Workwear worn by those in the construction, engineering, or trade sectors performs a more demanding function than most garments. Uniforms for these physically demanding jobs must ensure that the wearer is visible at all times, comfortable, able to move freely, and safe from hazards in the workplace.
Work trousers are essential for those in the facilities industry. They must withstand heavy-duty work because many colleagues constantly bend, lean against objects, and work on their hands and knees.
However, finding high-quality, long-lasting work pants can be difficult. That is why Alexandra has compiled this article to explain what you should be on the lookout for.
Table of Contents
The types of work trousers available
Work trousers
Standard work trousers are tough and versatile, making them suited for a wide range of jobs and situations. They are a versatile option that is usually available in straight leg configurations.
Waterproof trousers
Construction sites are open all year, which means you’ll have to work through the occasional rainstorm. Waterproof trousers are necessary in those conditions to keep you warm, dry, and healthy throughout your shift.
Work shorts
Work shorts, which are frequently fashioned from the same sturdy material as work trousers, are great for warmer weather when trousers can cause you to overheat. They also provide more range of movement than trousers, particularly while kneeling or bending.
Hi-vis trousers
Hi-visibility pants are appropriate for high-risk environments and can be used for engineering or roadside work. They are designed to keep you safe from wind and rain while also making you visible at all times.
Work Trousers with Padding
Padded pants have a specific compartment for knee protectors. Because they give safety and comfort when kneeling, they are popular among plumbers, builders, electricians, and gardeners, among others.
Features of work trousers to look for
Choosing work pants with the correct features can improve your comfort, enjoyment, and efficiency during your shift. The following are essential features to look for:
Holster pockets for storing tools close to hand.
Belt loops for using a utility belt and storage loops for attaching accessories, such as fob watches or tape measures.
Reinforced pockets that are tough to stop tools from tearing the trouser fabric.
Reinforced trouser seams to prevent them from tearing during the movement on the job.
Knee protectors to support your knees and cushion them from the floor when kneeling.
Stretch panels and fabric to give you more flexibility and freedom of movement when stretching, lifting, kneeling and bending on the job.
Breathable fabric that keeps you cool in hotter weather and reduces the build-up of sweat inside your trousers.
What should I look for in work trousers?
What do you need for your role?
Rather than selecting your trousers on a whim, evaluate what you do daily to ensure that the item you wear provides you with appropriate benefits.
If you’re a plumber who spends a lot of time on your knees behind cabinets, for example, you can choose high-quality work trousers with kneepads.
In contrast, if you’re a builder on-site throughout the summer, you might look for trousers shorts.
Do the trousers conform to industry regulations?
Every workplace item in every profession has laws that must be followed to keep you as safe as possible, and working trousers are no exception.
Make sure you buy from a trustworthy provider who manufactures uniforms following your sector’s most recent safety regulations.
Alexandra manufactures a diverse assortment of work clothes for men and women in the trade sector that meets the strictest safety standards.
What leg fit do you prefer?
You should also consider whether you want your trousers to fit looser or tighter around the legs. Again, this is a question of personal preference, but it is also decided by the job at hand and the degree of movement necessary from the trousers.
You don’t want to buy smaller trousers only to find out you need more room for knee pads or purchase a slimmer fit leg and realise they can’t comfortably fit over your safety shoes or boots.
What features do you need?
You should consider what you will do at work. Do you require more pockets? You should probably acquire some knee guards for your work pants. These tiny details will make the difference between good and exceptional work trousers that are both safe and functional.
Alexandra offers a wide range of the best work trousers men and women need for the trade and service industries. Our product range includes workwear options made to the relevant industry standards so you can be sure they’ll keep you safe and protected on site.