The beginning of the year is a time of the most important events in the shooting-related industry, and in my opinion the most important of them is the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, USA. For several reasons. The American market is the largest for major firearms and accessories manufacturers, and, consequently, most of the tactical and outdoor equipment industry — understood in the American way, which also includes the hunting sector. Leading manufacturers of advanced optoelectronic technology are also present there; in Europe these are usually reserved for uniformed services, while across the Atlantic, with a sufficiently big wallet, many of these things can simply be purchased. That is why the SHOT Show held in January is considered the most important event for the industry and, due to its location, has grown to almost cult status. The IWA trade fair in Nuremberg, Germany (for the civilian market), and the preceding EnforceTac exhibition (for uniformed services), which take place shortly afterward, largely replicate what can be seen in Las Vegas a month earlier.
At an event of this rank, it was of course impossible to miss the California-based 5.11 company, from which much of the “tactical” world began. It became famous for its low-profile tactical clothing, their RUSH backpacks have become iconic for many, and for some time now their offer has also included a non-tactical line, which, combined with cyclical pop culture marketing campaigns — such as the recent collaboration with EA, and related to the release of Battlefield 6 — creates a unique brand identity.
The V.XI collection for professionals
Two years ago, during SHOT Show, a new professional product line with the “mysterious” name V.XI was presented, aimed at special units of various uniformed formations. These are high-end and technologically advanced products were intended to address a growing niche in the specialized uniform industry. After several years of returning to the company’s outdoor roots (we have written many times about the brand’s origins on our portal), 5.11 is once again making a decisive turn in the direction that brought them their greatest global recognition. After many conversations with people responsible for 5.11 products and projects, I am convinced that the near future will bring plenty of excitement, and not only for fans of the brand.
A significant part of the display was dominated by new designs from the professional V.XI line. A developmental project of a new modular tactical vest, the V.XI Plate Carrier, and combat uniform variants were presented. The vest was shown with three Cummerbund options: a lightweight, low-profile version with integrated elastic pouches; a reinforced Cummerbund with a MOLLE panel for carrying pouches and heavier equipment; and an expanded version enhanced with integrated pockets for soft and hard ballistic inserts. Regardless of version, quickly detachable ROC buckles are standard on both sides. The front and rear ends of the belt elements with velcro panels gained a shape that facilitates mounting and adjustment at various angles for better fit. Wearing ergonomics are enhanced by the shape and mounting of shoulder straps equipped with elastic inserts for cushioning and stabilization during movement. Elastic inserts were also used in the Cummerbunds. Internal Comfort Pads, installed optionally according to user preference on the torso side, are also meant to improve comfort. Their removable design allows the most sweat-prone part of the gear to be washed from time to time without dismantling equipment mounted on the vest which sounds reasonable. The Front Flap features a new overlapping MOLLE layout for 5.11, theoretically providing greater control over mounted pouch configuration.
Next to it, visitors could see the new iteration of uniforms from the V.XI line. From a simple combat shirt with a new stand-up collar for 5.11 (recently seen in the Sigurd model) called the Roman Shirt, to the upcoming new Element series — the premium Element Combat Shirt and Element Pant combat trousers. The new V.XI series is scheduled to be released in 2027. Naturally, the entire line features the most technologically advanced materials available on the market (stretchable, ultra-light, breathable, yet durable), anatomically fitted cuts, and hidden ventilation zones in many areas.
The X.VI line also gains new V.XI Tier GTX 6’’ Boot footwear. It is worth noting that here the company decided to adapt to market standards and abandon self-developed materials (e.g., the TacDry membrane, which imho performs very well) in favor of recognizable industry standards in the form of a GoreTex membrane and Vibram sole. The new boots will be available in three colors: black, Ranger Green, and Dark Coyote.
Several years ago, 5.11 Tactical acquired a company specializing in clothing for extreme weather conditions, with production (notably) maintained in the USA. The Beyond brand — because that is the one in question — has been visible at the 5.11 booth during SHOT Show and EnforceTac for two years now. This year, clothing designed for use in extremely low temperatures was also presented. It seems we can soon expect more new Beyond products in the 5.11 lineup.
Always Be Ready – new 5.11 products for active customers
The Founders Jacket has returned to the offer, now in a new charcoal gray color. What distinguishes this jacket is above all its construction from lightweight, genuinely wrinkle-resistant material, making it ideal for active people who spend a lot of time traveling. The jacket was designed in cooperation with American services and tailored to minimize so-called printing of a carried firearm or other equipment while maintaining wearing comfort. Numerous pockets have also been discreetly hidden inside.
The AMP12 and AMP24 backpacks are also returning in a limited, symbolic run of 511 units, which is great news because these are very successful EDC backpacks. AMP, or All Mission Pack, are designed as universal backpacks with a patented HEXGRID mounting system, allowing equipment to be mounted at various angles. HEXGRID is a characteristic 5.11 standard introduced several years ago as part of the broader Gear Set system. AMP series backpacks also offer individual internal organization using Gear Set products or simply by utilizing the rear internal wall with soft velcro functionality. In my opinion, one of the most successful designs on the market. I was surprised the AMP series wasn’t continued. Now it returns, although in a limited edition.
The Skyweight outdoor line received a new, expanded Chest Pack (essentially a tourist chest rig), where the new 5.11 logo could be spotted immediately. The new logotype styling is meant to be associated with the Adventure Outdoor series (analogous to V.XI for the professional series) on the American market. Opinions on this are divided, and it is unclear whether it will prove to be only a temporary experiment or whether such marked products will be available outside the USA. The new Chest Pack is larger than its two older brothers (Skyweight™ Survival Chest Pack and Skyweight Utility Chest Pack) and combines both ideas. It features a quick-access pocket for concealed carry and a second spacious one with the manufacturer’s characteristic organizer for everything I understand under the slogan Always Be Ready. At the bottom it gained an elastic sleeve for carrying, for example, a water bottle, and on the front there is now a flat zippered pocket.
Also presented were the already available but still new 5.11 Men’s Straight Fit Peak Cargo Pant. They are offered in two colors: sand (labeled Mushroom) and Tank Green/Ranger Green. These are a hiking version of combat pants designed to withstand use in difficult terrain. Key features include a fitted cut while maintaining freedom of movement for more muscular legs, reinforced knees and seat, and adjustable lower leg opening clearance. It is also worth noting the low-profile cargo pocket, which hides optional ventilation for hot days. The trousers are reportedly currently a bestseller.
For a long time, essentially as one of the first companies in the industry, 5.11 has offered solutions designed specifically for women. A new item (already on sale) is trekking leggings with side cargo pockets — Women's 5.11 Valkyrie Trekking Tights.
This year, the 5.11 booth consisted of several zones. Visitors were greeted by two mannequins dressed and equipped to resemble how a character in Battlefield 6 might look after unlocking a special code for a 5.11 gear skin (more on that soon). As an official EA partner, 5.11 also offers official Battlefield 6 themed fan T-shirts and hoodies, a real treat for tactical gamers.
A representative part of the booth was also occupied by a stage with a massive wall displaying RUSH24 backpacks — a strong brand icon. Beneath the stage, Jack Carr, a Navy SEAL sniper and author of realistic, experience-based bestsellers, including the 2022 Amazon Prime adaptation “The Terminal List,” signed his books daily. Visitors could also collect different unique occasional 5.11 SHOT Show 2026 patches each day.
5.11 is one of the oldest and most important companies in this industry worldwide. Its offer has come a long way, evolving from trousers designed by Royal and Liz Robbins in 1968, through iconic tactical equipment, a shift toward outdoor, and now a return with the professional V.XI series. The company is known for solid and functional solutions in the tactical clothing and gear market, but it also successfully expands its line dedicated to what can be described as the Adventure Outdoor segment. Naturally, the brand leveraged the potential of products designed for uniformed services and armed forces, which, due to their practical qualities, were also popular among broadly understood “adventure seekers.” Over the years, 5.11 has therefore become a tactical lifestyle brand. For many years I have visited SHOT Show and observed visitors of the 5.11 booth, as well as events in their Las Vegas store, and how popular 5.11 clothing is as company apparel among other exhibitors. It is clear that the company’s team perfectly understands the spirit of the brand and skillfully balances between professional users and enthusiasts who resonate with the 5.11 motto “Always Be Ready”.
5.11 has supported our work both behind the desk and in the field for years, so by visiting one of the 5.11 stores in Poland and perhaps making a purchase there, you also support our work. We encourage you to check out the growing list of dealer stores in Poland!
This article was created as part of a commercial collaboration; however, the authors of this portal always present their independent opinion, and no advertiser (even the best one) can ever influence it.
