5.11 Apex or Stryke? Find the Right 5.11 Tactical Pants for Your Mission

When it comes to tactical pants, two names dominate the conversation: the 5.11® Stryke® Pant and the 5.11® Apex Pant. Both are designed for professionals who demand durability, mobility, and functionality, but they approach tactical performance in different ways. Whether you’re law enforcement, security, or an outdoor enthusiast, choosing the right pant can mean the difference between frustration and flawless performance.

Let’s break down how these two tactical pant heavyweights stack up.

5.11® Stryke® Pants – The Tactical Workhorse

The 5.11® Stryke® Pant is built for operators who need rugged reliability in any environment. Constructed from 6.76 oz. Flex-Tac® ripstop fabric, these pants are both lightweight and incredibly durable. The Teflon® finish repels dirt, stains, and moisture, while bartacking at major seams and stress points ensures they’ll handle the toughest missions.

The signature angled cargo pockets with oblique pleats and asymmetrical flaps are not only functional but give the pants a sleek, professional look. Combined with YKK® zippers and Prym® snaps, the Stryke Pant has earned its reputation as the go-to tactical pant.

Quick Specs – Stryke Pant

• Fabric: 6.76 oz. Flex-Tac® ripstop with mechanical stretch

• Finish: Teflon® stain, soil, and moisture resistance

• Fit: Self-adjusting tunnel waistband, gusseted crotch, articulated knees

• Pockets: 12 total, including deep angled cargo pockets & EDC-sized front pockets

• Reinforcements: Bartacking at stress points, reinforced knees (kneepad-ready)

• Hardware: YKK® zippers, Prym® snaps

5.11® Apex Pants – The Covert Operator

Where the Stryke is rugged and overtly tactical, the 5.11® Apex Pant takes a more discreet approach. Designed for covert, tactical, or casual wear, the Apex uses a slightly lighter 6.4 oz. Flex-Tac® canvas that blends durability with a streamlined, low-profile appearance.

The storage system is refined for operators who need concealed carry capabilities. You’ll find internal cargo pouch magazine pockets, twin back yoke mag pockets, and even a flex-cuff pocket inside the waistband—ideal for undercover or plainclothes operations. The handcuff key pocket hidden in the rear waist adds to its covert-ready design.

Comfort hasn’t been sacrificed: the comfort waistband, articulated knees, and gusseted construction allow for unrestricted movement, while the Teflon® coating keeps them clean and professional looking. With seven reinforced belt loops and a reinforced knife clip area, the Apex Pant blends tactical functionality with an everyday casual style that doesn’t scream “operator.”

Quick Specs – Apex Pant

• Fabric: 6.4 oz. 67% Poly / 33% Cotton Flex-Tac® Canvas with mechanical stretch

• Finish: Teflon® stain, soil, and moisture resistance

• Fit: Comfort waistband, gusseted construction, articulated knees

• Pockets: Internal cargo magazine pouches, twin mag pockets, handcuff key pocket, reinforced knife clip area

• Reinforcements: Bartacking at stress points, seven reinforced belt loops

• Hardware: YKK® zipper hardware

Head-to-Head Comparison

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose the Stryke Pant if you need maximum storage, rugged durability, and overt tactical performance.

• Choose the Apex or Ridge Pant if you need tactical functionality with a discreet, casual look.