difference in your comfort and productivity. So let’s dive in and explore how to make the best choice for your needs.

Factors to consider when selecting tactical pants

Fit and sizing

When selecting tactical pants for fieldwork, it’s important to pay attention to fit and size to ensure that you’re comfortable and able to move freely without compromising performance. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right fit and size:

1. To get the most accurate fit, take measurements of your waist and hips using a flexible tape measure. This will help you determine the size that will best fit your body.
   
2. Most tactical pants manufacturers provide a sizing chart on their website or on the product page. Compare your measurements to the chart to determine the size that will be the best fit for you.
   
3. If possible, try on the pants before purchasing to ensure that they fit comfortably. Pay attention to the length, waist, and hips to make sure that the pants fit well in these areas. Also, try to crouch wearing the pants and see if they are comfortable or too tight around the knees and hips area.
   
4. Make sure the material is comfortable and flexible, allowing for a full range of unhindered movement. Avoid pants that are too stiff or restrictive. You may also check the water resistance of the fabric. Ideally, it should dry quickly even if gets wet.

Material and durability

Before buying the fieldwork pants you would want them to last long, be comfortable and allow you to do your job effectively. Hence, the material and durability of tactical pants are important considerations for fieldwork because they can affect the pants’ performance and longevity.

Fieldwork often involves physical activity, exposure to extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, and contact with various surfaces, so it’s important to choose pants that can withstand these conditions.

To check the material and durability of tactical pants before buying them, you can:

1. Look for pants made from durable materials such as polycotton or polyester blended with cotton or spandex. These materials are typically resistant to wear and tear, stretchable, and can withstand rough treatment and exposure to the elements.
   
2. Check the quality of the construction. Look for pants that are well-made, with strong seams such as triple-stitched and reinforced areas where extra durability is needed, such as at the knees and seat.
   
3. Don’t forget to check the quality of the zippers. YKK zippers should be preferred.
   
4. Check whether the pants have a Teflon finish on the surface. It repels moisture or hazardous chemicals.
   
5. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from people who have used the pants in fieldwork. They can provide insight into the pants’ performance and durability in real-world conditions.
   
6. Consider the intended use of the pants. If you’ll be using them for activities that require extra durability, such as hiking or climbing, you may want to look for pants with additional features, such as reinforced knees or a water-resistant finish.
   

Pockets and storage options

Pockets are pretty crucial in tactical pants because they allow you to carry all the gear you need for your fieldwork. Without enough pockets and storage, you might find yourself struggling to keep track of your important items or having to carry a separate bag, which can be inconvenient and may not be practical in certain situations.

So, before you buy your tactical pants just keep the following points with respect to pockets and storage:

1. Usually, people select tactical pants for fieldwork that come with 6-7 pockets. Extra storage is one of the major advantages of tactical pants. Some brands put way too many pockets on the pants just to compete with their rivals. Make sure that you are able to reach out to the pockets easily, and you are also able to open and close them with one hand.
   
2. Check the size and placement of the pockets. Are they big enough to hold your gear? Are they located in convenient places for easy access?
   
3. Consider the types of pockets. Some tactical pants have specialized pockets for specific gear, such as a pocket for a phone or a pocket for a knife. These can be useful, but make sure the pants have enough regular pockets too because you never know when you might need to carry something unexpected.
   
4. Test the pockets out. If you’re shopping in a store, try putting some of your gear in the pockets to see how it fits and if it’s easy to access. If you’re shopping online, use your imagination (or a ruler) to get an idea of the pocket size and placement.
   
5. Don’t forget about the cargo pockets! These are the pockets on the sides of the legs that are typically large enough to hold a lot of gear. They can be especially useful for fieldwork, but make sure they’re not so big that they get in the way or make the pants look bulky.

Overall, when it comes to pockets and storage options in tactical pants, the key is to find a balance between having enough space to carry your gear and not having so much that the pants become cumbersome or unwieldy.