Hey there, Folks. Kyle here. Around the “Stead,” we’re always looking for gear that works as hard as we do. Whether we’re clearing fallen trees or just working on the house, durability and comfort are super important! We follow a simple rule: waste nothing, and that includes not wasting money on gear that doesn’t perform when the chores get tough.
Having said that however, sometimes you have to try things before you know if they are any good or not.
I’ve been putting two popular options to the test over the last couple of years (and NO, we are not affiliates for either of these and we’re not making any money off of this. This is simply my experience): the Free Soldier ARCHON IX8 Outdoor Waterproof Tactical Pants and the 5.11 Men’s Straight Fit ABR Pro Cargo Pant.
At first glance, these two seem almost alike. Both are made from a rugged 65% polyester and 35% cotton ripstop fabric designed to handle scratches and wear. They both have specialized treatments to repel the water and stains.
On this front they have both done well.
However, as we’ve learned while building this life, the details matter. I have a pair of each, and even though they are the exact same size on the tag, the 5.11s fit much better and are a lot more comfortable. The Free Soldier pair runs a little smaller, making them fit tighter than I’d like when I’m bending, stretching, or squatting.
The 5.11’s are designed with a “Regular fit” that provides a mid-rise and just the right amount of room to move without being baggy. They also offer a bit more utility with 8 functional pockets compared to the 6 pockets on the Free Soldier model. Missy will tell you, I LOVE POCKETS! In fact, I tend to carry too much sometimes but better to be prepared than need it and not have it. Walking back to the house or the truck for a tool takes extra time and energy.
I hate to harp on the Free Soldier pants but there is just not much I like about them.
The regular front pockets on the Free Soldier ride really high. So much so that it is difficult to reach ‘down’ into.
There are two small front pockets with a Velcro flap. I have a regular sized Galaxy S24 phone and, as you can see, it doesn’t fit.
The 5.11’s have a similar but open-top pocket and my phone fits just fine.
While the Free Soldier pants are a great value at $44.95, the $75.00 5.11s offer professional-grade extras like double-reinforced seats and knees. For us, intentional living means choosing the tool that lets us focus on the work God has provided, and for me, that means reaching for the 5.11s every time.
That’s my story and I’m sticking to it! 😊
Lord bless, Kyle.