The 11 Best Workwear and Gear Pieces That Actually Hold Up
Updated: May 04, 2023No matter where you fall on the new-to-professional scale, you'll need the best workwear pieces to stay safe and tackle your next project with ease.
Sponsored By: Dickies
A portion of this piece was created in partnership with Dickies, an iconic brand that's been making workwear and apparel since 1922.
Whether you’re a professional contractor or a weekend do-it-yourselfer, the best workwear goes the extra mile to hold up under all kinds of weather and working conditions. At the same time, these pieces provide an extra level of safety and comfort.
If you’re ready to get your hands dirty or fire up those power tools, here’s how to “dress for success” in the best workwear for when you’re on the job or in your own backyard. (We’re looking at you, builders, painters, carpenters, crafters, gardeners, farmers and more!)
Waterproof Western Work Boots
The first to integrate athletic footwear technology into boots for equestrians, Ariat has expanded its footwear line to meet the demands of outdoor and work environments. This 100% leather western-style boot works as hard as you do. Super flexible for proper fit, these work boots are waterproof and have a composite square safety toe with a Duratread outsole that’s oil- and slip-resistant to ensure traction on nearly any terrain.
Cooling Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
You’re less likely to dread working outside on a hot day when you have Dickies’ cooling T-shirt hanging in your closet. Available in Big & Tall sizes, this ultra-soft shirt is made with advanced Temp-iQ technology to provide an active cooling feature. Don’t worry about getting it dirty. This piece has a stain-release finish to make washing it at the end of the work day a breeze.
Sponsored
Wide-Mouth Tool Bag
Don’t risk losing or misplacing work equipment every time you leave your truck. It would be smart to have an (affordable!) work bag by your side. Constructed of waterproof canvas, it is not really much bigger than a durable laptop case or purse, yet has a wide-mouth top to gain unrestricted access to your largest tools. Plus, the eight pockets help you fit (and organize!) far more than you might imagine.
Women’s Seven-Pocket Pant
With a fit like sweatpants and the performance to hold up to the rigors of a jobsite, when you’re wearing Dovetail Workwear’s women’s work pants, there’s no sacrificing comfort for durability. Constructed with double-layered knees and a tough-as-nails blend of stretchy modal and recycled polyester fabric, this popular women’s workwear brand supports everyone working in both traditional and non-traditional occupations.
Massaging Gel Insoles
Everyone who toils on their feet for extended periods of time needs a quality pair of shock-absorbing insoles. Dr. Scholl’s, the first name in foot care, makes work insoles with an advanced massaging gel to provide all-day or -night cushioning and comfort. Designed for superior arch support, the insoles have been given an even shot of gel in the heel to reduce stress when standing on hard surfaces.
100% Rubber Rain Boots
If you work or play in serious wet weather and mud, these 100% rubber boots are a primo choice. Along with being made of waterproof neoprene, these boots have extended gussets with moisture-wicking linings to help keep feet cool. But what we love most are the regular features of Muck Boot footwear: soft tops that don’t chafe the skin, aggressive Vibram soles to resist blisters and stretchy, flexible insulation that keeps your feet warm and bone dry without making you feel like you’re wearing buckets on your feet.
Insulated Work Gloves
With a durable cotton duck outer shell, men’s workwear brand Carhartt makes insulated work gloves that keep your hands warm when the temperature drops. The synthetic leather and suede cowhide palm patches also provide excellent knuckle protection. We praise these gloves for their flexibility, allowing for ease of movement that lets you stay agile and nimble on the job.
Men’s Tactical Pants
A must-have for blocking chilly winds, you can’t go wrong with these lightweight and durable work pants. The best workwear for repelling dirt, liquids and other contaminants, they also have a ton of multipurpose cargo pockets. That means you can tote around tools and equipment, leaving your hands free for the more important stuff. Don’t just take our word for it—more than 11,700 Amazon buyers gave these trousers a five-star rating.
Battery-Operated Heated Socks
When your feet are cold, it can be difficult to concentrate on the task at hand. Heated gear for construction pros is proven to increase efficiency and productivity. Warm up your feet with these unisex battery-operated heated socks. The mid-calf-style socks are made of a blend of wool, cotton and Lycra, and feature built-in heating panels that target the toe area. They stay warm for up to four hours on a single charge (two AA power packs included), and in the frostiest situations, you can crank up these puppies to a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Waterproof Phone Pouch
It may be raining and pouring outside, but don’t worry, your phone will stay safe and dry in this waterproof pouch. With an IPX8 certification and triple-layer lockdown technology, it comes with an adjustable lanyard that connects securely to the pouch to wear around your neck or over your shoulder. Whether you’re cleaning the gutters or out walking the dog, your phone is not only protected from damage, it’s always within reach.
Leather Work Boot
Rugged and extremely sturdy, these men’s utility work boots are as tough as they come. The left and right asymmetrical steel toe design is impressive, giving the wearer a roomier fit for comfort along with undeniable protection. The cool, waterproof footwear with rubber grip soles looks just as good turning up in a pair of denim jeans as they do in overalls.
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