The 8 Best Places to Buy Men’s Workwear

Considering their dedication to durability and heavy-duty construction, it’s no surprise that Carhartt clothing has become synonymous with men’s workwear. They offer a wide variety of apparel including t-shirts, pants and button-ups. But the brand really shines with its cold-weather gear, making it a top choice for those who work outdoors in frigid climates. (Speaking of, check out the Carhartt vest that uses AI to keep you warm.)

The Duck Insulated Active Jacket features a thick quilted lining that extends into the hood, and large front pockets for keeping your hands warm and out of the wind. The popular Washed Duck Coveralls provides head-to-toe protection against the elements, with triple-stitched seams for added durability.

Cat Workwear is rugged enough for heavy machinery operators but still comfortable for every day professional tradespeople. Their multi-functional men’s workwear focuses on functionality, safety and performance. The flame-resistant collection is a must-have for anyone in contact with fire, sparks or electrical arcs. Whether you’re a factory or power plant worker, electrical lineman or welder, you’re going to want to add these flame-resistant cargo pants to your cart, stat.

There’s also a wide range of high visibility clothing, like this Hi Vis Soft Shell Jacket that’s perfect for anyone working around vehicles or heavy traffic areas. Cat’s versatile H20 Defender Pants are another standout piece. They can be customized with removable holster pockets, which is ideal for those who handle tools—but want to avoid the bulk of a tool belt.

Combining durability with a minimal, low-profile style, Dickies caters to both tradespeople and casual wear for laid-back guys. They offer a refreshing alternative to the heavy-duty, bulky construction of other workwear brands. This simplicity results in budget-friendly prices, making Dickies ideal for customers who don’t want the bulk or expense that comes with unnecessary bells and whistles.

Dickes’ Original 874 Work Pants are available in an impressive 18 colors and an extensive size range (waists 28 to 58 and inseams 28 to 37). And at less than $36, you can stock up on multiple pairs. If you are looking for something a bit more functional, their classic bib overalls are a timeless men’s workwear staple and a cost-effective option that doesn’t skimp on function.

Founded by three tradesmen selling innovative tool organizers, Duluth Trading Co. built a brand that focuses on problem-solving, and their workwear designs are no exception. Duluth offers a variety of specialized collections, which makes it easy to choose clothing based on your priorities. Choose from Longtail t-shirts, Dry on the Fly workwear and Flexpedition pants to name a few.

We’re personally big fans of Duluth’s base layers—like the Buck Naked Performance Pants and Buck Naked Performance Crew Shirt—to ensure you stay warm and safe working outdoors in the winter.

You may know Wrangler for their popular jeans, like their carpenter pants with a convenient hammer loop. But the company makes more than just denim. They’re a go-to destination to build out a uniform for men’s workwear. You’ll find wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, no-fuss and easy-to-clean clothing, all at extremely affordable prices.

From fleece vests to work socks to utility jackets, Wrangler has you covered for any job. Stock up on basics like their Riggs shirt, which stands up to rips and tears. It provides just enough stretch for comfortable movements, and still manages to be fashionable enough to wear after you clock out. If you work around open flames, opt for the flame-resistant version for added safety.

In addition to its signature boots, Timberland also offers a wide range of men’s shirts, pants and outerwear tough enough for working in any condition. Timberland boots are available in hard and soft toe types, making them appropriate for a variety of activities.

The Timberland Pro Flex Canvas Pants have just enough elastic to make them comfortable for an active user to move around with ease. The plethora of exterior pockets and compartments also allow for tool storage without a tool belt.

In addition to men’s work boots, there’s other smart accessories designed for hard-working guys. The Air Raider refresher eliminates odors in footwear, while Anti-Fatigue insoles absorb shock and provide arch support for tired feet.

Patagonia may not be the first brand that comes to mind when you think “men’s workwear.” But its quality construction and assortment of outdoor essentials—from fleece jackets to performance base layers—makes it a worthy option. The company is committed to sustainability and offers functional and environmentally-friendly pieces made from recycled and organic materials. Pieces are designed with the working man in mind, like insulated overalls, canvas aprons and chore coats.

Portwest is a leading brand in men’s workwear, offering durable, weather-resistant, flame-resistant and waterproof gear built to withstand the toughest job site conditions. Their collection includes shirts, pants, shorts, rainwear, gloves, reflective gear and PPE designed for professions like electricians, construction workers, factory workers, plumbers and mechanics. Beyond providing high-performance workwear, Portwest emphasizes sustainability through eco-friendly fabrics and low-carbon, green manufacturing practices.

What to Look for When Buying Men’s Workwear Brands

Durability and Material Quality

Men’s workwear faces the same harsh conditions as the workers themselves, so selecting the right materials is key:

• Cotton Duck: Waterproof, tough and durable. This tightly woven fabric withstands frequent, heavy-duty use and is even used for boat covers.
• Canvas: A plain-woven, highly durable material that’s naturally water-resistant. It’s versatile and also used in backpacks, boat sails, tents and art.
• Ripstop Fabric: Engineered to resist tearing, ripstop is waterproof or water-resistant and often fire-resistant, making it ideal for rugged job sites.

If you are looking for some of the most durable options available, brands like Blaklader and Truewerk incorporate reinforced knees, pockets for tools, and flame-resistant materials and fabrics for taking on tough jobs like carpentry, welding, construction or electric work.

Comfort and Fit

Flexibility and mobility are essential in workwear, so it shouldn’t feel tight or restrictive. Look for features like articulated knees, gusseted crotches and stretch panels for more “give” when bending or stretching. Breathability and moisture resistance are also key. Choose naturally moisture-wicking fabrics to help prevent sweating and discomfort, especially on long workdays.

Protection and Safety Issues

Workmen prioritize safety on the job, and selecting work-appropriate clothing is crucial. The best workwear often includes flame- and water-resistant fabrics, reflective elements for visibility and built-in protective padding. Look for OSHA-compliant items that meet strict safety standards and are protected from hazards. UL-listed or NFPA-certified products are also worth considering, as they ensure sustainability and safety.

Weather Resistance

Workmen in fields like construction, electrical work, landscaping or engineering require protection from tools, materials and the elements. Many types of men’s workwear are water-resistant or waterproof, windproof and insulated, offering comfort, mobility and peace of mind in harsh weather.

We recommend Helly Hansen and Patagonia if you are looking for weather resistance as these high-performance brands are designed for extreme cold. They come with insulation as well as durable and weather-resistant materials.

Brand Reputation

A brand’s reputation is crucial when it comes to men’s workwear. Professionals often stick to trusted brands, knowing they deliver consistent quality and reliability. Opt for brands with a solid reputation and excellent reviews to ensure durability, safety and performance.

Style

While it is important for workwear to have durability on its side, these clothes can also be fashion-forward for transitioning from the job-site to casual settings. For example, brands like Carhartt and Dickie’s are excellent at combining stylish designs and reliable materials into their clothing for great versatility.

Price vs. Value

Sustainability and Ethical Production

Many workwear materials are designed to be industry-compliant and safe, but are they sustainable? Yes—brands like Dickies, Carhartt, Patagonia, Dri Duck, and Timberland make durable, reliable workwear while prioritizing sustainability and eco-friendly practices like reusing recyclable materials. This should be particularly comforting for the environmentally-conscious consumer.

Why You Should Trust Us

Alex Rennie is a residential and commercial carpenter with hands-on experience in DIY, home improvement and appliances. As a freelance writer, Alex uses his expertise for product reviews, buying guides and how-to articles for outlets like CNN Underscored, Popular Mechanics, Business Insider and Family Handyman. His industry insights make him a trusted source for choosing the best men’s workwear.

Alexandra Mantella, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this piece. She has over five years of experience in product testing, research and commerce writing. Previously, she served as a commerce content update editor at Bob Vila.

How We Found the Best Men’s Workwear Brands

After reviewing numerous workwear manufacturers, we selected the top seven brands based on reliability, durability and adherence to industry safety standards like OSHA, UL and NFPA. We also considered brands with strong reputations and positive reviews. Our picks prioritize mobility, weather resistance, sustainability and comfort.

FAQ

What materials are best for workwear that will see heavy use?

Cotton, canvas, twill, quilt and leather are the best materials for men’s workwear. Each of these materials is durable, thick and heavy which can protect against the elements as well as heavy-duty use.

What is the best quality workwear?

We believe that the best quality workwear brands are Carhartt, Cat, Dickies, and Timberland. Each of these brands is made with durable materials that can a lot of hits and are well-known by those that work outdoors, in construction or on a lot of job sites.

Are there brands that specialize in flame-resistant clothing?

Brands like Cat and Wrangler are well-known for their flame-resistant collections designed for welding, electrical work and firefighting. Always confirm flame resistance before exposure to sparks or flames.

How do I know if a workwear brand is worth the higher price?

Higher-priced brands often deliver better quality with features like water, weather and flame resistance, padding and reflective elements. Durable materials mean fewer replacements over time, making them worth the investment.