The Complete Tactical Uniform Guide
In short: The ShadowX is Strike20's everyday tactical uniform: ripstop construction so a snag stays a snag, a DWR finish so light rain runs off instead of soaking in, stretch panels for movement, and knee pockets that take insertable pads. It is not a fire-resistant garment — if you need flame resistance, that is what our EmberX line (fabric flame-tested by SGS to ASTM D6413) and the NomexX SWAT Uniform exist for. This guide explains what the ShadowX is built from, who it suits, and how to choose between our three uniform lines.
What is the ShadowX tactical uniform?
The ShadowX is a two-piece tactical uniform — shirt and pants, also sold as a full set — designed for daily duty wear rather than for a specific hazard. It is the uniform for the officer, guard or operator who needs clothing that survives long shifts, movement, weather and repeated laundering without falling apart.
What is it actually built from?
- Ripstop weave — a reinforcing grid woven through the fabric so a tear stops instead of running. This is the single most useful construction feature in duty clothing, because most uniform deaths are snags, not wear.
- DWR finish (Durable Water Repellent) — light rain and splashes bead and run off rather than soaking in. It is water repellent, not waterproof: in sustained rain you still want a shell like the StormShield jacket.
- Stretch panels — placed where the body actually moves, so drawing, climbing and kneeling are not fought by the garment.
- Knee pocket compatibility — the pants accept our Gen-3 insertable knee pads, so protection goes inside the trouser rather than strapping over it.
Is the ShadowX flame resistant?
No — and we would rather say so plainly than sell you the wrong garment. The ShadowX is built for durability and comfort, not for thermal hazards. If a flash fire, a vehicle fire or a breaching environment is a realistic part of your work, you need a fire-resistant line instead:
- EmberX Fire-Resistant Uniform — the fabric passed the ASTM D6413/D6413M-15 vertical flame test at SGS: no afterflame, 80 mm char length against a 100 mm limit, no melting or dripping. The full testing subject is broken down in our complete guide to fire-resistant tactical clothing.
- NomexX SWAT Uniform — built from genuine Nomex®, where the flame resistance is inherent to the fiber itself and does not wash out over the life of the garment.
Which Strike20 uniform should you choose?
| Line | Built for | Key property | Not for |
|---|---|---|---|
| ShadowX | Everyday duty wear in temperate conditions | Ripstop durability + DWR water repellency | Thermal hazards |
| CoolingX | Hot climates and long summer shifts | Breathability and moisture management | Cold weather, fire risk |
| EmberX | Work where flash fire is a credible risk | Flame resistance verified by SGS (ASTM D6413) | Buyers who need a certified garment standard |
| NomexX SWAT | Tactical law enforcement in high thermal risk | Inherent Nomex® flame resistance that never washes out | Budget-led purchases |
A side-by-side of the everyday lines lives on our tactical uniforms comparison page.
Who is the ShadowX for?
Private security teams working long shifts; law enforcement needing duty clothing that survives a year rather than a season; outdoor professionals and instructors; and enthusiasts and milsim players who want gear built to a professional standard rather than a costume. The design brief came from working with Israeli security firms and law enforcement units — the people who tell you honestly when a seam gives or a cut restricts the draw.
How do you get the fit right?
Tactical sizing has to account for what goes over and under the garment — a plate carrier above, a base layer beneath, knee pads inside the trouser. Measure before ordering and use our size chart guide, which explains how to take chest, waist, inseam and sleeve measurements for tactical fit. If you are ordering for a team, our request for quote page is the fastest route to bulk sizing and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Is the ShadowX waterproof?
No. The DWR finish repels light rain and splashes; it is not a waterproof membrane. For sustained rain, layer a shell over it.
Can I wear it under a plate carrier?
Yes — that is the intended use. Account for the carrier when choosing your size.
Does it contain Nomex or any flame-resistant fabric?
No. Only the NomexX SWAT Uniform uses genuine Nomex®, and only the EmberX line carries documented flame-resistance testing. The ShadowX is a durability-and-comfort uniform.
Where is it made?
Strike20 is an Israeli-founded brand; manufacturing is in China, under our own specification and quality control.
Where to go from here
Browse the ShadowX Tactical Uniform, or compare it against the CoolingX for hot weather and the EmberX for fire risk. Outfitting a team? Send a request for quote or apply to our distributor program.
About the author
Idan is the founder and CEO of Strike20. An Israeli military veteran, he founded the brand to build professional-grade tactical gear for security teams, law enforcement, and military users, and he leads its product development.
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