C245 Contact Combat Trousers

/ Problem

Uniforms have always been a key part of effective operations, whatever the sector. As technology develops and the demands on users increase, the needs of these uniforms have grown as well. Meeting these requirements needs garments that are capable of handling heat or cold, hard use, and quickly changing environments without slowing the user with weight and bulk.

/ Solution

The Contact range meets the requirements for modern combat uniforms using a mechanical stretch ripstop fabric, allowing for a modern cut with stretch that doesn't degrade over time with elasticated fibres. Designed to be worn with and around modern load-carrying gear, and to adjust to the current task without requiring different uniform sets, with removable knee pads, pit zips and pocket placement.

The next generation of Arktis combat trousers, the Contact Field Trousers, have been completely redesigned from the ground up with a new fit that maximises flexibility and comfort; CORDURA® reinforced abrasion points at the knees and cuffs for increased durability.

Lighter than our standard ripstop and ready to flex with you, the Mechanical Stretch Nylon Cotton blend weighs only 185gsm while boasting CORDURA® fibre ripstop and a native mechanical stretch. Lightweight, sturdy and comfortable with our usual DWR finish for water resistance and treatment for reduced NIR signature.

Building on years of development, feedback and design, the Contact Field trouser starts with an ergonomic cut, reducing excess material without removing flexibility. Enhancing this movement at the knee is our new pad system, using a side entry zip and an internal mesh pocket to hold the knee pad with enough movement to protect the knee every time, secured with two Velcro tabs behind the knee. Instead of a hard-capped knee pad on the exterior, the pleated 500D CORDURA® kneecap section is designed to take abrasion and wear while flexing with the operator. Designed for our Z225 Elite Knee Pads, the pocket also accepts most styles of kneepads on the market, though the exact fit will vary.

On each hip, the slash pockets boast a CORDURA® reinforced lip for torches, multitools etc, as well as a secondary pocket. The corner extends out underneath the front belt loops, allowing anything attached to the front loops to be tucked inside the pocket. Below this, a simple slit pocket provides more options. 

Each thigh features a bellowed cargo pocket with an autolocking zip along the front edge and a Velcro flapped top opening. Providing a secure method of accessing these pockets when in a vehicle, these zips allow the operator into the main body of the pocket, while the two slip admin pockets are accessible only from the top. On the rear both sides have a zippered internal pocket with a stretch mesh lining, adding not only storage but also the ability to vent heat by simply leaving them open.

The waist is secured at the front with a double button and zip fly and adjusted with Velcro tabs from back to front on either side. Reinforced belt loops are designed to fit up to a 2” or 6cm belt for compatibility with even the wider issued belts. On the hem, opposite the 500D CORDURA® reinforced ankle section is the elastic adjustment stowage, making adjustment simple and tidy.