Some price high-ticket items based on solid construction, unique design and quality materials. Others select a price tag based solely on the brand, retailer or demand.

And sometimes for quick moment a product falls in both categories.

The world of trousers is no different. The Ultimate Guide to Tactical Pants outlined a variety of pants at a range of prices—from $39.99 (MSRP) to $160 (MSRP) to be exact. Each pant offers something distinct at its price point.

The New York Times recently posed a simple question: “Why does this pair of pants cost $550?” It is a very logical question that consumers ask all the time no matter the item or the price.

The pants in question? Basic cotton gabardine khakis from Band of Outsiders sold, of course, at Bergdorf Goodman. The reason for the pricing? It’s never too much if that’s what people are willing to pay.

“The cost of creating those things has nothing to do with the price,” David A. Aaker, the vice chairman of Prophet, a brand consulting firm, told The Times. “It is all about who else is wearing them, who designed them and who is selling them.”

As a recent addition to the tactical pants guide, Kitanica’s $160 (MSRP) PNT X.A has sent heads spinning with its cost. Nobody summed up this astonishment better than commenter Drang on The View From North Central Idaho. He wrote, “And… $160.00 a pair? WTFBBQ?”

But before you completely rule out the pants based on price alone, do realize that all-American parts and labor goes into every pair. To top that, the pants have 100 separate pieces that need to be assembled. While not everyone will jump on the $160-pants bandwagon, someone out there is bound to appreciate its outstanding aesthetic.

Believe it or not, there are pricier tactical pants out there. For instance, Crye Precision sells Combat Pants AC for $179 (MSRP). Granted, these pants are also completely USA-made; additionally, they are Berry compliant and come in MultiCam. On the more militaristic side, TAD Gear offers a tactical-like pant for $189.95 (MSRP) and Rail Riders has a cargo pant for $98 (MSRP).

The real question is: How much are you willing to pay for a pair of quality tactical pants?

(Image via Flickr)