Short story long: a ranking of Helikon-Tex shorts

Sun, dust, fast pace, and no room for compromise – when the temperature rises, you need gear that can keep up with your style of operation. At Helikon-Tex, we know that functionality doesn’t stop at the knee. That’s why our tactical and outdoor shorts are full-fledged members of your summer kit – just as durable, just as functional, and definitely more breathable.

Find out which model fits your mission.

On patrol or in the field: tactical shorts ready for action

BDU Shorts (Battle Dress Uniform)

A classic cut down to the essentials, the BDU Shorts are reliable cargos for hot days. Made from durable RipStop fabric, reinforced at the crotch and seat, and with six pockets (including cargo and buttoned back pockets), they offer comfort and resilience even under intensive use. Waist adjustment, signature belt loops, and a button fly—all the classic BDU features, now in shorts form.

BDU Shorts are available in the following options:
🡺 BDU Shorts – Cotton Ripstop
🡺 BDU Shorts – PolyCotton Ripstop

CPU Shorts (Combat Patrol Uniform)

Designed for demanding terrain, the CPU Shorts are tactical shorts that don’t compromise. With eight pockets, including cargo pouches with drawstrings and flaps, a flexible fit, and reinforcements at stress points, these are the go-to choice for those who need space for gear and unrestricted movement.

CPU Shorts are available in the following options:
🡺 CPU Shorts – Cotton Ripstop
🡺 CPU Shorts – PolyCotton Ripstop

In the city and beyond: EDC that keeps a low profile

UTS Shorts (Urban Tactical Shorts)

UTS are shorts with massive potential. Available in 6″, 8.5 “, or 11” lengths, they deliver a range of styles—from sporty to fully tactical. With a hook-and-loop front closure, elastic waistband, discreet AR15-compatible pockets, dummy cording loops, and various fabric options, they’re a versatile pick for EDC and summer missions.

UTS Shorts are available in the following options:
🡺 UTS Shorts 6″ – PolyCotton Ripstop
🡺 UTS Shorts 8.5″ – PolyCotton Ripstop
🡺 UTS Shorts 11″ – PolyCotton Ripstop

As well as in a denim version and top camouflage patterns. Check them out on our website!

Greyman Shorts

The ultimate low-profile option, these shorts look casual but are fully tactical on the inside. They have seven pockets, a stretch gusset, hook-and-loop waist adjustment, and enough space for your phone, knife, or mag—perfect for operations where you need to blend in.

🡺 Check out the Greyman Shorts

Outdoor gear for hot days: lightweight but capable

OTS Shorts (Outdoor Tactical Shorts)

OTS Shorts are the warm-weather version of our iconic Outdoor Tactical Pants. Made from lightweight, stretchable Versastretch Lite fabric, they breathe, protect, and give you full freedom of movement. Ten pockets – including zippered cargo and AR15-ready pockets – offer excellent organization. Ideal for hikes, bushcraft, and any active summer day.

OTS Shorts are available in the following options:
🡺 OTS Ultra Shorts – Versastretch Lite
🡺 OTS Shorts 8.5″ – Versastretch Lite
🡺 OTS Shorts 11″ – Versastretch

Utility Light Shorts

If maximum comfort is what you’re after for a workout, a run, or a vacation – these are the ones. Utility Light Shorts ditch unnecessary extras and focus on pure ease. With an elastic waistband, breathable fabric, and well-placed pockets (including zippered and a mini one for keys), they’re the kind of shorts you’ll want to live in all summer.

🡺 Check out the Utility Light Shorts

Helikon-Tex shorts: tactical readiness in the summer edition

Sometimes, every gram and centimeter of fabric matters. That’s why we design our shorts to let you operate with just as much effectiveness – and more comfort. From city-ready Greymans through rugged BDU and CPU models to outdoor-oriented OTS – choose the shorts that fit your mission.

Because solid support starts with the right… shorts. Would you like to complete the set with long pants? Check out our ranking on the blog.