• What’s notable: Highly durable material with smart details like a leg opening that’s wide enough to fit over work boots.
• What could be better: Fabric might be a little stiff at first.

Carhartt has been making workwear since 1889, and by this point, it certainly knows what goes into high-quality pants. Thanks to the 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.

Sizes: 28 to 54W, 30 to 36L | Fit: Loose | Utility features: Utility pockets, hammer loop, reinforced belt loops | 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.

• What’s notable: Wrinkle and stain-resistant, comes in hard to find waist and inseam sizes.
• What could be better: Runs 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.

Sizes: 28 to 58W, 28 to 36L | Fit: Relaxed | Utility features: Reinforced seams, wide tunnel belt loops | What the reviews say: Guys love these for their versatility and durability, 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.”

• What’s notable: Lifetime guarantee; inseam is hemmed to order; made in the U.S.
• What could be better: Fabric might be stiff before 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.

Sizes: 30 to 46W, 27 to 36L | Fit: Regular | Utility features: Back yoke welt pockets, double knee reinforcement, hammer loops on both sides, knife clip, watch pocket | 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.

• What’s notable: Many pockets for storing tools, phone, pencils and more; dries 4 times faster than typical untreated work pants.
• What could be better: 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.

Sizes: 30 t0 44W, 30 to 36L | Fit: Standard | Utility features: 8 utility pockets, articulated knees | 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,” while some say they shrunk a little after machine washing.

• What’s notable: Easy to dress up or down, has stretch for movement.
• What could be better: Runs a little big 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.

Sizes: 28 to 44W, 30 to 36L | Fit: Athletic tapered | Utility features: 5 pockets, belt loops | 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.

• What’s notable: Ultra-strong Japanese denim lasts forever and built-in stretch provides comfort and flexility.
• What could be better: 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.

Sizes: 28 to 40 | Fit: Tapered straight | Utility features: 5 pockets, belt loops | What the reviews say: Not listed

• What’s notable: Made of 100% organic cotton that’s made to last and resist holes.
• What could be better: Runs small; 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.

Sizes: 28 to 38W, 32 to 34L | Fit: Tapered straight | Utility features: 5 pockets, belt loops, reinforced seams | 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.

• What’s notable: Performance fabric is anti-odor and sweat-wicking and the design is stylish.
• What could be better: Might not be dressy enough for some offices.

Vuori puts a performance twist on the classic 5-pocket silhouette with their tapered fit Meta Pant. This 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 still office-appropriate.

Sizes: 28 to 38W, 30 to 34L | Fit: Tailored, slightly fitted through leg | Utility features: Moisture-wicking, UPF 30 | 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.