Founded in 2003, 5.11 Tactical emerged as a brand dedicated to providing purpose-driven gear for law enforcement, military professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts. The company’s name originates from the highest level of difficulty in rock climbing, symbolizing the challenging nature of the professions its products cater to. Initially recognized for their durable and functional pants featuring a unique strap and slash pocket design, 5.11 quickly expanded its product line to encompass a comprehensive range of tactical apparel, footwear, and accessories. Over the years, 5.11 Tactical has become synonymous with high-performance gear that does not break the bank. Today I will be going over the 5.11 Tactical PT-R Havoc Shorts to see how they perform in workouts and everyday life.
The 5.11 PT-R Havoc Shorts were provided by 5.11 for this review and while I am allowed to keep the product indefinitely, this will not change my opinion on this product or any of 5.11’s current or past offerings. I have been using the PT-R Havoc Shorts for the better part of the past 6 months at the gym and during my home workouts.
Specifications – 5.11 PT-R Havoc Shorts
- Material
- 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane
- Four-way stretch fabric
- Fit
- Athletic fit
- Length: 7.5″ inseam
- Features
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric
- Gusseted crotch for enhanced mobility
- Elastic waistband with internal drawcord
- Zippered back pocket for secure storage
- Deep front pockets
- Lightweight and breathable construction
- Color Options: Typically available in a variety of neutral colors such as black, dark green, and gray.
- Best uses: Suitable for workouts, outdoor activities, and casual wear!
- Country of Origin: Vietnam
- MSRP: $58.00
Fit and Comfort – 5.11 PT-R Havoc Shorts
When it comes to workout shorts, fit is everything. I’ve worn too many pairs in the past that either ride up while I’m running causing chafing, or just don’t fit right, so I was particularly curious to see how the Havoc shorts would perform in this area. I’m happy to report that they’re pretty comfortable with their minimal design.
The elastic waistband is snug without being restrictive, and the drawstring allows for easy adjustments. I typically wear a medium, and the sizing on these shorts was spot on for me. They have a nice, athletic cut that’s not too baggy but still offers plenty of room to move. Whether I’m doing squats, lunges, or just going for a run, the shorts stay in place and don’t bunch up, which is a huge plus. I do wish 5.11 offered them in a shorter inseam though by just an inch really. The fabric is also a big win in terms of comfort. It’s breathable and moisture-wicking, which means I stay cool and dry even during intense workouts. The elastane in the fabric provides just the right amount of stretch, so the shorts move with me without feeling restrictive. I’ve worn these for everything from high-intensity interval training to weight lifting and they have performed great.
Performance and Functionality – 5.11 PT-R Havoc Shorts
Performance is where the 5.11 PT-R Havoc shorts really shine. These shorts are built for action, and they’ve proven themselves in a variety of settings. I’ve worn them to the gym and during some light outdoor work, and they’ve held up well in each situation. One of my favorite features is the gusseted crotch. It might sound like a small detail, but it makes a world of difference in terms of mobility. Whether I’m doing deep squats or climbing over obstacles on a trail, I never feel restricted. The stretch in the fabric also contributes to this, making the shorts feel almost like a second skin.
The pockets deserve a special mention as well. I’m someone who always has my phone on me during workouts for fitness tracking and notes, so having secure pockets is a must. The Havoc shorts come with deep front pockets and a zippered side pocket, all of which are well-placed and functional. I never worry about things falling out, and the pockets don’t get in the way during exercise.
Style and Versatility – 5.11 PT-R Havoc Shorts
While performance is key, I also care about how my workout gear looks, especially if I’m wearing it outside the gym. The 5.11 PT-R Havoc shorts strike a great balance between functionality and style (especially in this dotted green camo set). They have a clean, modern look that pairs well with just about anything workout-oriented.
What Could Be Improved – 5.11 PT-R Havoc Shorts
As much as I have enjoyed the 5.11 PT-R Havoc shorts, there are a couple of areas where I think they could be even better. For one, these shorts have no liner. Personally I like having a mesh liner in my workout shorts because then I don’t need to wear any undergarments with them. With these shorts being made out of a very thin material that leaves very little to the imagination in some circumstances. 5.11 does offer the PT-R shorts with a liner in the PT-R Pros but the liner in those pants is made out of a spandex material and not a mesh so they can heat up a lot faster on warmer days. I would also like to see them offered in a shorter inseam length, nothing drastic here but maybe a 7″ or 6.5″.
Conclusion
Overall, the 5.11 PT-R Havoc shorts have quickly become a favorite in my workout wardrobe. They offer an excellent combination of comfort, performance, and style, making them a versatile choice for both workouts and everyday wear. While they’re not without a few minor drawbacks, the positives far outweigh any negatives. If you’re looking for a pair of shorts that can handle just about anything you throw at them, I’d highly recommend giving these a try.
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