Category: work pants

January 10 2019

Best Work Trousers for Carpenters

Most people don’t think of carpentry as a dangerous profession, but it involves risk every day. Tools can slip, materials can fall, and machines can malfunction. Injuries are common for carpenters, and are usually caused by the equipment they use on a daily basis. For this reason, carpenters should always wear specialized equipment, such as steel toe boots and work gloves. Their clothing should be specialized, too. Rather than jeans that can rip and tear, work trousers are best for protecting a carpenter from the perils of their work. Here are some tips on how to choose the best work trousers, plus the five best options on the market right now.

What to Look for in Work Trousers for Carpenters

There are several companies that manufacture and sell work trousers for laborers, including carpenters. Each of them claims to be better than everyone else. So, how do you determine the brand that is best for your needs? There are a few criteria you should judge work trousers by: protection, flexibility, and durability.

The number one reason for buying a pair of work trousers is protection. The trousers should protect you from all impacts and accidents which may result in injuries. They should also protect you from the elements – if you have to work outside, extreme cold could hinder you, even if the rest of your body is protected and warm. Moisture can also get in the way, so if there’s any chance you might be working in wet conditions, you’ll want trousers that can keep you dry.

Flexibility is also important. You need to be able to move around while you work. The trousers don’t do you any good if you can’t move. They should conform to your movements and allow you to work without hindrance. This will also make the trousers more comfortable, so you don’t dread putting them on each day. Breathability would help, too. It will increase flexibility and keep you cool so you won’t sweat too much.

The last consideration is durability. The work trousers should stand up to any tough condition you put it through without wearing down or becoming compromised. It should also last for a long time. The most annoying thing to deal with is finding the perfect pair of work trousers, only to need a new pair every few months. Who has that kind of money or time to waste on new trousers all the time? Find a pair that will last and you won’t have to.

The Top 5 Work Trousers for Carpenters:

Scruffs 3D Trade Trouser

The 3D Trade Trouser from Scruffs is comfortable and durable. It is made of a polyester-cotton blend. The polyester is very durable and the cotton gives it a softness. These two materials combine to form a tough but comfy work trouser. It is reinforced with nylon and Cordura fabric in areas that typically experience the most stress and wear, increasing its durability. Other features that ensure durability include a reinforced seat and triple stitching. The trouser features an ergonomic fit, which makes it both comfortable and flexible. There is also a self-fabric gusset, which allows for more flexibility and ease of movement. The trouser is very breathable, owing to a special feature: an inner meshed zip that opens “vents” to keep you cool. Multiple secure pockets provide you with plenty of space to store small tools and other items you may need throughout your day. There are five of these pockets, including tuck away holster pockets, a large cargo pocket, a pocket for your phone, and a rule pocket. There is even a hammer loop on the waist. The trouser accommodates those who spend time kneeling when they work via top loading knee pad pockets. These pockets are reinforced with Cordura, so they won’t wear out.

Pros:

Polyester construction, nylon and Cordura reinforcements, and triple stitching make the trouser very durable and long-lasting.
The cotton blend, ergonomic fit, and gusset feature make it very comfortable, even during long work hours.
The material is breathable and the inner meshed zip allows you to stay cool, even in the hottest summer weather or most humid workshop.
Your knees are protected by reinforced knee pad pockets.
There are plenty of pockets in which you can store your phone, small tools, and other essential items.
You can carry a hammer around with you via the loop on the waist.

Cons:

Though the trouser boasts a superior fit, it can feel a bit loose in the leg. If you feel this might cause it to get caught on equipment, you might want to look for something with a tighter fit.
The trouser is more expensive than other budget-friendly options.

Apache Holster Trouser

The Holster Trouser from Apache is durable and versatile. It is made of Cordura fabric, so it is thick enough to offer protection. However, it is also lightweight, so you won’t feel weighed down or rigid. This lightweight quality also lends breathability to the trouser, keeping you cool throughout your work day. The trouser is also ideal for wet conditions, since it is water-resistant and will help to repel light rain and moisture. Triple stitching increases the durability of the trouser. There are multi-tool pockets and two large rear pockets to carry small- to medium-sized tools. Knee pad pockets provide a space for knee pad inserts, so you can protect your knees while working. These are reinforced for durability.

Pros:

Cordura fabric makes the trouser thick and durable.
The trouser is lightweight, allowing you to move easily.
It is also breathable, keeping you cool and comfortable all day.
It is resistant to some wet conditions, such as light rain.
Triple stitching extends the life of the trouser.
You can carry just about anything you need, including medium sized tools and your phone, in large pockets.
Reinforced knee pad pockets are durable and protective.
The trouser is one of the more affordable options on the market.

Cons:

Though it helps to keep you cool, it may not be the best option for the peak of summer.
It is water-resistant, but not waterproof. Moderate to heavy rain would certainly soak the trouser.

Dewalt Pro Tradesman Work Trouser

The Pro Tradesman Work Trouser from Dewalt is comfortable, durable, and functional. It is made from a poly-cotton blend, giving it toughness and softness. Comfort is provided by the low-rise waist and the breathability of the material. Triple stitching and reinforced hems increase its durability. Holster pockets and a side utility pocket allow you to carry small tools, while a phone pocket keeps even a large phone safe. Pockets are included on the front and rear, so they are spaced out throughout the trouser. All of these pockets are wider than on most other trousers, allowing you to store and carry larger items than usual (or more of the smaller tools you need). Top loading knee pad pockets allow you to insert knee pads, providing a cushion when you need to kneel to work. There’s no need to go searching for the right knee pads, either – Dewalt sells knee inserts that match this trouser specifically. The holster pockets, hems, and knee pad pockets are reinforced with Cordura fabric.

Pros:

The blend of polyester and cotton makes the trouser durable, comfortable, and breathable.
Breathability and a low-rise waist combine to give the trouser all-day comfort.
The trouser is very durable, thanks to triple stitching and Cordura-reinforced hems.
Wide reinforced holster pockets and a wide utility pocket on the side allow you to carry tools and items.
The phone pocket is wide and large, so you can keep any phone safe and nearby.
The trouser offers protection for your knees with top loading, reinforced knee pad pockets. The company also offers special knee pad inserts to go with this trouser.

Cons:

This trouser is not water-resistant, so it will not protect you from rain or moisture.

Snickers Cooltwill Workwear Trouser

The Cooltwill Workwear Trouser from the popular Snickers brand is durable, lightweight, and comfortable. It is made from a polyester-cotton blend, which lends both toughness and softness to the trouser. These materials combine to form the Cooltwill fabric, which is lightweight and breathable, keeping you cool. The trouser is designed for maximum flexibility, with features like an advanced cut, twisted leg design, and gusset. Cordura reinforcements at the knees provide increased durability. Your knees experience extra protection via the KneeGuard positioning system, which features knee pad pockets. You can store important items in one of several pockets, including holster pockets, a phone pocket, a spacious cargo pocket, and four smaller pockets for pens and small tools.

Pros:

The Cooltwill fabric is durable, lightweight, and breathable.
The advanced cut, twisted leg design, and gusset make the trouser very flexible, fitting, and comfortable.
The knees are reinforced with Cordura fabric and feature knee pad pockets as part of the KneeGuard positioning system.
Four small pockets can hold any small pen or tool.
Holster pockets can hold medium-sized tools and items.
A large cargo pocket can hold larger items.
The phone pocket will keep your phone safe and dry.

Cons:

The knee pad pockets are at odds with the sizing of the trouser. When the trouser fits well, the pockets are well below the knee, eliminating their usefulness in protecting the knees. The “positioning system” doesn’t seem to position very well.
The trouser is not water-resistant.

Dickies Redhawk Action Work Trouser

The Redhawk Action Work Trouser from Dickies is durable, slim, and protective. It is made of polyester and cotton, which makes it long-lasting and breathable. It uses a simpler design than the other trousers on this list, opting for several small zipped pockets rather than a host of larger cargo pockets. This gives it a slim, minimal feel. Knee pad pouches allow you to insert knee pads to better protect your knees while working.

Pros:

The poly-cotton blend is tough and breathable, keeping you cool while allowing the trouser to last for a long time.
The design is simple, minimal, and slim.
There are two hand pockets, one thigh pocket on the right leg, and two back pockets. All these pockets feature zippers to keep items safe.
Knee pad pouches help you protect your knees.
The thickness of the material will keep you warm and toasty during the winter.

Cons:

The pockets are small and slim. They don’t have a lot of space in them, so any item you keep there will be right up against your leg while you work. Perfect for small items, but not recommended for bulky items. You especially should not keep anything sharp in these pockets.
The waist is not elastic, so you will need to make sure you have the right size to fit you.
The trouser is very thick, so it will get very hot in the summer or inside a warm workshop.
It seems that not all pairs of this trouser are made the same. Some are thin, some are thick and hot. Some have a loose fit, some are very tight and restrictive.
The trouser is not meant to be water-resistant, though the thickness of the material would probably keep you dry for short periods.

Which Work Trouser is Right for You?

There are a lot of various designs for work trousers for carpenters, and they all have varying degrees of functionality. The Holster Trouser from Apache offers the most protection for carpenters on the job, with reinforced knee pad pockets, thick Cordura fabric, and light water-resistance. The Cooltwill Workwear Trouser from Snickers is the most flexible trouser with its advanced cut, twisted leg design, gusset, and lightweight Cooltwill fabric. However, the most breathable trouser would be the 3D Trade Trouser from Scruffs, which achieves this distinction with its inner meshed zip that creates “vents” for improved airflow. Dewalt’s Pro Tradesman Work Trouser is the most durable option, owing to its polyester construction, triple stitching, and plenty of Cordura reinforcements. For those on a budget, the Holster Trouser from Apache would be the most affordable trouser. Each trouser on this list provides specialization in one category or another, so you will be able to find the perfect work trouser for your carpentry needs.

Wrangler Riggs Workwear Men's Ripstop Carpenter Jean

December 3 2018

Best Work Pants for Carpenters 2018

Mike Murphy work pants 0

Best Work Pants for Carpenters

Careers that involve manual labor, such as carpentry, often require specialized apparel. One concern for carpenters is having the right work pants. Carpenters often spend time on their knees and have tools that they need to carry around. They need work pants that are tough and durable and will last for a long time without needing to be replaced. Large pockets are necessary to carry tools and cell phones. Here are some tips on what to look for in work pants for carpenters, plus the top five work pants on the market.

What to Look For in Work Pants for Carpenters

Durability is probably the most important feature to look for in work pants for carpenters. You shouldn’t need to buy new pants frequently. Rather, you should make one purchase and those pants should last for a long time. They also need to be durable on an everyday basis. Carpentry is rough on clothing. Work pants should be tough enough to handle impacts, debris such as sawdust and dirt, and wear over time.

Most carpenters need to carry tools, such as hammers, with them. Jean pockets are not going to cut it. Large cargo pockets would be ideal for carrying lots of small tools. Many work pants also feature hammer loops, which offer a great way to both carry your hammer and keep it accessible. Workers also need to keep their cell phones handy, in case supervisors or clients call while they are working. Sometimes pants might have a special phone pocket, but any cargo pocket large enough for your specific phone would do the job.

If you do most of your work outdoors or in damp indoor environments, it would be wise to wear work pants that have moisture-wicking features or some sort of moisture resistance. Work pants can quickly turn from comfortable to miserable in the rain. This is also the case when the pants are exposed to excessive sweat throughout the day. Staying dry is the key to staying comfortable.

Flexibility is also a concern for carpenters. You need to be able to move around during the day. Work pants that are tough and durable won’t do you much good if they restrict you. The best work pants find a balance between tough and flexible.

The 5 Best Work Pants for Carpenters

Wrangler Riggs Workwear Men’s Ripstop Carpenter Jean

The Wrangler Riggs Workwear Men’s Ripstop Carpenter Jean is comfortable and flexible with plenty of room for tools. It is made of 100 percent comfy cotton with a ripstop design and comes in a relaxed fit. The pants are rugged and durable. You can store tools, your cell phone, and other items in front pockets, back pockets, a vertical pocket, and a hammer loop. The pants are flexible and allow you to move due to the Room to Move Fit featuring a gusset crotch, which combines with the relaxed fit of the pants to give you freedom of movement. The ripstop fabric keeps small rips from becoming big holes.

Pros:

Comfort is provided by 100 percent soft cotton.
Flexibility is provided by the relaxed fit and gusset crotch.
The ripstop material is tough, strong, and durable.
There are a total of six places to store items: two front pockets, two back pockets, one vertical pocket, and one hammer loop for easy access.
The front right pocket and back pockets feature a strip of contrast leather to prevent tears.
The pants can rip, but the fabric frays in a way that prevents these small rips from growing into large holes that destroy your work pants.
The pants are ideal in a variety of conditions, including mud, dirt, rocks, sand, rain, and snow.
The pants have a soft, thin feel to them, despite their ruggedness.
They are thin enough for hot weather, yet warm enough for cold winters.

Cons:

The vertical pocket may not be large enough for all cell phones. It is intended for phones that are very slim (including the case). Generally, if the phone is larger than 3 ⅜ inches, it will not fit.
The vertical pocket is also not large enough for most tools. It is slim and not very deep, so only small items, like small screwdrivers or pliers, will fit.
Though the ripstop fabric stops rips from becoming larger at first, over time these rips can grow and become larger.
The pants can sometimes feel rigid.

Carhartt Men’s Cotton Ripstop Relaxed Fit Work Pant

The Carhartt Men’s Cotton Ripstop Relaxed Fit Work Pant claims comfort as its big draw. It is made of 100 percent cotton and features a gusseted crotch and a relaxed fit throughout the seat, thigh, and waist. The cotton material features a ripstop design that offers resistance to rips and tears. Cordura lines the front and back pockets for added durability. In addition to the front and back pockets, there are two large cargo pockets and multiple utility pockets. The cargo pockets feature flaps and snap closures, so you can be sure that your tools are secure and won’t fall out. Double-front construction provides tough durability.

Pros:

100 percent cotton ripstop fabric, a gusseted crotch, a relaxed fit around the waist, and extra space in the seat and thighs provide ultimate comfort.
The ripstop fabric resists rips and tears. Even if rips do occur, the fabric keeps them from growing into larger holes.
Durability comes in the form of double-front construction and cordura lining for the front and back pockets.
There are plenty of pockets for storing items like tools and cell phones: two front pockets, two back pockets, and two deep cargo pockets, plus several utility pockets. The cargo pockets feature enough space for larger tools and are secured by flaps and snap closures.
There are knee pad insert slots, so you can reinforce the knees.

Cons:

There is no hammer loop, but you could probably store or hang a hammer in one of the large cargo pockets.
The knee pad insert slots are only three inches wide, so larger knee pads will not fit inside them.
The pants can fade quickly with regular wear and frequent washes. This can cause the fabric to begin to break down.
When items are stored inside the cargo pockets, it causes the knees to feel tight.

Dickies Men’s Relaxed Fit Straight-Leg Duck Carpenter Jean

The Dickies Men’s Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Duck Carpenter Jean is durable and comfortable. It is made of 100 percent cotton which is sanded and pre-washed. This gives it that “broken-in” kind of comfort without sacrificing durability. It features a relaxed fit with a straight leg design, making it even more comfortable and flexible. The straight leg isn’t too straight – it will still fit over work boots. There are tool pockets on the right side and a hammer loop on the left side, allowing you to carry your essentials with you. Extra durability is provided by the triple-stitched seams and heavy-duty brass zippers.

Pros:

Durability comes from triple-stitched seams and heavy-duty zippers.
Comfort is provided by the pure cotton construction, which is sanded and pre-washed for extra comfort, and the relaxed fit.
The straight leg is comfortable and still accommodates work boots.
The pants are flexible and easy to move around in.
You can store tools and other items in the front and back pockets, dual tool pockets on the right side, and hammer loop on the left side.
The pants are heavier than normal blue jeans, giving them added durability and warmth.

Cons:

The pants wrinkle a lot after drying, so ironing is necessary.
They are a bit stiff, even after a few washes.
The pockets are tight and too small to fit most hands inside to retrieve tools.
The pants fit tight in the waist.

Carhartt Men’s Loose Fit Five Pocket Canvas Carpenter Jean

The Carhartt Men’s Loose Fit Five Pocket Canvas Carpenter Jean is versatile, comfortable, and lightweight. It is made of 100 percent cotton canvas and sits securely at the waist. The straight leg design is secure, snug, and fits over work boots. The loose fit keeps you comfortable throughout your work day. Five pockets, two hammer loops, and a special cell phone pocket give you lots of space for your tools, phone, and other items. The pants are lightweight and flexible, letting you move around easily throughout your day.

Pros:

The cotton canvas construction, loose fit, and straight leg design lend comfort to the pants.
Any tools and other items can be carried in the multitude of pockets and hammer loops included with these pants.
The straight leg fits over work boots.
The pants are lightweight and flexible.
The loose fit allow even wearers with large legs to move around easily.

Cons:

The dedicated cell phone pocket is not large enough for a larger cell phone, such as a Samsung Galaxy Note or IPhone 6 Plus.
The phone pocket is not secure and does not conceal the phone. Most phones will fall out whenever the right leg is moved to a 90-degree angle or greater.
The pockets, though plentiful, are not very deep.
The front pockets feel tight and it’s difficult to retrieve items out of them.

Red Kap Men’s Stain Resistant Flat Front Work Pant

The Red Kap Men’s Stain Resistant Flat Front Work Pant is comfortable and durable. Its blend of polyester and cotton makes it soft and comfortable, yet strong and durable. It also has a wrinkle-resistant finish that reduces the need for constant ironing. The fabric resists fading, even after frequent washing. The Touchtex Pro Technology makes the fabric breathable and resistant to stains. It allows the fabric to easily release soil, dirt, and grease during washing without affecting the color or fit of the pants. Other features include a heavy-duty hidden zipper, covered buttons, and four pockets to hold your essentials throughout the day. Two of these pockets are “slack style”, and two are set-in hip pockets with button closures.

Pros:

The polyester material makes the pants durable, while the cotton gives it softness and comfort.
The wrinkle-resistant finish keeps the pants from becoming too wrinkled. This prevents the need to iron the pants.
The Touchtex Pro Technology retains the color and fit of the fabric, even after multiple washes.
The Touchtex Pro Technology also makes the fabric stain-resistant by allowing the fabric to release stains, such as dirt and grease, during washing.
The fabric is breathable, allowing you to stay cool in the summer and move around easily without feeling restricted. This also keeps the pants lightweight.
A hidden zipper and covered buttons keep these features from getting in the way. The zipper is heavy duty and durable.
Two slack style pockets and two set-in hip pockets allow you to store and carry small tools. The hip pockets have button closures to keep items secure.

Cons:

There are no hammer loops and the pockets may be too small to hide or hang a hammer.
The pants fit very snug and could feel too tight for some people.
The seams seem very awkward and only connected by weak stitching, likely to fall apart.

Which Work Pant is Best for You?

The work pant that’s best for you will depend on the aspect that is most important to you. Both of the Carhartt versions offer the best fit for all-day comfort. The Wrangler Riggs Workwear Men’s Ripstop Carpenter Jean and Carhartt Men’s Cotton Ripstop Relaxed Fit Work Pant are the most durable work pants for carpenters. The Carhartt Men’s Loose Fit Five Pocket Canvas Carpenter Jean is the best option for carrying tools and a cell phone, as well as keeping a hammer accessible. All the work pants on this list offer some degree of flexibility. The Wrangler Riggs Workwear Men’s Ripstop Carpenter Jean is unique in its ability to handle any situation, including wet and muddy conditions. Whatever your need, you’re sure to find a work pant on this list that will benefit you throughout each work day.