How to Choose the Perfect Work Trousers for Any Job

A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Ideal Workwear Trousers

In the world of industry and trade, every day often brings new challenges and demands.

Farmers and gardeners may face unpredictable weather, warehouse employees may get a sudden rush on orders, and tradesmen go from job to job with a variety of conditions and tasks. So choosing the right pair of work trousers needs to be a priority.

Happy and ready to take on the day, or uncomfortable and unable to complete the job at hand? It's time to make sure you're answering yes to the former.

In our guide here, we're going to walk you through the process of selecting the ideal work trousers. We'll explore the key features to consider, from the weather and fit to the pockets, safety features, and style. Just think of it as your roadmap to finding the perfect trousers to tackle any job with confidence and comfort.

Work Trousers vs Everyday Trousers

So, what's the difference between the standard pair of jeans you wear on the weekend to a pair of quality work trousers?

Let's break it down what workwear pants are all about compared to everyday ones:

1. Designed for Specific Tasks: When you think about all that your job entails, you realise that not every pair of trousers will be up to the task. Chinos or skinny jeans, for example, might look good, but they aren't going to be very practical in allowing ease of movement and flexibility when you're at work. Cargo trousers or waterproof overtrousers, on the other hand, are more likely to hold their own against the demands of your day.
2. Durable Materials: Trousers designed for work are often made from tough and high-quality materials like ripstop or canvas to keep your legs protected from potentially hazardous environments. This is unlikely to be seen in your everyday legwear.
3. Colour and Pattern Choices: You will note that workwear trousers usually come in darker colours like navy or black to hide the inevitable stains and dirt, alongside giving you a polished appearance. Regular trousers can come in a variety of colours and patterns, from the bold and bright to the wacky and wonderful.
4. Functional Features: Protective trousers typically have specific features such as reinforced knees, multiple deep pockets for tools, and high visibility stripes for safety, whereas normal trousers tend to have a simpler design focused on aesthetics rather than function. Think a Friday evening at the pub rather than a busy day in the fields or in the yard.

This means it's worthwhile shopping specifically for work trousers, as it can make all the difference between a productive day and a not-so-productive one.

Factors to Consider

 Now, let's look at how to decide which trousers are suitable for you and your work. 

There are a few different factors to take into consideration, including:

• Weather Conditions
• Fit
• Pockets
• Safety Features
• Style

So, let's have a look at each in more detail. 

Weather Conditions

The first thing you have to consider is what type of weather you are often working in. Rain? Cold? Indoor? 

Waterproof work trousers are typically made from fabrics treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish or have a waterproof membrane integrated into the material. This is particularly useful for those working in inclement weather conditions, such as rain or snow, as it keeps workers dry and comfortable throughout their shifts.

You may also often work in hot or humid environments, in which case breathable fabrics are ideal. These materials allow for better airflow and moisture-wicking properties, keeping the wearer cool and comfortable.

We have a couple of quality workwear trouser options to get you started. Choose the Hoggs of Fife Culloden Waterproof Trousers for something smart looking or go for the best-selling Fort Airflex Waterproof Breathable Trousers as more of an overtrouser.

Fit

Another attribute to consider is the fit. Do you prefer a looser fit, like the Dickies Everyday Trousers, or something more slim fitting and tailored, like the Caterpillar Dynamic Trousers?

Stretch fabrics, such as elastane, are often a popular choice as they help with freedom of movement for busy days, but also ensure durability by reducing the likelihood of tearing or ripping.

This is again another good time to think about the weather conditions. If you know it's often going to be chilly and you'll need to wear thermals underneath (such as long johns) then you may opt for a slightly baggier fit to accommodate this.

We have a wide range of fits in our collection so it's easy to find your perfect pair for any job role.

Pockets

This is an important practical feature to bear in mind, as how much you need to carry about with you can influence how many pockets you need. 

The number, size, type, and placement of pockets can vary greatly between different styles, so here are a few more considerations:

1. Quantity: How much do you usually carry around with you during the day? If you work in a trade, you might need a pair of trousers with multiple functional pockets for tools to make life easier. Or if you work in a warehouse, you might want to go for those with a specific knife pocket for easy (and safe) carrying of your multi-tool or box cutter.
2. Placement: The positioning of pockets can greatly affect their usability. For example, if you frequently work on your knees, having pockets positioned higher on the thigh can prevent tools from digging into your legs. Cargo-style trousers with pockets on the sides of the legs offer easy access to tools and are popular among tradespeople for this reason.
3. Secure Storage: Look for pockets with reinforced stitching and secure closures, such as flaps, zippers, or Velcro, to prevent items from falling out while you work. This can make such a difference if you're going up and down ladders or have a particularly active role.

There are a range of options for you in our collection, but we recommend the TuffStuff Extreme Work Trousers as an excellent choice for workwear if you need plenty of pockets.

Safety Features

Do you work in high-risk environments or challenging conditions? This can influence the style of trousers you opt for and the design features involved.

If you need to wear safety boots, your trousers should fit comfortably around the cuffs, or you may need to choose hi-vis trousers, like the Fort Air Reflex Trousers, if you work in low-light or hazardous conditions. 

Many workwear trousers are also made from durable materials such as ripstop fabric to reduce the risk of injury or damage caused by sharp objects. Additionally, look for reinforced knee reinforcements and a gusseted crotch that provide extra cushioning and protection for workers who frequently kneel or bend.

Check out the HSE website if you're unsure of any necessary safety requirements for your job site.

Style

Although the other factors may largely impact this, it's still worth considering - particularly in terms of appearance and professionalism.

You may love the jogger style, but does this align with the look you need to portray? If you have a client-facing role, there may be the need to dress slightly smarter than say if you were doing DIY jobs in your own backyard.

While traditional work trousers often come in dark colours like navy or black, there's a growing trend towards more versatile colour options. Grey, khaki, and olive are popular choices that offer a balance between style and practicality.

Plus, feeling good about what you wear can have a significant impact on your confidence and performance. So, it doesn't hurt to try and choose a pair that you like the look of too! When you look and feel your best, you're more likely to approach your work with enthusiasm and professionalism.

Summary

From the practicality of waterproofing to the freedom of movement in the fit, and from the convenience of pockets to the safety features that keep you out of harm's way, a lot is riding on the choice of your trousers.

So, as you browse through our fantastic collection of comfortable work trousers, remember to think about what you really need for your workplace. Choose wisely, and you'll tackle any job with confidence and ease.

Need a helping hand? Reach out to our helpful customer services team via phone or email - we're always happy to assist. Alternatively, check out our previous blog posts, where we talk more about the world of work trousers, alongside other expert insights.

About the Author

Matthew Holland brings a wealth of expertise to the world of workwear. With an extensive background in warehousing and outdoor work, he possesses an intricate understanding of the high-quality, functional garments needed for the demands of the workplace. Using his hands-on experience and knowledge gained, he continues to contribute valuable insights that resonate with professionals seeking superior workwear across various industries.