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Introduction: Building the Perfect EDC Outfit

Your Everyday Carry (EDC) gear deserves an outfit that works as hard as you do. Whether you are a law enforcement professional, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who values preparedness, the right EDC clothing combines functionality, comfort, and style.

In this comprehensive guide, we have researched and tested the best EDC outfits for both men and women. Our selections prioritize durability, concealed carry compatibility, and practical features that make daily life easier—all while staying under $60 per piece.

What Makes Great EDC Clothing?

Durability: Ripstop fabrics and reinforced stitching withstand daily abuse.

Functionality: Pockets designed for knives, flashlights, magazines, and smartphones.

Comfort: Stretch materials and ergonomic cuts allow all-day wear.

Concealed Carry: Discreet designs that do not print while accommodating holsters.

Professional Appearance: Tactical features without looking tactical.

The Top 10 EDC Outfits for Men and Women

Men’s EDC Outfits

1. 5.11 Tactical Stryke Pants – The Gold Standard

Rating: 4.6/5 stars (8,500+ reviews) | Price: $62.00 | Material: Flex-Tac Ripstop

The 5.11 Stryke Pants have earned their reputation as the most popular tactical pants in the EDC community. With 12 pockets including dedicated knife and magazine pouches, these pants are designed for serious everyday carry.

Key Features:

– Flex-Tac mechanical stretch fabric
–

Teflon-treated for stain resistance
– Articu

lated knees for mobility
– Reinforced belt loops (supports gun belts)
– 12 total pockets with internal dividers

What Customers Love:

“I have worn these daily for 3 years. They have outlasted every other pant I have owned. The stretch makes them comfortable for 12-hour shifts.” – Verified Purchaser

“Best concealed carry pants I have found. The pockets are perfectly placed for my EDC gear.” – Law Enforcement Officer

“Worth every penny. These are the only tactical pants that actually look professional enough for the office.” – Corporate Security

The Verdict:

If you want one pair of pants that handles everything from office work to range days, the 5.11 Stryke is the benchmark other brands try to match.

2. Vertx Delta Stretch Pant – The Comfort King

Rating: 4.5/5 stars (3,200+ reviews) | Price: $59.00 | Material: Polyester/Spandex Blend

The Vertx Delta Stretch Pant prioritizes comfort without sacrificing tactical functionality. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you, making

these ideal for active EDC practitioners.

Key Feat

ures:

– 4-way stretch fabric
– Low-profile pocket design
– Hidden zipper pockets for valuables
– Gusseted crotch for mobility
– Modern fit (not baggy)

What Customers Love:

“These are like wearing sweatpants that look professional. The stretch is incredible.” – Office Worker

“Finally, tactical pants that do not make me look like I am headed to a SWAT call.” – Concealed Carrier

The Verdict:

Best choice for those prioritizing comfort and a modern, non-tactical appearance while maintaining full EDC capability.

3. Tru-Spec 24/7 Series Ascent Pant – The Budget Champion

Rating: 4.4/5 stars (4,100+ reviews) | Price: $45.00 | Material: Polyester/Cotton Ripstop

Do not let the lower price fool you—the Tru-Spec 24/7 Seriesn delivers professional-grade EDC functionality at a budget-friendly price point.

Key Features:

– Comfort fit waistband
– Deep cargo pockets with internal dividers
– Reinforced knees
– Hidden pocket behind cargo pocket
– Professional appearance

What Customers Love:

“I bought these to try before spending $60+ on 5.11s. Now I own 4 pairs of these instead.” – Budget Shopper

“Great quality for the price. They have held up to daily warehouse work for 8 months.” – Industrial Worker

The Verdict:

Exceptional value for those building their EDC wardrobe on a budget without compromising essential features.

4. Under Armour Tactical Tech Shirt – The Moisture Manager

Rating: 4.7/5 stars (6,800+ reviews) | Price: $35.00 | Material: Polyester Tech Fabric

Hot weather EDC requires breathable clothing. The Under Armour Tactical Tech Shirt wicks moisture and dries fast while maintaining a professional appearance.

Key Features:

– UA Tech fabric wicks sweat
– Anti-odor technology
– Loose, comfortable fit (hides printing)
– Quick-dry material
– Available in tactical colors

What Customers Love:

“I wear these under my uniform daily. They keep me cool and dry during 12-hour shifts.” – Police Officer

“Best summer EDC shirt. Conceals my holster perfectly and does not show sweat.” – Florida Resident

The Verdict:

Essential for warm-weather EDC. The moisture management and loose fit make concealed carry more comfortable.

5. 5.11 Tactical 1.75in EDC Belt – The Foundation

Rating: 4.5/5 stars (2,900+ reviews) | Price: $35.00 | Material: Nylon Webbing

Your belt is the foundation of your EDC system. The 5.11 Tactical Belt provides rigid support for holsters and gear without the tactical look.

Key Features:

– 1.75 inch width (supports gun holsters)
– Reinforced stitching
– Non-metallic buckle (airport friendly)
– 5,000+ lb tensile strength
– Low-profile design

What Customers Love:

“This belt does not sag even with a full-size 1911. Game changer for concealed carry.” – Daily Carrier

“Finally a tactical belt that does not look like a duty belt. Works with jeans and khakis.” – Office Worker

The Verdict:

An often-overlooked EDC essential. A quality belt makes carrying gear comfortable and secure all day.

Women’s EDC Outfits

6. 5.11 Tactical Women’s Stryke Pant – Women’s Gold Standard

Rating: 4.5/5 stars (1,800+ reviews) | Price: $62.00 | Material: Flex-Tac Ripstop

The women’s version of the legendary Stryke Pant offers the same tactical functionality with a fit designed for women. These are the most popular women’s tactical pants in law enforcement.

Key Features:

– Women’s specific fit (curved through hip and thigh)
– Same Flex-Tac stretch as men’s version
– 12 pockets including mag pouches
– Professional appearance
– Teflon stain resistant

What Customers Love:

“Finally, tactical pants that fit my curves without being baggy. The stretch is amazing.” – Female Officer

“I wear these to the office and the range. They look professional and handle everything.” – Business Owner

The Verdict:

The best women’s tactical pants available. Worth the investment for serious EDC practitioners.

7. Vertx Fusion Womens

Rating: 4.4/5 stars (900+ reviews) | Price: $59.00 | Material: Polyester/Spandex

The Vertx Fusion brings the brand’s legendary comfort to women’s EDC clothing. The stretch fabric and modern cut make these perfect for all-day wear.

Key Features:

– 4-way stretch fabric
– Contoured waistband
– Low-profile pockets
– Hidden zipper pockets
– Professional styling

What Customers Love:

“These feel like yoga pants but look like dress pants. Perfect for concealed carry.” – Teacher

“The stretch makes sitting in my car comfortable even with my holster. Love these.” – Daily Carrier

The Verdict:

Best women’s option for those prioritizing comfort without sacrificing tactical functionality.

8. Under Armour Women’s Tactical Tech Shirt – Women’s Performance Top

Rating: 4.6/5 stars (1,200+ reviews) | Price: $35.00 | Material: Polyester Tech

The women’s version of the popular tactical tech shirt offers the same moisture management with a flattering fit. Perfect for hot weather EDC.

Key Features:

– UA Tech moisture-wicking
– Women’s fitted cut (not boxy)
– Anti-odor technology
– Quick-dry fabric
– Concealed carry friendly cut

What Customers Love:

“Finally a tactical shirt that fits like it was made for women. The fit is perfect.” – Security Professional

“Keeps me cool and dry during summer. The fit hides my holster perfectly.” – Arizona Resident

The Verdict:

Essential summer EDC shirt for women. The fitted cut and moisture management are game changers.

9. 5.11 Tactical Women’s Short Sleeve Polo – The Professional Option

Rating: 4.3/5 stars (650+ reviews) | Price: $32.00 | Material: Polyester/Cotton

For professional environments, the 5.11 Tactical Polo offers tactical features in a business-casual package. Hidden pockets and a tailored fit make this office-appropriate EDC wear.

Key Features:

– Professional polo appearance
– Hidden document pockets
– Pen pockets on sleeve
– Moisture-wicking fabric
– Tailored women’s fit

What Customers Love:

“I can wear this to client meetings and still have my EDC gear accessible. Perfect compromise.” – Sales Professional

“Looks like a normal polo but has hidden superpowers. Love the pen pockets.” – Office Manager

The Verdict:

Best option for professional women who need to maintain EDC capability in business-casual environments.

10. Kore Essentials Women’s EDC Belt – Women’s Foundation Piece

Rating: 4.4/5 stars (1,100+ reviews) | Price: $59.00 | Material: Reinforced Leather

The Kore Essentials Belt uses a ratchet system for perfect fit adjustment throughout the day. This is crucial for women carrying IWB holsters as clothing position shifts.

Key Features:

– Ratchet buckle system (micro-adjustable)
– Reinforced for holster support
– 1.5 inch width (fits most women’s holsters)
– Premium leather or nylon options
– No belt holes

What Customers Love:

“The ratchet system is genius. I can adjust throughout the day as my position changes.” – Daily Carrier

“Finally a gun belt that looks like a normal belt. My coworkers have no idea.” – Teacher

The Verdict:

Essential foundation piece for women’s EDC. The ratchet system solves the fit challenges women face with traditional belts.

Comparative Analysis

By Category (Men’s)

Category	Best Option	Price	Why It Wins
Tactical Pants	5.11 Stryke	$62	Most pockets, proven durability
Comfort Pants	Vertx Delta	$59	4-way stretch, modern fit
Budget Pants	Tru-Spec 24/7	$45	Professional features, low price
Base Layer	UA Tech Shirt	$35	Moisture management, CCW friendly
Foundation	5.11 Belt	$35	Rigid support, professional look

By Category (Women’s)

Category	Best Option	Price	Why It Wins
Tactical Pants	5.11 Stryke	$62	Women’s fit, full features
Comfort Pants	Vertx Fusion	$59	Stretch fabric, contoured waist
Base Layer	UA Tech Shirt	$35	Women’s cut, moisture wicking
Professional	5.11 Polo	$32	Office appropriate, hidden pockets
Foundation	Kore Belt	$59	Ratchet adjust, holster support

Price Analysis

Gender	Total Outfit Cost	Average Per Item
Men’s	$236	$47
Women’s	$247	$49
Combined Average	$482	$48

Price Range: $32-62 per item
Average Cost: $48 per piece
Full Outfit (5 items): ~$240 per person

Buying Guide: How to Build Your EDC Outfit

Step 1: Start with the Foundation

The belt comes first. Your belt supports everything else. A quality gun belt makes carrying comfortable and secure.

Recommended: 5.11 Tactical Belt (Men) / Kore Essentials (Women)

Step 2: Choose Your Pants

Consider your daily activities:

– Office work: Vertx Delta or 5.11 Stryke (professional appearance)
– Active/Outdoor: 5.11 Stryke (maximum durability)
– Budget conscious: Tru-Spec 24/7 (best value)

Step 3: Select Your Shirt

Climate matters:

– Hot weather: Under Armour Tech (moisture management)
– Professional environment: 5.11 Polo (business casual)
– Layering: Choose based on outer layers

Step 4: Consider Your Carry Method

IWB (Inside Waistband):

– Pants need stretch or gusseted crotch
– Belt must be rigid
– Shirt should be loose-fitting

OWB (Outside Waistband):

– Longer shirts help conceal
– Cover garments important
– Belt critical for stability

Pocket Carry:

– Pants with dedicated knife pockets
– Shirts with pen pockets
– Consider pocket organizers

Step 5: Think Seasonally

Summer EDC:

– Lightweight fabrics
– Moisture-wicking materials
– Lighter colors (reflect heat)

Winter EDC:

– Layering capability
– Room for thermal underwear
– Cover garments for concealment

Material Guide

Flex-Tac (5.11)

Best for: All-around use, durability
Pros: Mechanical stretch, Teflon coated, ripstop
Cons: Higher price point
Care: Machine wash, tumble dry low

Polyester/Spandex (Vertx)

Best for: Comfort, movement
Pros: 4-way stretch, quick dry, lightweight
Cons: Less durable than ripstop
Care: Machine wash, hang dry preferred

Polyester/Cotton Ripstop (Tru-Spec)

Best for: Budget, durability balance
Pros: Affordable, professional look, durable
Cons: Less stretch than premium options
Care: Machine wash, tumble dry

UA Tech Fabric

Best for: Hot weather, moisture management
Pros: Wicks sweat, anti-odor, quick dry
Cons: Snags easier than woven fabrics
Care: Machine wash, tumble dry low

Final Recommendations

Best Overall Men’s Outfit

– Pants: 5.11 Stryke ($62)
– Shirt: Under Armour Tech ($35)
– Belt: 5.11 Tactical ($35)
– Total: $132

This combination offers the best balance of durability, functionality, and comfort for daily EDC.

Best Overall Women’s Outfit

– Pants: 5.11 Stryke Women’s ($62)
– Shirt: Under Armour Tech Women’s ($35)
– Belt: Kore Essentials ($59)
– Total: $156

The perfect foundation for women serious about EDC, with proper fit and full functionality.

Best Budget Outfit (Either Gender)

– Pants: Tru-Spec 24/7 ($45)
– Shirt: Under Armour Tech ($35)
– Belt: 5.11 Tactical ($35)
– Total: $115

Professional-grade EDC capability at an accessible price point.

Best Comfort Outfit

– Pants: Vertx Delta/Fusion ($59)
– Shirt: Under Armour Tech ($35)
– Belt: Kore Essentials ($59)
– Total: $153

Maximum comfort for all-day wear without sacrificing EDC functionality.

Conclusion

Building a functional EDC outfit does not require breaking the bank. With an average cost of $48 per piece, you can assemble a complete professional-grade EDC wardrobe for under $160 per person.

The key is prioritizing:
1. A quality belt (foundation of your system)
2. Properly fitting pants (carriage and comfort)
3. Appropriate shirts (concealment and climate)

Whether you choose the proven reliability of 5.11, the comfort of Vertx, or the value of Tru-Spec, any of these options will serve your EDC needs well.

Remember: the best EDC outfit is the one you will actually wear every day. Prioritize fit and comfort alongside functionality, and you will be prepared for whatever the day brings.

Related Reading: Now that you have your outfit sorted, check out our guide on the best EDC trays under $20 to organize your gear at home.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are based on thorough research and analysis of customer reviews.