The Lowdown
If you’re tired of the “tacticool” look but need the functionality of a duty pant, the First Tactical A2 is a winner. They’re comfortable, move with you, and keep your gear organized without making you look like you’re heading into a war zone. Plus, at around $100, they won’t break the bank, leaving you more money for that next 3D printer nozzle or guitar part.
Overall
Pros
- Incredibly mobile and stretchy
- Plenty of pockets that don’t look like pockets
- Tough-as-nails construction
- They fit great, look great, and feel great
Cons
Whether you are heading to the range, tackling a weekend DIY project, hunting, working on the ranch, or just trying to look like the most prepared person at the grocery store, finding the right pair of pants is a mission in itself. Today, we’re looking at the Men’s First Tactical A2 Pant, a piece of gear that promises to bridge the gap between tactical utility and actually looking good in any setting.
The First Tactical A2 Pant is built from 6.4 ounces of A2 micro-canvas (67% polyester / 33% cotton). It’s lightweight but surprisingly rugged. These have become my go-to ranch-working pants, and I find them extremely comfortable and durable in the brush. They feature a two-way mechanical stretch and a 360-degree panel stretch waist. You can actually squat or climb into a truck without the fear of an audible rip.
They come treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. It’s not a raincoat for your legs, but coffee spills and light rain bead right off. I found it especially useful while working in tall grass still wet with morning dew.
The pants are built to last with triple-needle stitching at the critical seams and seven fused belt loops reinforced with bar tacks. These are meant to withstand the weight of a heavy-duty belt or EDC kit. I can easily and comfortably carry my sidearm all day without any sag or worry.
The A2 features an 8-pocket design that is surprisingly stealth. Discreet Cargo Pockets are roomy and even include internal organization and a small rain cover for the zipper. Oversized Utility Pockets are perfectly sized for today’s massive smartphones or a spare mag. The Clip Garage is a dedicated spot near the hand pockets for sliding your knife or flashlight clip. It keeps your gear accessible but tucked away so it doesn’t snag on everything you walk past.
If you’re tired of the “tacticool” look but need the functionality of a duty pant, the First Tactical A2 is a winner. They’re comfortable, move with you, and keep your gear organized without making you look like you’re heading into a war zone. Plus, at around $100, they won’t break the bank, leaving you more money for that next 3D printer nozzle or guitar part.
The Men’s First Tactical A2 Pant retails for $99.99; it is available directly from the manufacturer.
Source: Manufacturer-supplied review sample
What I Like: Incredibly mobile and stretchy; Plenty of pockets that don’t look like pockets; Tough-as-nails construction; They fit great, look great, and feel great
What Needs Improvement: The only thing I need is a complete color selection of these pants in my closet!