Tactical clothes are too often neglected by smaller security operators or civilians because the strategic and tactical benefits are not plainly obvious. Unlike ballistic protection that is supposed to stop a bullet, damage from moisture and infection is much slower and more insidious.
But, those who decide to invest a bit in their tactical clothes will reap the benefits on their next mission. The overall increase in fighting capacity and endurance is immense and downtime for most soldiers is reduced significantly.
There are three types of tactical clothing:
- Light and absorbent for training
- Ventilated and reflective for hot weather
- Warm and hydrophobic for cold weather
All three categories further branch depending on where you want to use them, as well as the severity of the climate.
Finally, because of the wide range of choices, it is certain that everyone will be able to find specific models that will suit their mission or their exact training regimen.
Head to Toe
There is a piece of tactical gear for every part of the body. Even if you don’t need a helmet, most missions, especially when it comes to security, would benefit from having a camouflage headcover that will protect the identity of the soldier.
Adaptable CBO™ Camo Balaclava One from UARM has the added feature where you are able to take the cover on and off in a matter of seconds, becoming ready for action. The item itself is very light and lets you breathe uninterruptedly, but provides more than enough coverage so there is no chance to distinguish who is behind the mask.
On the other side, there are the shoes, which are the most important piece of ballistic clothing. Keeping your feet warm, dry, and free of microfractures is essential for the longevity of the soldier’s fighting capacity.
Obviously, not all missions need something like the TCB™ Tactical Crossover Boots that can withstand down to -13 degrees, but some sort of shock-absorbent soles are necessary if you will be jumping and running with your body armor and weapons equipped.
Make Tactical Clothes Work with Your Ballistic Gear
Mission-oriented tactical clothes are made to work with body armor and improve the capabilities of the soldier wearing it. In most cases they will be slim and fitting, leaving as much space to move as possible.
When choosing tactical clothes, it is important to take your body armor into consideration. Softer internal carriers will need to have tactical clothing over them, both for concealment and protection from the elements.
Otherwise, hard plate body armor is usually worn on the outside of the tactical clothes, especially when there is more gear attached to the plate carrier. In those cases, you will want to focus on heat lockets and slimmer clothes to allow for more maneuverability.
TIP: Be Afraid of Moisture
Moisture is your enemy, both internal and external. Try to keep your organs hydrated, but your skin dry. Moisture brings infection, and that is never a good thing.
