Tactical shorts and outdoor shorts at Recon Company – shorts for the shooting range, the field and trekking

As soon as the temperatures rise, long operational trousers become a burden. That’s exactly why we stock tactical shorts and outdoor shorts that are ideal for summer operations, at the shooting range and on hikes. For over 30 years, we’ve been kitting out law enforcement agencies and testing shorts against the same criteria as our in-house development projects: does the fabric hold up, does the fit remain secure under strain, and are the pockets accessible whilst seated? Anything that fails this test doesn’t make it into our range.

Tactical shorts and combat shorts for range days and summer duty

Tactical shorts differ from ordinary summer wear in their pocket design. On the Emerson Gear G2 Short Pants, the cargo pockets and side pockets are positioned so that they can be accessed whilst seated, for example in a vehicle or at the shooting range. Anyone looking for short operational trousers with a classic camouflage cut will find the same pocket design in the Combat Shorts from Emerson Gear or the Arktis Ranger Shorts as in the long models, just without fabric on the legs. For dry range days in hot weather, the 5.11 Taclite Pro Short is a lightweight option featuring ripstop fabric. These military shorts are not fashion items, but practical gear for training, patrols during the warmer months and sports training. If you’re looking for tactical shorts for tough, continuous use, look out for reinforced seams and a waistband that doesn’t sag, even when worn with a belt and a light load.

Hiking shorts and trekking shorts for trips in hot weather

For trips outside of duty, we opt for hiking shorts and trekking shorts with a different design. Here, it’s not camouflage that counts, but weight, freedom of movement and abrasion resistance at the waistband. The Fjällräven Abisko Trail Stretch Shorts feature four-way mechanical stretch and a slim fit that moves with you as you climb. The Vidda Pro Lite is more robust, with its G-1000 fabric able to withstand even the undergrowth. The Vardag, with its loose fit, is ideal as a lightweight pair of outdoor shorts for warm days at camp or in a mountain hut. If you’re looking for functional shorts made from quick-drying fabric, you’ll be better off with these models than with cotton cargo shorts from high-street fashion retailers, which soak up water when wet and take ages to dry.

Fabric and cut: what matters when it comes to shorts

With shorts, it’s the fabric that matters more than the length of the legs. Ripstop withstands localised stress and dries quickly; stretchy blended fabrics give way when crouching or climbing; denser cotton blends offer greater durability at the cost of a little extra weight. Make sure you choose shorts with secure pockets featuring a zip or flap if you’re carrying keys, a magazine or a multi-tool whilst out and about. The waistband should sit high enough so that nothing is exposed when you bend over. As well as classic tactical shorts and outdoor shorts, we also stock specialist options: the Fjällräven S/F Thermo Shorts as padded cold-weather protection for cycling, Mil-Tec swim shorts for water activities, and merino wool models from Aclima as short base layers to wear under trousers. If you’re unsure which model suits your operational profile, the Recon Team is here to help.

Our benefits at a glance:

• Discounts for government departments, public authorities and their staff, automatically credited to your account.
• Field post delivery to emergency services personnel on overseas missions, worldwide and reliable.
• Expert advice from experienced equipment specialists, by telephone, online or in person at our shop in Salzgitter.
• ISO 9001 certification as proof of audited processes for purchasing and order fulfilment.