Apparel

There is a misconception that tactical clothes and shoes are just normal ones with a military print. Uniforms, and especially footwear, have been a focal point of armies through the ages and there is a lot of science going into it. Unlike plain clothes that usually lean towards form over function, tactical apparel needs to serve the mission. It needs to protect the wearer from temperature, wind, dust, rain, and other elemental phenomena, while still being as light and comfortable as possible. Shoes are even more important, as any infection due to blisters from marching or small cuts can render a soldier immobile without a bullet ever being fired upon him. You want to stay mobile and in top condition as much as possible, for as long as possible. Generally, there are three main categories of tactical clothing: Hydrophobic for wet conditions Thermo-insular for cold climates Windproof for dusty and windy terrain Most modern options are some crossover between these three categories. Also, there is a ‘negative’ option of reducing the amount of clothes in hot weather. These tactical summer clothes still need to have all the utility and comfort of regular uniforms and shoes, but allow for more cooling. What are Tactical Clothes? Tactical cheap clothes refer to any apparel that places the demands of the mission over how the wearer might look in them. Coincidentally, that will often mean the color and the pattern of the uniform and shoes. The design will usually serve a dual purpose of breaking your outline when in cover, and making you recognizable to your own battle brothers and sisters. While modern tactical clothing has forgone the idea of officers standing out in the field due to snipers, you will still be able to detect someone’s role by the type of uniform and gear they are wearing. And the gear should be easily combined with body armor, weapons, tools, and any other equipment a soldier might need. This adaptability and versatility combined with protective purposes are what adds to the number of tactics a SO can use, making the gear tactical. Tactical, Ballistic, and Military Clothes While often used interchangeably by laymen, there are significant differences between these three types of clothes, as well as some overlap. While ballistic clothing by default adds to tactical advantage, it only refers to the fabric or ceramic that is bulletproof. Modern ballistic clothing will more often be meant for civilian and private security use, with the military and police using ballistic body armor as a term. Finally, military workout clothes need to be neither ballistic nor tactical. There are ceremonial uniforms in the US Army and Navy that are used only for aesthetic purposes. Any clothes used by the armed forces are military clothes. But, when discussing them, most people will assume that it is about tactical clothes and not ceremonial uniforms. How to Choose Tactical Clothes As with all tactical gear, you start from the mission and work your way from there. If you plan on working in cold and windy conditions, you will need thermal clothes and underwear that will form a base layer for the soldier and protect him or her from the elements. Consider the terrain and the type of footwear you’ll need to easily traverse it. This is also important if you will be carrying a load, as well as the weight of your body armor and weapons. Finally, even if you don’t need a balaclava for protection from the element, you might need it to protect your identity. Conclusion Tactical clothes and shoes might not be essential for everyday use, especially in a well-protected urban environment with a lot of cover. But, if there is any job you need to do in the field you will want to have a pair of boots that won’t hurt your feet and a uniform that will keep you warm and dry. Thankfully, there are a lot of good options for sale, and anyone who knows what their mission will require will find something to buy for a reasonable price.