European here! For us in Germany most companies provide workwear for their employees and I work in a lead contaminated area so I am not allowed to bring my own workwear at all because the company is responsible for washing the clothes, therefore I never had to look into workwear for myself. However, most people and companies too buy from Engelbert Strauss. They're the most well-known and loved workwear brand here and everyone is wearing it from kids to retired workers.
I was in amsterdam for a few months doing some works and most of the people I worked with was wearing this brand. Had to get me a pair and I have to say they are really nice pants and very durable.
Snickers work pants have become the go to for any labour intensive job in ireland. From the trades, to farming, even to warehousing, everyone wears them. By far the best work pants available this side of the pond. Also the pocket flaps are usually just left hanging out with tools in them like a work belt.
I bought two items from 1620. A hoodie and a pair of winter pants. I will never buy anything from them again. Both items had to be returned, after very little wear, for repair, which was sloppily done and took over a month in spite of being told that it would be expedited. The fabric on the hoodie started to tear right by the pocket on the front, as well as the stitching coming out on the waistband in the back. On the pants, the watch pocket on the left hand side had about 3 inches of stitching tear out. When that happened I noticed that there was a hole in the fabric itself, which was obviously a manufacturing defect. I mentioned the hole when I sent them in for repair but it wasn't addressed at all. An almost $300 pair of pants shouldn't have a defect like that or should at least be addressed when brought up. Not to mention that the pocket shouldn't have torn in the first place. The repair on the hoodie was sloppily done. Had I known how they were going to handle the repairs, I would have done them myself, as I could have done at least as good of a job. They didn't even trim all of the threads in the repair area, which is just sloppy and careless. I have a few items from Truewerk that I really like and will definitely buy more of. I have the T2 pants and a pair of T1 shorts as well as a couple of pairs of their sweatpants which can be work under the pants for insulation and are quite comfortable. So, in my opinion avoid 1620 and go with Truewerk. Those are the only two that I have experience with.
@@IveLearnedSomeThings I got 1620 overalls last year and holy hell. What a let down. They were delivered to me with one strap UNSEWN. It took several days for them to reply because their website didn't let me exchange them because the color I chose was out of stock, and there was no option to simply get them repaired without using up my warranty promise. Eventually I was able to send them back, wait more than a month to receive them again, and they honestly don't even fit well. The quality of the stitching is so often questionable too, like I paid more for these than I would've for other brands because I expected the price to reflect an upgrade from their competitors. Left me on the fence about whether to try out any of their products in the future, and I honestly don't think I will.
Bought several items from 1620. Crooked seams irregular lengths and more manufacturing problems. Sent several items back and waited and got new ones and had the same issues. Eventually I said forget it. For the money they charge they need to do better way better!
Sweden has a couple well known workwear brands. Fristads, Blåkläder and Björnkläder are all very common in Sweden. Frisads was founded in 1925, Blåkläder in 1959 and Björnkläder in 1905.
Came back to this video after watching previously to say how impressive snickers pants are. Durability is insane, really great quality product. Thanks for the initial insight on this!
I wear mostly all carhartt now because of your channel and recommendations. Owning less and owning better is superior than todays throw away culture. Thank you Carl.
Made in Vietnam is a super bonus when looking for top tier quality. I have UA jackets, Sketcher Slip-ins, Sitka gloves, Cabelas boots, all made in Vietnam, and in all products the stitching and material alignment is perfect.
Ive just recently got into workwear from over seas. I like Blaklader the best specifically the workpant with 4way stretch, kneepad packets, and detachable holster pockets. Game changer for me. Also Helley hansen makes great work wear too
I must agree. Suspenders are far superior. I usually just wear "bibs" or some call them overalls. I like being able to throw them on over basketball shorts in the summer or jeans in the winter and yeah kinda tough to move at times but you can leave them at the jobsite. I did all winter with my insulated bibs
As a UK electrician I've been wearing snickers for 20 years they last ages very comfortable and the flappy pockets come in so handy for lugs screws etc.
Before I moved to the states I would wear Snickers work pants all the time. And I've missed them ever since, I'm glad to see that they're available over here now.
Great video Carl! Some awesome options out there at the moment. Hope it’s ok to say that we are officially shipping Snickers products from here in the US for anyone who is interested!
So I’m from Germany and I have to say, that Idk about all jobs, but in trades job you usually get clothes but you can buy your own. The most common brand would be „Engelbert Strauss” (I’ve seen an other commenter say that). But in more traditional jobs like carpenter, roofer, or stonemason but also in boy scouts the most common brand would be „FHB”, but I prefer „Reuschenbach”. They make old school very traditional workwear, very heavy quality, cord or moleskin material, double zippers, often bootcut and very simple pockets. I love that (German) heritage workwear and I’d love u to make a video about them as well
I am an electrician and have used Snickers workwear since the seventhies and still doing so and the two most revolutionary things in the construction business in +50 years is workwear from Snickers ( and others nowadays ) and the cordless machines we use these days. I could also mention the development of electrical material but then it would be three so I don't😉
I can confirm that Engelbert Strauss (Strauss Workwear) is the biggest player in Germany. Almost everyone over here knows the brand. They offer great gear for nearly every work environment. Definitely worth a look!
@@Wingnut923 I don't have to... I live in Germany. 😁🤷🏻♂️ Afaik they don't have a US distribution until now. But check out eBay, there are dealers that ship to the US.
When I was in the field, I’d wear tactical pants for their pockets and being so much less restrictive when crouching and kneeling. Up top I’d wear the typical issued hi viz company tee or for warmth I’d typically go with a base layer under said company tee, then a hoodie & a vest over for arm mobility.
If you like Snickers workwear I can recomend Blåkläder (or Blaklader as it´s often pronunced in english). Both companies make great workwear. Blåkläder has been around since 1959.
Have you ever tried out Arborwear? They make a great double thick hoodie in cotton or their tech model…. Also their tree climber pants and tech chainsaw pant are amazing… give them a try if u haven’t already!
Here in Germany blue-collar people mostly wear Engelbert Strauss Workwear. They have very fair prices for their quality. Other brands with similar prices like Dickie's for example don't last as long and feel less comfortable. Strauss can get more expensive too though, depending on what you are looking for. I wouldn't presume that Germany has the same standard as all of Europe though. I do know mechanics and friends that wear Snickers Workwear too but you only see it sporadically.
What a great post, Carl. All good information that's important and needed by workers and outdoorsmen anywhere. As a bit of minor critical feedback, the dark items in the dark room (esp. when your were standing and showing details) made details harder to see than would have been ideal, at least for me.
I'm an engineer by trade, but often have to go out to job sites to inspect equipment installs. After ripping more than a few pairs of pants, I switched to 1620 and haven't looked back. I have 2 pairs that I pretty much wear every day. The only time I wear something different is if I'm camping/hiking then I wear some tactical type cargo pants for the extra pockets. As soon as I have an extra $200 I'll probably retire those those for some 1620 cargo pants.
Truwerk makes a parka that is heavier than the jacket you featured. I have it in hiviz and it is really nice. I work on roofs and they have a D-ring pass through that is super handy. In general I love how lightweight and flexible their stuff is. I also have their T4 bibs, and paired with the parka I mentioned I stay super warm. I used to use carhartt bibs and heavy jacket but their stuff is so heavy that combined with a toolbelt and harness I was getting super fatigued. Final point is that truwerk is water-resistant.
I have it but can’t really layer it because the arms are really tight also the hoodie is too big. I know it’s for hard hat wearing workers but should have an option for a regular hoodie
I love my old school denim Liberty bibs. Plenty pockets and are so freaking comfortable after you've worn the hell out of them. Mine are so soft after having worked in them for about 20 years. And where I live they only cost like $40
These are three brands I've been using a lot lately. Truewerk has some good stuff and I haven't been able to damage their pants at all yet but the lack of an integrated knee pad pocket is keeping me from bumping them up towards the top. Also, the look and drape of their T2 is too light; I wish their T2 was the sturdier softshell of the T3 but without the insulation. I did notice the T3 material has less of the "swish" sound than the T2's. I haven't been able to hurt Snickers but they have a very European feel and fit; even for their "loose" fit pants. It's not a problem since they're still stretchy and comfortable but it could be an issue for some people. Their knee pad system is also the absolute best of the three. 1620 pants are the only ones I've been able to hurt and I blew out the crotch on a pair. Sent them back for free, got them back quick and without fuss, and they haven't worn out since. And the other pairs of pants I had from them never had the same issue. The softshell material they use on their shop pants and durastretch line is amazing. And any of the 1620 pants can easily work for casual clothing. Even most of their upper layers.
@@masonmansitomargiela1399 They have both fit styles. Just have to double check the style when you order. I have both and despite not being a fan of skinny style they do fit better and more comfortably than the loose/standard fit. But both have been great for me.
Not workwear but the Minus33 Kodiak Hoodie is a favorite of mine. Heavy fleece merino wool with a trim fit, I've had mine for two years and was asked yesterday if I just bought it, so I guess its holding up well.
As a New Englander…I serve my local community business by wearing 1620 work wear as often as possible. I’ve learned that line drying them and never using fabric softeners in any form (liquid or dryer sheets), saves some of that original color and freshness. I’ve machine dried them in needs of time constraints. But, prefer not to, saving more usage in total lifetime. This also pertains to canvas duck materials and dark colored garments in general.
Truewerk customer service is phenomenal for the record - I had a weird issue on my first order. Garments are the real deal but it’s def backed by equal service.
I’ve had the same amazing customer service, my first pair of pants the zipper kept constantly coming down. I messaged them in the site and they sent me a new pair of pants no questions asked.
Another awesome video Carl, and the firehydrant crack was hilarious! Have you heard of Noble Outfitters? I bought 3 pairs of their work pants and I'm very happy with them. The nicest thing, is that they are quite stylish. I wear mine for everyday use and not for work.
ive got snickers allaroundwork in high viz orange for working on the homestead nice and comfy also have some snickers and blåkläder from job at the airport all great stuff
I personally wear the 5.11 ABR pants for work they are built well with a little bit of stretch and rip stop material articulated knee and built in pockets for knee pads and plenty of pockets 👍
In Europe, workpants with a ton of pockets like snickers is really the standard, and I would say part of it may be because there isn't as much of a tool belt culture so if you don't have a tool belt, you have pockets in your pants
I pretty much live in DuluthFlex Cargo Pants. I love them, but they have to be a bit baggy in order to have flexibility. For the same price, the Truewerk T2 Pants seem like a perfect, more modern alternative. 4:30 - I had this realization a few years back. I've never liked belts and they don't work well for me unless I really sinch them down. When I started a Property Assessment job about 6 years ago, I grabbed a pair of Duluth X Suspenders and never looked back. If I'm wearing pants, I'm wearing suspenders.
I really wish you could get stuff like this in FR. I wear a lot of hiking/ climbing/ and hunting clothes casually, and I always feel restricted in FR workwear. I’ve taken to buying a lot of military FR like Drifire.
Crye Precision makes some excellent stretchy FR pants, if you're okay with military stuff. A pair of their G4 FR Field Pants in black or khaki would look just like work pants.
I have 3 pair of truewerk t-2 pants and love them. Theo true to size and I have yet to rip them or get a cut in them and I work in framed houses 5 days a week plumbing away.
I have T1-T3 plus a jacket and bibs. Love them. They are durable, comfortable, and affective. The pockets and locations are great. Can't recommend them more
Justin. Agree on the length of arms. Bought a medium hoodie (I am a large in everything at 6-0” and 210 lbs) to counteract the arm length and recently they released shorter cuffs to help with the issues people like me brought to them.
My job in the Navy was to escort submarines up and down the Thames all year round - the Navy issued us a 7-layer system from Beyond Clothing and a Mustang Survival dry suit. I gotta say, the hardest thing to keep warm on that water in the winter was my hands. We tried a ton of different gloves! For feet, they issued us thick Darn Tough socks and some insane Kamik boots, which worked pretty damn well when paired with the dry suit. I still have alllllll of it because yep.. I'm still in the area lol!
@@nachoisme the biggest problem we had was bulk. We needed to stay warm and dry, but still have the ability to fully operate various firearms. After trying lots and lots of brands, we were sent gloves from a company called Sealskinz. The ones they sent us are the Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather Gauntlet. They're great, to a point. Now that I'm a civilian, they're perfect for normal winter activities. But spending all day on the water in a new England winter? I'm actually not sure any glove exists that is thin enough and warm enough for that job. Makes me wish I got stationed in Florida, even though I got out with a ton of really nice gear lol
I live in latvia and I love snickers, usualy they last around 2 years of heavy use, and i use them while operating a cnc machne because i I need a lot of small things in my pockets, I love them and soon im gonna buy a new pair.
Hey Carl! Love your videos, keep it up! I'm a journeyman hvac tech in Canada. Can you do a video on tough duck pieces? I love the washed softshell from them, use it for casual wear and work. Keep up the good work!!
Nice log home setting. Thanks for the video. Never heard of these brands until just recently, looking for some sturdy, general travel, backpack, work features.
I can vouch for the first pair of snickers pants Carl showed, I’ve had mine for over 2 years now and they’re the BEST pair of work pants you can buy. They’re so incredibly solid, they fit so well and overall great. There’s a pair with the extra external pockets and a pair without, and the ones without can easily pass for outdoors pants, such as bushcraft and so on. Like fuck Fjällräven, get Snickers pants. Pockets are big and sturdy as well. Dries quickly too.
I'm a domestic gas engineer in the UK repairing boilers, heating, gas fires, cookers etc. I've work snickers for years now. My current pair is probably 10 years old, they last forever! Only issue with them in my eyes is that they look far too technical, definitely not something you want to head to the pub in. I where dickies and Carhartt mainly as my "casual" clothes as they're still tough enough for doing things around the house/garden/garage but are way more suitable as casual wear imo
@Carl Murawski "I'm built like a fire hydrant," you sir won the internet today. LMAO!!! I found Truewerk last year in their T1 shorts and B1 t shirts, I've been a fanboi ever since.
Truewerk is wonderful! My fiance discovered this brand from a friend, and I've bought a t2 pant and sweatshirt from them. As a woman, you don't ever have anything for product design. They are phenomenal! #truewerk @truewerk
Just wanted to say thank you for your content and reviews. I've learned a lot from your perspective. By the way I love carhartt. That's all I wear. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
1620 4way srtetch are the most kick ass.. I got earlier version and the zip have some issues but they are warranties for life.. The stretch is so killer.. Its stretchy but it holds its shape.. The stylish cuts and wey they are put together is edgy.. I have there super durable ones that they say are stretchy.. They aren't really stretchy but the are killer cut and they are absolutely bullet proof.. I have been wearing and washing them fro a couple of years and they fridge still have that newish stiffness to them.. The 4 ways 'Bruce Lee' performance stretch is my favorite work pants , ever.. Spend though at $270.. .. Buy and cry.. Get it out of the way..
Have watched several of your videos. Just catching on that you are also from Connecticut. Just left electric boat and back working millstone now. Small world! Gotta put some more videos to catch up to you 😂
I have the t2 from truework amd I love them they hold up well. I'm a concrete form carpenter woth lots of rebar and rough concrete and they are by far the best work pants I own I havnt tried 1620 yet but have tried carhartt and duckies work pants and t2 os far better
Started off wearing Snickers back in the 90s. Then I moved over to their sister company Hultafors Dunderdon Jean which were great but unfortunately unable to get for the last year or two.
Can't speak for truwerk or snickers, but I own some of the 1620 double front pants and one of their work hoodies. They are insane. The pants are super tough, and they require some break in like a new pair of carhartt Bo1 pants. I do think they are a bit slimmer through the thighs, which I don't absolutely love because of how rigid they are, but they're not skinny by any means. I think a great addition would be a knife pocket on the top outter corners of the double fronts, like some of the selvage denim companies are doing now. All in all, I like the pants and think they're worth the $200 price tag. I also agree with Carl on the hoodie. It fits very slender through the mid section. I too am not a slim guy, and I wish I would've sized up. With that said, it is the absolute warmest hoodie I've ever owned. I can't wear it if it's above 40 degrees, I'll sweat uncontrollably. The the elbow/forearm patches are great. One thing I would change with it, is that I wish the sleeve cuffs were a bit longer, tighter in circumference and I wish they had that same material on them that the elbows do. Again, I think it's still worth the money. Cool little side note - I messaged the owners on Instagram after wearing them for awhile and told them I was happy with what I bought and they shot me over a code for 25% off next time I needed to get some stuff. I thought that was pretty cool and made the whole experience very personal which is something ya don't see much today.
4:32 Literally was just thinking the same thing when the video started, way before you even mentioned suspenders. As the days go by, I dislike non-suspender pants more and more.
Great video! Love my 1620s too. Hoody and single knee utility pants are great. I really could leave the tool belt behind so many pockets! Carl, do own the heat straps truckman chore coat? I'm tired of breaking zippers on my work coats. Thanks!!
@Carl Murawski Really appreciate your work! Your info about boots helped me alot. Especially during covid. I couldn't find boots. Nicks Boots really bailed me out! Most likely wouldn't have looked there without your help. I am an industrial electrician and my feet were hurting from kneeling and ladder work! These boots go to work, church, and on vacation. Thanks for your help!
I've seen a couple gents out here in Portland Oregon wearing LC King. Must be tourists. Never seen that brand here. I'd say wear what works for you and is in your budget, no matter the brand.
1620’s look and feel so nice it hurts my feelings to work in. They’ve became my church pants because I can’t bare to see my $200 pants that look compatible with my suit jacket and tie get covered in dirt and oil. It’s a shame. Work clothes should never become a fashion statement
Do you think you would ever review the clothes from red kap. They make nice looking work shirts that seem to be good quality, although I would love to hear your thoughts on them.
Iam a little confused I went to Snickers work wear direct USA. Is it shipped from our the country? You never mentioned this. If so how long is the shipping? I wanna pull the trigger but don't want to wait months any info would be beneficial thank you. First time seeing this channel and iam a new fan
Hey Chief! wanted to put a bug in your ear - Origin. the Jocko Willink line. i would be interested in seeing what you think and i KNOW he would love to hear from you as well.
Hell yeah! I've had a pair of the Origin Factory jeans for a while now and they've been exceptional. It might be a good time to do a long term video on those!
Speaking of suspenders, I used to burn through a pair of el cheapo walmart suspenders every 4 months because they were so cheap and poorly made, im on year 4 of this pair of Duluth's and they're still going strong. If only most jeans featured a tab reinforcement instead of easily chewed up and torn free belt loops to accommodate them.
PRODUCTS IN VIDEO LINKED HERE:
Truewerk:
-T2 Pants: bit.ly/3JRZL7Q
-T3 Pants: bit.ly/3XkGGyb
-B1 Baselayer: bit.ly/3YjDqo8
-Woobie Hoodie: bit.ly/3DWgzGS
-S3 Jacket: bit.ly/3IaxfNn
Snickers Workwear
-Baselayer tee: bit.ly/3RRMxtz
-Zip Sweatshirt: bit.ly/3K9ji3w
-Pants 1: bit.ly/3YpNcoK
-Pants 2: bit.ly/3jUjk4P
-Jacket: bit.ly/3YGbVVq
1620 Workwear
-Logo tee: bit.ly/3ROB0va
-Hoodie: bit.ly/3lpeQ6y
-Work Vest: bit.ly/3Idse6E
-Shop Pants: bit.ly/3K5ATJE
-Utility Pants: bit.ly/3DY24Tb
European here! For us in Germany most companies provide workwear for their employees and I work in a lead contaminated area so I am not allowed to bring my own workwear at all because the company is responsible for washing the clothes, therefore I never had to look into workwear for myself. However, most people and companies too buy from Engelbert Strauss. They're the most well-known and loved workwear brand here and everyone is wearing it from kids to retired workers.
would be funny to see engelbert strauss on this channel
I looked into buying Engelbert Strauss last year. But unfortunately they can't shop to the U.S. They have really good stuff.
@@thechameleon77 maybe i should bring some with my next US trip for you guys😂
Their stuff is pretty gppd, I got a high-vis functional jacket from them and it's awesome, light, warm, wind and waterproof
I was in amsterdam for a few months doing some works and most of the people I worked with was wearing this brand. Had to get me a pair and I have to say they are really nice pants and very durable.
Snickers work pants have become the go to for any labour intensive job in ireland. From the trades, to farming, even to warehousing, everyone wears them. By far the best work pants available this side of the pond. Also the pocket flaps are usually just left hanging out with tools in them like a work belt.
“You’re not you when you’re hungry.” *in Irish accent*
Im also in Ireland and have used Snickers trousers, their gear was good about 15 years ago, now they don’t last, Blaklader are far superior!
I bought my 1620 pants a little over a year ago and I have recommended them to everyone since that day. Best work ware I have ever personally used.
I bought two items from 1620. A hoodie and a pair of winter pants. I will never buy anything from them again. Both items had to be returned, after very little wear, for repair, which was sloppily done and took over a month in spite of being told that it would be expedited. The fabric on the hoodie started to tear right by the pocket on the front, as well as the stitching coming out on the waistband in the back. On the pants, the watch pocket on the left hand side had about 3 inches of stitching tear out. When that happened I noticed that there was a hole in the fabric itself, which was obviously a manufacturing defect. I mentioned the hole when I sent them in for repair but it wasn't addressed at all. An almost $300 pair of pants shouldn't have a defect like that or should at least be addressed when brought up. Not to mention that the pocket shouldn't have torn in the first place. The repair on the hoodie was sloppily done. Had I known how they were going to handle the repairs, I would have done them myself, as I could have done at least as good of a job. They didn't even trim all of the threads in the repair area, which is just sloppy and careless.
I have a few items from Truewerk that I really like and will definitely buy more of. I have the T2 pants and a pair of T1 shorts as well as a couple of pairs of their sweatpants which can be work under the pants for insulation and are quite comfortable.
So, in my opinion avoid 1620 and go with Truewerk. Those are the only two that I have experience with.
@@IveLearnedSomeThings I got 1620 overalls last year and holy hell. What a let down. They were delivered to me with one strap UNSEWN. It took several days for them to reply because their website didn't let me exchange them because the color I chose was out of stock, and there was no option to simply get them repaired without using up my warranty promise. Eventually I was able to send them back, wait more than a month to receive them again, and they honestly don't even fit well. The quality of the stitching is so often questionable too, like I paid more for these than I would've for other brands because I expected the price to reflect an upgrade from their competitors. Left me on the fence about whether to try out any of their products in the future, and I honestly don't think I will.
Bought several items from 1620. Crooked seams irregular lengths and more manufacturing problems. Sent several items back and waited and got new ones and had the same issues. Eventually I said forget it. For the money they charge they need to do better way better!
Sweden has a couple well known workwear brands. Fristads, Blåkläder and Björnkläder are all very common in Sweden. Frisads was founded in 1925, Blåkläder in 1959 and Björnkläder in 1905.
Came back to this video after watching previously to say how impressive snickers pants are. Durability is insane, really great quality product. Thanks for the initial insight on this!
Here in Norway you often see carpenters, plumbers and electrisians using snicker workear, but most mechanics use blåklädar or bjørnkläder.
I wear mostly all carhartt now because of your channel and recommendations. Owning less and owning better is superior than todays throw away culture. Thank you Carl.
Well said! Thank you so much for the kind words brother!
Same with me but with Duluth and there sales around the holidays.
Same here!! All carhartt!.. tired of them Walmart $10 jeans that rip in a few months lol
Made in Vietnam is a super bonus when looking for top tier quality. I have UA jackets, Sketcher Slip-ins, Sitka gloves, Cabelas boots, all made in Vietnam, and in all products the stitching and material alignment is perfect.
Ive just recently got into workwear from over seas. I like Blaklader the best specifically the workpant with 4way stretch, kneepad packets, and detachable holster pockets. Game changer for me. Also Helley hansen makes great work wear too
I must agree. Suspenders are far superior. I usually just wear "bibs" or some call them overalls. I like being able to throw them on over basketball shorts in the summer or jeans in the winter and yeah kinda tough to move at times but you can leave them at the jobsite. I did all winter with my insulated bibs
As a UK electrician I've been wearing snickers for 20 years they last ages very comfortable and the flappy pockets come in so handy for lugs screws etc.
Work scandi style workwear for five years. Blåklader, snickers and bjornkleder. Great stuff highly recommend
Thanks for sharing!
Before I moved to the states I would wear Snickers work pants all the time. And I've missed them ever since, I'm glad to see that they're available over here now.
Best video on work wear by far brother. Thank you for taking the time and showing some of the options available
Truewerk B1 long sleeves best shirts I’ve ever worn for working in the heat and sun. Keeps me cool
Great video Carl! Some awesome options out there at the moment. Hope it’s ok to say that we are officially shipping Snickers products from here in the US for anyone who is interested!
So I’m from Germany and I have to say, that Idk about all jobs, but in trades job you usually get clothes but you can buy your own.
The most common brand would be „Engelbert Strauss” (I’ve seen an other commenter say that).
But in more traditional jobs like carpenter, roofer, or stonemason but also in boy scouts the most common brand would be „FHB”, but I prefer „Reuschenbach”. They make old school very traditional workwear, very heavy quality, cord or moleskin material, double zippers, often bootcut and very simple pockets.
I love that (German) heritage workwear and I’d love u to make a video about them as well
In scandinavia/norway snickers is currently one of the biggest workwear brands atm, especially for plumbers/ electricians
And I think snicker’s name is based on the swedish/norwegian name for carpenter (snikker)
I think Engelbert Strauss should be mentioned, probably not as big in US but huge in europe , super high quality gear
I am an electrician and have used Snickers workwear since the seventhies and still doing so and the two most revolutionary
things in the construction business in +50 years is workwear from Snickers ( and others nowadays ) and the cordless machines we use these days. I could also mention the development of electrical material but then it would be three so I don't😉
Any summer wear items you would recommend for working on the trades in summer?
I can confirm that Engelbert Strauss (Strauss Workwear) is the biggest player in Germany. Almost everyone over here knows the brand. They offer great gear for nearly every work environment. Definitely worth a look!
Where do you find them in the USA?
@@Wingnut923 I don't have to... I live in Germany. 😁🤷🏻♂️ Afaik they don't have a US distribution until now. But check out eBay, there are dealers that ship to the US.
When I was in the field, I’d wear tactical pants for their pockets and being so much less restrictive when crouching and kneeling. Up top I’d wear the typical issued hi viz company tee or for warmth I’d typically go with a base layer under said company tee, then a hoodie & a vest over for arm mobility.
If you like Snickers workwear I can recomend Blåkläder (or Blaklader as it´s often pronunced in english). Both companies make great workwear. Blåkläder has been around since 1959.
Have you ever tried out Arborwear? They make a great double thick hoodie in cotton or their tech model…. Also their tree climber pants and tech chainsaw pant are amazing… give them a try if u haven’t already!
I havent, but I've heard so much great stuff about them!
Soooo many trades men wear snickers trousers everywhere they are the best thing about, the knee pads are just unreal
Here in Germany blue-collar people mostly wear Engelbert Strauss Workwear. They have very fair prices for their quality. Other brands with similar prices like Dickie's for example don't last as long and feel less comfortable. Strauss can get more expensive too though, depending on what you are looking for.
I wouldn't presume that Germany has the same standard as all of Europe though. I do know mechanics and friends that wear Snickers Workwear too but you only see it sporadically.
What a great post, Carl. All good information that's important and needed by workers and outdoorsmen anywhere.
As a bit of minor critical feedback, the dark items in the dark room (esp. when your were standing and showing details) made details harder to see than would have been ideal, at least for me.
I'm an engineer by trade, but often have to go out to job sites to inspect equipment installs. After ripping more than a few pairs of pants, I switched to 1620 and haven't looked back. I have 2 pairs that I pretty much wear every day. The only time I wear something different is if I'm camping/hiking then I wear some tactical type cargo pants for the extra pockets. As soon as I have an extra $200 I'll probably retire those those for some 1620 cargo pants.
subscribed because of the fire hydrant remark. gotta love some humble honesty.
Idk how but whenever I need to look something up I always stumble across this channel. Best vids
Glad you like them!
Snickers work wear are pretty good.I love my cat workwear all day!! Blaklader work gear is really good as well and underrated.
Truwerk makes a parka that is heavier than the jacket you featured. I have it in hiviz and it is really nice. I work on roofs and they have a D-ring pass through that is super handy.
In general I love how lightweight and flexible their stuff is. I also have their T4 bibs, and paired with the parka I mentioned I stay super warm. I used to use carhartt bibs and heavy jacket but their stuff is so heavy that combined with a toolbelt and harness I was getting super fatigued.
Final point is that truwerk is water-resistant.
I have it but can’t really layer it because the arms are really tight also the hoodie is too big. I know it’s for hard hat wearing workers but should have an option for a regular hoodie
I am a long time wearer of Snickers, great products
I love my old school denim Liberty bibs. Plenty pockets and are so freaking comfortable after you've worn the hell out of them. Mine are so soft after having worked in them for about 20 years. And where I live they only cost like $40
These are three brands I've been using a lot lately. Truewerk has some good stuff and I haven't been able to damage their pants at all yet but the lack of an integrated knee pad pocket is keeping me from bumping them up towards the top. Also, the look and drape of their T2 is too light; I wish their T2 was the sturdier softshell of the T3 but without the insulation. I did notice the T3 material has less of the "swish" sound than the T2's.
I haven't been able to hurt Snickers but they have a very European feel and fit; even for their "loose" fit pants. It's not a problem since they're still stretchy and comfortable but it could be an issue for some people. Their knee pad system is also the absolute best of the three.
1620 pants are the only ones I've been able to hurt and I blew out the crotch on a pair. Sent them back for free, got them back quick and without fuss, and they haven't worn out since. And the other pairs of pants I had from them never had the same issue. The softshell material they use on their shop pants and durastretch line is amazing. And any of the 1620 pants can easily work for casual clothing. Even most of their upper layers.
I been thinking about getting some pants from them (snickers) but they look like “skinny” that’s the only thing holding me back
@@masonmansitomargiela1399 They have both fit styles. Just have to double check the style when you order. I have both and despite not being a fan of skinny style they do fit better and more comfortably than the loose/standard fit. But both have been great for me.
I ripped my truewerk pants during orientation lol. Brunt and 5.11 have been good for me . Going to try 1620
I sacrifice comfort for the fades I get with selvage denim. My 3-year-old Cone LC King is a work of art
Not workwear but the Minus33 Kodiak Hoodie is a favorite of mine. Heavy fleece merino wool with a trim fit, I've had mine for two years and was asked yesterday if I just bought it, so I guess its holding up well.
As a New Englander…I serve my local community business by wearing 1620 work wear as often as possible. I’ve learned that line drying them and never using fabric softeners in any form (liquid or dryer sheets), saves some of that original color and freshness. I’ve machine dried them in needs of time constraints. But, prefer not to, saving more usage in total lifetime. This also pertains to canvas duck materials and dark colored garments in general.
I agree with the noise on the truewerk pants. I come home late and wake everyone by walking around the house 😂
Swishing around before a shift, like youre rocking snowpants isnt a great situation.
Thanks for sharing these items. These brands are really intriguing and definitely something I'll look more into checking out!
Truewerk customer service is phenomenal for the record - I had a weird issue on my first order. Garments are the real deal but it’s def backed by equal service.
Thats great to hear!
I’ve had the same amazing customer service, my first pair of pants the zipper kept constantly coming down. I messaged them in the site and they sent me a new pair of pants no questions asked.
Another awesome video Carl, and the firehydrant crack was hilarious!
Have you heard of Noble Outfitters? I bought 3 pairs of their work pants and I'm very happy with them. The nicest thing, is that they are quite stylish. I wear mine for everyday use and not for work.
Snickers are so common in Ireland that "Snickers" has become a colloquial term for work trousers
ive got snickers allaroundwork in high viz orange for working on the homestead nice and comfy also have some snickers and blåkläder from job at the airport all great stuff
I personally wear the 5.11 ABR pants for work they are built well with a little bit of stretch and rip stop material articulated knee and built in pockets for knee pads and plenty of pockets 👍
Country of origin does matter. Thank you for pointing that out.
In Europe, workpants with a ton of pockets like snickers is really the standard, and I would say part of it may be because there isn't as much of a tool belt culture so if you don't have a tool belt, you have pockets in your pants
I pretty much live in DuluthFlex Cargo Pants. I love them, but they have to be a bit baggy in order to have flexibility. For the same price, the Truewerk T2 Pants seem like a perfect, more modern alternative.
4:30 - I had this realization a few years back. I've never liked belts and they don't work well for me unless I really sinch them down. When I started a Property Assessment job about 6 years ago, I grabbed a pair of Duluth X Suspenders and never looked back. If I'm wearing pants, I'm wearing suspenders.
I really wish you could get stuff like this in FR. I wear a lot of hiking/ climbing/ and hunting clothes casually, and I always feel restricted in FR workwear. I’ve taken to buying a lot of military FR like Drifire.
Crye Precision makes some excellent stretchy FR pants, if you're okay with military stuff. A pair of their G4 FR Field Pants in black or khaki would look just like work pants.
I have 3 pair of truewerk t-2 pants and love them. Theo true to size and I have yet to rip them or get a cut in them and I work in framed houses 5 days a week plumbing away.
I have T1-T3 plus a jacket and bibs. Love them. They are durable, comfortable, and affective. The pockets and locations are great. Can't recommend them more
Is Truewerk durable ?
@Marc P I have had the T1 and T2 for 2 years now and they look almost new still. So i feel that they are.
Good review Carl! It's nice to see reviews on new products that are coming out!
The 1620 hoodie is great!!! Way too long for us normal sized dudes though
Justin. Agree on the length of arms. Bought a medium hoodie (I am a large in everything at 6-0” and 210 lbs) to counteract the arm length and recently they released shorter cuffs to help with the issues people like me brought to them.
Been waiting to see your thoughts on Truewerk for some time now 🙌🏻🙌🏻
My job in the Navy was to escort submarines up and down the Thames all year round - the Navy issued us a 7-layer system from Beyond Clothing and a Mustang Survival dry suit. I gotta say, the hardest thing to keep warm on that water in the winter was my hands. We tried a ton of different gloves! For feet, they issued us thick Darn Tough socks and some insane Kamik boots, which worked pretty damn well when paired with the dry suit. I still have alllllll of it because yep.. I'm still in the area lol!
Did you find a great pair of gloves? Or what are the best you had?
@@nachoisme the biggest problem we had was bulk. We needed to stay warm and dry, but still have the ability to fully operate various firearms. After trying lots and lots of brands, we were sent gloves from a company called Sealskinz. The ones they sent us are the Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather Gauntlet. They're great, to a point. Now that I'm a civilian, they're perfect for normal winter activities. But spending all day on the water in a new England winter? I'm actually not sure any glove exists that is thin enough and warm enough for that job. Makes me wish I got stationed in Florida, even though I got out with a ton of really nice gear lol
I live in latvia and I love snickers, usualy they last around 2 years of heavy use, and i use them while operating a cnc machne because i I need a lot of small things in my pockets, I love them and soon im gonna buy a new pair.
Hey Carl! Love your videos, keep it up! I'm a journeyman hvac tech in Canada. Can you do a video on tough duck pieces? I love the washed softshell from them, use it for casual wear and work. Keep up the good work!!
Great suggestion!
Would love to know your opinion on it!👍🤷♂️
Nice log home setting. Thanks for the video. Never heard of these brands until just recently, looking for some sturdy, general travel, backpack, work features.
I can vouch for the first pair of snickers pants Carl showed, I’ve had mine for over 2 years now and they’re the BEST pair of work pants you can buy. They’re so incredibly solid, they fit so well and overall great. There’s a pair with the extra external pockets and a pair without, and the ones without can easily pass for outdoors pants, such as bushcraft and so on. Like fuck Fjällräven, get Snickers pants. Pockets are big and sturdy as well. Dries quickly too.
Fun fact about the snickers
The name is very close to the swedish word "snickare" Which means carpenter. I suspect that is where the name comes from
I'm a domestic gas engineer in the UK repairing boilers, heating, gas fires, cookers etc. I've work snickers for years now. My current pair is probably 10 years old, they last forever! Only issue with them in my eyes is that they look far too technical, definitely not something you want to head to the pub in. I where dickies and Carhartt mainly as my "casual" clothes as they're still tough enough for doing things around the house/garden/garage but are way more suitable as casual wear imo
@Carl Murawski "I'm built like a fire hydrant," you sir won the internet today. LMAO!!! I found Truewerk last year in their T1 shorts and B1 t shirts, I've been a fanboi ever since.
Truewerk is wonderful! My fiance discovered this brand from a friend, and I've bought a t2 pant and sweatshirt from them. As a woman, you don't ever have anything for product design. They are phenomenal! #truewerk @truewerk
Just wanted to say thank you for your content and reviews. I've learned a lot from your perspective. By the way I love carhartt. That's all I wear. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
I appreciate that!
1620 4way srtetch are the most kick ass.. I got earlier version and the zip have some issues but they are warranties for life.. The stretch is so killer.. Its stretchy but it holds its shape.. The stylish cuts and wey they are put together is edgy.. I have there super durable ones that they say are stretchy.. They aren't really stretchy but the are killer cut and they are absolutely bullet proof.. I have been wearing and washing them fro a couple of years and they fridge still have that newish stiffness to them.. The 4 ways 'Bruce Lee' performance stretch is my favorite work pants , ever.. Spend though at $270.. .. Buy and cry.. Get it out of the way..
Looks like some great stuff!!
I have never heard of snickers work were before that looks interesting gear
Very informative video Carl…thanks for the time you put into it. Just subbed , because of the great content.
Awesome, thank you!
Truewerk have the best pants, and bibs I've ever used so far.
They certainly have a lot of dedicated followers!
Have watched several of your videos. Just catching on that you are also from Connecticut. Just left electric boat and back working millstone now. Small world! Gotta put some more videos to catch up to you 😂
Hahaha yup! EB took years off my life. Now I’m in New Haven on the St Raphael’s project.
@@CarlMurawski Are you IBEW?
I have the t2 from truework amd I love them they hold up well. I'm a concrete form carpenter woth lots of rebar and rough concrete and they are by far the best work pants I own I havnt tried 1620 yet but have tried carhartt and duckies work pants and t2 os far better
Kitanica makes badass work pants. My favorite
You should do a video on Kuhl, they make some pretty good work clothes
Started off wearing Snickers back in the 90s. Then I moved over to their sister company Hultafors Dunderdon Jean which were great but unfortunately unable to get for the last year or two.
“What do you want from me?” Made me lol!
Can't speak for truwerk or snickers, but I own some of the 1620 double front pants and one of their work hoodies. They are insane. The pants are super tough, and they require some break in like a new pair of carhartt Bo1 pants. I do think they are a bit slimmer through the thighs, which I don't absolutely love because of how rigid they are, but they're not skinny by any means. I think a great addition would be a knife pocket on the top outter corners of the double fronts, like some of the selvage denim companies are doing now. All in all, I like the pants and think they're worth the $200 price tag. I also agree with Carl on the hoodie. It fits very slender through the mid section. I too am not a slim guy, and I wish I would've sized up. With that said, it is the absolute warmest hoodie I've ever owned. I can't wear it if it's above 40 degrees, I'll sweat uncontrollably. The the elbow/forearm patches are great. One thing I would change with it, is that I wish the sleeve cuffs were a bit longer, tighter in circumference and I wish they had that same material on them that the elbows do. Again, I think it's still worth the money. Cool little side note - I messaged the owners on Instagram after wearing them for awhile and told them I was happy with what I bought and they shot me over a code for 25% off next time I needed to get some stuff. I thought that was pretty cool and made the whole experience very personal which is something ya don't see much today.
4:32 Literally was just thinking the same thing when the video started, way before you even mentioned suspenders. As the days go by, I dislike non-suspender pants more and more.
Very cool video. I kept wondering about 1620. I just ordered a pair. Think about leftfield nyc, railcar fine goods. Keep up the good work.
Great video! Love my 1620s too. Hoody and single knee utility pants are great. I really could leave the tool belt behind so many pockets!
Carl, do own the heat straps truckman chore coat? I'm tired of breaking zippers on my work coats.
Thanks!!
I have the Chiefs Coat from Heat straps and I'm working with them on a lightweight "trucker" style work jacket now!
@Carl Murawski Really appreciate your work! Your info about boots helped me alot. Especially during covid. I couldn't find boots. Nicks Boots really bailed me out! Most likely wouldn't have looked there without your help. I am an industrial electrician and my feet were hurting from kneeling and ladder work! These boots go to work, church, and on vacation. Thanks for your help!
Truewerk seems to be a combination of Carhartt and 5.11 Tactical (or whatever brand that makes that stuff). That is a promising combination.
Would be cool to see a new design of the overalls
I've seen a couple gents out here in Portland Oregon wearing LC King. Must be tourists. Never seen that brand here. I'd say wear what works for you and is in your budget, no matter the brand.
$198 for those 1620 shop pants? WAY out of my price range.
Groton! I know that place. I live near the base and work on the river.
Truewerk does have a warmer jacket/parka that is called the S4 tower parka
I’d love to try the truwerk but I can’t bring myself to wear anything with the branding all over it.. I’m picky like that, it is what it is
1620’s look and feel so nice it hurts my feelings to work in. They’ve became my church pants because I can’t bare to see my $200 pants that look compatible with my suit jacket and tie get covered in dirt and oil. It’s a shame. Work clothes should never become a fashion statement
Do you think you would ever review the clothes from red kap. They make nice looking work shirts that seem to be good quality, although I would love to hear your thoughts on them.
Possibly! I used to wear those for a uniform when I was a mechanic once upon a time!
Mountain Khakis could be comparable especially if your in the outdoor side of work too. The crotch gusset is a game changer
Iam a little confused I went to Snickers work wear direct USA. Is it shipped from our the country? You never mentioned this. If so how long is the shipping? I wanna pull the trigger but don't want to wait months any info would be beneficial thank you. First time seeing this channel and iam a new fan
Hey Carl, you should cover suspenders
Here in Norway Snickers are considered to be the best workwear you can buy
Love the My Cousin Vinny reference. Great video as well
Hahahaha I'm glad someone got that joke!
Hey Chief! wanted to put a bug in your ear - Origin. the Jocko Willink line. i would be interested in seeing what you think and i KNOW he would love to hear from you as well.
Hell yeah! I've had a pair of the Origin Factory jeans for a while now and they've been exceptional. It might be a good time to do a long term video on those!
So far the best work pant I have ever worn are the kuhl above the law
Speaking of suspenders, I used to burn through a pair of el cheapo walmart suspenders every 4 months because they were so cheap and poorly made, im on year 4 of this pair of Duluth's and they're still going strong. If only most jeans featured a tab reinforcement instead of easily chewed up and torn free belt loops to accommodate them.
I know man, I really wish more pants had provisions for suspenders.
I’d love to see a suspenders episode!