REVIEW: DNS Alpha Combat Uniform

This year, DNS Alpha is really taking off. Not only are they appearing more and more at trade shows, but their clothing is also becoming more widespread – as connoisseurs with a keen eye know, because DNS Alpha doesn't say much about it themselves. We have now worn and tested the DNS Alpha combat suit for several months and would like to introduce it to you in a detailed review.

DNS Alpha Combat Shirt FR

Let's start from head to toe, with the DNS Alpha Combat Shirt FR. Maximum freedom of movement meets personal protective equipment.

Here is the frontal view. Somewhat different from the others, some exciting details are hidden in the Combat Shirt.

At the front, a YKK zipper is used. Nothing else would have been expected, as YKK is the gold standard for zippers.

Inside, the label is hidden with a loop for hanging. Also clearly visible – by the seams – is the reinforced collar.

Here's the side view. The next details are enticing.

The upper arm pocket is not only sewn in for a flatter profile, but the zipper also opens from bottom to top. The opposite direction to some other manufacturers. This makes opening and closing the pocket much easier.

The sleeve provides enough space. On the outside, there is also the distinctive patch area with the angled corner. And a cut-out triangle. This is not functional, but the distinguishing feature of a DNS product.

But not only a design decision, a pen can also be inserted here. It is open at the bottom.

Here is the complete combat shirt from the back. It is long enough to not slip out during movement. The shoulder and sleeve area is made of Ripstop Cordura in NYCO quality. This provides high abrasion resistance and durability. The body part is made of Modal-Acrylic Jersey. This fabric extends partially to the shoulder area and is also located under the armpits. It must be said that, even though the fabric is somewhat thicker, it is very comfortable to wear and feels good.

FR stands for "Fire Resistant", so Flame Retardant. Gasoline is expensive, so a lighter had to be used and indeed, neither the sleeves nor the torso melted during a brief test. But be aware of the danger and inform yourself comprehensively if you actually have to expect a fire hazard.

If you were wondering what the lines on the collar are for. These are small loops. Intended for a Breacher-Hood. The loops and the reinforcements on the elbows are glued. Otherwise, the majority of the Combat Shirt is stitched with Flatlock Seams to be flat, as the name suggests.

The elbow area is reinforced and a foam pad can be inserted and secured with Velcro.

What shouldn't be forgotten? The cuff. Here is a Velcro strap for adjusting the size.

Even in heat, the shirt is very comfortable and feels equally comfortable under the plate carrier. If you're wondering why the sleeves are always rolled up. The shirt was taken in size M03, which corresponds to Medium. Presumably, M02 / S would fit better, as other jackets and combat shirts (except UF PRO) are taken in size Small. Therefore, we rate the DNS Alpha Combat Shirt FR in M03 / Medium as True to Size and Normal "Fit". Otherwise, refer to the size chart.

Now let's look at the pants. These are also made of Ripstop Cordura in NYCO quality. Flame retardant and 3 percent elastane are included. This makes the entire pants slightly elastic.

As in the front view, you can already see pockets in the side profile. Thigh pocket is essential, but there is also a small pocket at the bottom of the leg.

But let's start at the top again. As usual, there is a Velcro closure with a zipper at the front.

Inside in the back is again the name, as well as a practical loop for hanging with the motto Development Never Stops (DNS).

The waistband is reinforced and well sewn. The seams in general are all top-notch and cleanly processed.

Here is the label and the mix makes it. 69 percent cotton. (Nice) 28 percent polyamide and as already mentioned 3 percent elastane. When you unpack the pants, you will be happy about the color, but after a few washes, the pants lose some color on the ripstop pattern. In the photos, this looks more pronounced than it actually is.

On both sides of the hips, there is an elastic band, which is fixed with velcro to adjust the size. For comparison, the pants are also in size M03/Medium and can be compared in waist width to a 32" pants.

The belt loops are 45 millimeters wide, so that classic Inner or Combat Belts have space. They are also made of double Cordura fabric.

For you, we have put on a bit more to also see the band and how it is stitched. In normal use, this disappears into the waistband.

There is only a pocket on the right side of the buttocks, which is closed with a zip. We personally don't really need it, and the closure also rubs a bit on the pants. However, it does not hinder the function, even if a hole should eventually appear.

The front pocket is about 21 centimeters deep and sufficiently large.

Besides the large thigh pocket, there is a small front pocket. Not suitable for all phones, consider the size. The pocket is 15 centimeters deep and 12 centimeters wide.

The sewn thigh pockets are not bulky.

A Velcro closure secures the main compartment. This is also accessible from the side via a zipper, which is very practical when sitting. The storage volume is smaller compared to other manufacturers. However, a 0.5 liter water bottle can still fit. There is no elastic band inside for fixation.

Let's move on to the knee area. This is reinforced again with a glued piece.

A foam guard can be inserted from the inside and the height can be adjusted with velcro.

In the upper photo of the knee area, you can see the velcro strip. Here from the inside how it is secured.

Interestingly, the knee part is not only open at the bottom to allow water to drain. There are also small holes on both sides, allowing for possible attachment of fixations similar to Arc'teryx knee pads. Perhaps also a symbol of whose market DNS Alpha is targeting.

On the back, there are again straps for attaching and securing knee pads to prevent slipping.

The knee area is slightly preformed and can be flexed easily. Nothing is tight or uncomfortable.

We've reached the bottom, but before that, let's talk about the small leg pocket. Some love it, others don't know what it's for. Whether for snacks, small items, or emergency medical supplies, whatever is needed can be accommodated.

The finish. Adjustable with an elastic band and somewhat difficult to show, but you can see it somewhat in the photo. The seam goes to the first part in the middle. The second part can be knitted up to the cord piece. This allows the pants to be adjustable in length from about 30-34 inches, depending on the need.

The pants have become an absolute favorite piece in our wardrobe. For civilian shooting, the pants are very comfortable due to the elastane content, and the design makes them look more discreet than others. Thanks to the fabric, the pants can handle more, even when it gets hot.

VERDICT: The DNS Alpha combat suit is convincing. The cut and fit are not too athletic, not too loose, just right for Europeans. The fabric selection is good, with flame resistance as a bonus and the built-in pockets a welcome addition. Price-wise, it is positioned in the upper class in terms of design and workmanship. The DNS Alpha Combat Shirt FR costs 249.90 euros and the DNS Alpha Combat Pants FR cost 319.90 euros. Currently available colors are Olive as seen in the pictures, Black, and Stone Grey.

Find the Combat Pants FR in Olive HERE and the matching Combat Shirt FR in Olive also HERE, both at TACWRK.

DNS Alpha at TACWRK.

DNS Alpha online.