For electricians, the choice in work clothing isn’t just about looking the part; it’s an important component in keeping us safe, comfortable and productive. Choosing the right work clothing involves more than just picking any sturdy ensemble; it must withstand the physically demanding conditions of the job site and be comfortable to wear for extended periods and flexible enough to give us the freedom of movement.

Pants

When choosing work pants, comfort is a big consideration. They should not restrict movement or fit so loosely they get in the way. This is usually user preference, but generally, a cut with a relaxed fit works well.

Function is another option to be weighed. Electricians often have to carry around additional items that don’t go into tool pouches, including rags, gloves and small pads of paper for notes, to name a few. Cargo pants work extremely well in these cases. In addition to the front and back pockets, these pants have large side bellows-type pockets where we can stuff those “as needed” materials and not have them clogging up front pockets and hampering movement. 

Blaklader X1600 work pants	Atlas 46 Concord work pants

Carpenter pants are also popular among trade workers. In lieu of the bellows-style pockets on the sides, they have slots for smaller tools and even a hammer loop. These work well if you are performing tasks that don’t warrant a tool belt.

Protection is also important to consider. Job site conditions can be unforgiving at times, and low quality or inferior materials usually do not protect as well. Denim and cotton duck (think lightweight canvas) are typically the go-to options for work pants. Lighter weight materials also tend to wear out or fail quicker, whereas denim and cotton duck material last considerably longer.

Blaklader, a Swedish clothing manufacturer with U.S. headquarters in Sarasota, Fla., was established in the late 1950s. While its products have been used in the European construction industry for years, recently they have started to gain popularity in the United States. The X1600 work pants are 100% cotton-­based (so they are breathable) and have reinforced knee areas with integral pockets for kneepads. An impressive array of pockets holds tools and materials, including two large nail/tool pockets in the front that can be tucked inside when not in use. Many areas that typically get abused (thighs, knees, hem and pockets) are reinforced with strong Cordura nylon.

Atlas 46, Fenton, Mo., has designed its Concord Work Pants around the trades. A total of 13 different pockets allow the wearer to carry multiple tools, potentially eliminating the need for tool pouches for smaller tasks. The pants are made of a cotton/nylon blend for superior comfort, while the high-wear spots are reinforced with 330D nylon. The belt loops are 1 inch wide and will accommodate belts up to 2.25 inches wide, adding to overall comfort and function.

Shirts

Ideally, shirts should be durable and protective. Long-sleeve shirts are generally preferred, as they cover more skin and offer increased protection. Cotton is the usual choice, although other fabrics that either shed water or wick moisture away can be desirable. Shirts also shouldn’t be so tight as to restrict movement, but not too loose that they get in the way.

Duluth Trading Co.’s, Mt. Horeb, Wis., Flexpedition relaxed fit long-sleeve shirt is a great example of a traditional looking long-sleeve button-up shirt that has taken advantage of newer materials and styles. Its relaxed fit and nylon/spandex blend allow for great range of motion and flexibility, but the material is also wind-resistant. That, coupled with a durable water-resistant finish, makes this a great choice for those working outside. Built-in reach gussets allow the sleeves to stay put and not ride up when you are working overhead.

Duluth Trading Co. men’s Flexpedition relaxed fit long-sleeve shirt	Radians ST21-2 Class 2 mesh long-sleeve t-shirt (left) and ST31-2 short-sleeve cooling t-shirt (right)

Hi-vis shirts are extremely popular on modern job sites, as they may negate the need to wear a hi-vis vest in some instances. This can potentially cut down on the quantity of clothing layers. Considering that construction work is labor-intensive, any opportunity to shed layers will help with the heat generated by physical activity and increase freedom of movement.

Safety industry company Radians Inc., Memphis, Tenn., produces great choices for hi-vis work shirts. Its STI21-2 Class 2 long-sleeve mesh shirt is perfect for those working outside and needing protection from sunburn, scratches and other elements. The material is made from a woven mesh that wicks away moisture to keep you cool and dry. The hi-vis coloring and reflective tape make the user visible. Short-sleeve versions are also available.

Jackets

Shirts and pants aren’t the only clothing necessities for electricians. A good jacket is also a must-have item. While there is an almost endless array of styles available, a jacket should be chosen with the following considerations in mind:

• Sturdy: A jacket should be able to stand up to the rigors of the job site. Denim and cotton duck are excellent traditional choices.
• Freedom of movement: Jackets should be able to cover the upper body and keep us warm but not be too big to be a hindrance while working. If tool pouches are worn, consider a shorter jacket.
• Adequate warmth: The jacket should provide needed warmth, depending on the climate. It is common to have many coats for different temperatures.
• Waterproof: Many times, we are called to work outside in cold and inclement weather. A work jacket will help to keep us dry and warm. 

Carhartt, Dearborn, Mich., has long been the go-to option for work jackets. Many of its jackets are made from 100% cotton duck material, giving them the ability to withstand tough job-site conditions. Carhartt’s Detroit jacket is developed with the tradesperson in mind. It features a relaxed fit but is not overly large as to get in the way while working. The Detroit jacket is designed to sit a bit higher on the hips, so tool pouches can be worn while the jacket is on. The jacket also has a pleated bi-swing back that allows for extra stretching across the shoulders, giving the user freedom of movement while working.

Carhartt men’s relaxed fit, blanket-lined Detroit jacket	Milwaukee Tool M12 heated Toughshell jacket

Milwaukee Tool, Brookfield, Wis., has developed a heated jacket that takes job-site warmth to a new level. Operating on the M12 battery platform, the Toughshell heated jacket has the ability to provide additional warmth with the touch of a button. The strong polyester outer layer is enhanced by carbon fiber heating elements in the chest, back and front hand pocket areas, with three heat level settings. It is also water- and wind-resistant. 

If a jacket offers more protection from the elements than the situation calls for, or if additional freedom of movement is required, Milwaukee also offers a heated vest version.

Conclusion

Our choices in workwear are much more than a fashion statement; they are an important aspect of job safety and performance. By making an investment in high-quality, durable clothing, we can stay safe, comfortable and ready to tackle challenges. There is certainly work clothing available to fit each of our individual needs.

blaklader / atlas 46 / duluth trading co. / radians / carhartt / milwaukee tool