Performance and practicality often take precedence over aesthetics in tactical apparel. The V.XI™ Sigurd MultiCam® Shirt, available in both long and short sleeve variants, positions itself as a base layer engineered to cover all the bases. Developed by 5.11®, the Sigurd shirt aims to bridge the gap between comfort, durability, and mission-specific utility.
In Norse mythology, Sigurd is a legendary hero, best known for slaying the dragon Fafnir and gaining a hoard of cursed treasure. Sigurd’s tale is a central saga in the Völsunga cycle and echoed in Wagner’s operas.
5.11 V.XI Sigurd MultiCam Shirt
The Sigurd shirt constructed of a proprietary stretch knit mesh fabric composed of 78% nylon and 22% elastane. This blend is enhanced with Cryo-Tac™ technology, a feature designed to provide a cool-to-the-touch sensation and breathability while improving moisture-wicking and odor resistance. The fabric’s weight,5.9 oz per square yard, places it in the mid-range category, offering a balance between breathability and durability.
Flatlock seams are used throughout the garment to reduce chafing, a detail that speaks to the shirt’s intended use in high-mobility scenarios. The ergonomic patterning, particularly the underarm and side body panels, is tailored to fit snugly without restricting movement. These design choices suggest a thoughtful approach to comfort, especially when worn under body armor or as part of a layered system.
One of the more distinctive elements of the Sigurd shirt is its rugby-style collar, which can be worn folded in or out depending on user preference. While this may seem like a minor detail, it adds a degree of versatility.
Both sleeve versions include 4″ x 6″ loop patch platforms on the upper arms, allowing for the attachment of identification or morale patches. The long sleeve variant also includes pen holder pockets integrated into the sleeve design.
The Sigurd shirt’s performance is bolstered by its UPF 50+ rating, offering substantial protection against ultraviolet radiation. The moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties are likely to appeal to users operating in hot climates or during prolonged missions.
However, while the shirt’s cooling and odor-control features work very well real-world performance can vary depending on the intensity of activity and layering choices. For instance, wearing the shirt under a plate carrier may limit the effectiveness of its cooling properties, especially in humid conditions. This is true with any garment.
The shirt is available in a wide range of sizes, from XS to 4XL, and in short, regular, and tall lengths. This is commendable, particularly in a market where tactical gear often skews toward standard male body types. That said, the athletic fit may not suit all users, especially those who prefer a looser cut for ventilation or personal comfort.
Final Thoughts
The V.XI™ Sigurd MultiCam® Shirt stands out as a well-engineered piece of tactical apparel that prioritizes function without sacrificing comfort. Its thoughtful design, performance-oriented fabric, and mission-specific features make it a strong contender in the tactical market. If you have need for a high-performance base layer, it’s an excellent option and definitely worth considering.
The V.XI Sigurd MultiCam Shirt has a MSRP of $85.00. The short sleeve version has ab MSRP of $80.00. 5.11 also offers the Sigurd shirt in a variety of other colorways. The Sigurd Shirt is NTOA Member Tested and Recommend 2025.
Source
5.11
511tactical.com
Material Disclosure
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product
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