The Lindnerhof Taktik Combat Pants / Einsatzkampfhose - Arktis Version

 LHT Combat Pants - Arktis Version

Overview:

A prized piece in few SpezKr collectors' hands is the Lindnerhof Taktik combat pants. In 2016, LHT developed and tested a new combat trouser to issue to German SF, supposedly in conjunction with Arc'teryx. Beginning it’s formal use in 2017, the lightweight, fire-resistant uniform became synonymous with the Kommandospezialkräfte. 

Features:

The standard version has a multitude of features, from the high-rise waist, integrated Arc'teryx kneecap slots, reinforced knees, and many adjustment points. The proprietary fabric is flame resistant and sports  However, this version pictured here is the Arktis version, or colder weather version. The weave is thicker and the design forgoes thigh and ankle pockets. Additionally, this version has added reinforcement on the inside of the ankles, as well as fasteners to more closely cinch it down to the wearer's larger boots. It still retains the graphene-style reinforcement and a slot for the issued Arc'teryx knee pads, though.  This pant set has plenty of pockets and adjustments, which makes for a comfortable, albeit heavy combat trouser. 

My particular version is from 01/2016, and was described to me as one of the “Gen 1” or earliest models. This describes the flaky knee reinforcement, which was later improved. As you can see, it is a ceramic-type graphene/hexagonal support adds some abrasion-resistance. This is not only a proprietary material, but iconic for the issued LHT uniform set. 

Users:

In addition to the KSK, the KSM, and select Gebirgsjäger troops (instructors, leadership, etc.) used this set of pants. These were not nearly as widely used as the standard LHT combat pants, which offered similar protection and features for a lighter weight and more breathability. However, they did appear in a few photos, two of which are below. 

KSM - Center/Rear

KSK - Right

Buying:

If you are interested in purchasing a pair of these pants or the standard combat trousers, you're going to first have to find them. They are elusive, though the Arktis version tends to show up a bit more often. Expect to pay at minimum $300 for the Arktis version and $550+ for the standard. Lately, we have been seeing the standard version show up in 3ftd, though this could have been a small spurt. You would have the best luck on ebay.kleinanzeigen, ebay.de, and various Facebook groups.

As for reproductions, there are currently no good reproductions on the market. Roman Kurmaz has attempted them with moderate success, but he could neither replicate the knee material nor the general material. In my opinion, only the knee material would be necessary to make these viable reproductions, though some feel differently. 

Closing:

In short, these pants offer that LHT style with an easier-to-handle cost. While they are not as kosher, they still have appeared enough to call it acceptable for some. If you are looking to get a pair, be prepared to pay a pretty penny. However, your BUND issued drip will be almost unmatched.