While the majority of work pants may work in any construction work, wearing the right pair, especially for suitable weather conditions, is a must. Any pair of cargo pants should be able to withstand the wear and tear of any job site, but for hot weather, it just doesn’t cut it.
The best construction pants for hot weather is a pair that allows you to move in your workplace unburdened, provides breathability, and offers protection from all kinds of workplace hazards.
The 5 Best Construction Work Pants for Hot Weather (Comparison Table)
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What are the Best Construction Work Pants for Hot Weather? Our Top Picks
Summer can pose some unique issues for construction workers, including dealing with the heat. We understand that keeping on a pair of work pants that is durable enough for rigorous tasks is important, but what most people don’t realize is that a durable pair doesn’t have to come at the cost of comfort.
We’ve compiled a list of several pairs of pants for construction work, and here are the ones that have proven to stand out from amongst the rest:
1. Carhartt Men’s Loose Fit Canvas Utility Work Pant
- Sits at the natural waist
- 19-inch leg openings fit over work boots
- Multiple tool pockets
Let’s face it, when the weather gets hot, the last thing you want is to be wearing a pair of tight-fitting work pants. While we know that a tough job requires a tough pair of pants, you also want it to be comfortable while looking good too! Carhartt has got you covered with their loose cargo work pants for men.
These pants feature an original loose fit with reinforced belt loops, to ensure your security on any job site. Made of 100% cotton, they’re lightweight, yet durable enough to handle whatever you put them through.
Additionally, the multiple tool pockets make sure all your necessities are close at hand while you work hard in the heat. These utility pockets are located around the hip and thigh area, securely and conveniently tucked away.
The 19-inch leg openings fit perfectly over work boots – no bunching up or skin pinching here! Plus these pants won’t get in the way if you need to squat down to pick something up off the ground too!
Carhartt’s Loose Work pants have a full seat and thigh so you have plenty of room to move, and a gusseted crotch for greater mobility. The pants come in various colors, including Carhartt’s signature brown duck color, navy blue, and black.
Pros:
- Generous fit for unrestricted movement
- Lightweight cotton material
- Multiple pockets for convenience
- Full seat and thigh for greater mobility
- Gusseted crotch for increased range of motion
- Reinforced belt loops to secure your pants
Cons:
- No zippered pockets
- No water-resistant or flame-retardant rated
2. Carhartt Men’s Force Relaxed Fit Ripstop Cargo Work Pant
- 7-ounce, 69%cotton/ 31% polyester stretch ripstop
- Rugged Flex durable stretch technology for ease of movement
- FastDry technology wicks away sweat for comfort
- Sits at the waist
- Comfortable fit through the seat and thigh with room to move
When it comes to workwear, there’s no other brand that is as well-known and respected as Carhartt. Their classic, heavier canvas garments are renowned and most popular for their durability, but Carhartt also has an impressive selection of lighter and more breathable trousers designed for the summer months. Enter the Carhartt Ripstop Force Relaxed Cargo Work Pants – a lightweight pair of pants with plenty of features to help make your workdays comfortable and productive.
These pants are built from a 7-ounce blend of cotton and polyester featuring Rugged Flex® to provide a full range of motion without feeling tight or restricted. This is paired with a ripstop fabric which helps resist rips and snags when you’re on the go. This makes the pants highly durable while remaining lightweight, perfect for any outdoor activity.
And we know that nobody likes working in wet, clammy clothing – fortunately, these pants are made with fabric that has FastDry® technology which helps to wick away moisture so you can stay dry during hot summer days or when out in inclement weather.
Whether you’re grabbing some extra supplies on a day trip or just need somewhere to store your wallet and keys during your morning commute, these pants have you covered with reinforced slash pockets on the front and heavy-duty rear pockets. They provide enough room to store all your items in a safe and secure way without having any bulky extras getting in the way.
Pros:
- Lightweight blend of cotton and polyester for comfort
- Rugged Flex® provides a full range of movement
- Ripstop fabric helps resist rips and snags
- FastDry® technology wicks away moisture to keep you dry
- Reinforced pockets for secure storage
Cons:
- No internal pockets for small items
- Higher percentage of polyester
3. ATG by Wrangler Men’s Reinforced Utility Pant
- MOISTURE WICKING. Perfect for outdoor activities, these moisture wicking utility pants are built to keep you dry through any physical activity.
- STRETCH COMFORT. Designed to move, these straight leg pants are made with stretch canvas. The gusseted crotch adds extra mobility. A regular seat and thigh provide a comfortable fit. Perfect for physical activity, these shorts won't restrict movement when bending over or squatting down.
- ADDED PROTECTION. The perfect pants for a camping trip with family or hiking with friends, you can rest assured you'll stay well protected from the sun with UPF 30 protection.
Finding a comfortable yet durable pair of pants is no longer a challenge. With the Wrangler Reinforced Utility Pant, you get the best of both worlds. Featuring a mid-rise waist, regular fit through the seat and thigh, and a straight leg, you can move freely without sacrificing any durability. An articulated knee and kick plate are designed to withstand wear and tear throughout the day. Additionally, the gusseted crotch brings an extra layer of comfort for added mobility. Whether it’s hard labor in the shop or an outdoor adventure, you won’t have to worry about any discomfort holding you back from doing what you love.
This rugged yet fashionable pant features a classic fit that sits slightly below the waist, with a slight boot cut design to give more room in the legs. It’s also moisture-wicking, which helps keep you comfortable no matter how active you are.
For outdoor activities and workwear, these reinforced utility pants offer superior protection from the sun with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 30. They also feature reinforced knees for added protection against scrapes and abrasions.
Whether you need to carry your wallet or other essential items, there’s plenty of pocket space here for everything you need on the go. Two of each of the front pockets and pockets at the back provide ample storage space for whatever you require during your activities throughout the day. There is also a zip utility pocket and a hidden inside pocket to store anything securely while on the move.
Pros:
- Mid-rise waist with a regular fit through the seat and thigh
- Articulated knee and kick plate for durability
- Gusseted crotch for additional mobility
- UPF 30 protection against UV rays
- Reinforced knees for added protection
Cons:
- No cargo pockets
- May not fit some people with a wide leg width.
4. ATG by Wrangler Men’s Canvas Cargo Pant
- MOISTURE WICKING. These canvas cargo pants are made with breathable sweat-wicking fabric to help keep you dry throughout the day.
- COMFORTABLE CANVAS. Move without restrictions in stretch canvas with a straight leg fit. The gusseted crotch adds extra mobility. A regular seat and thigh provide a comfortable fit.
- SUN PROTECTION. The perfect pants for outdoor activities, enjoy the sun with an added layer of UPF 30 protection.
If you are a fan of the iconic fashion brand, Wrangler, then you might be surprised to learn that they have a specific line of apparel called ATG (All Terrain Gear). This collection is designed to provide superior comfort and protection in outdoor work environments.
The fabrics used for the clothing are chosen for their durability and ability to withstand challenging conditions. They offer maximum breathability, helping to keep your body temperature regulated as you work in more extreme temperatures. Furthermore, made with a cotton/spandex-blend stretch canvas, they move with your body to provide unrestricted movement.
It’s not just about comfort but also protection; these pants boast moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry as well as UPF 30 protection to block out the sun’s harmful UV rays. You don’t have to worry about your skin being exposed even on long days out in the sun.
These cargo pants come with plenty of room for all your essential items; two front pockets, two rear pockets, and a zip utility pocket along with an internal hidden pocket are perfect for securely storing wallets or phones. However, there are no hammer loops which could be an issue for some people.
The Wrangler ATG Canvas Cargo Pants for Men guarantee all-day comfort, with a mid-rise and a regular fit throughout the seat and thigh. Ideal for those who live an active lifestyle, these pants boast an articulated, reinforced kick and knee plate that deliver additional protection against abrasions and daily wear.
Pros:
- Mid-rise waist with a regular fit through the seat and thigh
- Articulated knee and kick plate for durability
- Gusseted crotch for additional mobility
- UPF 30 protection against UV rays
- Reinforced knees for added protection
- Comes in multiple colors
Cons:
- No cargo pockets
- It may not fit some people with a wide leg width.
- No hammer loops
5. Men’s Hiking Cargo Work Pants by CQR
- CQR Outdoor Adventure Pants Series designed for all outdoor activities and sports.
- [Materials] Spandex mixed fabric supports your movement to provide comfort during outdoor activities.
- [Breathability] Mesh ventilation system allowing air to circulate and wick away moisture.
- [Body Geometry Fit] 3D pattern design allows maximized mobility and top tear fit.
- [Multi-purpose Pockets] Multi pockets for various tools and equipment.
Nobody likes to be stuck in sweaty, uncomfortable clothing, especially in the middle of a workday. CQR provides the perfect option with its men’s water-resistant hiking pants. Although they’re built for hiking, this pair of pants has been a favorite for those who’re doing construction work and more.
These lightweight hiking pants are made from a blend of cotton, nylon, and elastane – which makes them comfortable enough to move around in all day. The material is also highly breathable; there are even vents in the pants to help you keep cool while you’re out in the sun. And if that wasn’t enough, the fabric is also treated with moisture-wicking technology so sweat will evaporate quickly and keep your skin dry.
Not only do these pants offer comfort and flexibility, but they also protect against rain and other wet conditions. The water-resistant material won’t absorb any moisture or leave you feeling soggy after a particularly rainy day out. And because the fabric is treated with a durable water-repellent finish, it’ll keep its integrity even if exposed to regular outdoor use.
On top of the water resistance, this pair of pants also provides UPF 50+ protection against UV rays.
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly breathable fabrics
- Vents for additional air circulation
- Moisture-wicking material to keep you dry and comfortable
- Water-resistant fabric with a durable water-repellent finish
- UPF 50+ protection against UV rays
- No shrinking or fading
Cons:
- May not be suitable for cold weather conditions
Buyer’s Guide: Things to Consider When Shopping for Construction Work Pants for Hot Weather
It’s no longer a secret that staying comfortable and safe while on the construction site makes all the difference if you’re wearing the right clothing. While finding workwear suitable for the hot weather isn’t always easy, we’ve detailed a list of some of the important things to consider when shopping for construction work pants.
Of course, you’re always free to check our recommendations above, but just in case you’re looking for something else, here are some of the things to consider.
1. Fabric
Hot weather conditions call for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, nylon, or elastane blends. The fabric should be able to absorb moisture away from your skin so you don’t end up feeling all wet when the temperature rises in the middle of a tough workday.
Cotton is often used for both lightweight and heavyweight pants. It’s highly absorbent, breathable, and won’t cause chafing or irritation.
Alternatively, they can be blended with nylon which offers added stretch and durability. Elastane also gives the fabric a bit of stretch, making it more comfortable and flexible.
2. UPF Protection
Ultraviolet (UV) rays can be extremely harmful to your skin and can cause damage even on cloudy days. The majority of people don’t realize that, and as a result, often end up with sunburns or worse.
We highly recommend looking for pants with UPF protection of at least 30. This is the rating used by the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) and indicates how much protection you’ll be getting from the fabric. The higher the rating, the better your skin will be protected.
3. Pockets
Any decent pair of construction pants should have multiple pockets that are both sturdy enough to handle tools and large enough to fit them properly. Look for pockets that are reinforced with rivets and located away from heavy strain areas like the knees or buttocks. You might also want to choose those with water-resistant pockets if you job requires working in wet conditions often.
4. Moisture-Wicking Properties
Sweating in the heat of a construction site is the last thing you want to worry about when straightening that crooked steel beam. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics that will quickly absorb the sweat away from your skin and keep you dry throughout the day. This way, you won’t have to worry about feeling uncomfortable and can focus on getting the job done.
5. Water Resistance
It’s always a good idea to look for workwear with some level of water resistance in case you find yourself stuck in the rain. Look for fabrics that have been treated with a durable water-repellent finish to keep you dry and comfortable even when exposed to wet conditions. Although hot weather workwear isn’t usually waterproof, it can still offer enough protection to keep you dry and comfortable.
6. Fit Around the Thigh and Waist Area
There’s nothing more uncomfortable than ill-fitting workwear. The job requires some bending and stretching, and pants that are too tight especially in the thigh area can restrict movement and cause you to feel even hotter.
A gusseted crotch is one of the best features to look for in work pants since it offers extra mobility and breathability around these areas. The fit shouldn’t be too loose or too tight but just right for you to do your job comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers related to construction work pants:
How should construction work pants fit?
Overall, the fit depends on your preference, and there are three main types of fit – slim, regular or classic and relaxed.
The classic fit is often referred to as “middle-of-the-road”, as it’s neither too tight nor too loose. If you are looking for a pair of work pants with a timeless cut and feel then this is your go-to style. With classic fit work pants, you will get an all-around comfortable fit that won’t restrict any movement.
If you prefer a little bit more room in your work pant then the relaxed fit might be perfect for you. This style offers extra space in the seat and thigh area from the classic style, creating a slightly looser feel throughout the legs while still maintaining an overall flattering shape.
On the other hand, for those who like to make more of a fashion statement, slim-fit work pants are your best bet. These modern-style trousers feature a slimmer leg than classic fits, but they won’t be overly tight or restrictive either – often featuring specially designed leg openings that allow them to easily slip over any size of work boots.
How often do you need to wash your construction pants?
It’s important to regularly wash your construction pants if you are spending long days on a construction site. Depending on the type of work, it is advisable to change into freshly cleaned pants daily, or at the very least every couple of days. This will help keep your clothing from becoming smelly and stained with dirt and grime from the job site.
Additionally, washing your construction pants regularly can also help to prevent any skin infections or rashes that could be caused by wearing dirty clothing.
What is the best material for construction pants?
The best materials for construction pants are ones that are lightweight, breathable and durable. Cotton twill fabric is a great choice since it’s comfortable to wear and can handle tough work conditions without tearing or fraying.
Synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and spandex blends are also good options as they provide extra stretch and comfort while also offering some water resistance.
Final Thoughts
The long shifts in hot weather often require workwear with features that will keep you comfortable, dry, and of course, cool. Construction work pants with some level of water resistance, gusseted crotches for extra mobility, and lightweight fabrics that offer breathability can help make your hot days on the job just a bit more bearable.
Consider some of the factors we’ve mentioned above, as well as some of the suggestions we’ve provided, to help you find the perfect pair of work pants for your hot weather job!