How do you build a business that serves a vital role in outfitting those who are the front lines of public service day in and day out?
Well, if you’re First Tactical, you rely on years of experience in the industry. Then, you listen.
First Tactical is turning 10 this year, and the company founded in 2015 by Dan Costa, is thriving as an outfitter for law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel, as well as the day-to-day workforce. They’ve built their brand and reputation on providing gear that enhances functionality, mobility, comfort, capability, and mobility for those working in public safety roles. They’ve done that through the use of advanced materials, rigorous field testing, and most importantly, through paying attention to the feedback of the men and women they outfit every day.
Is it any wonder they’re one of our top-performing (and favorite) brands?
Many of the law enforcement and public service agencies we serve are outfitted either fully or partially in First Tactical. That’s due in large part to the fact that the company’s products are durable, reliable, and do exactly what they say they’ll do.
Take the V2 pants, for example. Dustin Pyatte, our store manager in Hudson, said his agency customers love some of the features included.
“They offer a lifetime warranty on buttons and zippers,” he said. “They’re guaranteed not to fade if you follow their washing instructions. The seams are triple-stitched so they’re going to last, and they’re ripstop with TEFLON coating which makes them water-resistant.”
All of that technology makes them perfect for a number of uses.
“Anyone can wear these pants, from public safety to construction to plumbing to lawn care,” Dustin said.
Columbia store manager Elizabeth Callaham agrees.
“In my opinion, First Tactical is the best,” she said. “The product is durable for the work these agencies endure every day. It’s durable but lightweight and breathable at the same time. The products last longer as well. The biggest complaint I get with agencies is uniforms fading, so I show them First Tactical and their 50-wash no-fade guarantee."
Like Dustin, Elizabeth sees the versatility of the V2 pants.
“They’re great for civilians who work construction, love to hike, or work on their knees a lot. The V2 has cargo pockets as well as pockets for knee pads. It’s a multipurpose pant. Their new pant, the A2, is a great casual pant. It’s very stretch and you can dress it up or down.”
To Elizabeth, another big thing that sets First Tactical apart is what happens when a product DOESN’T live up to expectations.
“I can’t say they’re perfect because everything has its flaws,” she said. “But if their product rips, fades, etc., they honor it and replace it immediately.”
While First Tactical removes the stress from dealing with defects, Harrison’s uses our relationship with First Tactical to make uniform purchasing a low-stress process.
“It’s been great working as one of First Tactical’s largest dealers to meet the needs of our public safety customers,” Kevin Harrison said. “These folks have the highest-stakes jobs there are - keeping you and me safe. Our relationship with First Tactical allows Harrison’s to be able to remove the stress of selecting and buying uniforms from our first responders and allows them to focus on the more important things they do.”
You’ll soon see an increased presence for First Tactical in one of our stores, too. Our Hudson location will become First Tactical’s first Gold Standard store in the east. That will include new window signage, increased visibility of First Tactical products in the store, and new displays for shirts, pants, bags, and boots, as well as additional graphics throughout the store. It’s one more way for us to showcase and draw attention to a brand we and our customers love.
