We're an affiliate
We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. So thank you if you use our links; we really appreciate it!
Construction work is a physically demanding job that can easily take its toll on your clothes. There are several concerns when it comes to finding the best construction work pants. Will they last? Do they have enough pockets? Are they affordable? These are just some surface questions that many workers ask. Realistically, what is needed goes far deeper than this.
The average construction worker’s concerns when it comes to the best work pants (aside from the obvious) are the following:
- Do the work pants have enough pockets?
- Will the pants fit well for my body type?
- Are the work pants durable?
- If I buy a more expensive pair of work pants, will they last or am I throwing away money?
- Will this fabric be comfortable or will it irritate me?
These are all valid questions. For an item that needs to be worn most of the day and in potentially extreme weather conditions, work pants need to be comfortable. They also need to last.
Contents
Top Five Best Construction Work Pants (Men’s)
What most construction workers look for in work pants will not boil down to fashion. The decision will be based on whether the pants have enough deep pockets for tools and items that are regularly required, if they are durable, and if they’re comfortable. These are just the basics. We’ve searched for materials and features that make each of these options the best possible for addressing each need.
1. Carhartt Double Front Duck Utility Pants (Men’s)
Fit: Comfortable Loose Original (Full thigh and seat to maximize movement. Sits slightly above the waist).
Benefit: Durable and won’t restrict movement.
Most construction workers want to get the job done quickly and efficiently. They don’t want to waste time constantly searching for tools. These Carhartt pants provide extra storage space, making carrying tools easy. Workers will not have to stop and search their toolbox for items. They also contain a loop that a hammer can easily fit into.
Additionally, workers need clothes that are durable and that make work more efficient. These work pants contain a reinforced utility belt and back pockets. They also have room for knee inserts and large leg openings, making them easy to fit over any type of work boot.
Workers will not have to worry about replacing these pants every year because they are ripped in the knee–a common occurrence in construction. These work pants are made to last.
When it comes to material, these pants are created from ring-spun cotton duck. This cotton is more woven than other fabrics. It allows them to adapt easily to the legs, which is a necessity for any construction worker. Additionally, there are double fronts to the pants to prevent tearing over the thigh area when bending.
- Reinforced knee paneling
- Several utility pockets and multiple tool pockets for efficiency
- Knee pad openings
- Reinforced belt loop
- Size may run large
- Waist a bit tight with a longer leg
2. Tactical LacLite Pro Pant (Mens)
Fit: High rise (sits naturally at the waist). Provides ample room for thigh and seat with a straight leg.
Benefit: Durable and allows workers to carry a variety of tools.
These pants come equipped with two cargo pockets, allowing workers to find tools easily. Each pocket is differently sized, allowing for multiple-sized tools to easily fit in them. They come equipped with a back strap and web strap, which are useful if the pockets are full or you need to carry a larger tool.
Clip loops allow workers to attach equipment to them, making them more convenient and efficient. They allow construction workers to carry as many tools as they need.
With triple-stitching, these pants are reinforced where it matters most. These are great for the demanding job of construction and will withstand any stress you put them through. Additionally, they contain a YKK zipper. These are more durable than regular zippers and won’t break as frequently.
They are also reinforced in areas where workers place the most stress on their pants: the knees, thighs, and waist.
- Triple-stitch reinforcements make them durable
- Ample room for carrying tools
- YKK zipper
- Comes in multiple colors
- Wrinkle/stain/soil/moisture resistant
- Ripstop fabric
- Must be washed in cold water or color will fade
- Button not securely attached and may come off
3. Caterpillar C172 (Men’s)
Fit: Fits at waist with a wider leg. Available in big/tall and regular sizing.
Benefits: Durable, comfortable, and allow easy access to tools.
These are some of the toughest pants available. Created by a reputable brand, they are durably made and can withstand daily abuse. If you need to tuck in your shirt, the waistbands contain gripper tapes so the shirt stays in place. It will not pull up when you bend down.
The knee pockets allow you to easily access tools. Regular belt loops are sturdy and easily carry a loaded tool belt. Pockets are strategically placed so they’re easy to reach. There’s even a pocket dedicated for your smartphone!
- Tough and comfortable
- Allows workers to tuck in a shirt
- Durable loops for tools
- Pockets are easy to access
- Knee pads shift in pockets
- Waist is a little tight
4. Dickies 874 Big and Tall (Men’s)
Fit: Sits at natural waist with a straight leg cut
Benefit: Fits men who are taller/bigger
Dickies pants come with tunnel belt loops, allowing for a fit that nicely shapes the leg. The back and rear welt pockets allow construction workers to have instant access to their tools. There is adequate space, and they’re reinforced, making them durable.
Snap closures ensure all tools are secured and safely stored so they won’t be damaged. They come with a hook-and-eye closure and brass zip fly, which saves the frustration of jamming the zipper. The zipper also contains a ratcheting feature, ensuring there is no stress when locking it and that it will not break, as the ratchet will secure it.
These pants are stain- and wrinkle-resistant. They are also easy to care for. They come with reinforced, durable seams, which can easily withstand everyday abuse. Furthermore, they contain an expandable waistband, which comfortably adapts to anyone’s waistline. The expandable portion allows the waistband to stretch a few inches if needed. These are ideal if you are between sizes.
- Stain/wrinkle resistant
- Reinforced seams
- Available in a variety of colors
- Easy stain release feature
- Fit a little small
- May fit larger in rear and thigh area
5. CRQ Tactical Pant (Men’s)
Fit: Relaxed fit; roomy through thigh and seat; straight fit from the knee down
Benefits: Durable fabric, lightweight, and contain multiple pockets for tools
While tactical pants may not be commonly seen in construction, they are created for durability. These pants contain a gusseted construction and allow the knee to easily bend for natural movement.
They contain Duratex, which dries quickly when wet and repels dust, water, and contaminants. They are also comfortable to wear. The material makes them easy to maintain as they are wrinkle-resistant, plus they won’t shrink or fade.
With an elastic waistband, they are snug and allow the shirt to remain tucked in. The pockets are deep and roomy.
- Material dries quickly and repels water
- Provides easy movement
- Low maintenance
- Stitching could be better
Top Five Best Construction Work Pants (Women’s)
1. Tactical Women’s Stryke Pants (Women’s)
Fit: Sits at the natural waist and is a straight cut
Benefit: Fabric is Teflon-treated and durable
With input from those in the industry, these pants were designed to be durable. The material is a two-way mechanical stretch with a crotch that is completely gusseted for maximum durability. The Teflon finish adds mobility, comfort, and stain resistance. They come in regular and long.
These pants contain 12 pockets to transport any tools required, the fixed waist is comfortable for all-day wear, and the knees have openings to insert knee pads if required. Also, each major stress point and seam is reinforced. For added durability, it has a Flex-Tac ripstop material.
- Prym snaps and YKK zipper
- Front thigh pockets
- Comfortable waist
- Not a great deal of thigh room
- Initially may be a bit stiff
2. Dickies Relaxed Fit Cargo Pant (Women’s)
Fit: Rests a bit below the natural waist with a straight leg and relaxed fit.
Benefit: Durable and functional pants.
Originally designed for military use, these pants keep everything you need within reach. These stretch cargo pants contain a durable, soft, brushed material for the ultimate in comfort. The back flaps contain pockets with a snap enclosure, keeping your items safe. They have seven functional pockets with an expandable cargo pocket located above the knee for added space.
- Comfortable to wear
- Seven pockets with two expandable for tools
- Easy button closure
- Sizes fit smaller – you may need to go up two sizes
- May be tighter in the thigh for some women
3. Taclite Pro Cargo Pant (Women’s)
Fit: Sits at natural waist and has a relaxed fit
Benefit: Roomy, withstand abuse, and lightweight
The high-grade construction on these pants provides the utmost comfort in demanding environments. They contain a ripstop, tactile fabric that is both breathable and lightweight. This makes them perfect for construction situations where you are out in the heat.
The seams are reinforced at the waist and contain a gusseted, triple-stitched design. There are seven pockets, with two being a strap and slash for added tools. The hip D-ring allows for the worker to carry extra tools, and the rear and knees are both double reinforced.
The Teflon fabric means that not only are they rugged, but they are also treated for soil, stain, and liquid resistance. They feature a YKK zipper, which is more durable than regular zippers, and Prym snaps make sure that they fit perfectly while being fully secure.
- Durable, stain-resistant fabric withstands harsh environments and abuse
- Lightweight and breathable
- Reinforced rear and knees
- May need to go up two sizes
- Length is a bit long
4. Carhartt Rugged Flex (Women’s)
Fit: Mid-rise fit; sits a bit below the natural waist; slightly fitted through hip/thigh area
Benefits: Rugged material with a waistband that prevents gapping
Carhartt pants have a button closure and a gapless waistband for a perfect fit each time. The rugged flex construction provides a great stretch, making movement easy. Best of all, they are designed in both short and tall sizing, providing a superior fit each time.
These pants are designed with several utility pockets and loops to hang tools. The triple-stitched seams are reinforced in areas that receive the most stress for added durability.
- Gapless waistband
- Extra pockets
- Triple reinforced design
- Material is thicker
- Some pilling in the thigh area
5. Maevn Cargo Pant (Women’s)
Fit: Relaxed fit with a boot-cut leg
Benefits: Professional design with a comfortable fit
These pants offer a more professional appearance with a comfortable drawstring closure. The waist is completely elastic and contains two multi-pockets in the front, as well as cargo pockets, a back patch pocket, and a pocket for your smartphone.
They are triple-stitched for added reinforcement in all the key areas where stress would be an issue. Plus, the design is timeless, so they can be worn for many years and never go out of style.
- Timeless design
- Elastic waist is stretchy and easily conforms to body shape
- Reinforced seams
- May run big
- Not enough material to fully cover the rear area
Final Thoughts
For the best construction work pants, select ones that contain ample, roomy pockets where you can comfortably place as many tools as needed. Since they will be handling the weight of tools in addition to withstanding a physically demanding job, ensure the seams have extra reinforcement. Pay special attention to fit as each one is made differently.
- Best Work Pants For Carpenters
- Best Work Pants For Hot Weather Reviews
- Best Womens Khaki Pants For Work Ultimate Reviews
