The Best Work Pants for Men
If your current "work pants" are hand-me-down dungarees with holes at the knees and frayed seams, it might be time for an apparel upgrade. A small investment in proper work pants can make long days on your legs more bearable with breathable fabric, functional pockets, and reinforced knees. Luckily, there are plenty of trusty brands that have been churning out workhorse slacks since before you could swing a hammer. We've rounded up some of the best pants on the market that will leave you belting with joy. Read on to find your new favorite work friends that won't talk back to you.
Dickies Original 874 Work Pant
Dickies Won't Let You Down
You’ve probably heard of Dickies, which in this case, is a good thing since their nearly 100-year run has produced one of the most trusted work pants. A cotton-polyester blend promises stain- and wrinkle-resistant pants that won’t shrink as long as they’re cared for properly; don’t worry, though — proper care just means machine-washing them on cold and then air-drying them. The flat front provides a flattering look that’s just as professional as it is functional, and Dickies offers these pants in a huge range of colors to match any uniform. Basically, these are the ground zero for work pants, so start here if you’re new to the work-wear game.
Pros:
- Cotton-polyester blend is wrinkle- and stain-resistant
- Flap-free construction with inlaid front and back pockets
- Offered in a wide range of colors and sizes
Cons:
- Lack additional pockets and loops for tool storage
Carhartt Washed Duck Work Dungaree
Work Without Worry
Cotton purists, rejoice: Carhartt’s duck work dungarees boast a 100% cotton duck, which is clothing-talk for plainly woven cotton that’s sturdier than usual. These work pants sit at your natural waist and feature multiple pockets and a single loop for easy access to a tool of your choice. If you’re strapping on a full utility belt, the reinforced belt loops will ensure a snug and secure fixture around your waist without wearing down the fabric. Though not offered in every shade of the rainbow, you’ve still got plenty of professional colors to choose from.
Pros:
- Additional utility pockets along with front and back pockets
- Reinforced belt loops to support tool belt usage
- 100% cotton duck is thick and durable
Cons:
- Fabric can be stiff immediately out of the package
Wrangler Riggs Workwear Ranger Pant
Round up These Wranglers
If you’re spending excessive time in the shop or out in the field, you’ll want to suit up with something that can handle all the possible wear and tear. Wrangler’s Riggs ranger pant has a 100% ripstop cotton construction with various reinforcement features to ensure a long lifespan. Leather patches support the front pockets without reducing mobility, while the reinforced knees and lined back pockets are built for frequent bending with a full tool-load. With a relaxed fit and an action gusset crotch, these pants won’t restrict your range of motion in the least. Lean, bend, crouch, and keep on crafting on, men.
Pros:
- Reinforced knees have dirt drop vents for easy debris removal
- Various compartmentalized pockets ideal for small tool access
- Relaxed fit and crotch provide ample mobility
Cons:
- Limited range of dark colors
Caterpillar Men’s Trademark Pant
Take a Knee
When a machinery equipment company makes a pair of pants, you know they’re going to be good — or at least that’s true of these pants from Caterpillar. The cotton-polyester blend is labeled as “Cordura,” which is known for being tough and ultra-durable, but the inside of the pant is brushed to ensure a comfortable fit. They boast plenty of pockets and a carpenter loop at the thigh. The front pockets can be pulled out and expanded into tool bags, while the handy kneepad compartments provide easy insertion for extra support. Scuff guards at the hem keep rocks and your own boots from wearing down your pants prematurely, so you’ll be working these cool cats for years to come.
Pros:
- Expandable front pockets create functional tool bags
- Brushed Cordura interior doesn’t sacrifice comfort for sturdiness
- Scuff guards and reinforced belt loops ensure long lifespan
- Built-in kneepads for frequent kneeling
Cons:
- Pockets can be excessive for those not working with a full toolset
Red Kap Double-Knee No-Scratch Shop Pants
Liberate Your Legs
We know: a 4% spandex construction doesn’t seem like it would make a difference, but anyone who’s bought a pair of stretch chinos or jeans can tell you that it does. Red Kap utilizes a majority cotton-polyester blend for their shop pants that feature double-lined knees, deep pockets for tools, and a full inseam gusset for comfortable bending and kneeling. The fabric is stain-resistant and moisture-wicking, while it also boasts “ZeroSkratch” technology to prevent accidental damage if you brush against a freshly painted wall. But whether you’re painting, pruning, or plying, you’ll want to cop these pants from Red Kap.
Pros:
- 4% spandex adds to wrinkle-resistant, flexible construction
- Deep pockets provide easy access to tools
- ZeroSkratch technology ideal for painters
Cons:
- Fit may not be suitable for all body shapes
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes work pants special?
Work pants are differentiated from regular jeans or chinos by the thickness of the fabric and additional utility pockets or loops. Often, work pants will feature duck cotton (commonly used in boot construction because of its durability) or “Cordura” fabrics, which are usually nylon but can be blended with polyester and cotton for strength and comfort. Double-lined knees and wider “gusset” crotches are also common features to ensure greater mobility.
How can I soften or break in my work pants?
While the internet offers up a plethora of methods to soften your work pants, fabric softener works just as well in a pinch. Most work pants shouldn’t be tumble-dried anyway, but always be sure to air dry and give them a shake every 20 minutes or so. This helps reduce wrinkles and also ensures your pants don’t dry too hard or crispy. But possibly the simplest answer is often overlooked: wear them, and wear them well.
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