The 15 Best Lightweight Tactical Pants in 2022

Just stop being confused among tons of models for the best lightweight tactical pants right now. Scroll the below top 15 picks, and check it out!

Working or playing in an extreme environment sometimes makes you annoyed for hot weather or active motions. One of the necessary things you should consider is choosing your outfit to put on for comfort. People may be familiar with a pair of jeans all the time, but it must cause a challenge when doing leg work, especially in hot weather. Selecting the best lightweight pants may be a helpful solution for that problem.

Known as BDU style or police uniform pants, lightweight tactical pants are for people who need comfort in moving, convenience for carrying tools, and durability. Among tons of models available on the market are averted. Well, currently, you may not know how to choose the best lightweight tactical pants fit with yourself. Only by taking a bit of your time reading this article, you can select from the list of those best one this year.

Let dive right in!

What are The Best Lightweight Tactical Pants?

By studying thoroughly, we find out 5.11 Tactical Men’s Apex Cargo Work Pants as the best lightweight tactical pants and LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants runner-up for your reference. A fantastic mixture of fabric, super construction, and exceptional utility make them highly recommended from the rest of the best choices.

By the way, we’ve listed the top 15 best lightweight tactical pants reviews 2021 for the full range of choice.

Best Overall: 5.11 Tactical Men’s Apex Cargo Work Pants

Good design, durability, comfort, stain resistance, and functional parts.

Good for Breathable: Helikon-Tex OTP Outdoor Tactical Pants

Breathable, sturdy, well-arranged pockets, water, and dirt resistance.

Good for Hiking: Columbia men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pants

Stretchy, lightweight, durable, protection from sun rays, convertible trousers.

Good for Skinny Guys: M-Tac Aggressor Flex Tactical Pants

Good fit, super lightweight, breathable and big pockets.

Good for Concealed Carry: 5.11 Tactical Men’s Ridgeline Covert Pants

Great concealed carry, extremely comfortable, flexible, and good design.

Good for Overweight: Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pant

Soft fabric, nicely made, functional pockets and fit with all outdoor exercises.

Good for Winter: FREE SOLDIER Men’s Outdoor Softshell Fleece Lined Cargo Pants

Warm and comfortable fabric, nice layers, great build quality.

Good for Police: LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants

Durable, comfortable, and professional appearance.

Good for Law Enforcement: CQR Men’s Tactical Pants, Military Combat BDU/ACU

Well made, comfortable, durable, and big pockets.

Good for The Military: CARWORNIC Gear Men’s Assault Tactical Pants

Comfortable pants, durability, functionality, and all seasons.

Good for Everyday Wear: Vertx Men’s Phantom OPS Tactical Pants

Durable, comfortable, convenient pockets, weather resistance.

Good for Summer: Propper Men’s Summerweight Tactical Pant

Extremely comfortable, breathable & cool, durable, and a modern look.

Good for The Office: Propper Men’s Uniform Tactical Pant

Tough, light, comfortable, fit colors, and accessible pockets.

Good for Women: Alfiudad Tactical Pants

Breathable material, multiple cargo pockets, comfortable and versatile.

Good for The Money: CQR Men’s Tactical Pants

Well-constructed, fit well, comfortable and low price.

All Lightweight Tactical Pants – Comparison Chart

Here are essential characteristics of best lightweight tactical pants to make a wise decision for a quick look for comparison:

Top 15 Best Lightweight Tactical Pants Reviews in 2022

Penetrating almost your mind about collecting the best lightweight tactical pants from a mass of designs, pieces of below-detailed information for top models may help you more:

Best Overall: 5.11 Tactical Men’s Apex Cargo Work Pants

Key features

• Ten functional pockets
• Two-way Flex-Tac mechanical stretch textile
• Seven reinforced belt loops combining with comfort waistband
• Gusseted crotch avoiding rips and tears
• Teflon fabric is coated for stain and moisture resistance

Product specs

Material	Polyester and Cotton
Weight	17.64 oz
Number of pockets	10

5.11 is one of the best overall lightweight tactical pants for a combination of precision engineering, functional design, and elastic construction. The Apex Pant is a next cargo pant that stands out for both tactical wear and EDC. Composed of high-quality materials, they are durable and flexible for movement with comfort.

Teflon-treated fabric is used to coat to resist stain and moisture without making it hard to clean and breathe. When it comes to design, deep internal twin back yoke pockets and flex cuff pockets inside the waist give spacious storage for effortless access. Also, gusseted crotch features in comfortable mobility without taking the risk of rips or tears. There are a variety of colors and a wide range of sizes for your choice.

Best for Breathable: Helikon-Tex OTP Outdoor Tactical Pants

Key features

• Flexible, 4-way elastic and moisture-wicking material
• Set of 8 well-arranged pockets with Velcro flaps, an additional partition for rear one and reinforced edges
• Reversed YKK zippers with elastic band
• Knee Pads placed into pockets on each leg
• Waist with seven belt loops

Product specs

Package dimensions	17 x 13 x 1.25 inches
Weight	12.3 oz
Material	VersaStretch, Nylon and Spandex
Number of pockets	8

Breathability is considered one of the most important for tactical pants to be worn with comfort, especially in humid or hot weather. With used 4-way elastic and moisture-wicking material, you find entirely that model best for breathable features with great support. DuPont Teflon coating pants enhance durability without affecting breathability.

There are two choices of lightweight fabrics, including VersaStretch (20.5 oz) and VersaStretch Lite (10.5 oz). What’s more, this kind of textile is stretchable, also elastic waistband for versatility. Patented pockets are arranged perfectly everywhere to carry all of your essential equipment on the move but ensure for fashion.

Best for Hiking: Columbia men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pants

Key features

• Innovative technology signature UPF 50 fabric as well as breathable, wicking fabric
• Blocking harmful sun rays by Omni-Shade
• Pockets with zip-closure security and hook & loop closure
• Zip-off legs for convert to shorts
• Elastic waist and gusset detail to adjust for fit

Product specs

Weight	10.93 oz
Material	Nylon
Number of pockets	8

Specializing in crafting for the active men, the Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pant is a must-have for your adventure in mountains or other hard terrains. Made of 100% nylon and Columbia’s signature ripstop fabric, you can find it lightweight yet durable for any weather and outdoor activities. Consequently, this model is best for hiking and other kinds of recreation outside.

Unmatched technology is shown in the inner layer composed of Columbia’s signature wicking for breathability and the outer UPF 50 layer to protect from UVA and UVB sun rays. Just by one zip, pants will turn out shorts for a fresh feeling quickly. Small details of the gusset, hook, and eye closure makes it fit personally. Multiple sizes and colors are available for your suitable choice.

Best for Skinny Guys: M-Tac Aggressor Flex – Tactical Pants

Key features

• High-quality material with ripstop flex fabric and YYK furniture (D-rings, zipper, buttons)
• Self-adjustable waistband
• Pockets with reinforced inserts for convenient access
• Cuff with look & hook band and elastic cord to keep legs fit
• Reinforced knee with a compartment for soft knee pads

Product specs

Dimensions	5 x 5 x 0.7 inches
Weight	16 oz
Material	Cotton, Polyester and Spandex
Number of pockets	7

If you are thin and looking for tactical pants best for skinny guys with a slim fit, this one is ideal for your choice. First and foremost, you will find it functional for outside work or even for a business trip. There is no worry that you feel embarrassed into a baggy and loose pair of pants because of the support of an elastic adjustable “tunnel” belt for a perfect fit.

As composed of resilient fabric material, aggressor pants feature in freedom of movement and feeling of comfort. Seven cargo pockets are wide and designed with reinforced inserts for easy-to-reach. These tactical pants are a smart choice for going out or working with a stylish and professional look.

Best for Concealed Carry: 5.11 Tactical Men’s Ridgeline Covert Pants

Key features

• Blend of fabric material for both toughness and comfort
• Nylon reinforced pockets for convenience
• Double stitches, Teflon finish and YKK zipper
• Gusseted construction with Bartacking

Product specs

Weight	11.2 oz
Material	Polyester and Cotton
Number of pockets	10

Instead of choosing heavier and baggier with huge pockets to contain a handgun for work or other essential gear, it is essential for you to look for the best pants for concealed carry to have a good form. Eight high-capacity pockets and two hidden rear pockets are some of the key elements to solve the above problem for the convenient storage of personal items. A fitted waistband, fully gusseted crotch, and double-stitching also contribute to a comfortable and neat fit during the day.

High-quality fabric materials bring durability and comfort, especially Flex-Tac fabric with a 2-way mechanical stretch for freedom of movements. They are also equipped with Teflon finish for dirt, moisture resistance, and YKK zippers for your confidence anywhere. As a result of design, these pants look good from professional to casual and on or off duty wear.

Best for Overweight: Propper Men’s Lightweight Tactical Pant

Key features

• Ripstop fabric combined with Teflon protects from stain and water
• Elastic waistband and big belt loops
• Firm stitches and knee pads
• Put on everywhere

Product specs

Dimensions	5 x 5 x 5 inches
Weight	24 oz
Material	Polyester and Cotton Ripstop
Number of pockets	9

Choosing the best lightweight tactical pants is especially a hard job for big guys. Initially creating professional tactical pants for military, law enforcement, and public safety professionals, Propper delivers the best one for overweight men in the most demanding environments with lightweight, durability, and high capacity in this design.

When it is concerned with size, it is considered to meet the demand of big sizes and is also supported by an action-stretch waistband, extra-large belt loops for fit adjustment. Two places affecting durability must be seat and knee, so knee pads and seam reinforcements work well to extend wear. They are designed to wear everywhere, like on the range, at the office, on the trail, even for a walk.

Best for Winter: FREE SOLDIER Men’s Outdoor Softshell Fleece Lined Cargo Pants

Key features

• Waterproof surface and inner layer retaining warmth
• Stretchy textile
• Waterproof Zippered security and hook & loop pockets
• Metal Zip Fly with Snap Closure

Product specs

Package dimensions	14 x 9.6 x 2.9 inches
Weight	21.6 oz
Material	Polyester and Spandex
Number of pockets	4

To keep legs warm during cold weather, FREE SOLDIER crafted this model best for winter by focusing on creating cargo pants with inner layer polar fleece to lock the warmth without reducing breathability. These pants are made of soft and warm fabric with the inner and outer layers to prevent the heat from losing and absorbing in winter winds outside.

Besides, The waterproof membrane protects you from penetrating cold water but still ensures the transfer of moisture away for comfort. Firm and dense stitches also help pants to breathe and keep dry even in humid weather. With the simple and practical design of four cargo pockets for functionality, comfortable fit, and durable features, the pants are suitable for those who work or exercise in the toughest outside environment.

Best for Police: LA Police Gear Men’s Urban Ops Tactical Cargo Pants

Key features

• Single front slip-pocket
• Two Slip back pockets
• Two front pockets for knife or flashlight clip
• Two slanted cargo pocket with flaps for seated access
• 22 single bartacks to enhance the length
• Articulating Knee

Product specs

Dimensions	15.5 x 11.5 x 1.25 inches
Weight	20 oz
Material	Polyester and Cotton Rip-Stop fabric
Number of pockets	7

They are working as police require lots of movements and bringing with it essential gears for enforced missions. LA police claim to launch pants designed best for the police, military, private security, and more. This model uses ultra-lightweight ripstop fabric material to create tactical pants with high quality for both comfort and durability.

An elastic waistband, articulating knees and gusseted crotch make them become comfortable pants. Large pockets are perfect for the storage of phones, magazines, and other gears for quick access even at seating positions.

Best for Law Enforcement: CQR Men’s Tactical Pants, Military Combat BDU/ACU

Key features

• Strong and comfortable fabric
• Side tabs on the waist can be adjusted by velcro pull
• Cargo pockets are secure but convenient with Velcro flaps
• Adjustable ankle cuff straps on each leg for blousing

Product spes

Package dimensions	10.3 x 6.8 x 2.8 inches
Weight	3.2 oz
Material	Polyester and Cotton Rip-stop fabric
Number of pockets	8

CQR pants are crafted with the military’s standards and other special forces for durability, reliability, and strength. This model is chosen as the best lightweight tactical pants for law enforcement. To meet these tough requirements of work, their fabric materials of polyester, cotton with Duratec ensure both comfort and resistance from environmental elements like dirt, liquids, and other pollutants.

They are constructed with Flat-Fell seams finishing with topstitches for through durability in all day movements. Plus, two ankle cuffs are adjustable to strap for proper form with rubber strings. Knee protection and dual-layer seat patter keep you comfortable and secure in every motion. For large, reliable and handy storage, side cargo and front flash pockets with flaps meet Military Specification standards.

Best for Military: CARWORNIC Gear Men’s Assault Tactical Pants

Key features

• Nine high – performance pockets: 2 front pockets, two back pockets, four side cargo pockets
• Most made of cotton fabric (97%)
• Adjustable sizes thanks to Elastic waistband with widened belt loops
• Double and triple-needle stitching avoid tears and rips
• Used for any seasons and occasion (especially in army field)

Product specs

Dimensions	13.78 x 11.81 x 1.18 inches
Weight	23.04 oz
Material	Cotton and Spandex
Number of pockets	9

CARWORNIC Assault Tactical Pants are designed for those people who work on a gun range or security detail all day, demanding some essentials without interrupting those activities. As a result, this requires durable but stretch fabric, along with useful pockets. That model meets those requirements to become the best one for the military.

There is the elastic waistband with widened belt loops, strengthened crotch, and double/triple-needle stitching to enhance its movement. Not only is it used for outdoor activities in all seasons with the durability above and productivity, but also daily wear by good design and breathability.

Best for Everyday Wear: 5.11 Men’s Taclite Pro Tactical Pants

Key features

• Lightweight and strong fabric
• Double-reinforced features for knee, seat, and triple-stitches
• Multipurpose extra pockets
• Fixed attached D-ring, YYK zippers and Prym snaps
• 48 individual bartacks in stress point

Product specs

Package dimensions	13.4 x 10.1 x 1.5 inches
Weight	8 oz
Material	Polyester and Cotton Mini-ripstop
Number of pockets	12

Another model from the collection of 5.11, this pair of tactical pants meets the basic requirements of tactical and outdoor operations and is best for everyday wearing. The blend of a premium polyester and cotton mechanical stretch Taclite ripstop fabric with a triple-stitching constructed makes them durable, flexible, but comfortable. Also, fully gusseted construction brings comfort and reduces tears or rips.

 Teflon-treated fabric included repelling stain and moisture without affecting breathability, also for cleaning easily. Eight dedicated pockets offer roomy storage and easy to get access to your gears.

Best for Summer: Propper Men’s Summerweight Tactical Pant

Key features

• Quick-dry UPF 50 and lightweight fabric
• Secure pockets everywhere
• Perfect cuts and stitches
• Synthetic textile for anti-wrinkle features
• Washable by machine

Product specs

Dimensions	15.1 x 10 x 1.4 inches
Weight	13.6 oz
Material	Nylon and Spandex Ripstop
Number of pockets	8

As one of the models Propper above, Propper Men’s Summerweight Tactical Pants specialize in beating the heat. Thanks to lightweight nylon and Quick-dry UPF fabric, the tactical pants keep you from the heat and shield you from harmful solar rays. They work well by evaporating sweat and moisture to stay dry and cool.

Like other models, pockets are equipped everywhere for safety and convenience. Having a reputation for 50+ years, over 250 million garments made for some of the world’s pickiest customers, every firm stitch proves the durability and athletic cut.

Best for The Office: Propper Men’s Uniform Tactical Pant

Key features

• Lightweight and comfortable ripstop fabric material
• Action-stretch waistband for more comfort
• Zipper fly and button closure
• Reinforced pockets with hook loop closure and open-top slash
• Uniform color

Product specs

Dimensions	5 x 5 x 5 inches
Weight	15.87 oz
Material	Cotton and Polyester Ripstop
Number of pockets	9

For looking nice and working with comfort at the office, Propper Men’s Uniform tactical pants will be the best option for the office environment by design and functionality. They are woven with lightweight ripstop fabric, constructed with reinforced knees and an action-stretch waistband bringing complete comfort.

Reinforced pockets with hook & loop closure at the front and back keep your gear well by yourself in any situation. A range of colors meeting six standard uniform colors gives you a professional look at the office and outside workplaces.

Best for Women: Alfiudad Women’s Tactical Pants

Key features

• Soft cotton fabric and enough loose pattern
• Multi-pocket all side of pants for functionality and aesthetic look
• Fit with boots by straight leg openings and drawstring tie
• Washable with the machine but dry only in the shade

Product specs

Package dimensions	16.14 x 11.54 x 1.89 inches
Weight	20.48 oz
Material	Polyester and Cotton Ripstop
Number of pockets	8

Alfiudad specializes in designing the best tactical pants for people to work needing more outdoor movements in a difficult situation as a firefighter or responder profession, even to play adventurous sports like hiking. This model is created, especially for women, to confidently attend those jobs while people sometimes offer them for men. Even for serving other outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, cycling, and leisure sport, the fabric is made of 100% cotton for comfort, sweat-absorbent, but stain-resistant utility.  

Some roomy pockets provide space to store belongings, and others are used for decoration. Straight leg openings with a drawstring tie are designed to fit with boots as a way to protect your leg skin. Alfiudad Women’s Tactical Pants are best for casual and outdoor exercises.

Best for The Money: CQR Men’s Tactical Pants

Key features

• Ripstop fabric materials with Duratex Fabric repelling dirt and water for coo comfort and durability
• Velcro clap back pockets, slash pockets, D-ring and non-flap pockets for utility
• Elastic action waistband
• Color of military and law enforcement design

Product specs

Package dimensions	10.83 x 7.99 x 2.28 inches
Weight	18.88 oz
Material	Polyester and Cotton
Number of pockets	8

With the main goal of delivering tactical pants with ultimate performance in any kind of environment, CQR pants are smart for many people but in the acceptable range of price as the best one for the money. They are made of mixing of high-quality Polyester & Cotton Rip-stop fabric materials with Duratex Fabric resisting dirt or water.

There are multi-use cargo pockets for a good place to hold all the essential tools. They are designed following patterns of military and law enforcement performance for comfort and support.

Lightweight Tactical Pants Buyer Guide: What to Consider Before Buying

Following the top 15 best lightweight tactical pants mentioned above, we would like to suggest some vital elements to opt for the best one by yourself.

Material

By reading the percentage of fabric materials used for tactical pants, you will acknowledge whether it meets your needs for comfort and durability or not. They are considered the most important factors tied to the quality of pants, also price.

Here are some popular fabrics with features like types, weight, and techniques that you need to understand for a smart choice:

Cotton

Cotton is familiar to lots of people and included in almost all clothes for comfort. It weighs lightly but certainly, is the most comfortable material. However, keep in mind that it is not the most durable and holds a lot of water. This makes it heavier when pants are getting soaked in the rain, for instance.

Nylon

Nylon is a kind of synthetic fabric and more rigid and durable than cotton, but it is not totally soft and comfortable.

Polyester

Like nylon’s features, polyester is the most durable, not very comfortable but lighter.

Teflon-coated/treated

Tefron Works as a slipper filler or a coating too thick for a tight weave.

Based on those materials’ highlights, the best tactical pants must be a perfect combination of theirs. In this way, producers will blend cotton and nylon for overall quality, cotton, and polyester for much more comfort but high cost.

Depending on the specific purposes of using, they will reasonably measure the percent of the material used to fit to balance or enhance. As a result, you can understand well what the percentage means with the quality of pants.

Additionally, you must get accustomed to a term named “ripstop” in the information of fabric throughout this article. In fact, it is known as a technique in how certain materials are mixed and woven together to increase durability. As produced in this way, pants will be kept from rips or tears spreading if you get a hole in it.

Size

As a big problem for the mass of people, they are making a great buss with looking for a perfect fit form. Manufacturers often have criteria of the size shown in a table available for your choice with specific notes.

Bear in mind that you must have measured necessary parts of the body and collate them with that standard before deciding your own size. Some basic parts of your body that must be remarkably determined with precision are waist, legs, hip, thigh, and inseam. Units in those criteria may not fit you for the unique build, so you should regard the best lightweight tactical pants with flexible adjustments for waist or legs. If you don’t find the table of size, you can contact customer service from shops for clear guides and, right support.

Other Detail Parts

Last but not least, the construction of pants presents how they are used in different environments and purposes. If you are working with many equipment or tools, you must look for pants with large and handy pockets. These features are based on their number, position, and design on pants. You may also have problems with sizes of legs, waist, seat, or full-length pants without regarding the dimensions attached to the information of products with attention.

Furthermore, extra or small details of parts like zipper, slop, stitches play a role in outstanding construction. When a design is concerned, the construction of pants will lead to fit, casual or professional appearance. Consequently, deciding to wear tactical pants at home, on the range, or at the office to work or play outdoors must relate to how pants are constructed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pants special forces wear?

CQR Men’s Tactical Pants, Military Combat BDU/ACU meet Military Specification standards. Comfortable and strong fabric including polyester, cotton with duratex, Flat-Fell seams finishing with topstitches, Knee protection, and dual-layer seat pattern makes them reliable for outdoor activities in any weather. Multi-use cargo pockets are roomy and convenient for storage. Anyway, you can refer to the military’s best ones, the police from the above list for a good choice.

Are tactical pants good for hiking?

Yes, tactical pants basically specialized in durability, comfort, and resistance from contaminations. For dedicated pants for hiking, you can read more about Columbia men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pants in this article

What are good tactical pants?

In general, good tactical pants must serve your purpose best for comfort, lasting for a long time, pockets for storage, a good design, or price. You may refer to the best ones for overall or specific use in the above list.

Are tactical pants waterproof?

It depends, but the majority of tactical pants are waterproof thanks to Ripstop fabric combined with Teflon.

My Top Picks

Finishing the article with clear information on the top 15 best lightweight tactical pants, you may handle your own problem to find the best ones. In a comparison of all, I highly recommend 5.11 Tactical Men’s Apex Cargo Work Pants due to excellent benefits. How about your choice? Read carefully and make your own decision!