As a tactical retailer, it’s up to you to make sure your warrior patrons are in optimum form and functioning at their highest level at the range and on the job by supplying them with the goodies they need to be the best they can be, no matter what challenges they might face. And that goes way beyond pitching those bread-and-butter big-ticket items, such as firearms and optics, to those everyday gear items that provide an often-needed edge when it matters most — by stocking high-quality tactical wear and boots that assure comfort and efficiency. To provide the highest degree of performance possible, special-purpose tactical/range wear and tactical boots are custom designed with serious shooters and duty officers in mind — tailor made for field efficiency. And having a solid selection of this gear in your store and on your website will assure that your customers are fully equipped to take on the world, while you reap the benefits from fully outfitting them. Be sure you don’t disappoint when they come knocking. Here is some top-shelf tactical gear that is sure to grab their attention.
5.11A/T Waterproof Mid-Boot (pictured above)
Built to take on any shift for any job, the 5.11 A/T Mid-Boot features a 3D molded rubber toe cap and TAC DRY +BBP technology to keep feet protected and dry. The slip- and oil-resistant outsole gives users safe and stable footing in the work environment, and the boot’s All Terrain Load Assistance System (A.T.L.A.S.) helps them mitigate the rigors of a heavy load-bearing job (and in no small way, either). The A/T Mid-Boot was developed to function with users’ “work weight,” so they can work longer with less stress even when they’re loaded down. Other features include an Ortholite footbed, Force Foam heel, Echo Foam forefoot and a removable 5.11 support plate. MSRP: $165.
BulletSafe Vital Protection Vest
Made in the USA and NIJ-certified Level IIIA, the BulletSafe Vital Protection 3 (VP3) vest is easily concealed beneath a work uniform and will protect against most calibers up to .44 Mag. — ideal for law enforcement and security personnel and anyone else working in a dangerous profession. The VP3 vest is lightweight, concealable and discreet, and it fits snugly via the provided height-and-weight chart with size specifications that are reliable and simple, with weights ranging from 3.9 pounds (XS) to 6.9 pounds (4XL). It is breathable and enables full range of motion and has wrap-around front and rear ballistic panels to maximize protection over the heart, lungs and other vital organs. MSRP: $299.97.
Garmont Tactical Athena Boot
Garmont Tactical has launched the Athena, its first tactical boot developed specifically for women. This breathable, lightweight, flexible boot features a dedicated women’s last with a narrow heel, shorter Achilles area and increased arch support for a higher instep. A high-density EVA provides shock absorption and differentiates support zones. Its 8-inch textile shaft is made with a durable and abrasion-resistant water-repellent suede leather upper for unparalleled durability and protection. The Athena is outfitted with the GTF Diamonte outsole with multi-directional lugs for stability and traction as well as a targeted climbing zone with a grippy toe and rear lugs. Zama alloy hooks provide a safe and reliable closure system. Available now in women’s sizes 4-11. MSRP $155.
High Speed Gear Operator Belt
The Operator Cobra IDR 1.75-inch rigger belt from High Speed Gear is a low-profile shooter’s belt designed to work with both MOLLE and belt-mounted gear. This two-belt system — two layers of military-grade Type 13 nylon webbing sewn together with five rows of lock-stitched, bonded 138 nylon thread — is overbuilt, like all HSGI gear, to outlast the competition. It features an additional layer of 1.5-inch webbing to form industry-standard columns of MOLLE for use with pouches and holsters and includes the choice of HSGI Inner Belt or Micro Grip Belt Panel to mate with the operator’s interior hook fastener. The two-belt setup enables easy donning and removal and is equipped with a Cobra-integrated D-ring buckle with matte black finish. MSRP: $203.
Lowa Zephyr MK2 GTX Hi Boot
This updated version of the Lowa Zephyr GTX Hi is stronger, more technical and more durable, and it provides higher performance than the original. The Zephyr MK2 GTX incorporates standout features that include a tear-resistant split leather/Cordura upper, locking ankle eyelet, lace holster, instep protection against rope abrasion while fast-roping and a new slip-, heat- and fuel-oil-resistant outsole. All of this is tailored into a durably waterproof/breathable, tall, shafted version for extra protection and support and EU PPE certified. The Zephyr MK2 GTX Hi is available in Desert, Black and Coyote OP in sizes 7.5 to 16. MSRP: $285.
Reebok Hyperium Tactical Boot
Inspired by retro trail runners, the Reebok Hyperium 8-inch running/tactical boot is designed to keep the user safe on any terrain, its slip-resistant rubber outsole ensuring secure footing. Users will experience plush FuelFoam cushioning in the midsole and an SR rubber bottom and MemoryTech memory foam in the footbed, providing step-in comfort and long-lasting support while balancing cushioning and response, all while winning style points with a 3D terrain visual effect. Other features include a soft toe, microfiber synthetic and mesh upper, moisture-wicking nylon mesh lining and side zipper. MSRP: $123.99.
Safariland Bianchi Nylon Duty Belt
The Bianchi Model 7220 Nylon Duty Belt from Safariland features skived ends to allow a lower profile around the buckle and is composed of a ballistic weave nylon exterior with full-length hook lining that accommodates the Bianchi 7206 liner belt. Its Coplok shatter-resistant polymer buckle provides extra security from inadvertent release. To open, depress the center button simultaneously with the buttons on the two sides. The Bianchi Nylon Duty Belt is 2 inches wide and comes in six sizes to fit 24- to 56-inch waists and complements AccuMold holsters and accessories. MSRP: $62-$64.
Sentry Gunnar Plate Carrier
Manufactured in the USA, the Sentry Gunnar Plate Carrier offers increased flexibility and mobility in a lightweight, low-profile design. Constructed of high-strength 500D/1000D nylon laminate for durability, the unique design integrates the plate carrier and ergo dynamic shoulder straps as a contiguous part for increased strength and comfort. Sentry’s 1082 MOLLE/PALS mounting platform on the body, shoulder straps and cummerbund increases configurability while decreasing overall weight. The standard V1 cummerbund offers internal MOLLE attachments for armor panels and external angled MOLLE mounting for magazines and accessories in a vertical and diagonal orientation. Adjustable shoulder straps and cummerbund included. MSRP: $419.99.
Spartan Armor Systems Ghost Concealment Shirt
Spartan Armor Systems’ Ghost Concealment Shirt extends the user’s EDC capabilities by providing four zones of Level IIIA ballistic protection. Its Flex Fused Core IIIA soft armor panels fit discreetly into front, back and side pockets sewn directly into the shirt, allowing it to be worn covertly under loose clothing with little to no “printing” and provide protection against handgun threats up to .44 Magnum SJHP and .357 SIG FMJ. For maximum ballistic coverage, 10- x 12-inch front and back panels and two 5- x 7-inch side panels are included. Made of a breathable lightweight fabric, the Ghost Concealment Shirt is designed for comfort and is machine washable. MSRP: $349.33.
Tac Wear Operator Pants
Tac Wear Operator Pants are made from 50/50 cotton/poly ripstop fabric to provide durable comfort, equipped with a reinforced seat for mobility and durability. They have a large, padded waist with oversized belt loops made from Cordura fabric and buttons with rear pockets that are angled for better access. There are ample pockets within the pants to safely stow items, and the knees have a 500-denier pad so a soft knee pad can be inserted externally. The leg cuffs are also reinforced with 500 denier and feature an internal “sand trap.” Tac Wear Operator Pants are available in standard sizes in OD Green, Black, Gray and Coyote. MSRP: $169.
Tasmanian Tiger Small Combi Rig
The Tasmanian Tiger Small Combi Rig, a light, flexible and modular belt harness, has a removable hook-and-loop magazine module that can be used on plate carriers. It features adjustable, flat padded straps and removable laser-cut MOLLE side wings suitable for magazines or pouches. The back is covered in hook and loop, making it compatible with use as a front flap for plate carriers. The TT Small Combi Rig also has a hook-and-loop divider for individual division for the magazine module and can be used with M4, G36 or AK magazines. It weighs in at 1.56 pounds and is made from Cordura 700 denier (Multicam 500 denier). MSRP: $139/Olive, Black and Coyote; $149/Multicam.
Zamberlan Brenva Lite Boot
The Brenva Lite leather-free boot is built for extremely lightweight, yet sustainable performance, boasting a bevy of technological advances for the benefit of the ultralight hiker. The Brenva Lite is recommended for use when packing low- to medium-weight loads and is extremely versatile, waterproof and breathable — suitable for a variety of terrains and under the most diverse climatic conditions. Leather-free microfiber uppers are both highly resistant and lightweight, contributing to Brenva Lite’s clean design, and its elastic synthetic tongue is reinforced on areas of greater wear, allowing the upper to better adapt to the foot while increasing breathability and durability. Gore-Tex Performance Comfort membranes provide the utmost waterproof protection, guaranteed for the lifetime of the boot. MSRP: $206.50.