Work pants: 10 key criteria for choosing the right pair

10 criteria to consider when buying work pants

Work pants are at the heart of workwear, a must-have for optimal protection and comfort throughout the day. Whether you are an engineer, construction worker, mechanic or craftsman these clothes must be perfectly adapted to your needs, your work environment, and the constraints that exist. The choice is therefore not random, and the selection criteria go well beyond purely aesthetic aspects. 

When it comes to buying work pants, selecting the right pair can make a huge difference in your comfort, safety, and overall job performance. Here are 10 key factors to help guide your purchase:

1. Material durability
 
The material is the foundation of great work pants (link https://www.pharsol-protect.com/sl/delovna-oblacila/delovne-hlace). Look for fabrics like cotton duck, canvas, or ripstop for excellent durability. These materials can withstand harsh work environments and resist wear and tear, making them ideal for heavy-duty jobs.

Work pants materials

It’s uncommon to find a pair made 100% from a single material. Most feature a blend of fabrics to offer the best qualities of each material:

• Cotton: Highly breathable and heavyweight, great for cool weather, though can shrink and wrinkle.
• Denim: Durable and sturdy, though often mixed with other fabrics for increased comfort.
• Cotton duck: Tougher than denim, offering excellent wind and tear resistance.
• Polyester: Quick-drying and stain-resistant, often blended with cotton for added breathability.
• Spandex: Provides stretch and flexibility, woven with other materials for increased mobility. Even 2% elastane or spandex can improve durability because it reduces tension in the fabric, as long as you don’t size it down due to the stretchiness.
• Cordura: Highly abrasion-resistant, used in high-stress areas like knees and seats for reinforcement.
• Insulating linings: Flannel or fleece linings help protect workers from the cold in winter conditions.

2. Comfort and flexibility

Comfort is key. Choose ones with articulated knees, gusseted crotches, or stretch fabrics for free movement and flexibility during your workday. A gusseted crotch is non-negotiable; without this feature will never be ideal for actual work. It allows for better freedom of movement, especially when squatting or bending, reducing the risk of tearing or discomfort in the crotch area.

3. Weather resistance

Work outdoors? Water-resistant or insulated pants are essential. Opt for breathable fabrics in hot climates and insulated ones for colder weather.

4. Reinforced knees and pockets

Double-layered knees and reinforced pockets are essential for workers frequently kneeling or carrying tools. Work pants that have knee pad pockets can provide extra comfort and durability, while reinforced hems offer added longevity, especially in high-wear areas.



5. Pockets and storage options

Practical storage is crucial. Multi-pocket are ideal for carrying tools, hardware, or other essentials. Cargo pockets and tool loops keep your gear within reach.

Work pants features: Pockets & Tool Accommodations

Hammer loops: Conveniently carry a hammer or similar tools.
Utility pouches: Expandable pockets for extra tool storage.
Cargo pockets: Versatile thigh pockets for small essentials.
Knee pad pockets: Built-in pockets for extra knee protection.



6. Safety features: EN ISO standards

In many work environments, safety is a top priority, and wearing the right protective gear is non-negotiable. When choosing work wear, look for certification under the appropriate EN ISO standards to ensure maximum safety and protection. For example standard EN 17353 - Enhanced Visibility applies to workwear for medium-risk environments, providing visibility for workers without the full protection of work pants that have EN ISO 20471.

7. Breathability and moisture-wicking

In warm conditions, breathable fabrics with moisture-wicking technology keep you cool and dry throughout the day.

8. Proper fit

A good fit is crucial for both comfort and safety. When buying work pants, size for your thighs and butt, not just your waist. Make sure you can comfortably squat "ass-to-grass" without getting taut in the thighs or crotch. You can always adjust the waist later or use suspenders for better manoeuvrability. Choosing the right fit ensures you remain mobile and comfortable throughout your workday.



Work pants fit options:

• Relaxed fit: More room in the seat and thighs for better comfort and mobility.
• Regular fit: Less baggy, offering ease of movement without being overly tight.
• Slim fit: Closer fit that offers a streamlined appearance while remaining functional.

9. Ease of maintenance 

Easy-care work pants save you time. Look for stain-resistant fabrics that can endure frequent washing.

10. Service at Pharsol Protect: excellence when buying work pants in an online-only shop

While we offer work pants exclusively online, at Pharsol Protect, we believe that excellent service should never be compromised. Many long-standing companies have been in the market for years, offering great products but often lacking a seamless online shopping experience or dedicated customer support. At Pharsol Protect, we’ve made it our mission to combine the best of both worlds: an easy-to-navigate online store with exceptional customer service that you can rely on.

Our customer service team is always ready to help you choose the best fit through multiple channels, whether by email, instagram, facebook, tiktok or phone. We ensure that each interaction is handled by someone who truly understands our product range, from materials and safety certifications to real-world performance. 

While we don’t have a physical store, we know that sometimes you need to see work wear in person before making a decision. That’s why we offer a unique service: we can come to your company to present our range of products in person. Whether you need to outfit an entire team or simply want to assess the quality of our products before purchasing, our team can visit your workplace, giving you a hands-on look at our high-quality workwear. This combines the convenience of online shopping with the personal touch of an in-person demonstration.

The best brands of stylish and high-end work pants for men and women

To combine comfort and safety, choose from top brands known for their quality and durability. Trusted manufacturers include BP, Malfini, Carhartt, Coverguard, and Helly Hansen workwear. These brands rigorously test their products to meet the demands of industries like construction, logistics, mechanics, and more.

Finding the right ones enhances comfort, safety, and productivity on the job. Consider your specific work environment and select that offer durability, flexibility, and the right features. Take your time in defining your needs, and remember to size properly for your thighs and butt, ensuring they won’t hinder your movement. High-quality work pants, with reinforced areas and gusseted crotches, will last longer and perform better, providing excellent value for your investment.