In this guide
The 5.11 Stryke pants are one of our best-selling items and one of the most returned. Not because there’s anything wrong with them but because 5.11 uses US sizing that doesn’t translate directly to UK sizes. Getting the right fit first time saves you a return trip.
This guide covers everything you need to know about sizing, fit and choosing between the different Stryke variants. For how the Stryke pants compare to other airsoft trouser options, see our best combat trousers guide.
5.11 Sizing, US vs UK
5.11 Tactical is an American brand and all their trousers use US sizing: waist in inches / inseam in inches. This is straightforward if you know your measurements but causes confusion if you’re used to UK trouser sizes.
Waist Size Conversion
| UK Size | 5.11 / US Waist | Actual Waist (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| 28 | 28 | 28″ |
| 30 | 30 | 30″ |
| 32 | 32 | 32″ |
| 34 | 34 | 34″ |
| 36 | 36 | 36″ |
| 38 | 38 | 38″ |
| 40 | 40 | 40″ |
| 42 | 42 | 42″ |
| 44 | 44 | 44″ |
Good news: 5.11 waist sizes are the same as UK waist sizes in inches. If you wear a 34″ waist in UK trousers, order a 34 in 5.11.
Inseam Length Conversion
| Description | 5.11 Inseam | UK Equivalent | Best For Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short | 28″ | Short | Under 5’6″ |
| Regular | 30″ | Regular | 5’6″ to 5’9″ |
| Unhemmed / Long | 32″ | Long | 5’9″ to 6’1″ |
| Tall | 34″ – 36″ | Extra Long | 6’1″+ |
Tip: The Stryke pants come unhemmed at 32″ inseam in most sizes. This is slightly longer than UK regular (30″), which means most people can have them hemmed to their exact length. If you’re between 5’7″ and 6′, the standard unhemmed length will be fine, just fold or blouse into boots.
How to Measure Yourself
For the most accurate fit, measure yourself rather than relying on your “usual size”:
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline (the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button). Keep the tape level and snug but not tight
- Inseam: Measure from the crotch seam of a well-fitting pair of trousers down to the desired length. Or stand barefoot and measure from your inner thigh to the floor
- Thigh: Measure around the fullest part of your thigh. This is important for the Stryke, the fit is athletic, not baggy
How the Stryke Pants Fit
The Stryke has what 5.11 calls a “straight fit” but it’s a slimmer straight than military surplus trousers. Think modern tactical rather than baggy BDU.
- Waist: True to size. The self-adjusting waistband adds about 1″ of flex
- Thighs: Room for athletic builds but not baggy. If you have very large thighs (rugby, cycling), consider sizing up in the waist and using a belt
- Knees: Articulated knee panels allow full range of motion. The knee pad pockets sit in the right place for most body types
- Calf/Ankle: Straight from knee to ankle, not tapered. Works well bloused into boots
Fit Tips
- Between sizes? Go up. The self-adjusting waistband handles a size up easily; a size too small doesn’t stretch
- For airsoft specifically: You’ll be wearing a belt and plate carrier over these. Don’t size for a tight fit, you want room to move and breathe under gear
- Knee pads: The Stryke’s knee pad pockets are designed for 5.11’s Knee Pad Inserts (sold separately). They add minimal bulk and stay in place during movement
The Stryke Range, Which Version?
5.11 makes several trouser lines using the Flex-Tac fabric. Here’s how they compare:
Stryke Pants (Classic)
The all-rounder. 12 pockets, knee pad pockets, Flex-Tac mechanical stretch ripstop, Teflon finish. This is the one most people should buy. Available in Khaki, Charcoal, Black, Dark Navy, Storm, Ranger Green, Battle Brown and Tundra.
Stryke TDU (Tactical Duty Uniform)
A more military-pattern cut with blousing ties at the ankles and a slightly looser fit through the thigh. Better for milsim players who want an authentic tactical look.
Flex-Tac TDU
Similar to the Stryke TDU but with a different pocket layout. Designed for uniformed duty use, fine for airsoft but the Stryke is more versatile.
Defender-Flex Jeans
Same Flex-Tac fabric in a jean pattern. Look like normal jeans, perform like tactical trousers. Great for CQB or if you want to wear them off the field too.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Cut | Knee Pads | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stryke Pants | ~£70 | Straight | Yes | All-round airsoft |
| Stryke TDU | ~£65 | Relaxed | Yes | Milsim, bloused boots |
| Flex-Tac TDU | ~£60 | Relaxed | No | Duty-style wear |
| Defender-Flex | ~£65 | Jean/Modern | No | CQB, dual-purpose |
Colours for Airsoft
The Stryke comes in solid colours rather than camouflage patterns. For airsoft:
- Ranger Green, excellent for UK woodland. Our most popular colour
- Khaki / Battle Brown, works in autumn woodland and sandy environments
- Storm / Charcoal, versatile dark grey, good for CQB and mixed use
- Black, best for CQB and urban sites
- Tundra, a brownish-green that blends well in UK terrain
Pair with a MTP or Multicam top and the solid-colour trousers blend effectively without being a full uniform.
Care Instructions
To get the most out of your Stryke pants:
- Machine wash cold (30°C max) with similar colours
- No bleach, damages the Teflon finish
- Tumble dry low or air dry, high heat degrades the Flex-Tac stretch
- Remove knee pads before washing
- No ironing, the fabric doesn’t crease anyway
- The Teflon stain-resistant finish lasts through dozens of washes but will gradually fade. Re-application sprays are available
Where to Buy
As Kent’s only authorised 5.11 Tactical retailer, we stock the full Stryke range year-round. You’re welcome to try them on in our Rochester showroom, we always recommend trying before buying for the best fit.
Visit us at: A10 Spectrum Business Centre, Medway City Estate, Rochester, Kent ME2 4NP
Browse the full range online:
For more 5.11 gear recommendations, see our RUSH backpack guide.
Related Guides
- Best Combat Trousers for Airsoft UK
- Tactical Gear Guide UK
- 5.11 RUSH Backpack Guide
- Best Plate Carriers for Airsoft
- How to Set Up Your Airsoft Loadout
- Complete Beginner’s Guide to Airsoft UK
Frequently asked questions
Do 5.11 Stryke Pants come up true to size?
They run close to the US waist size but with a slim, athletic cut. If you are between sizes, or wear thermals underneath, size up one waist. Measure your natural waist rather than guessing from your UK jeans size.
What is the difference between the Stryke and Taclite pants?
The Stryke is heavier and more hard-wearing with Flex-Tac stretch fabric and more pockets, ideal for airsoft. The Taclite is lighter and cooler for hot weather. Both share the same sizing.
Are 5.11 Stryke Pants good for airsoft?
Yes. The stretch fabric, reinforced seat and knee-pad pockets and generous cargo storage make them one of the most popular trousers for UK skirmishers. Darker colours work best on the field.
