When you work hard, your work trousers clock up the hours with you- and if you’ve picked the wrong pair? You’ll be sure to know by lunchtime.
Choosing the right work trousers means comfort, protection, and fewer site holdbacks. They’re the bread and butter of your workwear wardrobe, your toolkit-on-legs, and we know that finding the right pair can often be easier said than done.
That’s why we’ve rounded up and nailed down the top five features that really matter in a great pair of work trousers, so you can skip the searching, focus on the essentials, and find the perfect pair for all your workwear needs. So let's crack on!
1. Durability First
Work trousers are an investment. They need to survive more than just the washing machine (and we mean a lot more!) Look for reinforced stress points, triple stitching, and heavy-duty fabric blends for trousers that keep up with the job.
Our Workwear Picks:
TuffStuff Excel Work Trousers
Featuring triple-stitched seams and added Tuff-Tex reinforcement just where you need it, the TuffStuff Excel trousers are a budget-friendly option- tough as nails, they certainly mean business.
Hard Yakka Men's Xtreme 2.0 Trousers
Made for the most demanding environments and tough-tested for all job site scenarios, these Hard Yakka Extreme 2.0 Trousers feature both Cordura® reinforcement and ripstop fabrication for ultimate dependable durability.
2. Move it, Flex it, Fix it
Whether you’re out on site or finishing up those seemingly never-ending DIY jobs at home, comfort is key, and freedom of movement matters more than just style (but don’t worry, we have both covered!) Stretch out your options and look for stretch fabrics and flexible materials (especially in the knees and crotch!)
Our Workwear Picks:
Dickies Holster Universal Flex Trousers
A slim-fit design incorporating Dickies Flex Technology, these Universal Flex Trousers are built for the modern workplace, providing top-notch flexibility and coverage for the stretches of everyday working life.
TuffStuff Pro-Flex Trousers
Made from full-stretch fabric, these slim-fit trousers stretch with you, whatever the challenge, whether squeezing through a loft hatch or down on your knees nailing floorboards, you're flexible and covered in the Pro-Flex Trousers.
3. Pocket Power
We’ve all been there, emptying your tool bag into flimsy trousers that can’t hold the load, and then finding out there aren't even enough pockets for your essentials. Consider different pocket options, from holster pockets and zipped thigh pockets for essentials to tool loops, ruler pockets & hammer holders. So, if you go belt-free, you can keep your must-haves to hand and save those steps to and from the tool bag.
Our Workwear Picks:
Dickies Eisenhower Multi Pocket Trousers
What’s worse than not enough pockets? Having so many, you spend more time looking for things than getting on with the job. These Eisenhower Multi-Pocket trousers offer great pocket placement without overdoing it- so you'll never forget where you put that pesky pencil again!
Caterpillar Trade Pocket Trouser
Combining functionality with style, the Caterpillar Trade Pocket Trousers offer a pocket layout that means business, without compromising on mobility. The rear pockets are thoughtfully cut away from the garment to enhance accessibility, with an extra-wide centre back belt loop and carpenter and cell phone pockets for practical storage.
4. Knee Pad Compatibility
An essential for any job that requires repetitive kneeling, if you're working on your knees all day, kneepads are a must for both protection and comfort. Check for knee pad pockets (with Velcro openings for added ease), if they're removable or integrated, and, of course, that they sit in the correct position when actually kneeling!
Our Workwear Picks:
DeWalt Harrison Slim Fit Stretch Trousers
Built for tough days, the Harrison Slim Fit Stretch Trousers deliver durability in every aspect, featuring Cordura-reinforced knee pad pockets for those extra ‘floor-friendly’ jobs.
TuffStuff Work Jogger
If you’re looking for a comfy alternative to the traditional Work Trouser, the TuffStuff Work Jogger has all the comfort of a jogging/sweatpant in a hardwearing work trouser- complete with secure knee pad pockets!
5. Weather-Ready
As we well know, the UK forecast has a mind of its own. You’ll be out in all sorts of weather, from sun to rain and wind to sludge- so it’s best to get your legs protected. Look for water-resistant coatings or soft-shell materials, fleece linings and thermal features, and ventilation for active days on the job.
Our Workwear Picks:
Hoggs of Fife Granite II Utility Thermal Trousers
The same technical fabrics as the Granite Active Ripstop Trouser, but with a cotton-based thermal lining, the Granite II Utility Thermal trousers are ideal for those cold Winter days working outdoors.
Dickies Everyday Trousers
A combination of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, these Dickies Everyday work trousers are comfortable and breathable, while still wicking moisture away from the skin to keep you cool and dry on those hot days.
Bonus Bits: The Small Things That Still Count
We’ve covered our top five features that make a great pair of work trousers, but we couldn’t finish without a few extra top tips. So, here are some honourable mentions also worth considering when picking your perfect pair:
- Darker Colours hide the grime (for when you need to squeeze that extra day out of your kit).
- Slim vs regular fit: Comfort isn’t just about the fabric choice; pick a fit that works for your trade as well as your personal preference.
- Some trades require hi-vis, so consider adding an option like the Fort Airflex Trousers to your ready-for-anything workwear wardrobe.
- Does branding need to match the crew uniform? Check colourways and style options, such as the TuffStuff Pro work trousers, available in a range of colours from black to beige.
- Holding their own even when off duty, make sure to consider work trousers washability- can they handle frequent washes as well as they handle hard work?
Choose Smart, Work Smarter
Ready to build the foundation for a better day on the job by choosing the right trousers? Whatever your trade, whether you’re digging footings, fitting kitchens, wiring up a new build, or just DIYing at home, your trousers are an investment that’s worth making.
Browse our full range of top-rated work trousers all in one place, so you can find your perfect pair of workwear trousers- ready for whatever the job demands.
About the Author
Robert Coates
With years of hands-on experience in warehousing, operations, and outdoor work, Robert Coates has been there, done that, and knows the importance of workwear that feels as good as it performs. Through his recommendations and insights, he is passionate about helping others find clothing that they genuinely enjoy wearing. He has a knack for finding the perfect balance between comfort and functionality, so if you’re looking to get the job done efficiently, yet comfortably, let Robert guide you to the best in the business.
