The idea of tactical yoga pants intrigued me from the get go. Since 5.11 introduced the concept at SHOT Show, I’ve been asked by several women to put them through their paces. The company sent me a pair simply wrapped in plastic with a tag stating the size (small) and color (“Tundra”). It’s not like a product called “Raven Range Tights” (RRT) needs a fancy package . . .
“Tundra” is marketing speak for dark green. The pants are tagless. OpSec rules! I can take a yoga class in my RRTs without announcing my tacticoolosity. The 5.11 tights aren’t as soft as most yoga pants, but God knows they are sturdy. The belt loops and waistband are stitched with parachute-like panache. Next step…putting them on.
The tactical yoga pants are really sung from the knee down and looser up top. It’s a positive point, which I’ll explain in a moment. First, cardio . . .
After 30 minutes of strenuous exercise I concluded that the RRTs “sweat wick” as advertised. Later, I did an hour of yoga in the 5.11 tights. I was mostly looking for their ability to facilitate a range of motion, especially as the RTTs are not soft and the reinforced knee made me worry a bit about their flexibility. Again, mission accomplished. I didn’t use a belt while doing yoga, but they didn’t slip down.
The next day I put on the RRTs, grabbed my EDC and AR and headed out to the range. I deployed my Rekkr Custom Kydex IWB style concealment holster.
Thanks to the RTT’s industrial grade waistband and belt loops I could tool-up as per normal. The tights remained comfortable and effective after repeated draws. The fact that they weren’t tight around my backside meant I could move while standing with my side arm in the waistband. As I said above, the extra room is a good thing not a bad thing.
On the downside, after a day of working out and shooting, the RRTs were not ideal for lounging around and relaxing with a hot cup of coffee. The seams are noticeable. As snug as they are — without being soft like yoga pants — the RRTs wouldn’t be my first choice for relaxation. That said, they were more comfortable that jeans or other work-type pants.
At $89.99, 5.11’s Raven Range Tights aren’t cheap. But they’re ready for TEOTWAWKI and they bring welcome style to range days, without sacrificing utility. If you buy one pair of tactical yoga pants, this is it.
5.11 Raven Range Tights
SPECIFICATIONS
FABRIC: Stretch Ponte di Roma fabric, antimicrobial, moisture-wicking
FEATURES: Elastic waistband, ankle-length inseam, abrasion panels, belt loops
COLORS: Black and Tundra (dark green)
SIZES: XS – XL
PRICE: $89.99 msrp
RATINGS
QUALITY * * * * *
The double reinforced knee and sturdy material make these ideal to wear all day. They won’t tear easily and the seams are stitched together well.
PRICE * * * *
At $89.99, these are some pricey pants. But they’re perfect for yoga and tactical ops, or tactical yoga ops. Result.
PERFORMANCE (YOGA) * * * *
The seams were a bit bothersome especially compared to “normal” yoga pants, but they got the job done. They stretched as needed and didn’t restrict movements when doing poses.
PERFORMANCE (SHOOTING) * * * * *
These are now my go-to pants for the range. They’re comfortable and sturdy and loose in just the right spots to make them work for my preferred IWB holster. Any pair of boots should go right over the pants because they are so tight around the bottom.
OVERALL * * * * *
What well-armed woman doesn’t want tactical yoga pants? 5.11 did a great job of creating something genuinely useful for women.