First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL
The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL is an icon in the world of tactical apparel. Designed by 5.11 Tactical, this short-sleeved shirt is renowned for its durability, comfort, and functionality, making it a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. I remember seeing these shirts years ago, and they always exuded a sense of preparedness and professionalism, so I’m excited to finally get my hands on one.
I needed a reliable, comfortable shirt that could withstand the rigors of outdoor activities and provide some level of professional appearance when needed. My standard hiking shirts often fall short on durability, and dress shirts lack the mobility and moisture-wicking properties required for active use. Could the 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt bridge this gap?
Upon unboxing, the shirt felt surprisingly lightweight, despite the promise of rugged durability. The fabric, a Taclite poly/cotton ripstop blend, felt robust to the touch, and the stitching appeared clean and reinforced. It was noticeably different from my usual cotton shirts, giving me confidence it would stand up to wear and tear.
Compared to a standard cotton work shirt and a high-end merino wool hiking shirt, the 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt seemed to occupy a middle ground. The cotton shirt felt flimsy and lacked features, while the merino wool, while comfortable, felt too delicate for demanding tasks. The 5.11 Tactical shirt appeared to offer the best of both worlds: durability and functionality.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential of a shirt that could handle both tactical and everyday use but would the comfort and durability live up to the hype? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt was a day at the shooting range, followed by an afternoon of light hiking. The range provided an opportunity to test the shirt’s mobility and breathability while engaging in dynamic shooting drills. The hike, a moderate trail through a forested area, allowed me to assess its comfort and moisture-wicking capabilities.
The shirt performed admirably in both environments. Even under the hot sun and the exertion of rapid-fire drills, the cape-back vent and moisture-wicking fabric kept me relatively cool and dry. I appreciated the freedom of movement afforded by the gusseted underarms, allowing me to draw and fire my sidearm without restriction.
There were no immediate issues after the first use. The shirt felt comfortable against my skin, and the Teflon treatment shrugged off a few splashes of muddy water with ease. I was impressed by the shirt’s ability to perform in both high-intensity and more relaxed settings.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of wearing the 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt for various activities, including hiking, camping, and even some light yard work, I can confidently say that it holds up remarkably well. The fabric shows no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to abrasion from backpack straps and rough terrain.
The durability has been truly impressive. Even after multiple washes, the color hasn’t faded, and the melamine buttons remain securely attached. The bartacking at all stress points is clearly effective, preventing any rips or tears from developing.
Maintenance is a breeze. The shirt is machine washable and dries quickly, making it ideal for travel and outdoor adventures. A simple wash and dry cycle is all it takes to keep it looking fresh and ready for action. Compared to other tactical shirts I’ve owned, the 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt is a clear winner in terms of durability and ease of care.
Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL
Specifications
The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL boasts a range of features designed for performance and durability. It’s constructed from 4 oz. Taclite poly/cotton ripstop fabric, offering a balance of lightweight comfort and rugged strength. The shirt features gusseted underarms for enhanced mobility, a cape-back vent for ventilation, and is treated with Teflon for stain, soil, and liquid resistance.
The inclusion of twin chest pockets with pen slots provides convenient storage for essential items. The use of melamine buttons ensures they won’t burn, crack, or melt under extreme conditions. Bartacking at all stress points reinforces the shirt’s overall durability, while a locker loop on the inner collar allows for easy hanging and storage.
These specifications are crucial for the shirt’s performance. The lightweight fabric and ventilation features ensure comfort in warm climates. The Teflon treatment adds a layer of protection against spills and stains. The reinforced construction and durable materials contribute to the shirt’s longevity and ability to withstand demanding use.
Performance & Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt excels at its intended purpose: providing a comfortable, durable, and functional garment for tactical and outdoor use. The shirt’s breathability and mobility are outstanding, allowing for unrestricted movement and ventilation in various conditions. The pocket layout is well-designed, offering ample storage for essential items.
While the shirt is not waterproof, the Teflon treatment provides a decent level of water resistance, preventing light rain from soaking through immediately. The only minor area for improvement might be the depth of the chest pockets, which could be slightly deeper to accommodate larger items more securely. Overall, the shirt meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The shirt’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The fit is athletic and comfortable, allowing for a full range of motion without being too baggy. The Taclite ripstop fabric feels comfortable against the skin, even during extended wear.
The design is user-friendly, with intuitive pocket placement and easy-to-operate buttons. There is no significant learning curve associated with wearing or using the shirt. The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt combines form and function in a way that enhances its overall appeal and usability.
Durability & Maintenance
The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt is built to last. The durable materials and reinforced construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in demanding environments. With proper care, this shirt should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. The shirt is machine washable and dryer-safe, making it easy to clean and maintain. Simple repairs, such as replacing a button, are easily accomplished with basic sewing skills. The shirt’s robust construction and ease of maintenance contribute to its long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt doesn’t come with any included accessories, but it’s designed to be compatible with a wide range of tactical and outdoor gear. The chest pockets can accommodate radios, cell phones, and other small devices. The pen slots provide a convenient place to store pens, pencils, or small tools.
While the shirt itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its versatile design allows it to be easily paired with various accessories. Tactical vests, chest rigs, and belts can be worn comfortably over the shirt without restricting movement or access to the pockets.
Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The Taclite ripstop fabric and reinforced construction ensure the shirt can withstand demanding use.
- Comfortable and Breathable: The lightweight fabric, gusseted underarms, and cape-back vent provide excellent comfort and ventilation.
- Functional Design: The well-designed pocket layout and Teflon treatment add to the shirt’s practicality.
- Easy to Maintain: The shirt is machine washable and dries quickly, making it ideal for travel and outdoor use.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for law enforcement, military, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing a durable, functional shirt.
Cons
- Chest Pockets Could Be Deeper: Some users may find the chest pockets slightly shallow for larger items.
- Not Waterproof: While water-resistant, the shirt is not fully waterproof.
Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL?
The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a durable, comfortable, and functional shirt for demanding activities. It’s an excellent choice for those who value quality, reliability, and a professional appearance.
Individuals primarily seeking a purely casual or fashion-oriented shirt might find the tactical design too utilitarian. Those requiring fully waterproof protection should also consider alternative options.
A good quality tactical belt to carry essential gear would make a great addition to this shirt.
Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL
The 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt 5-71175ABR019XL is a well-designed, durable, and functional garment that lives up to its reputation. It provides excellent comfort, breathability, and freedom of movement, making it ideal for a wide range of activities.
At $58.00, the price is justified by the shirt’s quality, durability, and performance. It’s an investment in a garment that will provide years of reliable service.
I wholeheartedly recommend the 5.11 Tactical Taclite Pro S/s Shirt to anyone seeking a high-quality tactical shirt. If you need a shirt that can handle the demands of your active lifestyle, look no further. Add one to your cart today and experience the 5.11 Tactical difference!