“Technical apparel is at the core of who we are as a brand and it’s an aspect of our business that we continually strive to improve upon as new technology, textiles and innovations become available,” said 5.11’s Vice President, Global Product, Matt Page. “In addition to many exciting new products, there are a number of updates to past customer favorites that are a direct result of end-user feedback and our product team’s commitment to providing customers with the best apparel possible.”

For men’s apparel, the Defender Flex Pant 2.0 ($85) is a redesign of the original, and widely popular, model. It offers new, reinforced belt loops for extra support at the waist to go with its seven pockets and durable cotton-poly construction to create a clean, yet durable look that’s great for the office or a trek through the woods.

Customers seeking more of a smart casual look can turn to the Bravo Pant 2.0 ($90) to provide a clean and stylish appearance with a slim fit and maximum comfort. Thanks to Enduro-Flex properties and a soft jacquard elastic lining in the waistband, these pants ensure a proper fit without being restrictive. Its reinforced belt loops, seven pockets, and knee articulation make it a perfect pant option for the office, out to dinner, or wherever looks matter as much as functionality.

For outerwear, the new Women’s Thermees Insulator Jacket ($160) offers sustained warmth and protection from the elements with polyester taffeta construction, a DWR finish, PrimaLoft® Silver insulation and a front zipper equipped with an internal storm flap to retain body heat. The vertical quilt design and ribbed sleeves create a unique look customers are sure to love.

The Men’s Stratos Full Zip ($78) and Women’s Stratos Full-Zip ($72) are technical, comfortable and stylish full zip fleece pieces that work great as mid-layers on chilly days or outer layers on mild days. Constructed from a durable polyester and elastane blended grid fleece with moisture-wicking, anti-odor and stretch properties, they’re great for any activity. The brushed tricot-lined collar and raglan sleeves also provide an added touch of comfort.

The Britta Denim Jean ($80) features a classic five-pocket design, with the addition of two low-profile hip pockets to create 5.11’s signature seven-pocket functionality without altering the classic denim look. Its slim fit silhouette features soft, washed denim that’s woven with elastane for just the right amount of stretch. It’s performance and style make it a great option for any occasion.

New Packs

The LV6 Waist Pack 2.0 ($42) received an updated quick-release S/R buckle waist strap and new Duraflex® buckles that are easier to operate, especially when wearing gloves. A great grab-and-go solution that can be worn around the waist or across the body, it features interior pockets and panels, a hidden slip compartment, side compression straps and a rear mesh pocket. Additionally, this waist pack can be attached to the 5.11 LV18 Backpack 2.0 when more carrying power is needed.

Similar updates were made to the Duraflex® buckles of the LV10 Sling Pack 2.0 ($115) to allow easier access to gear. Additional redesign features include a new removable holster retention strap, a securing strap in the tablet sleeve, and a quick-release CAM buckle to the main crossbody strap.

To round out the LV Collection of packs, the LV18 Backpack 2.0 ($135) also received updates with internal organization and new Duraflex® buckles. Inside the ambidextrous side entry CCW compartment, the loop area has been increased and a removable holster retention strap has been added. The height of the padded laptop sleeve has been extended and a security strap added to keep electronics secure. A second set of webbing loops offer improved attachment for the LV6 Waist Pack 2.0 when extra cargo space is needed. Additional features include side compression straps, a padded back panel with a Flex cuff channel, and quick-release shoulder straps with a removable sternum strap.

For more information about 5.11, its product offering, and to find a 5.11 store near you visit www.511tactical.com.

In the Load Bearing Category, new items will be offered in spring to provide customers with solutions for everyday use, days spent outdoors, time on the range and more. The Range Ready Trainer Bag ($145) features fully padded construction with 600-denier polyester, a PE board base, external MOLLE webbing and removable internal dividers. A left side pull-down pouch and dual rear zippered pouches provide added storage and organizing options for range days. Shooting enthusiasts will find great firearm transportation options in the new 36” Single Rifle Case ($82) and 42” Single Rifle Case ($92). Each are padded and built with 600-denier polyester construction with external MOLLE webbing and are Gear Set™ compatible for additional storage. Internal retention straps and padded muzzle/butt-stock sleeves ensure secure storage and transport.

For on duty or everyday use, customers can turn to the Daily Deploy 24 Pack ($125). It’s a versatile pack offering a 28-liter capacity and durable, lightweight 500D-nylon construction. A side-brief opening provides full access to a loop-lined main compartment with laptop sleeve and a secondary compartment with zippered mesh panel. RUSH Tier ready with front and side MOLLE webbing and tuckable shoulder straps, this pack can be customized to any user’s needs.

Adventure and weather-ready, the haul-all Load Ready Utility Mike (21L) ($56) and Load Ready Utility Lima (42L) ($72) bags feature heavy duty 1050D-nylon with a TPU waterproof internal lining and double layer base.  Versatile and stackable, both bags feature a removable zip off lid with zippered pocket allowing for protection when needed.  Gear loops and multiple grab handles make it easy to grab or tie down.

Men’s Apparel will introduce several new items in both tops and bottoms. The Marksman Utility S/S Shirt ($64) offers moisture wicking performance and UPF50+ protection along with a stylish two-piece collar and a center front placket. Side-seam vents and heat-transfer capabilities in the upper back make it a great option for all-day use. The Marksman Utility S/S Plaid ($64) adds an element of additional style with colorful plaid designs.

Bold style and functional performance can be found in the Gyver Camo S/S Shirt ($62) and Vay Camo S/S Shirt ($62). Camp-style shirts with a press open collar design and Vent-Tac properties, these shirts are designed to allow users to relax in style while a center front RAPIDraw™ placket with faux buttons keep them prepared for anything. Each shirt also offers its own unique and colorful floral pattern. A versatile and functional layering option is offered with the Fast-Tac Vest ($85). Offering an impressive 14 pockets, a vented center-back seam, adjustable side tabs and a water-resistant finish, it can be easily customized and loaded with gear to provide comfort and convenience.

A new Ridge Short ($76) made with a highly popular Flex-Tac canvas and Enduro-Flex properties delivers rare comfort along with the functionality 5.11 pants and shorts are renowned for. It offers 8 pockets including a hidden cuff-key pocket, strategically reinforced front pockets for knife clips, low-profile cargo pockets with additional hidden pockets inside, and more. The popular Defender-Flex line of pants has expanded further into shorts with a Defender-Flex Evolve Short ($70) constructed with a cotton/polyester blend and Lycra T400 Tough Max mechanical-stretch denim that allows wearers to move freely and comfortably. It offers a traditional denim style with a much-improved performance and seven total pockets.

Customers looking for style, comfort, performance and functionality in pants can look to the Defender-Flex Evolve Jean Straight ($85). An update to a favorite of 5.11 customers across the globe, the Defender-Flex Jean, it features a new cotton/polyester blend and Lycra T400 Tough Max mechanical-stretch denim. The result is enhanced performance all the way around. The Meridian Pant ($80) is a new option for those seeking a woven-style pant with a cargo-pocket design. It offers six total pockets, including cargo pockets with hook/loop closures and side-body zipper vents for added performance on warm days.

There will be a number of new additions in Women’s Apparel ranging from casual wear to athletic wear. The Donna Hoodie ($58) is a hooded pullover with a stylish cross-over opening that also offers moisture-wicking performance, a drop-tail hem and raglan sleeves for added comfort. Customers seeking a jacket with a unique style without sacrificing comfort can look toward the Blayr Bomber Jacket ($75). It features a unique bomber-style design and is constructed with a polyester/elastane blend with Enduro-Flex properties for comfort and a full range of motion. Also offering a unique style is the Helena Dress ($78). It’s a shirt-style dress with a button-front placket, chest pockets with flap and button closures, on-seam hand pockets, and adjustable sleeves for a customized look and fit. A lightweight shirt with UPF protection can be found in the Women’s Marksman L/S Shirt ($68). It provides a UPF50+ rating, mesh underarm gussets and sleeve tabs to secured rolled up sleeves on warm days while a RAPIDraw™ placket creates added functionality.

Women can find a durable, do-it-all bottom in the Spire Pant ($90). It’s built with Enduro-Flex properties, a comfort waistband, eight total pockets and a DWR finish to keep wearers prepared for anything. The Ashima Tight ($75) is an ankle-length tight constructed with a nylon/elastane blend along with moisture-wicking and anti-odor technology. It’s abrasion resistant panels, flat-locked seams, sipper waistband pocket and side pockets with envelope-flap closures make it a comfortable and functional choice for all-day wear. A more traditional tight style is offered by the Amelia Tight ($70). It features flat-lined drop pockets in addition to a hidden picket inside the waistband. The ankle-length fit with flat-locked seams, moisture-wicking and anti-odor performance provide long-lasting comfort.

5.11 is also introducing variety of shorts to offer female customers something for any activity. The Shauna Short ($54) is built with Flex-Tac canvas for durability and stretch performance. With a five-inch inseam and six pockets, including front patch pockets, it’s a great choice for day-to-day wear and outdoor adventures. A comfortable cotton/elastane-twill blend is used in the Nell Short ($52) to offer a clean and classic look while offering four back pocket and two hand pockets. The Attina Short ($62) offers a more athletic build and fit with polyester/elastane-twill blend, Enduro-Flex properties, a soft jersey waistband and a stretch drawcord.

Customers who favor a skort design will be happy to see the Sasha Skort ($54). It’s moisture-wicking and anti-odor technology with perforated side panels and Enduro-Flex properties keep wearers comfort during long stretches of activity. The soft jersey stretch waistband and attached jersey liner with thigh pockets offer added comfort and functionality as well. Lastly, the Petra Denim Short ($55) utilizes washed stretch denim, seven pockets and rolled-up hems with raw-edge detail to create a tradition style with updated performance and comfort.

Two new watches are being added to the Everyday Carry and Accessories line to ensure customers are equipped and on time for any activity. Both watches feature a sturdy 44mm stainless steel case with IP finish, 22mm webbing band and mineral crystal glass for added durability and scratch resistance. The Division Digital Watch ($100) displays day and date in addition to both military and standard time, with dual time zones available. This digital piece also offers two timers, four alarms, a removable band, EL backlight and 100-meter water resistance. The Outpost Chrono Watch ($120) with a pull type crown offers a stopwatch, standard and military time, a removable band, luminous hands and 100-meter water resistance.  

The Men’s Physical Training-Ready (PT-R) line is growing to offer additional technical apparel to training enthusiasts. The PT-R Catalyst Pro ($52) offers a lightweight layering piece with moisture-wicking and anti-odor technology in a ¼-zip design. A pull-over hooded sweatshirt with moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties can be found in the PT-R Forged Hoody ($65).

The PT-R Havoc Short ($52) is built for movement with Enduro-Flex properties, an elasticized waistband and running gusset. A knit-jersey liner with moisture-wicking and anti-odor technology is added to the PT-R Havoc Pro Short ($56) for added coverage. The PT-R Forged Knit Short ($52) features an eight-inch inseam, polyester-elastane jersey construction, a self-encased elastic waistband and side vents for comfort and performance. High-performance compression tights are offered with the PT-R Shield Tight 2.0 ($55). With flat-locked seams, a running gusset, soft-jacquard elastic waistband, moisture-wicking and anti-odor, it’s a great layering piece for any training session. Customers who prefer to train in pants will find the PT-R Condition Knit Jogger ($65) to be a good choice. The self-encased elastic waistband and encased elastic hems provide secure comfort during any workout.

The Women’s PT-R offering is also expanding with many great products. The PT-R Valentina Sports Bra ($36) offers a compression fit and medium support with fully lined power mesh, stretch binding and removable liner pads. The flat-locked seams and soft-jacquard elastic bottom band provide added comfort while moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties make it great for workout after workout. The Women’s PT-R Catalyst ½ Zip ($52) is a lightweight layering piece with moisture-wicking and anti-odor technology in a 1/2-zip design. A skinny-fit short option constructed with a polyester/elastane-jersey blend and an anti-odor finish is found in the PT-R Eliza Short ($56). It’s contoured waist, flat-locked seams, side drop pockets and triangle gusset make it a comfortable and convenient options for training sessions. Women workout warriors seeking a capri pant will be pleased with the PT-R Kaia Capri ($65). A variation of the popular Kaia Tight, this piece features a skinny fit with a nylon/elastance jersey construction, moisture-wicking and an anti-odor finish. The Women’s PT-R Layla Tight ($70) will hold up during the toughest workouts with a contoured waist, wicking and anti-odor properties and flat lock seams for comfort. Two built-in hip pockets and a hidden waistband pocket add to the functionality of these performance tights.

Many new colorways are being added to some of the brand’s most popular Footwear lines. The Norris Low Sneaker ($115) is adding grey/blue, triple black and black/white options. Khaki, volcanic and rustic brown designs will be offered in for the Norris Sneaker ($125). The Company 3.0 Boot ($135) is introducing a brandy color while the Company 3.0 CST Boot ($145) welcomes a classic brown option. A sleek black coffee color will provide added style to the heat-deflecting leather of the A/T 8 HD Boot ($195). Lastly, the versatile A/T Trainer ($140) will expand with new colorways including crimson, black/white, gunsmoke, dune, storm and brown duck.

Hiding Hilda LLC

Rhonda Concealed Carry Mini Backpack

Hiding Hilda is excited to introduce Rhonda—our new Concealed Carry Mini Backpack! Rhonda is made in America and perfect when you’re on the go! Plenty of room for full-sized wallets. Lots of outside pockets make finding your essentials easy. Lightweight and machine washable, with the ability to lock concealment pocket (locks not included). Includes removable leather holster. Fits most firearms.

MSRP $109.00

hidinghilda.com

Jessie & James Handbags

Hannah Concealed Carry Lock and Key Crossbody

The Hannah Crossbody is made with faux leather and features an adjustable shoulder strap. A separate concealed compartment is on the back to store your weapon and includes a lock and key feature for extra safety. This purse also includes an exterior zipper pocket, central divider and a matching removable holster. 

MSRP $ 49.99

jessiejameshandbags.com

Jessie & James Handbags

Brooklyn Concealed Carry Lock and Key Crossbody

The Brooklyn Crossbody is made with faux leather and features an adjustable shoulder strap and RFID protection. A separate concealed compartment is on the side with a zipper to store your weapon that includes a lock and key feature for extra safety. This purse also includes a matching removable holster and 5 exterior pockets for extra storage.

MSRP $ 59.99

jessiejameshandbags.com

Sentry Products Group

Sentinel Range Bag – Pistol

Perfect for a trip to the range. The pistol range bag features a dual zipper panel for easy access to 1,020 cubic inches of storage space, two external pockets for storage of cleaning supplies and accessories, YKK Coil zippers with accent pull tabs for ease of use with gloved hands. The outer shell includes our patented 1080-2 technology mounting panel on the front pocket to securely mount pouches, tools, or accessories.

MSRP $89.99

SentryTactical.com

CLOTHING

Tactica Defense Fashion

Concealed Carry Leggings

The Athletic Concealed Carry Leggings from Tactica Defense Fashion aren’t just leggings with pockets; they’re leggings with built-in concealed carry pockets front and back. Available in 5 different color options, they also feature a side pocket great for cellphones and other incidentals. The leggings are made with a spandex/nylon blend to be fashionable and comfortable in any setting from the gym to a casual night out.

MSRP $69.99

tacticafashion.com

HOLSTERS & BELTS

Alien Gear Holsters

Low Pro Belly Band

The new Low-Pro Belly Band is the latest innovation in concealed carry from Alien Gear. A vented neoprene padded backing secured with a durable hook and loop closure combines with their proven thermoplastic holster shell and spring-steel core base for a natural draw angle. The Low-Pro Belly Band Holster is very slim and comfortable.

MSRP $67.88

aliengearholsters.com

Alien Gear Holsters

ShapeShift Core Carry Pack

The ShapeShift Core Carry Pack is what you need when you need it. The ShapeShift system features an injection molded holster shell that converts across different carrying platforms without requiring tools. The Core Carry Pack features IWB, appendix, paddle, belt slide configurations as well as mounting bracket. Additional options such as MOLLE and drop leg options are also available, making this an extremely modular holster system.

MSRP $99.88

aliengearholsters.com

Bigfoot Gunbelts

Standard Gun Belt

Bigfoot may be hard to find, but a good leather belt isn’t when it’s a Bigfoot Gun Belt. All of their leather belts are made with two strips of top-quality English bridle leather stitched together with heavy-duty polyester thread, a steel roller buckle and a triple-edge finish. These are belts are 100% manufactured in the U.S.A. and are designed to last a lifetime.

MSRP $68.88

gunbelts.com

Bigfoot Gunbelts

Tactical Rigger’s Belt

Bigfoot Gun Belts took the tactical community’s favorite belt, the rigger’s belt, and their own spring-steel core technology which makes their leather belts so amazing and combined the two. The Bigfoot Tactical Rigger’s Belt features a dual spring-steel core stitched between durable nylon webbing, as well as a triangular forged steel D-ring, and fastened with a genuine AustriAlpin COBRA buckle for maximum security and durability.

MSRP $89.88

gunbelts.com

Galco Holsters

Corvus Belt/IWB Holster

With an open top for fast draw, adjustment for ride height and cant, virtually maintenance-free Kydex construction and comfortable forward molding, Galco’s versatile Corvus is a superior defensive holster choice. Packaged set up for belt carry, the Corvus is swiftly and easily convertible to a highly-concealable IWB holster. The modern layout is designed to accommodate most carry-style optical sights, while the deep sight rail accommodates most suppressor-height sights.

MSRP $86.00

galcoholsters.com

Galco Holsters

KingTuk Cloud IWB Holster

The KingTuk Cloud IWB combines extremely comfortable carry with superior concealment. Its outstanding comfort comes from the innovative backing plate, with a ballistic nylon over closed cell foam, and lined with breathable, moisture-wicking Comfort Cloth. The rigid Kydex holster pocket provides fast draw and easy holstering while facilitating a full firing grip. The KingTuk Cloud uses Galco’s patent-pending, tuckable polymer UniClips for excellent concealment, stability and easy on-off capability. MSRP $89.00

galcoholsters.com

Hiding Hilda LLC

Pistol Wear

Pistol Wear—Hiding Hilda’s favorite, most comfortable holster! This unisex versatile holster was designed for casual, athletic or professional dress attire. It has a soft, cushioned holster designed for under arm, IWB or OWB carry. Great with yoga pants! Pistol Wear concealment holsters are comfortable and include an adjustable support strap that can be placed anywhere to achieve the most comfortable fit.

MSRP $50.00

hidinghilda.com

Sentry Products Group

Ultra Carry Inside the Pant/Tuckable Holster

Injection molded soft polymer blend concealed carry holster providing low profile with comfort and flexibility. The Level 1 retention Tuckable holster with the Drop Retention Safety Device and the STR System allow a retention screw operating on the weapon’s slide to adjust for a smooth draw and re-holstering. The Ultra Carry also features an angle adjustable clip attachment system.

MSRP $34.99

SentryTactical.com

StealthGearUSA

Ventcore IWB Mini Holster

The Ventcore IWB Mini is StealthGearUSA’s best-selling holster. Many concealed carry users across the globe have praised its rock solid retention, discreet profile and all-day comfort. The foundation of the design lies in Ventcore Technology. Using a proprietary blend of synthetic layers, ports are laser cut at specific intervals to provide maximum breathability and comfort—while remaining rugged enough to endure hard use. Come see what Ventcore can do for you.

MSRP: $99.00

stealthgearusa.com

StealthGearUSA

Ventcore Single Standard Mag Carrier

When it comes to preparedness, the Navy SEALs have a maxim, “two is one and one is none.” If you support this line of thinking, then a Ventcore Single Standard IWB Mag Carrier from StealthGearUSA may be for you. Crafted from the same Ventcore Technology that goes into their holsters, these mag carriers allow you to securely pack an extra magazine for your handgun in covert comfort that goes as long as you do.

MSRP: $49.00

stealthgearusa.com

Tactica Defense Fashion

Corset Holster

The Corset Holster from Tactica Defense Fashion features a slim and comfort-fit design made of an elastane blended material. The two front holster pockets are designed to make the Corset Holster ambidextrous and provide a place to hold a spare magazine. The Corset Holster is available in three different color options and provides a method of concealed carry with a wider variety of clothing options.

MSRP $89.99

tacticafashion.com

Walther

Walther EDC Belt

The Walther EDC belt is a collaboration with Tacbeltz, a classic double layer is the perfect EDC (everyday carry) belt. The two layers make it great for any firearm IWB or OWB. If you appendix carry, this belt will be your best friend—no more fighting with a buckle trying to get that perfect placement. Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed. The Boss Double is made of two 1.5” wide nylon layers. The buckle is made of 2″ nylon.

MSRP: $49.99

waltherarms.com

Warcat Tactical

Warcat Appendix (AIWB) Holster

The Warcat Appendix Carry Holster is designed and manufactured to be slim, compact and durable. Warcat holsters are injection-molded polymer holsters, stronger and more heat resistant than Kydex. In addition, Warcat holsters have an optional red dot optic shroud, as well as a holster claw, available.

MSRP $17.76

warcat.com

Warcat Tactical

Warcat OWB Holster

The Warcat OWB Holster is a compact, injection-molded polymer holster, stronger and more durable than Kydex. The Warcat OWB Holster is designed with their “slim paddle” to allow for greater concealability than other OWB holsters and the addition of an optional optic shroud to protect your weapon’s sights, makes it unique among other compact OWB holsters. Only available for purchase as an addition to the Warcat Appendix (AIWB) Holster.

MSRP $5.00

warcat.com

The Wilderness

Ankle IFAK/Cargo Cuff

The Wilderness Ankle IFAK/Cargo Cuff packs a micro trauma kit or EDC loadout into a concealable carrier that is at home on the ankle, in a car door cubby or backpack. Made of ruggedized elastic with optional retention straps, six cells will store anything from tourniquets and pressure bandages, to basic first-aid, emergency cash, I.D. or flash drives. Pair with their Renegade Ankle Holster for a complete peace-of-mind duo.

MSRP: $40.00 and up

thewilderness.com

The Wilderness

Renegade Ankle Holster

The low-profile Wilderness Renegade Ankle Holster is comfortable, secure, accessible and easy to put on or take off, even when seated in a vehicle. Available for many small and medium-sized autos and revolvers, it adds security and confidence to your daily life without taking it over. Built in Phoenix, Arizona with 40 years of experience and the best materials, the Renegade will provide years of service to keep you and your family safe.

MSRP: $69.95 and up

thewilderness.com

This article first appeared in Small Arms Review V25N7 (August-September 2021)