The best work pants for men need to be hardy, durable and comfortable for long days on the job, whether you’re working outside, inside a warehouse or commuting to a construction site. The quality of your pants is determined by the materials and specific details, like well-placed pockets, flat-lock seams that won’t fray and built-in warmth or breathability. Our top pick overall is Carhartt’s Duck Utility Work Pant, which is a true stalwart that can stand up to the toughest types of work, while Dickies Original Work Pants are the best affordable option out there.
Ahead, we gathered research on the best work pants for men, tapping into our expertise in reviewing all types of workwear and insight shared from actual guys who have worn these pants for everything from garage projects to yard work to carpentry. Here’s what we highly recommend:
Editors’ Picks
- Best Work Pants Overall: Carhartt Loose Fit Washed Duck Utility Work Pant
- Best Casual Work Pants: Flint And Tinder 365 Athletic Tapered Pant
- Best Quick-Dry Work Pants: Vuori Meta Pant
- Best Durable Work Pants: 1620 Workwear Double Knee Utility Pant 2.0
- Best Affordable Work Pants: Dickies Original 874 Work Pants
- Most Comfortable Work Pants: Truewerk T1 WerkPants
- Best Cargo Work Pants: Caterpillar Trademark Work Pants
- Best Work Pants With Stretch: Stio Rivet Canvas Utility Pant
- Best Warm Work Pants: Weatherproof Vintage Fleece Lined Pants
- Best Lightweight Work Pants: CQR Ripstop Work Pants
Carhartt Loose Fit Washed Duck Utility Work Pant
Sizes: 28 to 54W, 30 to 36L | Colors: 4 total | Fit: Loose | Utility features: Utility pockets, hammer loop, reinforced belt loops
- What’s notable: The pants are made from a highly durable material with smart details like a leg opening that’s wide enough to fit over work boots.
- What could be better: The thick fabric might be a little stiff at first.
Carhartt has been making workwear since 1889, and after more than a century of experience, the brand certainly knows what goes into high-quality pants. Thanks to its 12-ounce, ring-spun cotton duck fabric, this pick is heavyweight, durable and able to tackle just about any job you throw at it. The pants sit high on the waist with ample room in the seat and thigh, but they’re not so baggy they’ll get in your way when climbing a ladder or kneeling down. Also great: The reinforced pockets and belt loops help this pair withstand wear and tear over the years.
What the reviews say: Many buyers have worn these pants for years and comment on their comfort, “heavy duty construction” and “awesome fit,” while some say “the sizing is way off” from past pairs—check the size chart to be sure.
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Flint and Tinder 365 Athletic Tapered Pant
Sizes: 28 to 44W, 30 to 36L | Colors: 13 total | Fit: Athletic tapered | Utility features: 5 pockets, belt loops
- What’s notable: This pair has stretch for movement and is easy to dress up or down.
- What could be better: They run a little large and long.
For a pair that looks like a chino but feels comfortable and stretchy like activewear, the garment-dyed 365 Tapered Pant is a solid choice. Available in four fits—athletic tapered (shown here), slim, straight and relaxed—and 15 colors, this pick is primarily made of 8-ounce cotton with a bit of spandex added for comfort and mobility on the job. This wear-anywhere pant is neither too lightweight or heavy, making it an ideal year-round option. Washing tip: the brand recommends washing in cold water, turned inside out, with similar colors.
What the reviews say: Many like the athletic fit if have muscular legs, saying it gives you “room in the thigh without looking sloppy down the rest of my leg. If you’ve got big calves, don’t worry they don’t taper too much.” Others had some sizing issues, saying this pair can run long.
Vuori Meta Pant
Sizes: 28 to 38W, 30 to 34L | Colors: 8 total | Fit: Tailored, slightly fitted through leg | Utility features: Moisture-wicking, UPF 30
- What’s notable: The performance fabric is anti-odor and sweat-wicking, and the design is stylish.
- What could be better: These might be too thin for some climates.
Vuori puts a performance twist on the classic 5-pocket silhouette with their tapered fit Meta Pant. This versatile pair can handle everything from a hike to a day of meetings—the lightweight, quick-drying polyester fabric has four-way stretch and UPF protection, and the overall look is appropriate for travel, too.
What the reviews say: Wearers appreciate the comfort and flexibility of these pants, pointing out they’re a “travel/business casual essential. Tailored, but not too slim. A lot of give, but looks put together.” Others find the ankle opening a bit narrow.
1620 Workwear Double Knee Utility Pant 2.0
Sizes: 30 to 46W, 27 to 36L | Colors: 6 total | Fit: Regular | Utility features: Back yoke welt pockets, double knee reinforcement, hammer loops on both sides, knife clip, watch pocket
- What’s notable: These made-in-the-USA pants have a lifetime guarantee and their inseam is hemmed to order for a perfect fit.
- What could be better: The fabric might be stiff until it’s broken in.
1620 Workwear recently updated their bestselling double knee pant to include three additional storage pockets, thicker threads, ergonomic knee reinforcement and more. This pair is made from a 14-ounce Cordura-Nyco plain weave fabric that’s coated for water and stain resistance. It has stretch for ease of movement and is quicker drying—and holds up against 10 times more abrasions—than cotton duck. The knees have a hidden opening that fits commercial knee pads, a great feature for painting and flooring projects.
What the reviews say: Many like the quality of the fabric and extreme durability, one saying “from the minute I opened them I could tell they were different. Extremely well made.” Some, however, say the fit is “basically skinny jeans” and that the fabric initially feels stiff and “brutal on the knees when squatting or bending fully,” but they break in with wear.
Dickies Men’s Original 874 Work Pants
Sizes: 28 to 58W, 28 to 36L | Colors: 21 total | Fit: Relaxed | Utility features: Reinforced seams, wide tunnel belt loops
- What’s notable: These are wrinkle and stain-resistant, and they come in hard to find waist and inseam sizes.
- What could be better: They run small in the waist.
Based on their original work pant design, the 874 Work Pants from Dickie’s combines classic features like a workwear waistband with an 8.5-ounce poly-cotton twill update that’s wrinkle- and stain-resistant. This style is known for its styling versatility, worn by all kinds of workers and skateboarders alike, with a high waist and relaxed fit with a slight leg taper. Plus, the price simply can’t be beat for its quality.
What the reviews say: Guys love these for their versatility and durability, with one saying “the tough cotton material has saved me many a cut or bruise on the thighs and legs over the years,” and “perfect for school, work or home.” They do run small, though, so many recommend sizing up: “I’ve never had to go this large with any of my other slacks.”
Truewerk T1 WerkPants
Sizes: 30 t0 44W, 30 to 36L | Colors: 6 total | Fit: Standard | Utility features: 8 utility pockets, articulated knees |
- What’s notable: These have lots of pockets for storing tools, your phone, pencils and more, and they dry 4 times faster than typical untreated work pants.
- What could be better: The fabric might pill after repeated wear.
Great for hot weather or sweaty work, the T1 WerkPants are lightweight and breathable without sacrificing durability and performance. The proprietary WerkFabric feels soft against the skin while wicking moisture, drying quickly and providing 4-way stretchy comfort in the seat and thigh for a wide range of movements on the job. Other favorite features include tactical belt loops, fabric-lined utility pockets designed to protect your legs from sharp items, reinforced double stitching throughout for added longevity and a cargo pocket with a security flap. For cooler temps, the heavier T2 WerkPant is worth checking out as well.
What the reviews say: Many recommend these for warm weather, saying “they keep you so cool during the dead heat of summer it’s actually enjoyable, as impossible as that may seem,” but some say they shrunk a little after machine washing.
Buck Mason Ford Standard Jean
Sizes: 28 to 40 | Colors: 5 total | Fit: Tapered straight | Utility features: 5 pockets, belt loops |
- What’s notable: Made from ultra-strong Japanese denim that lasts forever, these also have built-in stretch that provides comfort and flexility.
- What could be better: They’re only available in one inseam.
With a mid-rise and straight fit that tapers at the leg, these workhorse jeans from Buck Mason are a classic, high-quality option. They’re made from 14-ounce Japanese denim that has a little ease to it thanks to the added stretch for comfort. Available in five washes, this pick is versatile, tough and also stylish for the weekends. Sizing note: This jean comes standard with a 33.5-inch inseam, but if you need alterations Buck Mason offers a free hemming service.
What the reviews say: Not listed
Taylor Stitch The Democratic Foundation Pant
Sizes: 28 to 38W, 32 to 34L | Colors: 7 total | Fit: Tapered straight | Utility features: 5 pockets, belt loops, reinforced seams
- What’s notable: They’re made from 100% organic cotton that’s made to last and resists holes.
- What could be better: These run small so you should consider sizing up.
Inspired by the original American chinos of the WWII era, Taylor Stitch’s Foundation Pant is garment-washed and dyed so it comes out like a well-loved vintage pair. The Democratic cut has a straight-fitting thigh with a slight taper at the knee and a medium rise, making this an easy-wearing, instant classic (it’s also available in a slim version). The 8-ounce organic cotton—with sturdy herringbone detail in the pockets and waist—is durable, smooth to the touch and mid-weight for all seasons.
What the reviews say: Many comment on the excellent quality, fit and versatility, saying they’re “built for the long haul indeed. Just the right balance between rugged cool and office ready.” Some wearers call out seam issues and inconsistent colors.
Caterpillar Trademark Work Pants
Sizes: Waist sizes 28 to 54, Length 30 to 34 | Colors: 11 total | Fit: Relaxed | Utility features: 7 pockets, tool loop, knee pad pockets
- What’s notable: These pants have exceptional storage, and gusseting at the crotch and articulation at the knees means you can easily move around in this pair.
- What could be better: Reinforced stitching would make these pants even more durable.
Cut from a rugged cotton-polyester blend canvas, this style is both breathable and sturdy, and there is strategic seaming that makes bending and moving around easy. The 20-inch boot leg opening accommodates bulky work boots, and there are pockets for days, including front holster pockets, knee pad pockets, cargo pockets, a rear tool pocket, cell phone pocket, ruler pocket, carpenter loop and tool loop.
What the reviews say: These pants excel for their rugged detailing, with reviewers saying the “pants are definitely built for construction workers” and “the non slip waistband is great especially when you have the extra weight of tools in the built in tool pouches.” Even better, says one reviewer, “these things repel dirt and dust, not to mention they seem to be water repellent.” Some comment, however, that quality control can be a problem with these pants, saying holes can develop at the seams, and sometimes sizing can be inconsistent.
Stio Rivet Canvas Utility Pant
Sizes: Waist sizes 30 to 40 | Colors: 4 total | Fit: Regular | Utility features: Double layered knee, back thigh utility pocket
- What’s notable: The cotton basketweave canvas with four-way stretch has an action gusset for increased range of motion.
- What could be better: These are only available in regular and short inseams, so if you need a 34-inch inseam, these may not work for you.
Jackson Hole-based brand Stio takes inspiration from the mountains, and this particular pant transitions easily from rugged ranch work to in-town errands thanks to its classic five-pocket design. Reinforced knees are built to withstand lots of wear, and the fabric is breathable and odor resistant so you’ll be comfortable and pulled together even when taking on tough days.
What the reviews say: This style wins points for versatility, with one reviewer saying, “they look good in the office, have enough mobility for climbing, and are durable enough for splitting and stacking wood.” Others say they’re “one of the best fitting and most comfortable pants I have ever worn” and “extremely durable for a stretch fabric. The cell phone pocket is the best.” Some comment, however, that this style may not be thick enough for construction.
Weatherproof Vintage Fleece Lined Pants
Sizes: Waist 30 to 42, Length 30 or 32 | Colors: 5 total | Fit: Regular | Utility features: Stretch canvas, fleece insulation
- What’s notable: You don’t have to sacrifice style for functionality with this pair.
- What could be better: Some say they run small and recommend sizing up.
Founded in 1948, Weatherproof Vintage makes clothing with the elements in mind. This cozy stretch canvas pair is lined in soft bonded fleece to keep out the chill whether you’re doing yard work, shoveling snow or working on a breezy outdoor job site. And while many lined styles can skew bulky, this streamlined, five-pocket pant has a classic, pulled together look.
What the reviews say: Many comment that the fleece on the inside of the pant is “just the right thickness” so they don’t overheat, and one person says, “they are warm and have some flex, comfortable to wear all day when working outside.” But one reviewer laments that the front pockets are small and another says they’re “tight in the crotch.”
CQR Men’s Ripstop Work Pants
Sizes: Waist 28 to 46, Length 30 to 34 | Colors: 44 total | Fit: Relaxed straight | Utility features: Tool pocket and loop, utility pocket, ripstop fabric
- What’s notable: The Duratex ripstop fabric is stain and water resistant.
- What could be better: Some say the sizing runs large at the waist.
CQR is known for making tough gear for the outdoors and for law enforcement. On hot days, you want to feel covered but not sweltering, and this pant is tough but lighter weight than the stiff, heavy cotton of many other styles. Plus, the polyester and cotton blend fabric causes water to bead and roll off rather than soaking the material so you’re not weighed down.
What the reviews say: There are lots of positives about these pants, with comments such as, “great quality at a great price,” “breathes very well” and “resistant to rain, comfortable, plenty of reinforced pockets for hanging tools from.” Another plus is that they work for a variety of professions, with commenters saying, “I love this pant for construction work” and “this is a great product for first responders.” However, some say they run large and one user says the “pocket stitching could be more durable.”
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, we’re experts on men’s fashion and workwear; we’ve made thoughtful recommendations on everything from men’s dress shirts to golf polos. Each one of our shopping guides is thoroughly researched and carefully curated to ensure you have access to the best picks in every category. This particular story was co-written by senior fashion editor Kari Molvar, our in-house style expert who holds a certificate in fashion styling, and Becky Eaton, who has covered such topics as the best men’s work boots and casual pants for men, among many others.
We regularly update our articles to make sure that all prices and product information is current; we also re-evaluate our selections for greatness. During this story’s January 2024 update, we updated our overall winner to Carhartt’s Loose Fit Washed Duck Utility Work Pant and the best affordable work pants to Dickies’ Original 874 Work Pants. This story was most recently updated with additional picks in March 2024.
How We Chose The Best Work Pants For Men
When choosing the best work pants for men, we sought out bestselling styles from brands with stellar reputations for creating high-quality clothes. Since a typical work week looks a bit different for everyone, we considered specs such as material and fit to ensure our selections—from a hard-wearing utility option from Carhartt to sleek Vuori performance pants—covered a wide range of professional needs. Price, too, was taken into account; there are wallet-friendly options you can stock up on as well as higher-end pieces that will last you for years to come. We pored over customer reviews for key takeaways and insights on each pair of work pants. Finally, we evaluated whether these pants are stylish, because ultimately you want to look good when you’re putting in long hours on the job.
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