1. Consider your job in the field – If you’re working in construction, you obviously don’t want work jeans with a lot of frills and design elements. You’re looking for tough, durable pants that will hold up on the job. Whether you go with thick jean material or opt for the flannel-lined work jeans when it’s colder out, you need jeans that will keep you comfortable on the job. On the flip side of that, you should opt for tough material on the lighter side for those hot days. If you’re in an office setting, beat up work jeans won’t cut it. Go with a dark wash in a classic fit, possibly even a straight leg for the office setting.

2. Make sure Your inseam is long enough – You want work jeans that aren’t too long, but also aren’t too short. Especially if you are trying to keep the “dirt & grit” out of your socks. The inseam is the inside seam, going from the crotch of the jeans to the leg opening. Jeans that are too long can be a work hazard and jeans that are too short don’t look good. Plus they will allow anything & everything to crawl up the inside of your legs. Long jeans can always be hemmed. Short ones? Well they just turn out to be “capris.”

3. Pay attention to the fit – Work jeans for men come in various fits. You’ll find men’s jean in straight, slim, relaxed, loose, classic, modern, skinny and more. The leg opening also varies on jeans, with boot cut, straight, semi-tapered and tapered. You want to wear what you’re comfortable in, but you also want to look good. Relaxed, slim, classic and straight jeans are the most flattering and can be the most comfortable, best work jeans. You’ll have a more tailored look, while still having enough room to move around.

4. Think about the weather or season – If you’re working in cold weather conditions, flannel- or fleece-lined work jeans are a perfect fit. The inside keeps you nice and toasty, while the outside braves the elements. The rugged jeans are the perfect addition to any winter wardrobe. However when it comes to the summer months you will want to select a pair of jeans that are lighter material and a lighter color in shades as well.

5. Beware of gapping – This goes for work jeans for men and women. When you’re trying on jeans, pay attention to the fit in the back. You should be able to fit two fingers between your back and the jeans. If you can fit your whole hand, they’re too big. If you can only fit one finger or none, they’re too small. (think of it this way: when you bend over you don’t want your jeans to rip & you surely don’t want them to show your butt crack)

6. Choose the right color/wash – Darker jeans are the way to go if you’re looking for versatility. The best work jeans can go with multiple outfits. Lighter colors or distressed fabrics are more suited for casual wear. (remember our tips on color patterns with regards to the seasons of the year as well)

7. Check the fabric material & weight – Lightweight jeans may be more comfortable than stiff-as-a-board heavy denim, but they’ll wear more quickly. Stretchy jeans are common now & a big hit as well. Please note the quality denim jeans for men and women should be somewhere in the middle of 7 to 18 ounces. Those on the lighter side won’t last you longer than six to nine months. Those on the heaviest side may be uncomfortable and stiff. Find a balance of durability and comfort.

8. Choose quality, trusted brands – There’s a reason brands like Wrangler, Levi’s, Dickies, and Carhartt have been around for so long: they’re trusted brands that provide quality work jeans for men and women. Knock-off brands will try to mirror the style and appearance, but fall short of the durability provided by the denim forefathers. Stylish wise to name a few, you have brands like: Buffalo, Diesel, Pepe, True Religion, 7 for mankind, Guess, Lucky Brand and honestly the list goes on and on.

For more thorough list and finding the best workwear for the job, visit our SoCal Affiliate store.