Now, let’s take a look at the best lunch boxes for construction workers.

Optimal Lunch Box Design for Construction Workers

A well-built lunch box for construction workers should:

• Be really tough. A good heavy-duty lunch box for work should be able to withstand being knocked around or dropped without seriously damaging the lunch box or your sandwich, chips, and drinks.
• Have a nice seal. A lunch container with a tight seal will be able to keep out dirt and dust. Having a tight seal on your lunch box will also help keep your food and drinks cooler longer.
• Be large enough. A good lunch bag needs to have room to store your lunch, a few snacks, and enough drinks to get through the day. But you shouldn’t need a dolly to transport it.
• Have a high cold rating. A high cold rating (a lunch cooler with good insulation) ensures your food stays at cold enough temperatures so it will not spoil. The best-insulated lunch box will keep your food cool enough so that it does not become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. 
• Be kept on ice. By using an ice pack or freezing one or two of your drinks, your lunch box should keep your food cold for 10-14 hours. Even many of the best lunch boxes and lunch bags do not come with an ice pack, so be sure to factor that into the overall cost of the lunch cooler.

As you can see, there are many factors that make the best lunch box “the best.” Not every lunch box will fulfill every category and you may need to make a tradeoff on something or another. For instance, perhaps you want a lunch box with good insulation as opposed to one that’s really large. So, weigh these factors and think of what is best for you, then choose the best lunch box that fits your criteria.

10 Best Lunch Boxes for Construction Workers

1. Carhartt Deluxe Insulated Lunch Cooler Bag

Since 1889, Carhartt products have been known for their quality and durability and this Carhartt Lunch Box is no exception. This is a soft-sided, heavy duty men’s lunch bag with strong YKK zippers. It’s the perfect men’s lunch bag for the job site. In fact, it’s one of the most popular lunch bags for construction workers.

It has a separate insulated pouch on the top (for a sandwich) and an uninsulated zippered compartment in the front (for utensils and condiments). Thick insulation keeps food cold in the main compartment and the 1200 denier heavy duty polyester outer shell repels light rain effortlessly with its Rain Defender technology. This lunch box is also triple-stitched to hold up even under the most extreme conditions.

As far as colors, it comes in classic Carhartt Brown as well as camouflage, grey, blue  and black. Carrying the lunch bag is easy with this lunch box’s comfortable shoulder strap (strap is not removable). 

This insulated adult lunch bag measures 10″ x 9″ x 7″ and can hold up to six cans.

Overall, this is the best lunch box for workers. Not too expensive, decent size, weatherproof and extremely durable. It also looks great and won’t be the kind of lunch bag you’re too embarrassed to bring to the job site. 

Looking for a vertical Carhartt lunch cooler instead? Designed to accommodate up to six 12-ounce bottles, this classic men’s lunch box for work by Carhartt includes a main compartment, zippered condiment and utensil pocket and a mesh outer pocket that perfectly fits the free 20-ounce Carhartt water bottle (included with purchase). 

2. Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Tough Lunch Box 

The Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Tough Box is a robust lunch cooler that is perfect for keeping food and drinks cold during even the hottest workdays. In fact, this hard-sided lunch box is one of the most popular for construction workers looking for a heavy-duty lunch box.

This orange and gray lunch box even looks like it was built for the construction site. It has that mean and rugged look that seems to say, “Don’t mess with me.” 

This hoss can even support up to 300 pounds of weight. How many other guys do you see using their lunch box as a seat?

Highly durable and well-made, the large 17 qt. (16.1 L) the compartment can hold quite a few items of varying sizes and the smaller section in the lid is ideal for smaller items. This lunch cooler keeps food cold for up to 30 hours, however, no ice pack is included.

It also comes with a durable seal, a lock function on the front (it can fit a Master Lock or similar lock), and a nylon belt for transporting. Lots of features and high quality, you cannot go wrong with the Tough Box lunch box.

Overall, this is one of the best lunch boxes for construction workers. With a construction lunch box look and a high level of durability, you’ll be the envy of the job site. 

3. Stanley Heritage Lunch Cooler 

If you are looking for a rugged lunch box that’s not too large, the Stanley Heritage Lunch Cooler may be just what you need. The handle and lid also feature a convenient way to lock in the 1.5 Qt Stanley thermos (which comes included with the cooler). 

Crafted of durable dark green plastic, the lid doubles as a lunch tray. The stainless steel thermos holds 1.5 quarts, is appropriate for both hot and cold beverages, and will keep either one at just the right temperature for up to 24 hours. 

The advantage of this lunch cooler is its convenient size that measures 16″ x 9″ x 13″. The Stanley keeps food cold for up to 16 hours. There are two storage compartments (7″ x 8″ and 7″ x 4.25″) for separating items and the cooler is double wall foam insulated. 

The model may be discontinued by the company which could potentially cause warranty issues in the future (they’ll replace it with a similar lunch box instead). This is something to keep in mind, but not necessarily a dealbreaker.

If you want a classic lunch box with the latest insulation technology, this is the best lunch box for you.

Still have a desire for that old school brown lunch bag? Don’t worry. They now make the classic paper sack in an upgraded insulated and reusable form. Pretty slick, right? Check it out here.

4. Husky Weather Resistant Insulated Men’s Lunch Box 

The Husky Lunch Box is made out of 600 tuff spun denier which both water-resistant and weather-resistant. This men’s lunch box is built just like their tool bags, tough and heavy duty. And for a “soft sided” lunch cooler, it’s impressive how sturdy it is. Also, it’s easy to carry. The top handle feels great when holding it and the shoulder strap feels natural and comfortable.

The inside is ten-and-a-half inches high, tall enough for a Gatorade, and padded with thick high density insulation. It holds up to 12 cans and keeps food cold for 10-12 hours with an ice pack. It’s also leakproof and easy to clean. It keeps foods either warm or cold too, depending on your preference. It’s also food safe, as well as BPA and lead free.

If that wasn’t enough, there’s an insulated front pocket, for keeping foods either hot or cold. With two insulated pockets you could keep a few hot pockets or a warm sandwich up front and your cold drinks in the main compartment. On the back, there’s a zippered compartment for napkins and condiments. 

The two side pockets are much larger than what you usually see on a lunch box of this size. In fact, the side pockets are perfect for holding a thermos on both sides, even at the same time. 

The zippers are high quality and the build is what you expect from Husky. Zippers are heavy duty and even the shoulder strap has metal clasps to clip it on to the sides of the lunch box. With this kind of construction, this lunch box will easily hold up well for years. There’s also a 3-year limited warranty for added security. 

What more could you ask for in a lunch box? A great job by Husky and one of the best lunch boxes for an affordable price, especially for this level of quality.

This lunch box measures 9.2″ x 7.5″ x 10.5″.

5. HSD Tactical Lunch Box 

If you are looking for a way to support a veteran, the HSD Tactical Lunch Box is a good choice. This isn’t your kid’s lunch box, it’s a well-built, heavy duty tactical lunch bag for adults. 

While it is not made out of Kevlar, it is made out of high-grade military materials such as 600 denier waterproof polyester. It also has high quality YKK zippers, that usually come on more high-end lunch boxes. But this lunch box comes at an affordable price. 

The heavy duty, reinforced handle makes carrying the lunch bag easy, but it also comes with a removable and adjustable shoulder strap just in case. It has a large convenient front pocket (7.5″ x 4.5″) for utensils and condiments as well as mesh sides and a mesh inner-top. On the back there is MOLLE / PALS webbing which is nice for attaching extra storage or clipping items such as your keys.

This lunch box is insulated with thicker than average foam (8 mm foam instead of 5 mm foam) and a thermal lining. On average, with an ice pack added, this lunch bag should easily keep your food cold 10-12 hours. Lastly, the lunch cooler is phthalate, formaldehyde and lead-free. 

If you’re looking for a good tactical lunch box, this is the best lunch box on the market.

This lunch box measures 10″ x 7.5″ x 6.5″ and holds up to 6 cans.

Compliment this lunch box with a Titanium Utensil Set and carrying case. 100% titanium utensils and comes equipped with a carabiner so you can hang the utensils off the rear webbing of the lunch box. Or, maybe you prefer stainless steel instead.

6. DBTAC Tactical Lunch Bag

Similar to the HSD lunch box above, the DBTAC tactical lunch bag is its bigger brother. Instead of holding only six cans, like the HSD, this can hold up to 12 cans in total. 

One other major difference is that it has a leakproof liner and a removable plastic insert, which can even be bought separately and replaced, if needed. It can also be bought to put inside another lunch box of similar size.

Like the HSD, it is made of military grade materials and is equipped with the MOLLE webbing on the back as well. Its exterior is made of military grade 600D fabric with reinforced stitching. The exterior is waterproof and extremely durable. 

There is a large front compartment that is designed to hold condiments and utensils, however, it is big enough to fit an iPad if you needed to. It also has a velcro loop panel the you could use to put unique velcro patches (it comes with a black US flag patch). There are two mesh side compartments for a phone, keys, tools, a small flashlight, or whatever you see fit. 

There’s also a large, foil-lined main compartment measuring 10.5″ x 7.5″ x 7″. It is reinforced with extra thick PE foam to keep your food ice cold. On the top of the main lid there is a spot for an ice pack that is secured in place with a zipper pouch. 

The only oversight is the fact that the ice bag up top can melt and then it drains down onto your food. There are several creative fixes for this but the easiest is just using some plastic wrap over top of the plastic liner that sits below. 

The lunch box also comes with a convenient and easily removable carrying strap as well as a heavy duty handle. 

The is the second best lunch box in the tactical category. It’s slightly lower quality than the HSD lunch box but offers a lot more room and the inner liner is a huge plus.

This lunch box measures 11.5″ x 8.0″ x 8.5″ and it also comes with a one year warranty.

7. Milwaukee Packout Jobsite Lunch Box

The Milwaukee Packout jobsite lunch box is not only good-looking but it is also built tough and is extremely durable, perfect for the construction site. Of all the lunchboxes on this list, it has the toughest exterior by far. It also has the thickest insulation for a soft-sided lunch box. There’s even a molded base on the bottom that is impact-resistant, and also compatible with other Milwaukee Packout products.

The first thing you’ll notice about this lunch box is how heavy duty it is for a soft-sided lunch box. On the exterior is 1680 denier (1680D) ballistic material, the toughest lunch box exterior you’ll come across online for soft-sided lunch boxes. (Even the Carhartt can’t compete with its 1200D). It also has extremely sturdy heavy duty zippers and all metal hardware throughout the lunch box. The material on the outside is also “no sweat,” so you don’t have to worry about condensation leaking all over the place. The impact-resistant bottom is also perfect for the jobsite.

On the side is a handy bottle opener that also doubles as a clip for your tape measure. On that same side, there is a large pocket for larger tools (like pliers) and three small pen pockets for pens, pencils or similar shaped tools. On the opposite side is an even larger pocket is available for tool storage. In the front, there’s a “tech pocket” for storing an iPad, your wallet and keys, or condiments and utensils.

When you open up the cooler the first thing you’ll notice is just how thick the insulation is. What you’re seeing is Milwaukee’s double thick insulation. Milwaukee claims that this lunch cooler will keep your food cold for up to 24 hours, but more realistically you’ll be able to get 10-16 hours of cold with a few ice packs or when completely filled with ice. Inside it holds up to 21 quarts. Additionally, the liner is leakproof and easy to clean as well. 

There’s also a compartment on the top lid of the lunch box. This spot is most appropriate for storing a sandwich, chips and other items such as utensils and condiments. It conveniently zips shut so and is all mesh so if you need to keep some food cold, like fruit, it’ll stay cold too. 

A great feature on this lunch box is the removable shoulder strap. Not only is the strap built extremely tough, it also features metal clips to easily put the strap on or take it off. With the strap off, there’s a convenient top handle for easy carrying, just like a toolbox. 

While there is a lot to like about this lunch box, there are a few cons. The lack of a pocket for a thermos is a bit of drag, however, it’s possible you could find a thermos that’s sized to fit into one of the tool pockets. The only other con is that this is soft-sided and not hard-sided, though it does have the hard bottom, which is nice.

All in all, a top-notch lunch box and the type of quality you would expect from Milwaukee. 

This lunch box measures 13″ x 13.77″ x 14.96″.

Check out some other Milwaukee Packout products.

8. Arctic Zone Titan “Deep Freeze” Zipperless Hard Body Lunch Cooler

The Arctic Zone “Deep Freeze” Lunch Box lives up to its name with its radiant heat barrier technology, which reflects heat to keep your lunch cold. It’ll easily keep cold throughout the workday, even if you happen to be working overtime. 

With its patented flip-open design this lunch box feels more like a toolbox and a lunch box combo. Its moss color also gives it that nice manly look (though it does come in blue and white as well) which makes you feel good holding it too.

Inside it features a hard body liner that is FDA approved and food safe. The lining also protects against bacteria and mold. The liner makes this lunch box easy to clean and also makes this lunch box leakproof as well. 

The lining also has a separator that separates the top and bottom portion so you could put a sandwich up top and other larger items below (including your ice pack). Alternatively, you can load up the bottom and put the ice pack on top. 

The exterior of the lunch box is made of what’s called “Rhino Tech” material which is abrasion and puncture resistant. It is also resistant to water and stains as well. There is one large front pocket for holding condiments and utensils, as well as a small front pocket that can be used for storing keys, a wallet, or a pocket knife. There is also a mesh pocket on the side for storage use as well. 

It also includes an adjustable strap that makes this lunch box easy to carry, however, the strap may be too short for some users (especially if you are a big guy). It holds up to nine cans on the inside but it also comes in a 16 can, 30 can, and 48 can version as well. Each version looks exactly the same with the same configuration, just in a different size.

Although this is a hard body lunch box, it isn’t designed for extremest rugged worksites like the Klein Tools ToughBox or the Stanley boxes, but it’ll do the job. If you don’t need to beat it around too much, this is one of the best insulated lunch boxes, and it will keep your food cold all day. 

This lunch box measures 17.75″ x 10.25″ x 10.25″. 

9. Stanley Classic Lunch Box

Looking for a vintage stainless steel lunch box? The Stanley Classic Lunch Box is an updated version of the iconic manual laborer’s lunch box from the 1950s. Domed in shape, it is designed to hold the Stanley stainless-steel insulated thermos or mug.

Crafted from heavy-duty steel, this lunch box comes with manufacturing-grade hinges and latches. It also comes with a lifetime warranty. 

This lunch box measures 13″ x 6.5″ x 10″ and holds 10 quarts. It also comes in Hammertone Navy.

Add-on items for the Stanley Classic Lunch Box:

The Stanley Classic Lunch Box is designed to hold both the Stanley Classic Vacuum Bottle as well as the Stanley Insulated Food Jar.

10. Igloo Playmate® Cooler, Industrial Lunch Box

Every guy knows the classic red and white Igloo cooler. Well, the Igloo Playmate Industrial Cooler is that cooler’s older, stronger, and better-looking brother.

The 14.8-quart Playmate lunch box is an updated version of the original red and white model. This version has a black and silver textured exterior. It is even made of impact-resistant plastic so is sure to handle even the toughest job sites.

The lid is easy to open and provides effortless access to the contents. The large storage capacity ensures that it can hold many containers (holds up to 26 cans). This is the perfect size to keep your food cold for a 12-hour shift.

This lunch box measures 14.5″ x 10.84″ x 13.75″.

If you prefer the classic men’s lunch box by Igloo, aka the standard red and white Igloo lunch box, you can get the classic style as a 7-quart lunch box or a 16-quart lunch box. Both of which are proudly Made in the USA.

The post Best Lunch Boxes for Men appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

Well, your bar soap selection problems are solved. We have reviewed all of the best men’s bar soaps on the market and limited the selection to only the best of the best soaps. But, before we begin, let’s look at some of the factors you should consider before buying a bar of soap.

Soap Bars for Working Men

There’s a lot to consider when buying bar soaps. For one, you don’t want to pay too much for a soap bar that’s just going to dry your skin out. A lot of the soap bars on the market are big on promises and advertising but don’t offer much in terms of performance.

Let’s face it, when you work hard all day you don’t want to come home and try to scrub off all the grease, grime and dirt with your ten dollar bar soap to find out it doesn’t remove any of the junk on you. You want something strong, that works, and doesn’t leave you feeling like you just got all the moisture sucked out of your body.

In fact, the soap industry is doing a huge disservice to men. A lot of the most popular brands on the market just aren’t good for the skin. They contain all kinds of scents and fragrances that just end up hurting your skin.

Most of these popular soaps make your skin feel like leather. You bought the soap because it smelled like cedar or had some appealing advertising. A few days after buying it though, you end up not even using that soap. Or maybe you use it only because you paid so much for it. A week later, you move onto the next popular soap brand that does the same exact thing as the last one.

So keep this in mind when viewing our list. We’re not going to have the most popular brands of soaps on the market, but we’ll have ones that actually work. They’ll make you feel like you actually did something good for your skin. So don’t fall for the trap of clever advertising, buy a decent bar soap instead.

Soap Bars for Workers: Factors to Consider

So let’s look at some factors to consider when looking for the best bar soaps:

• Oils: Many of the soaps on the market remove the natural oils from your skin. Super-fatted soaps can help replace the lost oils. Look for soaps with oils that have high concentrations of linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and ricinoleic acid. It’s okay if you don’t know what these are, we’ll steer you towards some bar soaps that have high concentrations of these fatty acids.
• Moisturizers: Soap, in general, dries out skin (no matter what kind). This is why it’s essential to find a moisturizing bar soap. Many guys might immediately be turned off by the idea of a moisturizing bar soap or a soap bar that contains lotion, but it’s exactly what you need. We’ll also recommend a few good lotions that you can use after showering to help your moisturize dry skin. Also, soaps with high concentrations of lard, lactic acid, urea and glycerin help provide moisture to the skin. Improper moisturizing and dry and cracked skin can actually leave room for bacteria to enter the body, which may cause infections.
• Scents: Although we all love manly scents like pine, cedar and oak, scents tend to dry out your skin. They can also prove to be irritating for men with sensitive skin. We’ll look at some soap bars that offer a pleasant scent without drying you out or irritating your skin. Some scents will actually provide benefits beyond the scents. Pine tar, for instance, treats dandruff and skin irritations like eczema and psoriasis.
• Soap substitutes: You probably didn’t expect to hear about soap substitutes when looking to buy soap bars. However, since soaps often remove oils, sometimes a soap substitute such as an aqueous cream or emulsifying ointment can be just as effective at cleaning your skin without drying it out. We show you some of the best soap substitutes in the last section of this article.
• Other additives: A list of all the additives in soap bars could go on for days and days. Some of the most useful additives (other than oil) you’ll see include aloe vera, shea butter, cocoa butter, calendula, lanolin, goat milk, oatmeal, rosin, vitamin E and wheat germ. These additives are healthy for the skin. Most of the other additives on the market either have no effect, dry the skin out or are only mildly helpful.

Uses of Bar Soap

When looking for the best bar soap, you need to focus on what it’s being used for. If you plan on using your soap bar in the shower, you want to focus on moisturizing and skin care. If you plan on using it just for cleaning your hands, you want to focus on cleaning power and you might not care as much about your hands drying out.

We’ll show you two “best-of” list. The first list will focus on the best bar soaps for the shower. We’ll focus less on cleaning power and more on the moisturizing and repair qualities of these soaps. The second list will be the best soap bars for cleaning your hands. As a worker, you want to get rid of the dirt and grime that stains up your hands. We’ll show you some soap bars that can remove even the most stubborn stains.

If you’re looking many for industrial strength waterless hand cleaners, look here.

Soap Bars for Men for Showering

1. Caprina Canus Original Formula Fresh Goat’s Milk Soap

First off, you no one has to know you’re using goat’s milk soap. Second off, you’re going to be glad that you do. Caprina’s Goat Milk Soap is one of the bestir soaps on the market. Not only is it recommended by dermatologists, it is heavy on moisturizing and sensitive on the skin.

This bar soap is made in Canada by Canus. As Americans, Canus isn’t a brand that stands out but they’ve been making soap bars for over 20 years. In fact, Canus produces a million bars of soap per month! They’re also the fifth largest soap manufacturer in Canada.

Canus uses fresh goat’s milk from local Canadian farmers, so you know it’s top quality. But what’s the point of using goat’s milk in soap anyways? For those “in the know” goat’s milk has many beneficial properties. First of all, it’s anti-inflammatory (it soothes soothes psoriasis, acne, eczema and rashes), and secondly, it’s super-moisturizing. It also contains more than 50 different nutrients which are beneficial to the skin, including key vitamins like vitamins A, B and C.

Goat’s milk from the bar soap also naturally contains two key ingredients that help the skin. The first is caprylic acid and the second is alpha-hydroxy acid. Over time your skin tends to hold skin cells together like glue. These skin cells won’t slough off, leaving you looking like the wrapping on cigar paper. Alpha-hydroxy breaks up these old globs of skin cells and reveals the fresh skin underneath. This translates into less dry skin, less age spots and even less wrinkles.

Caprylic acid is a different animal. It’s a fatty acid and its role is to reduce alkalinity (lower pH). In effect, what this does is provide the soap a pH that’s close to that of the skin. These means it won’t strip off your skin’s natural oils and it’ll help make the soap clean your skin (without drying it out). It also helps the skin to be penetrated by the nutrients in the soap by providing the right surface tension at the skin.

Goat’s milk also has anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties too. So not only will it moisturize you, it’ll help protect you from harmful organisms that may be present on your skin. It’s also non-comedogenic which means it won’t clog your pores.

The scent is very fresh and actually very masculine. Although it’s not advertised as a masculine scent you’ll find it to be right up there with any of the popular fresh scent bars on the market. It also provides this nice scent without drying your skin out. That said, the scent does tend to ling and may prove to be too overpowering for some.

This may not be a popular brand in the newfangled “man soaps” market, however, it’s an excellent soap that’ll do what soap is supposed to do (clean your skin) without doing all the things soap isn’t supposed to do (dry your skin out). So, don’t buy into the fancy marketing of the soaps you see on TV and the Internet, buy Canus’ goat’s milk soap and see for yourself what a good soap actually feels like on your skin.

This soap comes in a 16-pack which makes it extremely economical. Compare this to popular brand soap bars that may run you $7-10 per bar!

Caprina also makes a goat’s milk body wash that is exactly the same as its bar soap. It also comes in a manly eucalyptus mint scent for those looking for something a bit more masculine.

2. Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Bar Soap (Unscented)

Castile soap is all the rage nowadays, but how many people actually know what it is? Furthermore, do people even know whether or not Castile (whatever that is) is good for your skin? Well, spoiler alert, it is good for your skin and Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap is one of the best Castile soaps on the market.

So let’s solve this mystery about Castile soap and find out what it is. Castile is capitalized because Castile soap is thought to have come from Castile, Spain. It was brought back to the mainland by the crusaders around the eighth century. And the rest, as they say, is history.

At the time they didn’t have access to laurel oil but because olive oil was plentiful, Castile soap was made out of 100% olive oil and still is today. In its most basic form, Castile soap is made using just olive oil, water and lye or potash. Almost every soap is made using lye, which is a metal hydroxide that is made from wood ash and has alkaline properties (a high pH).

So what makes Dr. Bronner’s Castile soap the best? Well, they’ve been around for over 150 years and have been making soap in the same family for over five generations, for starters. Second, they are one of the first companies to become certified in the USDA’s National Organic Program and their products are made from organic ingredients.

Most manufacturers take their glycerin out of soap after making it. This results in a soap that dries out your skin while the company then goes on to use glycerin in other products or sell it. Dr. Bronner’s retains their glycerin to use in their soap which makes it a super-fat soap with a very high level of moisturizing power. They also add natural vitamin E to their soap to help your skin.

Dr. Bronner’s also refrains from using harmful chemicals in their products. This particular soap is unscented, which means it won’t dry out your skin. But, Dr. Bronner’s also makes sure never to use chelating agents, whiteners, dyes or any manufactured fragrances, which also are harmful to the skin. The company also tries to balance the use of oils properly in their soap to keep their oils as close to oils already present on your skin. This make it so you can clean yourself well, but not lose your natural oils in the process.

Also, when you buy Dr. Bronner’s soap bars you’re buying an American product. They’re headquartered in Vista, California and employee American workers. They also use recycled materials for their packaging, so they’re helpful to the environment.

This soap lathers well and cleans well too. It does all this without the addition of harsh chemicals which dry out your skin. It also doesn’t irritate the skin the way most bar soaps do. It’s a non-detergent soap so it’s very mild and can even be used as a shampoo. It’s a great soap if you have sensitive skin.

All in all, a good bar soap for men that cleans without drying your skin out. It’s not going to be listed on nearly any other site if you type in manly soap bars, but don’t fall for the marketing ploys. You want to protect your skin and keep it moist, not dry it out. Buy this soap and keep your skin healthy.

Dr. Bronner’s Castile Shaving Soap is good to pair with this soap bar, allowing you to get a close shave while moisturizing your face at the same time.

3. MARLOWE. No. 102 Men’s Body Scrub Bar Soap

Marlowe’s No. 102 Bar Soap is an excellent choice for those looking for something with more scrubbing power than the previous soap bars. This bar soap has pumice added to remove even the most stubborn grease, grime and dirt.

Along with the pumice, this bar soap also comes with extracts of passionflower, green tea, algae and willow bark. Passionflower hydrates and moisturizes the skin, it’s also good for men with itchy, dry or irritated skin. Green tea is an anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and also has antimicrobial properties, so it pairs well with any soap. Willow bark is good for irritated skin and also have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Algae also is great for soothing sensitive skin.

These additives are good as a pairing with pumice because pumice can slightly irritate the skin. However, you’re not going to get the same amount of scrubbing power with bar soaps that don’t contain pumice. So, it’s a bit of a tradeoff, more scrubbing power for a chance of skin irritation.

This best part about this soap it how well it cleans while not drying out the skin. It’s hard to find a bar soap with this amount of scrubbing power that doesn’t leave your skin feeling like sandpaper after using it. It’s also paraben-free and phthalate-free, known to irritate sensitive skin and commonly found in bar soaps.

The scent of this soap is agarwood, sandalwood and musk. You’re probably familiar sandalwood and musk, but most men have never heard of agarwood. Agarwood is a smokey and woodsy scent. It also helps you feel more alert, and many men find this to be refreshing and energizing.

This only downside to this bar soap is its price. However, the bar is huge (over 7 ounces) and it lasts a long time. It doesn’t fall apart the way most bar soaps do. Also, you don’t need to use too much of it at one time as it lathers really well.

Overall, one of the best bar soaps for men looking for a powerful scrubbing bar soap that doesn’t dry out the skin. This bar soap is also made in the USA, so you’re supporting US jobs.

4. Swimmer’s Soap: All Natural Aloe Bar Soap (5-Pack)

Okay, it’s called “Swimmer’s Soap” but it could easily be called “Construction Worker’s Soap” or “Mechanic’s Soap.” Swimmer’s Soap was made to get rid of the heavy chlorine smell that and the slime that sticks to swimmers’ skin. This makes it perfect for construction workers because it helps get rid of the smell of diesel, gasoline and exhaust fumes that stick to the skin.

This soap bar doesn’t just mask the smell of harsh chemicals like gas and diesel, it actually removes it. It’s also great for sensitive skin, with the addition of aloe, shea butter and coconut oil. Aloe is known for its healing properties and is great for healing dry or damaged skin. Shea butter and coconut oil also help your skin to retain its moisture.

This bar soap also contains calendula flowers, which we mentioned above in the “factors to look for in the best bar soap” section. Calendula has long been known for how good it is for the skin. In fact, clinical studies have found that it increase “antimicrobial activity, antiviral activity and wound healing in skin tissue” (source). So, not only will this soap remove bad smells, it’ll also hear minor cuts and skin irritations.

The only problem with this bar soap is that it tends to dissolve a little quicker than other bar soaps, so try to remove it from the shower after using so it doesn’t sit in a pool of water. It’s also a bit on the small side at four ounces.

The smell of this bar soap is neutral, so it’s great if you don’t like strong scents.

This soap is really good for men with sensitive skin. It’s made of 100% all-natural ingredients so it doesn’t have skin-irritating additives. Also, the addition of the aloe and calendula really helps. It’s also free of all parabens which have been shown to irritate the skin as well.

One of the best bar soaps for removing smells and leaving your skin rejuvenated. And for every purchase of this soap bar Newton Bay will plant a tree. This soap is handmade in in North Carolina so it’s a great made in the USA bar soap.

5. No. 63 Men’s Bar Soap (Quad-Milled for Long Lasting Soap)

No. 63 Men’s Bar Soap is made in France by Pré de Provence. So, okay, you’re probably thinking this bar soap isn’t for working men. You’re probably thinking it’s a little too posh for a manual laborer. This is exactly the reason why most men end up buying some soap bar that’s pushed on them by clever advertising. They end up buying a garbage soap bar that dries out the skin.

First of all, this soap is quad-milled, not once, twice, or even three times, but four. Milling soap means passing the soap through stainless steel rollers to remove all the moisture from the soap. What this leaves you with is an ultra-concentrated soap that lathers extremely well. This means that not only does it create great suds with good scrubbing power, but you also don’t need to use much of it for cleaning and it lasts a really long time. It’s also a big soap bar at 200 grams (7 ounces).

The quad-milling of this soap also helps to keep the soap residue-free and feeling smooth on your skin. This means that your is getting moisturized and that the scent of the soap is going to seep into your skin. And speaking of the scent, it’ll leave you smelling of pepper, cedar wood, leather and tobacco. This pleasant aromatic and spicy smell is about as manly as it gets. There’s also a slight bit of coffee mixed in which adds an extra manly touch.

This bar soap is also made out of the best ingredients, including high quality fats and shea butter. This means that your skin will stay moisturized and won’t dry out. It also includes glycerin which helps keeps your skin moist too (which most manufacturers take out of soap). It even includes aloe, wheat and ginseng extract. The ginseng mixed with the coffee provides a nice energizing effect, a great soap to use at the beginning of the work day.

Don’t judge this soap as a fancy soap for fancy guys, this is a high quality bar soap made for men. Don’t knock it until your try it. You won’t ever want to go back to using Axe or Irish Spring ever again.

Soap Bars for Men for Washing Hands

1. Lava Heavy Duty Hand Soap Bar

If you’re never heard of Lava, you’ve been living under a rock. There’s a reason why you’ve heard of it, Lava is the best soap bar for removing all the dirt and grime that stubbornly sticks to your hands and underneath your fingernails. It’s been tried, tested and true for years. (In fact, Lava was first invented in 1893 in St. Louis Missouri and now it is owned by the WD-40 company).

No matter how dirty your hands are, Lava is going to clean them. Lava contains a high amount of pumice which is great for removing anything you throw out at. In addition to dirt and grime, it’ll scrub away grease, paint, ink, oil, adhesives and caulk, to name a few. It even cleans your hands better than liquid pumice soap.

But Lava soap isn’t only good at scrubbing off the dirt from your hands, it also adds moisture. Lava has coconut acid and glycerin, so it keeps your hands smooth and moist too. It also contains petrolatum, otherwise known as petroleum jelly, which further locks in your hands moisture and keeps your natural oils from washing away from your hands.

Because it is such a powerfully scrubbing soap bar, it’ll dry your hands slightly even with all the moisturizers and emollients. However, it’s the best moisturizing soap bar with this level of cleaning power.

There’s a lot of other ingredients in Lava with a lot of fancy-sounding names, but they all have extremely practical uses. Here is a full list of all the ingredients in a Lava soap bar:

Lava has stood the test of time and trusted by workers everywhere from construction workers to mechanics to farmers. You know you’re getting the best brand of soap bar on the market at an affordable price (it’s one of the cheapest bar soaps on the market).

Lava tends to dry out your hands after using it day after day. We recommend O’Keefe’s Working Hands to use alongside Lava. O’Keefe’s is for extremely dry, cracked skin and not only reduces dryness, but also protects your hands from getting dry in the future.

2. Permatex Fast Orange Pumice Hand Bar Soap (24-Pack)

Permatex not only makes an excellent liquid hand soap, but they also make one of the best bar soaps for your hands too – Fast Orange.

Fast Orange is another popular pumice hand soap with a refreshing citrus scent. Fast Orange is biodegradable and contains glycerin. As noted before, a lot of companies remove glycerin from their soaps, the fact that Fast Orange keeps it in lets you know it is a high quality soap bar.

As far as cleaning power, the pumice is a bit more fine compared to Lava. The pumice concentration, however, is thought to be similar (more on this in the paragraph below). The cleaning power is on par with Lava and basically you’d only choose this soap if you prefer a soap that’s a bit fresher smelling. Although Lava refined its scent over the years, some people still prefer the citrus scent of Fast Orange over Lava.

One thing that Lava does that Fast Orange doesn’t is list the percentage of pumice in their soap bar. Lava says 10-30% pumice per soap bar while Fast Orange doesn’t specify the percent. While many people are satisfied with the level of pumice in Fast Orange, there is room for the company to skimp on pumice given that they aren’t transparent about pumice percentage.

On the other hand, Fast Orange does list the percentage of glycerin whereas Lava doesn’t. Fast Orange lists 5-10% glycerin per soap bar. This most likely indicates that Fast Orange uses more glycerin, which means it doesn’t dry your hands out as much. Lava, on the other hand, dries your hands out more, but not using as much glycerin means they say you the cost per bar. So, Fast Orange soap bars do end up being slightly more expensive per bar.

All in all, Fast Orange is one of the best bar soaps and on par with Lava in terms of cleaning power. This bar soap would be chosen by those looking for a fresher scent, slightly less pumice, and those who care more about keeping their hands from drying out. It’s also made in the USA, which we always like to see.

3. Beessential Mechanic and Gardener Bar Soap

Beessential’s Soap Bar for mechanics and gardeners is an excellent soap bar, we just wish it was a little less expensive. It cuts through all the grease and grime on your hands and keeps your hands from drying out, much better than Lava or Fast Orange. But you can a pay price for this soap’s superior moisturizing.

Those looking for an all-natural soap bar will be more interesting in Beessential soap because its made of all natural ingredients. It’s also made by beekeepers and is beekeeper approved. Not only that, it’s also made in the USA. In fact, the company started with only a single bee hive and grew from there. They’re still a mom and pop shop too.

Another thing to love about this soap bar is the fact that it contains a bunch of beneficial ingredients. It’s dirt and grease fighting power comes from ground up coffee, which works similar to pumice but isn’t as harsh on your hands. It’s also super-moisturizing, containing additives such as shea butter, coconut oil, palm oil, olive oil and of course, beeswax. It also contains some honey which gives it a nice scent mixed with the coffee smell.

Somehow this soap is able to neutralize strong odors too. This is something Fast Orange and Lava try to do but don’t do as well. Not only does it do well to remove grease and gas smells, but it can even remove odors like garlic and fish.

One of the best bar soaps that’s all-natural, we wish it was more affordable. However, by buying this soap bar you’re supporting a mom and pop shop, which does help to take out the sting a little (pun intended).

Best Soap Bar Substitutes for Shower Use

There are a few good substitutes you can use instead of bar soaps. The two most practical substitutes are aqueous creams (wash creams) and emulsifying ointments. The only downside to these is they’re slightly more expensive compared to bar soaps, however, they’ll work just as well.

1. E45 Dermatological Emollient Wash Cream

E45 is one of the top brands of wash creams. E45 Wash Cream not only moisturizes well, but it also cleans well too. This was cream is extremely popular in the UK so most Americans have not heard of it, to the detriment of our skin.

E45 will seem strange at first. It is soap-free, non-drying and non-foaming. So you’re probably thinking, how does it work then? Well, it works by emulsification. This is just a fancy way of saying that it replaces the dirt and grime on your skin with itself. The end result is cleaner skin that retains its natural oils.

Since it’s non-drying, it’ll keep your skin moist for a long time after using. And unlike most soaps, it’ll actually keep the pH of your skin normal. This means your skin won’t get irritated. You’ll also keep the normal flora (usual bacteria) that’s on your skin in tact. This normal flora actually protects against harmful bacteria by outcompeting it.

If you’re prone to dry skin or skin problems, this is an excellent soap-free wash cream for use in the shower. It can be used just like a body wash and is gentle enough to be used every single day. Say goodbye to dry and cracked skin.

2. SCA Personal Care Tena Wash Cream

Tena Wash Cream is another great wash cream for men with sensitive skin. Made for the elderly, who often have skin problems, it’s quickly being adopted by people of all age groups. Right now, it’s the best kept secret for improving dry skin.

Tena wash cream is able to clean effectively without disturbing the skin’s natural pH. As we mentioned above, if pH is changed dramatically it can cause skin irritation. It also disturbs the bacteria that occur naturally on your skin.

One of the best things about this wash cream is that it has great cleaning power. You don’t really even need to scrub all that much as you’ll watch dirt and grime come off of you. This is really exceptional for a cleaning product that’s so mild.

It’s also rinseless, which means you can keep it with you at all times in your work vehicle. You can use it the same as you would a hand sanitizer or a hand cleaner, and it will be nearly as effective without being harsh on your hands.

It also has a really nice and fresh fragrance. However, the scent is mild too so it’s not overpowering and it won’t linger the way some other fresh scents do.

All in all, a great waterless cleaning cream that’s good for use in the shower, out of the shower, or as a mild hand cleaner.

The post Soap Bars for Mechanics and Construction Workers appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

So, to get started, you need the best rebar tier. There are professional rebar tiers that can last longer than a work truck, and there are some weekender-only models that will get you by but aren’t made for too long of a use-life. Which type you need depends on: (1) How often you will be tying rebar, (2) how big the rebar will be, and (3) the work environment – aka whether or not it will be a season of rough outdoor projects or cushy (relatively speaking) indoor tasks.

But before you dive into buying a wire tying gun for tying rebar, there are a few things you should know first about rebar tying tools.

Rebar Tying Guns: What to Know

Rebar tiers generally have specifications showing how big of rebar it can tie (in combination with another one). Most of these max out at #7 rebar, but some may go to as high as #9.  

Another thing you want to look for is battery strength and battery recharge time.  

Dead battery time is downtime, so look at how many ties you can get from a full charge (some go over 5,000!), and then check how long it takes to recharge a battery back to operating power.

One last thing is wire spool replacement.  You’ll have to do this way more often than switching out batteries, so look for a model that has quick and easy wire spool replacement techniques.

So let’s take a look at the best rebar tiers and what you can get for your buck.

10 Best Rebar Tying Tools

1. Max TwinTier Rebar Tier (RB441T)

Best Feature: Two wires eject at once

Max is so proud of this innovative rebar tying tool, the Max TwinTier, they’ve made it the star of the show on their website. Rest assured, they do this for good reason. It is the all-star on the team, and it was a pretty good team to begin with.

Since 1942, Max has been recognized as a leading manufacturer of high-end industrial tools, with innovative features and durability to keep up with the demands of a massive workforce. Many of their innovations are the direct result of user feedback and a willingness to revise designs and engineering in order to achieve the best results.

Max was the first manufacturer to develop a roofing nailer (1982), a battery-operated rebar tying tool (1993) and a high pressure compressor and high pressure nail guns (1994).

Developing the first battery operated rebar tying tool was quite an achievement, but Max didn’t stop there, and now, 25 years later, the RB441T is the state of the art. That a battery can power a device capable of wrapping heaving wire around an intersection of iron bars even once is amazing, but the RB441T can do it 4,000 times on a single charge.

Not only does this unit do its job without destroying the battery in a matter of minutes, it also conserves consumables. It shoots out just enough wire to make a tie, resulting in substantial cost savings over time. Wire spool replacement is quick and easy.

The full name of this quality product is the RB441T Twin Tier, so named because of the way the device extends two wires at once, increasing efficiency and speed to unheard-of levels. But it does so without sacrificing worker safety.

The RB441T’s wire pull-back mechanism creates a shorter tie height for a shallower concrete pour. The tie ends are pushed downward, resulting in a safer work area by eliminating sharp, upward-facing wire ends along the rebar grid.

Max’s design engineers redesigned the jaw mechanism, allowing this unit to apply ties to rebar as large as #7 by #7. The jaws are very strong, capable of cinching up rebar with ease, and making tying more effective and less taxing on the workers.

• Weight: 5.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.5 inches high, 4.75 inches wide, 13 inches long
• Minimum ties per coil: 145
• Maximum ties per coil: 265
• Applicable rebar size #3 x #3 – #7 x #7
• Ties per charge: 4000
• Tie speed: .5 seconds
• Tie wraps: 2
• Battery charge time: 40 minutes
• Applicable wire products/gauges:
  
  • TW1061T/19Ga
  • TW1061T-PC/19Ga
  • TW1061T-S/19Ga

2. Max USA Rebar Tier (RB398)

Best Feature: Lightweight and fast

The kid brother to the RB441T, the Max USA RB398 also boasts of fast tying speeds and a long battery life. It’s smaller and lighter and more maneuverable than big bro in tight places and awkward angles. One drawback – and it might not be crucial, depending on the type of rebar you work with – is that it does not work with larger rebar, like #7. Everything less than that – #3, #5 and #6, yes, but not #7.

The RB398 also uses 21 gauge wire instead of 19 gauge:

A major concern for workers who use rebar tiers is carpal tunnel syndrome. The RB398 combats carpal tunnel syndrome with its ergonomic design and light weight – right at five pounds.

Both of the Max rebar tiers can be outfitted with an optional extension arm, which allows work on rebar grids without squatting or kneeling.

The RB398 is suitable for work on precast plants, foundations, roads, bridges, swimming pools and retaining walls.

Specifications:

• Weight: 5.0 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.4 inches high, 4.75 inches wide, 12 inches long
• Minimum ties per coil: 120
• Maximum ties per coil: 120
• Applicable rebar size #3 x #3 – #5 x #5
• Ties per charge: 3500
• Tie speed: < 1 second
• Tie wraps: 3
• Battery charge time: 65 minutes
• Applicable wire products/gauges:
  
  • TW898/21Ga
  • TW898-PC/21Ga
  • TW898-EG/21Ga
  • TW898-USA/21Ga

3. Max Rebar Tying Tool (RB655)

Best Feature: Heavier wire; ties heavier rebar

This is the one-ton, diesel, HD crew cab dually of rebar tying tools. Using 16-gauge wire, the Max RB655 Rebar Tier can tie anything from #5 x #5 to #8 x #9 rebar.

It’s five times faster than manual tying, which used to be the standard approach for tying heavy rebar. It’s also ergonomically designed to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, and has the backing of the Occupational Health & Safety Administration in the U.S. and the Health Construction Safety Association in Canada.

When used with optional extension bar, the user is able to work from a standing position, thereby avoiding stooping and kneeling, and the potential for injury that these actions pose.

The powerhouse is the RB655’s brushless, twisting motor that delivers impressive performance with a minimum of battery usage. It increases the number of ties per charge by 30 percent. It’s a closed system, with no user-serviceable parts inside, but that’s a good thing. That just means it’s sealed against dirt, contaminants and moisture (it’s not waterproof, but is sealed against moisture).

Recharge time is 30 minutes – one of the quickest recharges of any rebar tier in our group. That’s not even a full lunch time!

Specifications:

• Weight: 7.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 13.4 inches high, 4.0 inches wide, 13.4 inches long
• Minimum ties per coil: 120
• Maximum ties per coil: 230
• Applicable rebar size #3 x #3 – #5 x #5
• Ties per charge: 3-4 coils
• Tie speed: < 1 second
• Tie wraps: 1
• Battery charge time: 30 minutes
• Applicable wire products/gauges:
  • TW1525/16Ga
  • TW1525-PC/16Ga
  • TW1525-EG/16Ga

4. Makita 18V Rebar Tier Kit (XRT01TK)

Best Feature: Long battery life; short recharge time

Makita, a well-known name in the tool industry, comes along with the Makita XRT01TK Rebar Tying Kit, which includes a cordless rebar tier, two batteries, a charger and a carrying case.

The heart of many of Makita’s cordless power tools is the 18 volt brushless motor. It first appeared in Makita devices in 2004 as part of a contract that supplied power tools to the aerospace and defense industry. Engineered for extended run time, power and speed, the little motor that could became indispensable in operations demanding precision.

An offshoot of the original brushless motor – the brushless impact motor- made its appearance in 2009. Lithium battery technology has now made the dream of having powerful, precise, long-lasting cordless tools a reality.

Makita has trademarked its lithium battery system as the LXT^Ⓡ system, which is found on the XRT01TK rebar tier, delivering 18 volts at 5.0 amps long enough to produce 5,300 ties of #3 x #3 rebar.

You can use the XRT01TK in one of two modes: single or continuous. On big jobs with a lot of ties to do, the continuous mode will be the mode of choice. That may be a scary thought, holding a device that can shoot out wire like a staple pistol on steroids, but Makita put in a safety feature that prevents accidental triggers.

There are also six different tying strengths, giving you the freedom to customize your project to what works best for you.

Changing out a wire spool is easy. You’ll have to do that fairly often. While you can get over 5,000 ties out of a single battery charge, you’ll only get around 120 from a wire spool. The center load reel position is nice, because it helps balance out the tool for more comfort and less fatigue. It also has a transparent cover, so you can see how much wire you have left. 

In the category of batteries, the LXT^Ⓡ system is one of the best in the industry. The 18-volt, 5.0-amp battery lasts a long time as it is, but when it does need a charge, it only takes 45 minutes to bring it back to 100 percent. But no worries, because you’ll be using the spare battery that comes with the kit in the meantime.

The XRT01TK is engineered to provide reliable service in harsh conditions with protection against dust and water – two deadly enemies of most power tools.

Specifications:

• Weight: 5.7 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.4 inches high, 4.75 inches wide, 12 inches long
• Minimum ties per coil: 120
• Maximum ties per coil: 120
• Applicable rebar size #3 x #3 – #4 x #4
• Ties per charge: 5,300
• Tie speed: < 1 second
• Tie wraps: 3
• Battery charge time: 45 minutes

5. Pex Gun Rebar Tier (PG101)

Best Feature: Efficient use of tie wire

If you expect to be working with PEX pipe, the Pex Gun Rebar Tier should be in your shopping cart. Granted, you can tie PEX pipe and rebar with virtually any rebar tier, but you’re having to use guesswork on the tie strength, because you don’t want to squeeze the plastic pipe too tightly. Otherwise, you might create a leak that won’t be detected until after all your work has been buried in cement. 

With this rebar tier, you’ll know you have it right. It’s made to be used with PEX pipe. This unit is fast, lightweight and helps save money on consumables by extending just the right amount of wire for the tie. Plus, with the adjustable tension dial, you can set the gun for just the right amount of tightness to accommodate whatever material you’re working with.

They say, “Two hands for beginners,” but you really won’t need two hands for the PG101 rebar tier. It’s so easy to use and lightweight would even allow the user to switch hands for awhile and use his non-dominant hand to give his other hand a break and help stave off carpal tunnel issues. You can’t do this with some of the other rebar tiers. (Well, you could, if you are particularly dexterous.)

Battery life is about 2000 ties per charge. That’s a little less than with some of the other models, but they do provide you with a spare battery, so, employing the use-one, charge-one method, you can do your job and not miss a beat. The voltage is a robust 14.4 volts.

In 2017, Pexgun won the AHR Expo Innovation Award for inventive and original products for the PG101.

This ships with a kit that includes the tier, two batteries, a wire cutter, two coils of wire and a durable carrying case. The warranty period is 12 months, which is nothing to write home to Momma about, but still nice to be able to fall back on in case of failure.

Specifications:

• Weight: 4.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.22 inches high, 3.94 inches wide, 11.65 inches long
• Maximum tying diameter: 
• Ties per charge: 2,000
• Tie speed: < 1 second

Rebar Tiers for the Weekend Warrior

All of the above units are built to tough standards, employing precise tolerances and using top-flight materials with an eye to the professional. They last for years and years, can take being dropped, stepped on and even run over without breaking.

You might not need something that rugged. You might be employed in construction, but tying rebar isn’t something you do every day. Or you might be a weekend warrior with an occasional need for a rebar tier. If so, the following models should be more interesting to you. 

First and foremost, they cost considerably less. The good ones will work just as well as the professional models but are more vulnerable to breakage and aging. The bad ones? Well, we’re not showing you the bad ones.

1. Newtry Automatic Rebar Tier

Best Feature: 3000 ties per full battery charge

Newtry produces a diversity of products for the home and garage, and brings this automatic rebar tier with many of the features found on professional devices. It runs off a 12.8 lithium ion battery that promises a long life before recharging is needed.

This makes quick work of tying rebar together, cinching a neat knot in about a second. The battery is good for about 3000 ties on a charge. This puts it in the ballpark with the big boys, but there are some differences that keep it in its place. For one thing, the recharge time is about 90 minutes – two to three times that of the professional units. But if you’re an occasional user, that may not matter. You may already be done with the whole project by the time you’ve done 3000 ties, and a long recharge time won’t matter at that point.

It’s also a little more difficult to change wire reels. It’s not a snap in place, close the door and go operation. There’s some wire threading that needs to be done. It’s not difficult, but it is a bit slower than with the pro units.

The Newtry (pronounced “new-tree”) has a line length regulator and a tension regulator that keeps wire usage to a minimum. The cutting part of the tool is stainless steel for clean cuts and fast operation.

Specifications:

• Model:MF-870
• Material: Plastic + Metal
• Voltage: 12.8V
• Battery: Lithium Ion Batteries
• Battery Capacity: 4400MAh
• Battery Charging Time: 1.5 hours full filling
• Tying Wire Diameter: 0.8mm
• Tying Wire Length: more than 110 m
• Applicable Scope Of Steel Strapping:7-34MM(0.28-1.34＂)
• Knot Wire Length: 300 – 500mm
• Knot Number Per Charge: 1500 times
• Net weight:1.36kg
• Knot The Required Time: 0.8 seconds at a time

2. Rebar Tying Tool Machine Kit

Best Feature: Easy wire reel replacement

This model looks, feels and performs like a professional tie gun, but at a fraction of the cost. It’s made for the building trades, for use in civic buildings floor pipe, heating floor mesh and steel rods, in addition to rebar.

The wire reels are easy to change, with a simple button push to eject the spent reel and insert the new one. It can make wraps ranging from 30mm to 60mm, using approximately 40cm of wire with each knot.

DIYers should appreciate that this is a kit, with everything needed to tackle a rebar tying project. Included in the kit are:

• Tying machine
• Pliers
• Battery charger
• Carrying case
• Two lithium ion batteries
• Two reels of wire (110 meters per roll/0.8mm in diameter)

Specifications:

• Color: Orange
• Material: Plastic + Metal
• Voltage: 12V
• Battery: 12V Lithium Ion Batteries
• Battery Capacity: 13200 Mah
• Battery Charging Time: 1.5 hours full filling
• Tying Wire Diameter: 0.8mm
• Tying Wire Length: more than 110 m
• Applicable Scope Of Steel Strapping: 30mm – 60mm
• Knot Wire Length: 40cm and above
• Knot Number Per Charge: 3000 times
• Knot The Required Time: 0.8 seconds at a time
• Cable Length: 95cm / 37.40”(appr.)
• Box Size: (L)X(W)X(H) 42X30X10cm / 16.54”X11.81”X3.94”(appr.)
• Machine Size: 290 mm * 65 mm * 195 mm / 11.42”x2.56”x7.68”(appr.)

3. CGoldenwall Digital Display Rebar Tier

Best Feature: Reliable operation

So can the company that gave the world the Ultrasonic Homogenizer Sonicator Cell Disruptor Mixer make a decent rebar tier? Yes. A decent one. Not an award-winner, but a decent, dependable rebar tier that should please most any DIY guy. 

CGoldenwall is a greatly diversified international company that specializes in food processing machines – mainly grinders – and power tools – mainly grinders. (Do you see a trend here?) The technology that goes into the company’s food grinders is employed on a bigger scale in power tools and, at least in the case of the rebar tier, with good results.

It certainly is fast – less than one second per tie. Operation is easy to learn and automatic (with safeguards to prevent accidental triggering). You can expect about 1000 ties per battery charge on a 12 volt system. Recharge time is 1.5 hours, which is pretty standard for consumer grade cordless power tools.

This product has a small window for a digital readout, which is rather gimmicky, but not totally useless. The readout shows a count of the number of ties the gun has completed. If battery life is important, this can be of some assistance.

Batteries are not included under normal ordering circumstances, but during occasional promotions they might be thrown in as in incentive, so be alert!

Specifications:

• Machine dimension: 270mm×65mm×195mm
• Weight: 2.0kg
• Tying range: 8-34mm
• Iron wire diameter: 0.8mm
• Wire length: 110m
• Tying length/knot: 42cm
• Knot/battery: 1000 knots
• Voltage: 10.8V
• Tying time: 0.8s
• Charging time: 1.5 h

4. Baoshishan Rebar Tying Tool

Best Feature: Ease of use

You could spend less for a rebar tier, but there’s a line between consumer grade and junk grade tools. This Rebar Tier is clearly in the consumer grade category. This isn’t a pro grade device, but guess what – it is used by thousands of pros in the construction industry anyway. It’s recommended for use on reinforced concrete structures, bridges, highways, tunnels and other construction projects that require rebar.

It’s easy to carry, easy to use and is at least four times faster than manual tying. The time to do one knot is less than a second. It’s a one-click operation to cinch up the steel and engage the tying function, but if there’s anything amiss, the machine will self-diagnose and shut down.

The jaws are strong and easily cinch up rebar for tying. Maximum tie height is 3 cm (30mm). It seems all the consumer grade rebar tiers have the same charger, or cousins to the same charger. A full charge takes 1.5 hours, if you even need to recharge the battery during a DIY project. Batteries are not included, and they’re a bit pricey, so if you can get by with only one battery you’ll save a few bucks.

The materials are tough enough for the unit to withstand a couple of oopsies on hard pavement, but it won’t hold up like the big boys do. You should also expect a shelf life of up to 10 years if the unit is only used occasionally.

Specifications:

• Bundling range: 8-34mm
• Strapping time: 0.8S
• Wire diameter: 0.8mm
• Machine size: 10.7 inches x 2.6 inches x 9 inches
• Battery capacity: 6600 mAh / 13200 mAh
• Battery voltage: 10.8V-12.8V
• Charging time: 1.5 hours
• Wire length: 45-50Cm
• Weight: 3 pounds

5. Baoshishan Automatic Rebar Tying Machine

Best Feature: Very lightweight

Similar to the Baoshishan rebar tier above, this Rebar Tier is a bit smaller, a bit lighter and probably a bit more vulnerable to damage due to misuse, but for a weekend warrior who takes care of his weaponry, it should hold up just fine.

The tying range is from 8mm to 34mm (⅓ inch to 1 ⅓ inch), so it’s not for massive jobs, but it’s plenty for most of the projects you’re likely to undertake. You get a lot of knots (1500) per battery charge. Also like the unit above, the tying is a one-click, one-second operation.

Recharge time on the battery is a hefty two hours, so plan your project accordingly. A lithium ion battery is included, but not a spare (unless a promotion is going on).

Replacing the wire reel is easy, but it’s not automatic. Some threading of the wire lead will be required.

You get the whole kaboodle – or an approximation thereof – when you order. It ships with a battery, a pair of wire pliers, a scroll, a screwdriver, an instruction manual and a carrying case that you wouldn’t trust your life to, but it’s better than a Ziplock bag.

Baoshishan is similar to CGoldenwall in that it is an international company with a wide diversity of products, serving the food preparation industry, light industrial and construction. The warranty on their construction tools is one year from the date of purchase.

Specifications:

• Weight: 6.84 pounds
• Batteries: Lithium ion (included)
• Voltage: 10.8 Volts
• Maximum tie height:  1 11/32 inches
• Minimum tie height: 5/16 inch
• Wire diameter: 0.8mm

Rebar Tying Tips

You might have worked 40 years in construction and never had to tie rebar, or you might have been assigned that task on your first day on the job. Either way, there are some things to remember about the process. It’s important to get it right, because there’s no way to fix it later.

The reason for tying rebar is to hold it in place while heavy, wet cement is poured around it. If left unsecured, the rebar would be apt to slide out of place and leave some areas un-reinforced and others over-reinforced. The rebar grid has been measured and laid out for the best possible support, and shifting bars spoil the arrangement.

Do not scrimp on ties. Over-tying is far better than under-tying. As a general rule, tying every fourth or fifth intersection will be adequate for floor slabs. The heavier the rebar, and the farther apart the bars are spaced means you should tie at more intersections – like at every other one. Some outdated codes require ties at every intersection, but that is old-school thought that has been superseded in most cases by new building codes. Always check with your state or municipality’s requirements.

Rebar for walls is more crucial. First off, the bars will be closer together, but for walls, that means more ties, not fewer. Pre-assembled mats, which are picked up and carried to their installation site, require ties at every intersection around the perimeter and every other intersection on the interior of the mat.

Different projects require different types of ties. There’s no way to cover which one goes with which project here, but you should be familiar with the various types of ties or “knots.”

• Snap tie – One wrap, twisted tightly.
• Saddle tie – Forms a U-shaped pattern diagonally across the intersection.
• Wrap and snap tie – For binding horizontally oriented bars to vertical bars. Wrapped very tight and snipped off as close to the knot as possible.
• Figure 8 Tie – Opposing loops create a very strong tie.

Some of the rebar tiers listed above automatically turn the loose wire ends downward. This doesn’t really affect the integrity of the project (unless a very thin concrete pour is called for), but is a safety issue. Trips are common when walking on rebar, and if the worker falls on an upturned wire, he could suffer cuts.

Also, check out this guide on how to safely operate a new rebar bender. It may save you from a serious accident on the job site.

Rebar Tying: FAQ

Is there a Milwaukee rebar tier?

Milwaukee is the go-to brand for a lot of power tools, but unfortunately, Milwaukee does not make a rebar tying gun. The closest you’ll get to Milwaukee-level quality is in the MAX brand rebar tier.

Is it better to tie or weld rebar?

This is one of those questions that’s always best left to an engineer. In a lot of instances, rebar cannot be welded in the first place. Rebar is generally a low quality metal that does not lend itself to welding. This is why most opt to tie rebar instead of welding it.

What’s the best knot to use when tying rebar?

Everyone has their own preference. Again, though, this is something you’d want to check with your engineer regarding. Depending on the job, you may need a different type of tie, whether you’re going with a rebar tying gun or doing it manually. The most common types of ties are the snap tie, saddle tie, wrap and snap tie, and the figure-eight tie (see more here).

Does rebar have to be tied?

Rebar tying has become the standard for a few different reasons. For one, tying rebar keeps the rebar at a lower temperature and less likely to fracture or break. Secondly, tying rebar together will ensure that when concrete is poured the rebar doesn’t move out of place. Lastly, tying the rebar together gives it more strength than it would otherwise have.

Have a burning question about rebar tying guns? If so, leave it in the comments or drop us a line, we’d be happy to help.

Carpal Tunnel from Tying Rebar

Using hand tools like rebar tiers repetitively, with the hand doing the same motion time after time can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s not so much the motion itself that causes the carpal tunnel problem, but the repetitive compression of the median nerve inside the carpal tunnel of your wrist.

So even using a variety of hand tools – rebar tiers, nailers, power drills, saws and other woodworking tools – can contribute to carpal tunnel pain. If you grip it, push it or twist it, the median nerve is affected. It doesn’t care which tool you’re using.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are:

• Tingling or burning sensation
• Loss of feeling
• Weakness in the wrist
• Numbness at night
• Pain in the wrist, palm, hand or forearm.
• Difficulty holding objects

To help prevent the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, make sure you move your wrist in a natural motion that doesn’t create a severe bend in the wrist. A rebar tier is such a labor-saving device and gets so much done in such a short amount of time that the user can get mesmerized into a repetitive pattern that’s not good for the wrist.

If possible, vary your work activity to keep repetitive actions to a minimum. Don’t get lured into a “race” to get a section of rebar tied off. Take care of your wrist.

Click here if you’d like to see some more information about carpal tunnel syndrome as well as how to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome or reduce your risk as a construction worker.

Conclusion

Rebar tiers can range anywhere from a few hundred bucks to several thousand. A good rule of thumb is if you’re going to be using it every single day, buy the most expensive one you can find. If you’re only going to be using it periodically, buy a middle of the road tier. Lastly, if you only are going to use it occasionally, stick with the budget tiers (like the ones mentioned above).

By and large, you get what you pay for in the rebar tying tool world. Also, the better the rebar tier, the more efficient the tying will be. Not to mention, the top of the line tiers will make sure each job is done right and the rebar is tied tight. Whoever contracted you for the job will probably hire you for more job and you’ll be using your tier more and more. So, be smart about it and invest in a quality rebar tier for the long haul, one that will last.

The post Rebar Wire Tying Guns Buyer’s Guide appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

Finding the Best Work Pants

Putting pants on one leg at a time is said to be the great equalizer for men, but when it comes to the pants they wear for work, there clearly are some that are not equal to the others.

Let’s face it, men don’t like to shop for clothes. We get that. So when looking for the best work pants, utility pants, messing around in the garage pants and all other pants, we have assembled a list of the best work pants you can wear for any job. 

A few mouse clicks or screen taps and Amazon will have the best work pants to you in 15 minutes or so. Okay, maybe it will take longer than that, but it still beats dragging yourself to the store and finding out they ran out of your size a few minutes ago (or never had your size to begin with).

Here is a list of our winners for the best work pants. That said, you might find something in the complete list that suits your needs a little better. It won’t hurt our feelings if you disagree (but you won’t).

Best Work Pants for Construction Workers:

Carhartt Flex Steel Cargo Work Pants

Best Work Pants for Mechanics:

ViviTech Cotton Canvas Utility Work Pants

Best All-Around Work Pants:

Wrangler Riggs Ranger Work Pants

Best Stretch Work Pants:

LA Police Gear Water-Resistant Tactical Work Pant (w/ Elastic Waistband)

Best Carpenter Pants:

Fashio Heavy Duty Workwear Pants

Top 9 Best Construction Work Pants (Complete List)

1. Carhartt Flex Steel Cargo Work Pants

Best Feature: Toughness

Don’t get the idea that there’s steel woven into these work pants. There’s just a tiny bit of hyperbole going on here with the product name, but these work pants will last so long, you’ll think there’s steel in them. So you’d better like them when you buy them, because they’re going to be with you for a long time.

Material

The material on these rugged work pants consists of 73% cotton, 24% Cordura nylon and 3% Spandex. That blend ensures durability, color fastness and shape retention month after month and wash cycle after wash cycle. That backs up the general beliefs about Carhartt products and their indestructability.

The care and feeding of these work pants is easy. Throw them in the wash with like colors (cold water, no bleach) and tumble dry them. If you’re a real neatness freak, you could iron them (cool iron only), but come on – they’re work pants.

Comfort and Performance

The flex steel work pants include additional material around the knees for flexibility and comfort, but durability is not compromised in the process. The material around the knees is part of Carhartt’s “Rugged Flex” stretch technology, which takes into consideration that the first thing to go with pants is usually the knees.

These work pants were built with real-world men in mind, with generous material in the seat and thigh areas. So no, there is no “skinny jean” version of these. The performance and quality of these work pants are perhaps what makes them the best work pants for the job site.

Features

Unlike the previous listing for Carhatt products, these are not waterproof work pants. They have an edge on comfort, however, and are suitable in all seasons and all weather (just don’t expect to stand out in the rain and stay dry).

Pockets are plentiful, with extra material and extra stitching. Some have angled openings for easy access. If you’ve ever tried to retrieve a ringing cell phone from a pants pocket while driving*, you’ll appreciate this feature. 

*Let’s just say “seated,” shall we?

Colors and Sizes

They come in pretty much all the sizes, beginning with 30W x 30L up to 42W x 34L, with predictable increments in between. There may be an odd size or two that isn’t listed, but that’s going to be the case with any garment.

The available color for these work pants is black. Any questions?

Due to Covid-19, some Carhartt work pants aren’t readily available online and in stores. These pants are difficult to find in stock at this time.

2. Carhartt Shoreline Work Pant

Best Feature: Waterproof

The next time you find yourself on deck with gale force winds and heavy, surging seas, you will appreciate the Carhartt shoreline pant with its waterproof material that stands up to the gnarly winds of the Atlantic. They also are helpful when crossing the backyard deck to get the barbecue grill covered before the summer rain shower gets worse.

In the minds of many, Carhartt reigns as the king of the best work pants. The company produces quality pants, jackets, vests, coveralls, and more and the name represents excellence. We agree.

Material

These shoreline pants should not be thought of as work pants in the sense of heavy construction work, but more suitable for all-weather general labor. The material is 100% “Storm Defender” (Carhartt patent) nylon with a mesh liner that keeps water out but lets the air flow freely. Perhaps more importantly, it lets sweat out. Below the knee, the lining transitions to Taffeta lining for easy dressing and removal.

Taffeta would seem to belong more to the high fashion realm of wedding gowns and evening gowns, but its slick and luxurious surface actually helps it rate as a tough material for weather gear.

These features come standard on Carhartt’s “Steady Rain” collection, which includes jackets, coats, overalls and work pants. They go together, appearance-wise and function-wise.

Comfort and Performance

Flexible and breathable, the Shoreline work pants are suitable for day-long wear. Users seem to enjoy their water-shedding properties, which hold up for 10 hours of solid rain. Soggy day on the golf course, but you feel duty-bound to keep your tee time? These pants would probably work well for you.

The breathability rating for these work pants is 10k/10k. You don’t want an outdoor garment that’s 100% waterproof. Those yellow rain coats you use to wear while waiting for the school bus were 100% waterproof, if they were zipped or buttoned up properly. Do you remember how uncomfortable they were? So there has to be an outflow of moisture (sweat) for a garment to be comfortable.

What is a Breathability Rating?

With work pants and outdoor gear, you might see a breathability rating of 10k/10k, as you do with these Carhartt Shoreline work pants. The two numbers mean different things. 

The first number rates a fabric’s water resistance, expressed as how much water in a one-inch tube would it take before the first water droplets seeped through the fabric. The volume of water is expressed in height in millimeters. 10,000 millimeters (10K), the rating for these work pants, equals 33 feet.

The second number is the actual breathability rating. It reflects how much water passively passes through the fabric in a 24 hour period. In the case of a 10k rating, 10,000 grams passed through the fabric to the other side.

Features

The main seams are triple-stitched and the seams critical to the work pants’ water-shedding properties are taped. (Strips of fabric stitched along the seams.) 

The Shoreline work pants come with an sturdy elastic waistband with hook-and-loop side adjusters for a custom fit. Zippers run the entire length of the legs, from ankle to waist.

Now these aren’t carpenter pants, but they do have some pockets, including a waterproof back pocket that zips up. Keep your wallet zipped up and dry!

Colors and Sizes

You can have any color you can think of, as long as it’s black. The sizes run from small to 4X, with tall options for the large, extra large, 2X and 3X sizes.

3. LA Police Gear Water Resistant Tactical Work Pant with Elastic Waistband

Best Feature: Elastic Waistband

These are tough work pants for the guy who doesn’t have six-pack abs. (Heck, those guys don’t even work anyway. When do they have the time?) The elastic band helps cinch up the waistband to your waist and helps the belt out when there’s a bit of a paunch pushing down from above.

This is important for work pants – staying up. You put a lot of things in your pockets, as you would a pair of carpenter pants, and they weigh the pants down. And if you have a belly, well you get the idea.

Material

The LAPG work pants are made from a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton rip-stop fabric. This blend combines the comfort of cotton with the strength and durability of polyester. The work pants’ fabric is reinforced at critical places, like the knees and, um, seat.

What is Rip-Stop Fabric?

Ripstop fabrics are most often made of nylon, and employ a reinforcing thread that makes them resistant to tearing and ripping. During weaving, reinforcing threads are woven at regular intervals in a crisscross pattern. 

Advantages of ripstop are the favorable strength-to-weight ratio and the way it resists ripping when a small tear occurs . Fibers used to make ripstop include cotton, silk, polyester and polypropylene.

Comfort and Performance

Users like the flexibility of these work pants. But that’s a fairly easy feature to get right, so what sets these work pants apart is their breathability. With summer construction or maintenance work comes a lot of walking around in the sweltering heat and spending hours in un- air-conditioned spaces. Chafing can pose a real problem that doesn’t go away at the end of the work shift. 

These LAPG work pants permit a robust airflow to keep the wearer as cool as possible, helping eliminate perspiration. Plus, their overall light weight increases the comfort level significantly.

How would you like some articulated knees? Articulated knees simply means that these work pants have extra material at the knees to make bending and stooping a little easier. The knees on this pair of work pants articulate with the best of them.

Fit of Pants

The LAPG utility pants fit a little snugly, say some. You should consider ordering a size larger than your dress pants. The listed size is with the elastic band stretched to maximum, so also keep that in mind. Extra wide belt loops accommodate the popular Condor riggers belt and their imitators. Keeping your work pants on the job just got a bit easier.

Features

The pockets on the LAPG work pants are double stitched and open wide for easy access. The extra long cargo pockets are long enough for a hammer and pair of Visegrips, and have secure Velcro closures.

If you’ve ever been driving and jammed your hand into a pocket looking for something, you can appreciate the way the pockets on these utility pants are oriented on a slant for easy access. 

You may have heard the term for “YKK” zippers in a commercial for a jacket or travel bag and wondered what it was. YKK is actually a brand name for the zipper manufacturer, and those who know about such things consider them the best in the world. We’ll take the experts’ word on that, and since the LAPG has YKK zippers – along with other nice features – we’ll include them on our best work pants list.

Colors and Sizes

The LAPG work pants come in nine colors, but not all colors are available in all sizes. The available sizes range from 28Wx30L to 44Wx34L, but some in-between sizes are not available.

4. ViviTech Cotton Canvas Utility Work Pants

Best Feature: Comfort

The manufacturer wants you to know that these utility pants are “battle ready.” Maybe they know something about your knuckle-scuffing struggles with changing the oil on your ’87 Jeep Wrangler or fixing the swinging gate on the backyard fence. At any rate, these work pants are up to the challenge.

Material

The material is 100% cotton. Wow. 

But there’s more to it than that. It’s not just any old cotton. It’s soft, pre-shrunk, 10-ounce cotton canvas. So, belay your fears about the pants drawing up in the dryer or getting shaggy before their time. The comfort part might be surprising to you, though.

What is Canvas Anyway?

You’ve heard the term canvas all your life and you probably associate it with tough fabric that isn’t all that comfortable and is more suited for sails, tents and canteen covers.

While canvas has a wide range of heavy-duty applications, it can be made quite comfortable for garments. Long ago, canvas was made from hemp. Now that would be uncomfortable! 

There are two basic types of canvas – plain and duck, with duck being the most tightly woven. The thread count is generally expressed in weight per square yard. Therefore, a square yard of 10-ounce canvas would weigh – hmmm, let’s see – 10 ounces.

Ten-ounce canvas is on the high side of the spectrum, offering strength and durability while sacrificing comfort and flexibility. What garment manufacturers do, however, is soften the threads without compromising their viability, and the resulting fabric is suitable for garments.

The knock on cotton is that it shrinks. Many garment manufacturers “pre-shrink” their garments, but this doesn’t mean that the shrinking won’t continue

Comfort and Performance

We’ve already established that the material on these utility pants is comfortable. Adding to the comfort level in the finished product is extra material in the places where it’s needed most – knees, thighs and seat. 

Features

These are pants of many pockets. Eight ergonomically-placed pockets provide places for cell phones, pens, screwdrivers, putty knives, pliers, spare wood screws and even a small ball ping hammer.

The knee pads are removable, if you had a special task where they might be inconvenient. Extra stitching in the seams, crotch and cuffs ensure that these work pants will retain their brand new look for a long time.

Colors and Sizes

The available colors for these are black, brown, navy, tan and white (sounds risky, but they clean up really well).

Sizes run from 29W x 30L up to 38W x 36L. While there are plenty of size combinations in between these two, the fact that the waist size tops out at 38 inches is a bummer for men with more generous bellies.

5. Tyndale FRMC Summerweight Canvas FR Work Pants

Best Feature: Protection Against Flash Fire

One of the first things you might notice on these work pants is the FRMC® logo on the inner pocket. What does that acronym mean? Well, it’s not the Freedom Riders Motorcycle Club, even though that would be a nice touch.

FRMC® is Tyndale’s patented fire-resistant fabric. The FRMC stands for flame resistant modacrylic cotton. (So you guessed that, eh.) All that’s important to remember is that these utility pants are woven with fire-resistant fibers that won’t degrade throughout the life of the garment and all the washings that go with it.

These work pants are flash-fire rated, meaning there is a 50% probability that the wearer will suffer second or third degree burns when the fabric is exposed to three seconds of fully engulfed fire. Compared to fabrics offering little to no protection from flame, that’s a significant amount of protection.

Material

The FRMC® material’s fire-resistant qualities are just part of the story. The medium duty (nine-ounce) canvas provides comfort against the kind of heat that you are more likely to encounter than a fire – summer. They call it summerweight because it’s breathable and lightweight, and you’ll appreciate those characteristics when it’s 94 in the shade.

Comfort and Performance

In addition to being comfortable temperature-wise, these utility pants move and flex when you do. They allow extra room in the seat and thigh areas, so that they’re not clingy, even when you’re standing still.

The leg openings are slightly flared so that you can slip the cuffs over work boots with ease.

Features

The waistband is button-closed, and the crotch is reinforced. These pants don’t have an abundance of pockets, however, but what pockets it does have are reinforced and loose-fitting for easy access.

The leg seams are triple-stitched for strength and durability

Color and Sizes

These work pants are available in sizes that will fit 95% of the men out there, from leprechauns to Paul Bunyans (and chunky Paul Bunyans at that). A couple of sizes might be temporarily unavailable, but the number of size choices available is pretty amazing.

Unfortunately, the same can’t be said of the color choices. You have two – blue and, um, khaki. 

6. Round House Dark Stone Washed Carpenter Work Dungarees

Best Feature: Comfort

For the weekend warrior seeking liberation from the pleated dress pants he wears Monday through Friday, these dungarees are sure to please. They simply ooze comfort. Even if you’re not embarking on a DIY project or helping your brother-in-law pour footings for his new deck, these work pants work the look really well.

Material

These work plants are made of 100% cotton, which is generally a good indicator that they’re going to be comfortable. It’s heavy cotton, though – 14 ounce (which means a square yard of the fabric would weigh14 ounces). So, in hot weather, they might be a tad smothering, but considering all the plusses these work pants offer, it’s worth the trade-off.

What Does Stone Washed Mean Anyway?

Stone washing means pretty much what you think it means. It’s a manufacturing process by which wet cotton (and sometimes other fabrics) are scraped by large, tumbling stones to roughen up the fabric.

The result is a softer fabric with somewhat faded, scratched and worn appearance.

Comfort and Performance

Whether you’re hammering nails or making the perfect cornhole toss, you’re going to be comfortable in these dungarees. They’re made for work, first and foremost, but they have a life after 5 p.m. With reinforced seams and extra volume in places like the knees, thighs and seat areas, these utility pants will move with you and not bind or fight back.

Features

These work pants have five pockets, if you want to include the little “watch pocket” in the front right. There’s nothing ground-breaking there, but when some cheaper work pants skip on pockets, it’s important to not that they didn’t scrimp.

The waist closure is a dependable antique brass button and the zipper fly is high quality, which is always a good thing, and ought to be federal law.

It’s not really a feature, but it’s nice to know that these work pants are manufactured in the USA.

Colors and Sizes

As far as colors go, they’re blue jeans. Some buyers have remarked that the stone washed appearance is a little subdued compared to other stone washed garments, but that may be a minor consideration for you.

Waist sizes run from 28 inches all the way up to a hefty 54 inches. Inseam lengths are as you might expect, so unless you have a very odd size combo, you’re going to find your size on the chart.

7. Wrangler Riggs Ranger Work Pants

Best Feature: Relaxed Fit

Wrangler, one of the most identifiable brands of jeans and work pants established its Riggs Workwear Collection to provide work garments that were comfortable yet rugged in a no-nonsense way. Their spokesmodel on this line of garments, now entering their second decade of existence by the way, is Brett Favre. He wouldn’t support a wimpy product, would he?

These ranger pants, as they call them, do indeed stand up well on close inspection and have a lot of features that might not be deal makers initially but end up being appreciated later on.

Material

These work pants are made of 100% cotton ripstop fabric. Ripstop means just what it sounds like it means. The fabric is resistant to ripping and tearing thanks to its high thread count and stitch pattern. 

Comfort and Performance

For these work pants and for Wrangler’s entire Riggs Workwear line, this is where the rubber meets the road. Can they deliver comfort without compromising performance? 

The answer is a resounding yes. These particular carpenter pants are relaxed fit, which Wrangler calls ROOM2MOVE technology. They’ve increased the coverage in the knees, the thigh areas and the all important seat area. The range of motion may greatly exceed the wearer’s.

Best Features

• Cordura lined back pockets. Cordura is a collection of fabric innovations that produces an advanced level of durability and strength. In this application, nylon is blended with cotton threads.
• Action gusset in the crotch. When the user bends, sits or squats, this is the critical point in the whole garment. Reinforcement in this area helps prevent catastrophic failure.
• Side cargo pockets. Deep and easy to reach into, these make the work pants work.
• Dirt drop vents. Yeah. We scratched out heads on this one too. What it means is, the pockets have flaps that seal out dirt.
• Hammer loop. On the right side. Sorry, southpaws. 
• Wide belt loops. This is more important than what you might think. If you’re a fan of rigger belts, the extra wide belt loops are wide enough for them.

Colors and Sizes

There’s not a huge selection of colors, but the most popular ones are listed: loden (gray/green), bark (tan), black, dark brown and navy.

As far as sizes go, don’t worry. They have your size, all the way up to 60W x 32L.

8. Fashio Heavy Duty Workwear Pants

Best Feature: Built Super Tough

Of all the work pants or utility pants on our list, these are the least likely to be mistaken for casual wear or an all-purpose garment. They are strictly all work and no play. But for the money, these may represent the best value of them all.

Material

These are described by the manufacturer as “safety pants.” The base material is 100% high-thread count cotton, but they come with reinforcing material in so many places, it’s hard to keep count. 

Comfort and Performance

For comfort, you can’t go wrong with cotton, but with all the reinforced areas, is comfort pushed out of the way? Those who have purchased these in the past say no.

The work pants are made with Cordura fabric flaps and sections that provide strength in critical areas, like knees and front pocket areas. Cordura straps and fasteners help other pockets stay securely shut and protect them from harm when the user is working in tight places. 

Features

If you like pockets, you’ve hit the mother lode with these work pants. There are pockets in the front, back and thigh level. There is a special close-tight pocket for cell phones and pockets-within-pockets.

The fly has a quality zipper and closes at the top via a sturdy button. Belt loops are wide enough for virtually all belt types.

Colors and Sizes

These work pants come in three colors – khaki, black and gray. But the Cordura sections are all black. With khaki and gray, these make the pants looks like they’ve been patched in a half dozen places. It’s almost a special ops military look, which some people might like. With the black pants, you don’t notice the Cordura as much.

The size chart is somewhat limited. It starts out at 30W x 30L, but goes only as high as 40W x 34L, leaving bigger and stouter gentlemen out of the picture.

9. Dickies Men’s Loose Fit Double Knee Work Pant

Best Feature: Lots of Options

Reinforced knees? Check. A wide variety of colors? Check. Durability? Check. These work pants by Dickies are a great buy for those looking for high quality work pants at an affordable price. They comes in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and hold up well on the job.

The bonus on these pants is the reinforced knees. Since pants tend to wear our the most in the knees, it’s good to know you have a bit of insurance. They’re also baggy enough that you could fit a smaller sized knee pad underneath if needed. However, there is no opening for a knee pad. Also, some might not like the fact that these work pants are so baggy (nearly 4 inches wide), and thus they ended up lower on our list for that reason.

Some other major plusses of these durable work pants is the roomy waist, large tunnel belt loops and the multi-use picket on the right leg. They’re also stain-resistant and wrinkle free, which is a big plus if you tend to leave your work pants in the clothes basket or dryer from time to time.

The work pants themselves are made from mostly polyester (65%) and some cotton (35%). Most people know this material as “twill.” Twill tends to be more durable than standard pants and provides good resistance to the elements (rain or snow). Another advantage of twill is that it helps hide the dirt, which is great if you’re a mechanic or work outside or in the mud.

All in all, a solid work pant for the working man on a budget. If you decide you don’t like the fact that these are baggy, Dickies also makes these pants in a slim fit, relaxed fit and a big & tall version. So, there’s lots of options when it comes to these work pants.

What to Look for in the Best Construction Work Pants

When choosing a pair of work pants, carpenter pants, utility pants, etc. the most important factor doesn’t lie with the pants. It lies with the type of work (or job) you intend to perform in them.

Work Pants Pockets

For carpenters, who might run around with a hammer, tape measure, spare nails, nail sets and note pads with measurements written down on them, having plenty of pockets would be important. Look for work pants with reinforced pockets, perhaps with Velcro closures or button closures. Pockets should have plenty of room inside, room for your hands to pull stuff out without having to fold your fingers flat. 

Most of the work pants on our list have hammer loops, so no worries there. 

Work Pants with Knee Protection

If your job requires a lot of kneeling, perhaps making electrical connections, running pipes or cutting rebar, you put a lot of stress on your knees. While your work pants can’t help the inner workings of your knees, you don’t want your knees to wear a hole in your work pants.

All of the work pants on our list have extra material around the knees. That’s kind of a given. If you do a lot of your kneeling on unforgiving surfaces, like rough concrete, you need more than just extra material in the knees. You need reinforcement. Some of these work pants have heavy duty canvas or Cordura fabric in the knees, so that should be a factor worth considering.

However, if you work with knee pads you may need a pant that you can easily take out and insert your knee pads. The Caterpillar Men’s Trademark Work Pant has an easy access for knee pads, so these pants might be the best work pants for you. Or, if you’re just looking for knee pads in general, we recommend these knee pads for most workers and these professional knee pads for more serious knee protection. Both offer superior protection and good comfort.

They Call Me Stormy Monday (or Tuesday, Wednesday, etc.)

If your job requires you to be out in the elements, regardless of the weather, you need work pants that don’t mind getting wet. One of our work pants selections provides just about the best waterproofing option you’ll find, short of those seafaring yellow raincoats like the Gorton’s Fisherman wears. (You don’t want something like that anyway. You’ll suffocate.)

Water-resistant work garments tend to be a little uncomfortable when the sun pops back out, so be aware of that when selecting.

Fire Resistant Work Pants

If you work around sparks, as in a welding shop, or anywhere where fire is present, you should consider some fire-resistant work pants. Work pants get oily, and the last thing you want is to get oil-soaked pants near a fire. So look into something that has fire-resistant fibers woven into the fabric.

Cost of Work Pants

Some of these work pants require a bit of an investment, but when you consider they might last five, six or more years, the investment won’t seem so bad. Some are remarkably inexpensive, and if they meet your needs, you can save some serious money.

The post Best Work Pants for Construction Workers appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

Let’s face it, when you work hard all day and spend much of your time standing and walking, your socks usually take the brunt of the punishment. Socks that get bunched up, torn up, or stunk up are not worth your time and you shouldn’t have to deal with those annoyances.

I don’t need the details, just take me to the Best Work Socks please.

As a manual laborer, you want to be confident in the durability, comfort, and breathability of your work socks so you can focus on the job in front of you instead of the irritation inside your boots. Don’t have the time to do all the dull research that goes into finding the best work socks? Well, we’ve got you covered.

Today, we will be reviewing a list of the best work socks for construction workers on the market.

Finding the Best Work Socks

What qualities are the most important when shopping for the perfect work socks? The answer to that question will likely vary from person to person. Keep in mind that your specific type of work, your unique preferences, and your decided budget may differ from that of others. Be sure to pick an option that is right for your unique needs. 

While the importance of qualities may vary, there are some concerns across the board with regards to work socks, and companies that produce them have tried to address these with every improvement in the design of work socks. 

Here are some of the most important concerns regarding work socks:

• Short Lifespan
  • When you’re on your feet all day, your socks take a good beating. A low-quality material and poor construction of your socks means that wear and tear will happen quickly on high impact areas like the heel and the toe. You will be replacing them often and possibly spending a lot of money doing so.
• Discomfort
  • If your work socks are a restrictive material on one end or a material that loses it’s elasticity on the other end, you may run into some discomfort. Socks that are too tight or too loose could lead to issues with restricted blood flow, increased chances of blisters and irritation, as well as problems with limited breathability. You need an elastic but snug fit that won’t be so tight as to leave a mark, but also won’t bunch or slip around.
• Moisture
  • Sweat is unavoidable in your line of work. Moisture can lead to bacteria, bad odors, and irritating skin conditions. If you have a sock whose material traps in moisture instead of pulling it away from your skin, you may run into problems with odors, irritation, or even fungal infections. 
• Expense
  • High quality work socks do tend to cost more. It’s hard to find the right balance between quality and price since prices and quality vary so wildly. 

After reviewing these concerns, you’ll be happy to know that many companies have heard the woes of their customers and have come up with ways to address them in their products. So, what qualities in work socks best address these concerns and which brands have done the best job ensuring these qualities? 

Qualities of the Best Work Socks

 Here are the top qualities in work socks that we looked for, which combat the above concerns:

• Durability
  • To avoid quick wear and tear, you want your socks to be made of durable material so that they last a long time and you can avoid having to replace them.
• Comfort
  • To help avoid aches and pains, you want a material and high-quality construction that reduce discomfort so you can focus on the job at hand.
• Breathability/Odor Prevention
  • To prevent bacteria, odors, irritation and serious skin conditions, you want to opt for a material and a design that helps you avoid having pesky moisture on your skin.
• Affordability
  • Let’s be realistic. You don’t want to break the bank buying socks.

Also, don’t forget to follow OSHA Guidelines for Work Socks depending on what job your work (found on page 21 of the PDF).

We got to work examining many different brands of work socks on the market and how they compare with one another when it comes to these qualities. 

Without further ado, below is the list we’ve compiled of the top ten best work socks along with the pros and cons of each pair. 

Let’s dive in and look at the best work socks!

11 Best Work Socks for Construction Workers

1. Darn Tough Men’s Merino Wool Full Cushion Crew Work Socks

Durability

Darn Tough has created this pair of socks with some seriously high-quality wool knitting. Their signature, finely knit wool reinforces high impact areas to prevent tears and holes. This means your socks will last a long, long time. A hearty, “unconditional” lifetime guarantee really tips the pot to these high quality socks.

Comfort

The unusually high amount of stitches per inch allow for these socks to have a snug fit without the usual bulk that comes along with wool socks. This means that bunching and slipping is virtually nonexistent! Additionally, flat and undetectable seams prevent blisters and other irritations that come along with pesky seams.

Breathability

Merino wool fibers are known for their breathability among other wools and it has naturally antimicrobial properties to prevent odor causing bacteria. In addition to the fabric’s natural breathability, the sock features Fast Action Wicking, which guides moisture away from the foot and out of the sock. Merino wool really gives an edge to Darn Tough when it comes to moisture and bacteria fighting qualities.

Affordability

When it comes to affordability, Darn Tough is certainly not the cheapest. While this pair is on the high end of the price range on this list of work socks, the price matches the quality when it comes to durability and comfort so you can be assured, you’re paying a bit more for good cause. 

Overall

This pick is the best for a construction worker whose greatest concern is keeping feet dry and comfortable.

2. Smartwool Men’s Ultra Light Wool Crew Work Socks

Durability

Smartwool has created these socks with high quality, indestructible wool technology which ensures durability and a long life for your socks. A cushioned, reinforced sole protects high-impact areas from damage as well.

Comfort

Smartwool’s Elite-Fit system is flexible at the ankle joint which allows for both protection and flexibility at this crucial impact point. The elastic arch brace and the flat-knit toe seams also contribute to the sock’s overall top-notch comfort and support. At the same time, the cushioned sole allows for premium comfort and protection in the arch area as well. Overall, comfort is a high priority of Smartwool’s socks.

Breathability

With a wool material, warmth is ensured while breathability can be a downfall. With Smartwool’s socks, however, mesh zones are embedded in the material, which allow for moisture to be expelled so that you can keep your feet dryer than you could with other brands of wool socks. 

Affordability

As it was with the Darn Tough brand, with these Smartwool socks, you pay a bit more for the higher quality design and materials. 

Overall

The wool component to these socks makes them a great pick if you spend a lot of your work day working outdoors in all seasons – especially on different types of terrain. An excellent work sock for construction workers.

3. Carhartt Men’s Cotton Steel-Toe Work Socks

Durability

As a trusted American brand, Carhartt made these socks with a hard day’s work in mind. These socks are designed to wear with steel-toed boots so they have extra padding in the heel and toe areas, which gives added cushioning for not only durability but for comfort as well. 

Comfort

In addition to the extra padding, unique Y-stitches around the heel of these socks provide an extra bit of comfort and stability. These stitches along with the elasticity of the leg area prevent the sock from falling down or bunching up when you’re moving around a lot, so you don’t have to worry about readjusting throughout the day. 

Breathability

The materials that make up these socks are cotton and nylon which are great for breathability, comfort, and odor control, but not as great in cold temperatures as a wool sock would be.

Affordability

This design of socks from the Carhartt brand costs around the mid-price range when compared to all the brands and designs on this list. Among the three Carhartt designs on this list, the Steel-Toe Work Socks are the most expensive.  

Overall

This pick would be ideal if your biggest concern is durability and strong material in the heel and toe.

4. Wigwam Men’s S1221 Crew Work Socks

Durability

Wigwam is another trusted American brand and their work socks don’t disappoint. Synthetic fibers reinforce the sole of these socks to prevent tears and holes due to heavy use and long wear. They are machine washable, but it is recommended that you wash them inside-out to avoid loosening the fabric. Wigwam is so confident in the quality of these socks that they offer a lifetime warranty on your purchase.

Comfort

Additional padding on the sole, specifically on the heel, allows for extended comfort throughout the workday. These socks also have a comfortable height which extends up to the larger part of your calf and prevents slippage. 

Breathability

The antimicrobial properties of the sock’s material help to combat bacteria which, in turn, prevents foul odors. 

Affordability

Wigwam’s design is similarly priced to the previous Carhartt brand and costs around the mid-price range on this list.

Overall

This is a great pick for work socks if comfort and durability are your biggest concerns. 

5. Carhartt Men’s All-Season Cotton Crew Work Socks

Durability

Here’s another pick from the trusted Carhartt brand!

The All-Season Crew Work Socks are designed for long-lasting durability and can be worn any time, regardless of the season, due to the addition of high-quality cotton in the materials.

Frictionless yarns reinforce the toe and the heel of these socks, which combats holes in these problem areas. This helps increase the durability of these work socks.

Comfort

Soft cushioning material is strategically placed in high-impact areas like the toe and the heel. This creates an additional layer of comfort for a long, hard day of work. Some people do complain about the elastic in these work socks, but it really comes down to personal preference.

Breathability

High cotton content along with other moisture-wicking materials allows for higher breathability and sweat resistance in the socks to keep your feet cool.

Affordability

When compared to the previous Carhartt design on this list, the All-Season Cotton Crew Work Socks are priced a bit lower and are more affordable, comparatively. 

Overall

These socks are the best work sock for those who need a breathable work sock and one of the best work socks for those who work in a variable climate.

6. Carhartt Men’s Force Performance Crew Work Socks

Durability

The trusted Carhartt brand is on this list for a third time!

The Performance Crew work socks have reinforced cushioning in problem areas like the heel and the toe. This helps to prevent wear and tear on these high-impact areas and increases the life of the socks overall. 

Comfort

Extra compression in the arch area as well as in the ankle brace in these socks allow for your foot motions to be both flexible and stable simultaneously. Extra cushioning in heel and toe also relieve stress on these areas.

These socks really excel when it comes to steel toe boots, they’re extremely comfortable.

Breathability

Breathability is where the Performance Crew Work Socks shine! These socks are created with fast-drying and moisture-wicking technology to combat moisture and reduce bad odors.

Made with high amounts of polyester, moisture can’t stay very long in these socks, especially when you add in the mesh cooling channels which help to improve air circulation and overall breathability. Your feet will remain clean and dry throughout your work day.

Affordability

Carhartt’s Force Performance Crew Work Socks are priced similarly to the previously listed All-Seasons Carhartt design. And since they’re not advertised as a steel toe work boot sock, you can get a high quality steel toe work boot sock at a more affordable price than Carhartt’s Steel-Toe sock.

Overall

This sock’s best quality is its moisture-fighting capabilities. If your feet tend to be super sweaty, these are the best work socks for you.

7. Dickies Men’s Dri-tech Moisture Wicking Crew Work Socks (6-Pack)

Durability

Dickies is another well-known and trusted brand in workwear, and their Crew Work Socks live up to the brand’s name. These work socks are made from highly durable materials and are great for a long workday.

These work socks are also made to wear with steel-toed boots due to the reinforced heel and toe. In fact, most people buy these specifically to wear with work boots because they hold up so well.

Breathability

The biggest benefit to these socks is their top-rated design for combating moisture. The combination of cotton, polyester, and spandex creates a breathable sock that is moisture-wicking and keeps feet dry. Mesh materials and a special ventilation system near the toes create added protection against sweat and odors. 

Comfort

Comfort and stability are also highly rated in these socks due to arch compression and their reinforced heel and toe. You will not need to worry about bunching or slipping in these socks.

Affordability

This Dickies design is a very affordable option among other picks on this list, especially considering the well-known brand name. 

Overall

This is the best bang for your buck when it comes to work boot socks. You get six in a pack, they breathe well and they hold up well even after prolonged use.

8. KMM Men’s Heavy-Duty Moisture Wicking Cotton Crew Work Socks (10-Pack)

Durability

KMM has created these socks with a blend of premium materials which significantly lengthens the life of the socks. Reinforced toe and heel areas create even more durability for high-impact areas.

Comfort

In addition to extra cushion in high impact areas, this sock has a deep heel pocket to improve arch support and prevent the sock from slipping around. Wide cuffs also prevent slippage and the hidden toe seams go a long way in preventing blisters and irritation.

Breathability

The blend of high-quality materials in this sock, like premium cotton and top-grade polyester, really boosts breathability overall.

Affordability

This brand is a very affordable one and ranks among the most affordable on this list.

Overall

Overall comfort is the pinnacle of this work sock’s design. So, if you tend to experience a lot of foot pain on the job, these work socks are the best choice and will drastically increase your comfort level.

9. Fruit of the Loom Men’s Heavy-Duty Work Socks

Durability

Fruit of the Loom’s take on work socks provides a good mix of comfort, breathability, and protection. The full sole, from heel to toe, is reinforced with extra padding for durability and protection and the leg elasticity holds up well to washes and extended use.

Comfort

These work socks are designed specifically to fight foot fatigue. As mentioned above, there is reinforced padding from the heel all the way to the toe which really adds a nice layer of comfort to the whole foot. They also fit true to size and really cradle the foot well, which further increases the level of comfort.

Breathability

Materials are made up of cotton, polyester, and spandex which allows for warmth in colder weather as well as breathability in warmer weather. Moisture-wicking materials and breathable fabric combats sweat well and keeps feet dry. 

Affordability

This brand is well known for its affordability and their Crew Work Socks are one of the most affordable options on this list.

Overall

This is a great pick if you are looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing any durability. Best work sock for comfort and true fit on a budget.

10. Hanes Men’s Tube Over the Calf Work Socks

Durability

Hanes is a long-time contributor to the industry of work socks. With so many years in the business, this company knows their footwear. And better yet, these work socks are made in the USA.

This sock’s polyester, cotton, and spandex blend, along with elastic ribbing ensures that the material will last a long time without losing much elasticity.

Comfort

The “Over the Calf” design ensures coverage from the top of your calf to the tip of your toe. Extra-thick cushioning on the soles of the sock as well as flat, reinforced toe seams allow for premium comfort throughout the work day.

Breathability

This blend includes a high level of cotton which allows for sufficient breathability throughout the work day.

Affordability

Hanes Tube socks happen to be the most affordable option on this list. 

Overall

If you like the traditional tube sock, this is a great pick for you. Also, if you like calf coverage but still need the reinforced soles of a good work sock, this pick may be right for you.

11. YUEDGE Mens Cotton Cushion Crew Work Socks

Durability

Made for hiking, these socks are designed to withstand wear and tear. This fact makes them perfect for work socks. There are also elastic bands stitched into the sock to ensure that they hold their shape over time. Excellent level of durability at this price point.

Comfort

The comfort of these work socks is outstanding, especially given the price. They’re made of thickened terry which gives them a superior level of comfort. The design of the sock was also made to reduce foot fatigue and foot friction.

Breathability

These socks feature a mesh design to enhance breathability. Since the sock was made for hiking, this sock is designed to keep the foot cool and dry. This makes it ideal as a work sock or a sock for underneath a work boot.

Affordability

For the level of durability and comfort provided, the price of these work socks is excellent.

Overall

One of the best work socks on the list. High level of comfort, holds up extremely well over time, and breathes super well. It’s surprising these socks weren’t made as a work sock because they work surprisingly well for this use.

Work Socks FAQ

What are the best socks to wear with steel toe boots?

When it comes to steel toe boots, the best work socks to wear will be ones with extra padding and reinforcement in the toe area. Many work socks are designed with steel toe boots in mind, like the aforementioned Carhartt Men’s Cotton Steel-Toe Work Socks as well as Dickies Men’s Dri-tech Moisture Wicking Crew Work Socks. 

Be sure to check out our recommendations for Best Work Boots!

What is the best material for work socks?

Picking the right material might be tricky but it is crucial. The temperature in your workspace and the type of work you will be doing can and should impact your decision. For example, if you work in a hot machine shop, you wouldn’t want a super thick pair of wool work socks, but you would want to opt for a material that is cool and breathable, like cotton. Alternately, if you will be working outdoors during winter months, you will want to opt for a material, like wool, that will keep your feet both warm and dry.

If you’ll be working outside in cold temperatures, be sure to check out our recommendations for Best Winter Jackets for Construction Workers.

What are the best socks for standing all day?

Standing on your feet for a long period of time requires adequate cushion and support. For this type of work, you may want to try a pair of work socks that have a fully cushioned sole, like Fruit of the Loom Men’s Heavy-Duty Full Cushion Crew Work Socks, or a pair of work socks that has great arch support, like KMM Men’s Heavy-Duty Moisture Wicking Cotton Crew Work Socks.

What are the best quality socks?

To measure the best quality, you have to look at the durability and the price of the socks. Higher quality materials and higher quality design tend to result in a longer lasting pair of socks. However, higher quality tends to cost more. At the end of the day, the higher priced options on the above list do reflect the best quality in work socks. It will be up to you to decide if the best quality work socks is, indeed, what you require.

Conclusion: Best Work Socks

When it comes to choosing the right pair of work socks for your needs, you will need to consider several elements. First, consider the type of work you will be doing while wearing these socks. Elements like temperature, terrain, length of time per use, and what type of shoe or boot you will wear with them will all play a role in your decision. For example, as previously mentioned, if you will be wearing steel-toed boots with these socks, you will want to opt for a pair with a reinforced toe to protect your feet as well as prevent holes in your toes. 

Next, you will need to decide which qualities, from durability to breathability, comfort to affordability, are the most important to you. This consideration is crucial when selecting the right type and brand of work sock. If you tend to sweat a lot, for example, you will likely want to opt for the best in breathability. If you tend to have a lot of aches and pains in your feet while working, comfort and stability in your socks will be a critical selling point for you.

Keep in mind the prices listed above for each of these brands and, if price is a big contributor to your decision, remember to look at the price of each pair respectively so that you don’t compare the price of six pairs to the price of one pair. It may seem like a give in, but we want to be sure you’re comparing apples to apples when it comes to price.

In addition to direct price comparisons, consider how long a lower quality brand might last compared to that of a higher quality brand. Some of the higher priced brands can last years where the lower priced brands may need to be replaced after just a few months. A lower individual price doesn’t always mean you will save money overall.

Choosing the right work socks for your unique needs should be a relatively easy decision. Once you have all the information on issues and qualities that combat them, it should be clear which qualities are the most important to you. 

Best of luck to you finding the best work sock for your hard-working feet.

The post Work Socks for Construction Workers appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

Hydraulic Crimping Tools

No matter the end product, electric wiring is where it all starts. If you work in construction or an industry where crimping wire is a big part of your job, you know the value of tools that not only speed things along, but also provide consistent, dependable results. One of those tools is the crimping tool. Where would you be without your trusty wire crimper?

But sometimes the job is too big for a manual wire crimper. Anyone who has crimped more than a few dozen wires in a day can attest the strain it puts on your hand and elbow. A good hydraulic wire crimping tool can solve that problem. In fact, some of the best hydraulic crimping tools can even be operated with only one hand.

If you’re in need of a hydraulic wire crimping tool, then do yourself a favor and check out our list of the best hydraulic crimping tools. It might save you some cringing later on.

At the end of this “best-of” list are some of things to look for when purchasing a hydraulic crimper. These factors includes whether to buy the best dieless hydraulic crimper or one with dies, the power of the crimper, weight, etc. Be sure to check it out as it will help you to truly select the best hydraulic crimping tool on the market.

11 Best Hydraulic Crimpers

1. Greenlee Multi-Tool Hydraulic Crimper (E12CCXLX120)

Best Feature: Pressure Sensor

Consistent electrical connections are essential to any project, and when the inspector drops by, you want everything to be by the book. The Greenlee 12-ton multi-tool’s intelligent crimping technology has a pressure sensor that monitors how much force is being applied, and it lets the operator know if something is amiss, so that one crimp is just like the next, and they are all up to code. This alert is both visual and audible.

Another nice feature – and other models have this as well – is Retraction Stop Repeat. This allows the user to retract the ram part-way and the device remembers its location for subsequent crimps. This speeds up the process by not allowing the ram to retract all the way back, making it ready to crimp as soon as the connector is put into place. If the user switches to a different size connector, the Retraction Stop Repeat function can easily be disabled, even in mid-cycle.

The hydraulic force is actuated by an 18-volt lithium ion battery that lasts for over 400 crimps per charge. Even when the battery does run down, it recharges quickly in the supplied charger. The Greenlee packs 12 tons of brute force, so 400+ cycles per battery charge is pretty impressive indeed. If you don’t need to go cord-free, the crimping tool ships with a power supply that plugs into a conventional 120-volt wall outlet.

This unit includes a multi-function LED light that not only illuminates the work area, but also provides indicators for battery strength and tool maintenance. At 19 pounds, it’s not exactly a featherweight, which can be good or bad, depending on your point of view (good for durability; bad for using it all day long). 

This device can be trouble-shooted via Bluetooth, using the Gator Eye Diagnostic Tool (sold separately), which tracks history, current status, service intervals and many other functions.

2. Burndy Patriot Hydraulic Crimping Tool (PAT750XT-18V)

Best Feature: True One Hand Operation

The Patriot PAT750XT is an outstanding hydraulic crimping tool that has a lot of features you’ll only see in top-of-the-line crimping tools. Having been around for a while, the Patriot has been tried, true and tested. (Hint: it passed the test).

The Patriot has a high speed hydraulic pump and is capable of crimping with 12 tons of force. It provides this force through the use of an 18V 2.6 AH battery pack. With its Y750 tool head, it is designed for use with “U” style dies and is commonly used to crimp asymmetrical connectors (HYGROUND). The head can also be rotated up to 360 degrees to ensure crimping can be performed in virtually any position. This makes it particularly good when trying to crimp in tight spaces.

One of the most noticeable things about this crimper is that it feels well-balanced when holding it. In fact, it’s even capable of being used one-handed. The only downside is that it does feel a bit heavy at 16.5 lbs (with battery). That said, it does come with a carrying case for moving it around as well as a lanyard for hanging.

This crimper also comes with two batteries and a battery charger. Battery recharge times is less than 45 minutes. The dies are sold separately.

This hydraulic crimper is compatible with the Burndy 12-ton die set.

3. Burndy Hydraulic Crimping Tool (PAT750CLI)

Best Feature: 12-Ton Crimping Force

If there ever was a “stand back and let a pro show you how it’s done” kind of tool, this is it. It even has a nickname – Patriot.

This is a high-performance tool even among other so-called high-performance tools. It’s Burndy’s newest generation of crimping tools and it has some serious numbers to back up the boast. It’s battery-actuated, and delivers 12 tons of crimping force to the job at hand. It operates from an 18-volt, 3.0aH lithium-Ion battery that outperforms other batteries in its class by 430 percent. 

During operation, a cooling fan forces air into the battery’s built-in cooling vents The battery recharges in around 30 minutes (charger included with purchase).

The hydraulics system has been redesigned and is primed for quick crimps that meet U.L. standards every time. When you have hundreds of connections to make in a work shift, this tool is pretty much indispensable.

The over-molded handles have also been redesigned for comfort and secure grip, and the overall weight (16 pounds) is balanced for easy carrying and reliably steady use. 

The business end of this crimping tool rotates 355 degrees and is sized to work with Burndy “U” dies and connectors. The following is not a complete list but a reliable list of applications that the Patriot crimping tool is suitable for:

• Tension Sleeves – Copper #9 sol. – 500 kcmil Aluminum #8 sol. – 587.2 kcmil ACSR #4 – 556.5 kcmil
• Taps – Copper #14 sol. – 500 kcmil Aluminum #8 – 500 kcmil
• Aerial Cable – Copper #6 – 500 kcmil
• Terminals & Splices – Aluminum #8 – 750 kcmil Copper #8 – 750 kcmil ACSR #4 – 556 kcmil
• HYGROUND – Copper #8 – 500 kcmil (cable/ground rod) Ground Rods 1/2″-1″ Diameter

Burndy, a global leader in electric connectors and related tools, has been around for nearly 100 years and is constantly reinventing its products. The Patriot crimping tool is the result of the latest advances in technology and design. If you prefer American-built products, then you’ll appreciate the fact that Burndy has a manufacturing facility in New Hampshire.

4. RIDGID Hydraulic Crimping Tool (RP 340)

Best Feature: Lightweight

Improved design has made this crimping tool smaller, and more importantly, lighter – 17 percent lighter, to be exact. At the end of a long shift, or even one that just seems that way, this is going to be much kinder to the arm muscles than some of the other brands.

The pressing tool has an LED bulb to illuminate the work in low light situations. The power pack for this beauty is an 18-volt 4aH lithium ion battery, one of the most powerful batteries of the crimping tools on our list. Under ideal conditions, this is enough power to do 400 presses per charge.

This unit does not ship with jaws, but does fit RIDGID Standard Series jaws with up to a four-inch capacity for copper or stainless steel, or two-inch PEX, which includes RIDGID Pro Press, MegaPress, Pureflow, XL-C and Press Snap.

It crimps at 5400 PSI, and the barrel swivels at nearly 270 degrees for easy access.

The unit ships with an advanced (the manufacturer’s terminology) battery charger. You can also purchase an optional power supply that will power the unit indefinitely.

5. Burndy Six Ton Hydraulic Crimping Tool (PAT4PC834)

Best Feature: Streamlined Hydraulic System

Burndy places another solid crimping tool on our “Best-Of” list, this one a tad smaller than the other Burndys though. But while it’s smaller and less powerful than its bigger brothers, it’s no less dependable.

It crimps with up to six tons of force, half that of most of the other crimping tools on the list. But what it gives up in sheer power it makes up for it by being quick and nimble in tight spaces. It doesn’t use dies, but has a C-shaped head design that rotates a full 360 degrees and can easily be removed for special uses. 

Crimps might take longer, but due to its small size, it can be pivoted into place quicker than the other crimpers, so the timing might just work out to a draw. One thing’s for sure – recharging a dead battery back to full strength only takes a half hour with the charger that’s included in the package. It uses the same 18-volt battery that the PAT750CLI does, and with steady use, you can expect the battery to last three hours and change before it needs recharging. That’s not quite long enough to get you to lunch break time, but it’s close.

The materials used are rugged and durable. Nevertheless, the manufacturer isn’t going to let this crimper get hauled around without any protection, so it ships with a hard shell carrying case.

6. Greenlee Six Ton Flip Hydraulic Crimper (EK6FTLX120)

Best Feature: Flip-Over Head for Easy Removal

It’s not a crimper. It’s a flip crimper.

Greenlee checks in again with a scaled-down version of its fine line of hydraulic crimpers with this nifty little devil that has a unique method of head release. When you’re finished with a crimp, you just pull a pin and the head flips open to release the connector.

It doesn’t use dies, but has four indentors to make the crimp, and then those indentors automatically retract just enough to create clearance for moving the connector down a bit for the next crimp. This saves time, because on the next cycle, the indentors don’t have so far to travel.

Like the larger Greenlee models, this crimper employs the Intelligent Crimping System technology to ensure consistent crimps every time, plus the Greenlee Gator Eye (sold separately) monitoring system that uses Bluetooth to report a number of functions and suggests maintenance.

It’s not a monster in terms of crimping power – six tons – but with so much monitoring and automation going on, you might not miss the extra power.

Battery? You guessed it – 18 volts, lithium ion. The included charger is upscale, doing more than just pouring amps into the battery like it was filling up a bathtub. It measures and controls the charging current, charging voltage and battery temperature for a quick, thorough but safe charge cycle.

It ships with two batteries, which is really nice. That ensures that the operator can stay on the job all shift long without interruption.

7. Milwaukee M18 Dieless Crimper (2877-22)

Best Feature: Auto Distance Control

When you have a flurry of connections to complete, you need a crimping tool that’s pretty much “set-it and forget-it”. Squeeze the trigger, let the device put the squeeze on the connector, retract, move on to the next one, and dare the electrical inspector to find an out-of-tolerance connection.

That’s what you get with the Milwaukee 2877-22 dieless crimper. Its Auto Distance Control measures the distance from the indentor to the connector and measures the pressure being applied for consistent results that will meet U.L. standards every time, every size, every type.

The range of connector sizes runs from #6 AWG to 750 MCM, and dual rated connectors for seven manufacturers, which include Anderson, Blackburn, Burndy, Ilsco, Panduit, Penn-Union, and Thomas & Betts.

At nine pounds, this is the lightest crimper in its capacity range. Even if it wasn’t so light, it’s still one of the easiest-to-use crimpers on our list. In addition to the automatic processes, it has a handy LED light that turns green at the completion of each crimp, and a handy lever to release the head.  Speaking of the head, it’s dieless and it rotates 180 degrees.

It’s powered by an 18-volt lithium ion battery, which brought a friend along – a second battery. This allows for an uninterrupted workflow, and increased productivity. The charger is high-tech as well, charging the battery as quickly as it can without overheating it or the charger.

The crimper, batteries and charger all fit in a rugged, red carrying case with the Milwaukee logo proudly displayed.

8. DEWALT Dieless Cable Crimping Tool

Best Feature: Self-Contained Tool Diagnostics

It’s frustrating to be working along with a power tool and find out that it was not performing exactly as it should have. Even if it was just slightly less than perfect, you could end up having to go back and re-do a lot of work. This won’t happen with the DEWALT DCE350M2. Its built-in diagnosis tool keeps up with pressure, the number of completed tasks, battery life, temperature, needed maintenance and scheduled maintenance.

This unit can crimp up to 750 MCM copper and 1000 MCM aluminum cables with its dieless head. An LED light illuminates the work area, and the unit’s overall small size can allow it into tight areas where a little light would be a welcome thing. DEWALT’s patented guard rails protect the head when it’s crimping small diameter cable.

The crimper maxes out at six tons of crimping power – sufficient for most crimps, but that puts a little more daily wear on the unit over time.

This runs on DEWALT’s standard 20-volt lithium battery – the same battery that all of its cordless power tools run on. This can be a plus if you already have a few other DEWALT products, but the crimper already ships with two batteries, so you might end up loaning one to your buddy on conduit-bending duty.

And, if going cordless isn’t necessary, the crimper can run off a power supply that plugs into an ordinary 120-volt outlet.

Comes with a handsome black carrying case with snap-in pockets for the charger and spare battery plus a shoulder strap.

DEWALT offers a three-year limited warranty on this product. This is one of the better warranties of the crimpers on our list, and more than simply covering the user in case of failure, it should be viewed as an indicator of how long this crimper will remain dependable.

9. DEWALT 20V Max Cable Crimping Tool with Die

Best Feature: Crimp Connect Technology

This is similar to the unit shown above, but is 12 ton as opposed to six, and uses dies to match up with different connectors. It can crimp up to 750 MCM Copper / 1000 aluminum cables. It is U.L. Classified to be compatible with leading manufactures connectors and U type dies. 

This crimper employs DEWALT’s “Crimp Connect” reporting technology, which provides detailed reports of completed crimps, pressure and other factors. On-board diagnostics indicate battery life, successful crimp, service needed, service schedules and operating temperature range. 

A bright LED work light illuminates the work area. This crimper offers electroless nickel corrosion protective coating on the crimping head. Electroless nickel plating is a chemical process that coats metal with a layer of nickel alloy that shields it against moisture, sweat and repeated uses. 

It ships with not one, but two DEWALT 20-volt batteries, and a rugged carrying case with a shoulder strap. It’s covered by the same three-year limited warranty as the above product.

10. Milwaukee M12 Force Logic Press Tool (2473-22)

Best Features: Budget-Friendly, Lightweight

This is another fine product from Milwaukee Tools. This isn’t as all-purpose as some of the other crimping tools, but it does come with three sets of jaws, for half-inch, three-quarter-inch and one-inch connectors.

It’s not cumbersome at all. In fact, wherever you can fit your arm, you can fit this crimper, as it weighs a mere 3.8 pounds. Of course, when working in tight quarters or poorly-lit environments, there is that moment of doubt that the crimp was done right. With this tool, armed with Milwaukee’s Redlink (not redneck) technology and its electronic evaluation of each connection, the user can know that the connection is solid and meets code.

The self-diagnosing electronics also measures pressure and impact distance, and lets the user know when the tool is in need of calibration. But if all goes well, calibration won’t be needed for at least 32,000 crimps. According to product literature, this is one of the best standards in the industry for this type tool.

The device is powered by Milwaukee’s incredibly reliable 12-volt lithium battery. Milwaukee is so proud of this little dynamo of a battery, it provides a three-year limited warranty for its replacement should it fail within the covered period.

The tool itself comes with a five-year limited warranty, and that says a lot for what you can expect from this in terms of durability. It all packs into a nice carrying case that’s meant for work environments.

11. Ridgid RP 200-B Compact Press Tool Kit

Best Feature: Four Interchangeable Jaws

Another petite powerhouse, this tool may feel small in the hand, but its King Kong-sized in what it can deliver. It crimps at 5400 PSI, which, by big boy standards may not raise eyebrows, but considering its compact size, that’s pretty impressive.

It doesn’t use dies, but comes with four interchangeable jaws for half-inch, three-quarter-inch, one-inch and 1.25-inch connections. That still doesn’t cover all the options, but that’s a pretty good lineup, plus you can order other jaws for it, as long as they’re in the compact jaw series. It is compatible with copper or aluminum cables as well as PEX tubing. The head swivels up to 270 degrees.

The Ridgid RP 200-B runs on a 18-volt lithium battery, which is the standard for much larger tools. Product literature says you can get 200 crimps per charge, and with a spare battery (included), you can virtually use this tool all day long without stopping.

It can also go a long way – 32,000 crimps – before it needs to be calibrated.

The tool ships with a sturdy carrying case, with handy compartments for the tool, the four jaws that are included in the kit, two batteries and battery charger.

What to Look For in the Best Hydraulic Crimping Tool

The main questions to consider when looking for the best crimping tool is how often do you need a crimping tool? And, how many connections do you need to make in a day/week?

Obviously, if you’re an electrical contractor, connections are pretty much your whole business, and if you’re bidding on a job that can make your whole year a winner, you need to be able to back up your bid with productivity and reliability after the contract’s signed. Spending thousands of dollars on a tool is painful, sure, but these crimpers on our list will get you through countless big jobs without breakdown or costly maintenance and absolutely justify the expense. 

Hydraulic Crimping Tool Power

The more powerful crimpers (12 tons is a good top-of-the-line power rating) will last longer, because they are in “press” mode for much shorter amounts of time. But something can be said for the smaller, less powerful models, because they fit into tight areas that are inaccessible (except through bizarre contortions and non-recommended work-arounds) to the bigger ones. If you don’t need 12 tons of crimping power, then having six tons on a tool that can fit into more places is worth the trade-off in many cases.

The weight of the crimping tool is another consideration. While lugging around a 16-pound tool is not going to be a problem, lugging one around all day long is. It all depends on the environment the tool is used in. If the tool is used at a central location, like near the work trailer, then it won’t matter so much if it’s a little heavy. But if an employee is having to move about to get to cables that have already been pulled into place, then that 16 pounds is going to feel like 50 by shift’s end.

All but one or two of the crimping tools on the list use 18-volt lithium batteries, the greatest thing to happen to the construction industry since sliced bologna. But you’ve no doubt heard horror stories about lithium batteries, especially when it applies to cellphones. To mitigate the risk of overheated lithium batteries, most of these crimping tools come with a battery charger that monitors the amperage and keeps up with the battery’s temperature while it’s being charged.

Dieless Hydraulic Crimper or Not?

To die or not to die – that is the question. Some of these crimpers use dies, and some use a direct approach, using jaws of various sizes to do the work. Which way you go depends on how many types of connectors you deal with on a regular basis. If you encounter the same two or three connectors over and over again, then having a multi-piece die set might be overkill for you.

Many of these models have automatic retraction capabilities. This means that the indentors come in, make their crimp and pull back, but only enough to create space between them and the connector. This allows the user to easily slide the cable forward for the next crimp, and when the indentors come in to make another crimp, they don’t have as far to travel.

Rotating heads are another convenience for cables that are a little odd in their orientation. Quick-release levers are also a big help when the user has to do a big group of connections.

And also, search various websites for reviews and average the reviews together to get a better idea of the actual review of the crimper. The more reviews you can find the better.

The post Hydraulic Crimping Tools: A Comprehensive Review appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

Choosing the Best Underwear for Work

Whether you’re working around the house, shooting some hoops with friends, or headed to work at the construction site, it’s important to wear comfortable underwear.

The best briefs, boxers, or boxer briefs should:

• Absorb sweat and odor.
• Prevent skin irritation and infection from constant movement.
• Provide support and protection for the privates.
• Offer ease of wear throughout the day.
• Prevent wedgies and ride-ups for occurring.
• Look good.

There are dozens of different underwear brands and styles available for every possible preference that fit this criteria. You’ll be sure to find the best underwear for the job no matter what type of work you do. So don’t worry, we got you covered (literally).

The Best Men’s Boxers for Work

While there are many free-fitting boxers available today, the brands listed here are a little more form-fitting to provide optimal security and eliminate problems with rubbing and chafing. Like briefs, boxers come in a wide variety of styles and materials for every taste and are so comfortable, they are the perfect sleepwear, as well.

Because of the looser fit, numerous studies have demonstrated that wearing boxers increases male fertility because the testes are kept cooler, so if you and your partner are trying to conceive, this might be the better choice for you. If you move around a lot on the job, a pair of boxers that fits a little more snugly with a generous front pouch can give you the feeling that you aren’t wearing anything at all.

Best Boxers for Working Men

1. FITEXTREME Mens Breathable Performance Stretch Boxer Briefs

The FitExtreme Performance Stretch Boxer Brief is designed to provide superior comfort where it matters most. In fact, the ergonomic design of these underwear is for eliminating wedgies and ride-ups. Furthermore, the 4-way stretch design ensures your package will never be squeezed too tight but yet you will always feel hugged. What this translates into–security and comfort.

The back of the underwear is seamless which is almost entirely responsible for ensuring you won’t have wedgies. And for those of you who have never worn seamless undies before, having no seams is extremely comfortable. In fact, a good pair of underwear should feel like they’re not even there. If you notice your underwear is there you are feeling some sort of discomfort. You might even feel seem now just sitting here reading this. These underwear eliminate that feeling.

These underwear always feature MaxCool technology which is designed for both moisture-wicking and excellent breathability. This is key on the job as you don’t want to feel sweat between your legs. At the end of the day, moisture build-up leads to discomfort, odor and even chaffing.

Also, you’ll look like a stud in these if you’re ever caught with your pants down with their “3D Glam Fit.” Trust us, these live up to that name.

2. Calvin Klein Men’s Underwear Body Modal Boxer Briefs

There’s nothing wrong with wearing sophisticated boxers on the construction site. These Calvin Klein Briefs are nylon and elastane pull-on briefs that come in a wide variety of colors. They are designed to provide a close fit while offering a soft stretchy fabric that is cool and comfortable. The smooth waistband and satisfying contour pouch ensure that you look and feel great all throughout the work day.

3. UnderGents Men’s Boxer Brief Underwear

The UnderGents are amazingly-soft boxer briefs that won’t compress you down there. This is crucial when it comes to working in briefs, you don’t want to feel like you are wearing biker shorts. You want security and comfort. These briefs offer both.

The “CloudSoft micro modal fabric” is moisture-wicking and keeps you cool, dry, and free of odor, even better than polyester or cotton. This brief is also designed with special panels that move with you and don’t “bunch” or pull. There’s also no tag so you don’t have to worry about your back itching all day.

4. David Archy Men’s 4 Pack Underwear MicroModal Trunks with Fly

Made from spandex and micro modal fabric, the David Archy Boxers are soft and cool on the skin and include a breathable panel for ultimate comfort. The expansive pocket for privates allows a clean feeling all day. Numerous color options all provide seams and a waistband that will not pull or scratch.

5. Men’s Coolzone Boxer Briefs by Fruit of the Loom

Designed by Fruit of the Loom, these moisture-wicking work undies are sure to keep you cool right where it matters most. Made of 94% cotton and 6% polyester, they provide a nice amount of breathability along with a fair amount of durability. While they won’t outlast some of the undies higher up on the list, they’re reasonably priced for a pair of work underwear and very comfortable.

These undies come in a pack of seven and there is an assortment of various color options. You can even just choose all black or all white if you prefer. We recommend all white work undies because it allows you to see how worn your undies are and this will help you indicate when you need to replace them before it’s too late. The size ranges from small to 5-XL but usually the larger sizes are sold out. So, if you wear extra large undies be sure to buy in bulk if you see them available.

6. Under Armour Men’s Charged Cotton® Stretch 6” Boxerjock® 3-Pack

Under Armor’s Charged Cotton® Boxer feels like a regular cotton boxer but is more elastic and dries faster. The close fit doesn’t bind and there are no seams in the side or back. The working fly allows ease of access and the material easily wicks away sweat. Overall a nice solid boxer with great feeling material.

7. MyPakage Men’s Pro Boxer Brief

MyPakage Pro Boxer Brief has a double-layer fabric of mesh panels and wicking polyester that meet in a single no-roll waistband. This boxer pulls wetness from the body to keep you dry. The 3D pouch offers both support and comfort for every day, all day wear. Superior stretching ability allows you to move in comfort and not have to worry about making frequent adjustments.

The Best Men’s Underwear for Work

The old standby for men and boys for generations, some guys would rather have the secure feel of briefs rather than the looser fit of some boxers. The old white brief standby has evolved over the years, however. It’s still an option, of course, but today’s briefs are stylish, colorful and have the latest in manufacturing design and fabric quality to ensure you are comfortable throughout the workday (and/or night). 

What are the best briefs for work?

• Microfiber blends have the advantage of moisture-wicking capability and are quick-drying for maximum ease of use. Ideal for workers who work in hot and humid conditions.
• Briefs will provide more support and more freedom for your legs throughout the work day. Ideal for workers who move around a lot.
• Boxers will provide more overall freedom but less security. You will also sweat a lot more throughout the work day. Ideal for workers who have jobs where they tend to stay put.
• Cotton briefs have been the gold standard for a long time. There is a reason for this, cotton breathes. However, they will not last as long and may not be as good at wicking away moisture under certain conditions.

The best work brief is also the most comfortable work brief. For some microfiber blends might feel too tight in the crotch. For others cotton underwear might be itchy. For some others, boxers might not be secure enough to allow for free movement. So, there is a lot of subjectivity built into looking for the best underwear for men, so keep this is mind.

Best Briefs for Working Men

1. Jockey® Supersoft Modal Brief

Delivering mid-rise stretchy comfort in an ultra-soft MicroModal® fabric blend, the Jockey Supersoft Brief features a no-fly design with a wide elastic waistband. Staycool® technology wicks away moisture for a cool, dry feel. This brief is sure to keep you from sweating down there whether you’ve been welding all day, swinging a hammer, or driving a forklift.

2. Hanes Ultimate Men’s Full-Cut Pre-Shrunk Briefs (7-Pack)

The Hanes Ultimate should be in any workman’s brief drawer. Coming in a convenient seven-pack of traditional men’s briefs, the 100% cotton fabric is very soft and pre-shrunk to guarantee a good fit. The comfort waistband won’t pinch or bind, and the leg bands will stay in place. The latest in odor protection technology ensures that you will stay fresh all day in any working condition.

3. Amazon Essential Tag-Free Men’s Briefs (7-Pack)

Sometimes you just want a basic and affordable cotton underwear. Amazon’s own brand of underwear actually fits the bill quite well. These underwear are not only affordable, they’re also super comfortable for working in. With no tag and fine-tuned through customer surveys, these underwear are the best basic underwear for workers looking for no extra thrills.

Size is true and material stretches well, adding to the overall work comfort level. The fit is much like a classic style brief that you grew up wearing. Since they are cotton, there will be some shrinkage when washing in warm water. Wash in cold to prevent this and hang dry if you like the comfort level where it is at. Overall, great value for work underwear.

4. ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go Briefs

One of the highest rated briefs of the bunch and specifically designed to keep you comfortable, cool and dry, the ExOfficio Brief supplies mesh construction for a cool fit and a Silvadur odor treatment finish made for extended wear. Sweat is no problem as the fabric wicks moisture away from the body. Sure to keep you chaffing throughout the work day.

Noteworthy Feature: The ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go Briefs have Wash & Go technology which means you can wash them by hand in the sink, ring them out, roll them in a towel, and wear them again in 2-4 hours.

How Do I Save Money on Work Underwear?

Best Pair of Underwear for Penny Pinchers: Gildan Men’s Briefs Underwear Multipack

This variety pack of underwear is a great choice for when you don’t want to pay a lot and you just can’t decide. Sometimes picking the best material underwear can be difficult and with these you don’t have to choose any particular material. Also, some days you just feel like wearing something a different and this gives you that option.

This underwear variety pack comes the following material types:

• Solid Colored: 100% Cotton
• Sport Grey Colored: 90% Cotton, 10% Polyester
• Dark Heather Colored: 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton

All of these underwear are moisture-wicking and super-soft. They also come in a wide variety of sizes ranging from small to XX-large as well. One of the best underwear packs for those on a budget.

The Best Underwear: A Brief Conclusion

When looking for the best underwear for work, it’s important that your underwear feels comfortable. Your underwear should also offer the capability to keep you dry no matter what the outside temperature is or how much you move around. Whether you prefer boxers or briefs, or just don’t care, choose your underwear with close attention to fit and the underwear’s ability to keep your private parts cool while you do your job.

Be free to experiment with different types of underwear. Try different materials, different designs, colored vs. non-colored underwear, and switch between boxers and briefs. Ultimately, the best underwear for work is what feels most comfortable to you.

While you’re shopping, you might also want to pick up a pair of the best work boots too.

The post Best Men’s Underwear for Work appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

Every job site and project is different and finding equipment, especially an air compressor, that is reliable, quiet, and effective may seem daunting. But by considering several factors and doing a little research can net you a quiet air compressor that will keep working for you even when the job itself is a little daunting.

So let’s go through the details of several great, quiet, reliable air compressors that can help you get your next job done. In addition to the details and links to buy your next best piece of equipment, there’s also a buying guide that will help direct you through any additional questions you might have about a quiet, purring air compressor.

Let’s get started!

Air Compressor Quietness: Side-by-Side Comparison

Quietiest Air Compressors

1. California Air Tools CAT-4710SQ 4710Sq Quiet Compressor

If you’re looking for a quiet air compressor that will get the job done while not overwhelming your conversations, this is a great contender.

The overall loudness of this air compressor only gets to the same level as a conversation and comes in a small package, just 37.5 pounds. There are two options for the type of tank on this air compressor, steel, and aluminum. Both are great options. The aluminum is less structurally strong as steel but isn’t subject to rust or corrosion. The steel tank is heavier but structurally more sound although can fall victim to rust or corrosion over time.

The cost for this air compressor is affordable and this compact piece of equipment will fit into your truck or trailer easily to transport from job site to job site. The tank is larger and keeps you working longer. The only drawback is that this air compressor isn’t very pretty. While for lots of people it won’t matter what the actual equipment looks like, if you’re looking for something that fits in or looks good on the job site, it might be worthwhile to look elsewhere.

2. California Air Tools 2010A 2-Gallon Air Compressor

This tiny beast is a quiet air compressor that works hard while not needing much maintenance, even over years of continued use. On top of the small size that makes it convenient to use, it also only produces 60 dB of working noise which keeps your work area neat and quiet.

The 2-gallon tank is made of aluminum and features an oil-free engine guaranteed to run for 3,000 hours before you see any issues. The dual-piston motor features Teflon cylinder rings and stainless steel valves that give the overall tank a longer and more reliable life for all of your projects and job sites.

One nuisance is that the power cord and the air cord both connect near the same place. This might cause the air cord to leak if the power cord rubs up against it enough. This can easily be fixed though by using a zip tie to tie down the power cord.

This small compressor works great for jobs that require concentrated cubic feet per minute quietly and reliably. California Air Tools also offers a 1-year warranty on this product if any issues were to arise while you’re out working.

3. Metabo (Hitachi) EC28M Ultra-Quiet Portable Air Compressor

Great things come in small packages as this quiet air compressor proves.

First off, the Metabo (Hitachi) air compressor runs at an ultra-quiet level of only 59 dB which allows you to have a normal level conversation while out working on the job site. In fact, it’s one of the quietest air compressors on the market today. But its 0.4 horsepower engine is smaller than some others, yet it will still work hard for nearly every project you have in front of you.

The engine features an oil-free pump and an industrial quick-coupler which allows for a one-handed connection. There is also a regulator and gauges to help you keep track of the air pressure and other levels while out working.

The image of the compressor as a whole is relatively attractive with a steel roll cage covering the whole thing, protecting the internal tubing and components. So the roll cage provides both an aesthetic and practical purpose for this compressor. While the overall effect is positive, the smaller tank and horsepower make this compressor a bit pricey for the size.

4. Bostitch Pancake Air Compressor (Oil-Free) BTFP02012

This portable pancake air compressor makes working in any area easy.

As one of the quietest air compressors on the market, this bigger machine still comes in at only 30 pounds for easy transportation from site to site. The compressor comes with a handle that makes it easy to move around on the site and from place to place despite the larger tank.

The motor features an oil-free pump and comes with a high-efficiency start. This allows the compressor to start easily if you’re using a long extension cord or if you’re trying to start in cold weather. The compressor starts up, keeps running relatively quietly, and works hard for you day in and day out.

One of the best parts of this compressor is the price. For a larger air compressor, they’re offering this equipment at a very affordable price so you can keep working without shelling out tons of money. This air compressor is a bit louder than others on the market coming in at 79 dB which might make you shout when it’s running but the value and size make it a worthwhile consideration.

5. DeWalt 200-PSI Heavy-Duty Air Compressor

DeWalt is a heavy-hitter in any type of construction game and its products are easily available just about anywhere. Their heavy-duty air compressor continues the long-running tradition DeWalt has had over the past few years.

While the 71.5 dB working noise is louder than other compressors on this list or the market this DeWalt air compressor has lots of great features that make it an excellent choice. And the overall noise level is still lower than many traditional compressors.

The overall compressor is fairly lightweight, coming in at just 36 pounds overall and has a roll cage that keeps the whole compressor protected and looking good for every job. The roll cage allows the compressor to be used in either a horizontal or vertical position for whatever job you’re presented with. Offering a supply of 3.0 cubic feet of air per minute allows this equipment to run serious tools including several different tools at a time.

6. California Air Tools 4620 Quiet Air Compressor

California Air Tools works hard to make sure their equipment is compatible with your job site and that includes offering equipment that stays quiet while you’re working. This air compressor is no exception.

While it operates at a higher decibel loudness than other California Air Tools products on this list, there’s still a huge number of benefits even if you have to talk a little louder at your job sites. To begin with, this compressor looks good and offers an oil-free system that runs on 2 horsepower.

The design of this compressor is a little different: two tanks are stacked on top of each other with each tank made of rust-free aluminum to keep you working for years with this trusty compressor. The equipment as a whole is powerful and allows you to run several tools at once through the tank.

When it comes to moving this compressor from site to site, it’s a bit of a lug, weighing in at 67.2 pounds. So while it’s not as portable as other tanks, it’s almost double the capacity for a few more decibels of noise.

7. Campbell Hausfeld 8-Gallon Low-Noise Air Compressor

This air compressor is heavy duty and comes with a large tank for any job you need to complete. The compressor comes with a full kit so even if you’re just getting started in this business you’ll have everything you need to get started on a job.

Complete with an oil-free, dual-piston pump that produces just 68 dB of working noise, this air compressor works hard and lasts a long time. The compressor components are designed to last 4 times longer than other compressors and the company backs up that claim with a 1-year warranty.

Overall the system looks great and works hard. You have the option of purchasing the complete kit that includes an air hose, accessory kit, and a 3-in-1 gun, chuck, and gauge for inflations. While the weight and portability of this air compressor leave a few things to be desired, it doesn’t do badly being maneuvered from site to site to keep up with the workflow. The Campbell brand makes quality products and has no problem backing up that guarantee.

8. Kobalt Quiet Tech Air Compressor

With a large tank that puts out only a small amount of noise, this air compressor works great for running tools or anything else that may come upon a job site.

The larger tank gives you plenty of power to work with for running tools around the job site but may take some time to refill to hit maximum PSI. The large wheels make moving this 61.7-pound beast around from place to place and site to site much more bearable.

The Kobalt brand has a great reputation for running quietly and efficiently during any job it’s put up against. For the most part, it runs well and quietly, just as advertised. There have been a few reports of the product overheating when in operation but they tend to be few and far between. 

9. DeWalt 15-Gallon Low-Noise Air Compressor

This DeWalt compressor is a beast and gets the job done with trademark style and performance.

With the large tank, this compressor offers nearly unlimited air supply and can run several bigger tools for a long time. It works well for spray-painting and several different types of nail tools and comes with a high flow air regulator to make sure each of those tools is working at maximum capacity.

The pump on this compressor is also oil-free and backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee and 1-year warranty. Just like many other DeWalt tools, this compressor has been designed well with a handle that doubles as a hose wrap and a display surface that’s easy to manipulate and read.

While it does have a large tank and is quite a bit heavier, the compressor is still easy to move around the site and from job site to job site due to the wheels attached. The compressor is quite a bit heavier weighing in at 120 pounds but it has almost unlimited air supply and great power for running any tools you’ll be needing.

This compressor can be more expensive but if you’re looking to complete a large job in a short amount of time, this equipment can handle the pressure.

10. California Air Tools 10020C 10-Gallon Air Compressor

California Air Tools does it again with this low noise air compressor and large tank space that will get any job done with ease.

The overall design of this tank may seem a bit awkward at first but many features work to your advantage while out on the job site. There are a handle and wheels that make moving this tank from place to place a breeze and the aluminum tank includes a manual drain valve to give you the control you need.

While not as quiet as other types of California Air Tools products, this tank is larger and does a good job of keeping air topped off in the tank to supply you for any project. The initial filling time for the tank is about 2 minutes and each time the tank needs to be topped off it runs for about 25 seconds. In addition to the quick fill time, this tank provides 6.4 cubic feet per minute of pressure at those lower noise levels.

The design of this tank is handy with easy to use controls that include a regulator, tank pressure gauge, regulated pressure gauges, and two universal quick couplers. The company that has brought so many great products to our list continues doing great things with this compressor and backs up their product with a 1-year warranty.

11. California Air Tools 8010 Compressor

And last (but not least) on our list is another California Air Tool’s hard worker.

This air compressor has a large tank and doesn’t put out much noise for the power that you’ll find in this package. The motor is oil-free for a low maintenance compressor with a dual-piston pump to get more air into the tank for when you need extra pressure to get the job done.

The power behind this pump will bring you 3.1 cubic feet of air per minute to tackle any size job on any site. With the dual piston pump, the compressor continues to push air into the tank to keep it filled while you’re working, so you won’t meet with a massive lag in work time, waiting for your tank to fill. Most importantly, it delivers all of this power to you while only being about 60 dB of working noise so you won’t wake the neighborhood if you head out to the job site early in the morning.

The overall design of this compressor is a little lacking in style but with the wheels and handle easily positioned for mobility it will maneuver its way from place to place on any job site.

Quiet Air Compressors Buying Guide

Maybe you’re a die-hard DeWalt fan and the review above just confirmed why you love the company. Maybe you’ve been a one brand user for your whole life and never knew that other, quieter products were out there on the market. Either way, we’re here to help you narrow down your needs and choices for the quietest air compressor that will work for your business and projects.

As with most products, the bigger the air compressor, the more expensive it will be. So take some time to evaluate what you’ll be wanting to use your air compressor for regularly. In addition to the cost, mobility, power, and materials are all factors you should consider when buying your first or next quiet air compressor.

1. Cost

Making sure your next purchase comes in at or under budget is crucial as you’re shopping for a quiet air compressor. Smaller air compressors will end up being between $175 and $200 each and they’ll do the job for smaller projects and running small to medium type tools.

For larger projects that may require more pressure and force, you’ll want a larger compressor that can run around $350 to $500. These tanks tend to be heavier and may not be as portable so make sure you take into consideration how you’ll want to be using them and where they’ll end up being.

Many brands and places that sell air compressors do also offer monthly payment options. So if you can’t put down $350 or $500 for a large tank that you need, you can break it up into payments and still get the product for your project.

Paying a slightly higher price for a quality, the quiet air compressor will keep your operation running smoothly and silently for a long time to come.

2. Purpose

One of the biggest considerations you’ll want to look at when buying an air compressor is what projects and jobs you’re looking to tackle. Every air compressor is different and will uniquely handle jobs.

For bigger jobs that will require a longer air hose and more pressure, you’ll want to look into a bigger tank air compressor like the DeWalt 15-Gallon Low-Noise Air Compressor. This large tank compressor keeps the pressure on even if your hose has to stretch and your project takes a long time. The downside to this one is that it’s much larger and heavier and harder to move from job site to job site.

If you’re looking for something that will do smaller projects like trim, be very mobile, and be ultra-quiet around the job site, you’ll want a smaller tank compressor like the Hitachi EC28M Ultra-Quiet Portable Air Compressor. In addition to being portable, it’s also the quietest compressor on our list at only 59 dB which makes it ideal for tighter spaces, smaller projects, and moving from job site to job site with ease.

A mid-range compressor like the Campbell Hausfeld 8-Gallon Low-Noise Compressor is mobile and keeps the pressure on for just about any project. The tank isn’t as large as others so running two nail guns or other high-pressure tools wouldn’t work very well but for smaller projects and transporting from site to site, it works very well.

3. Cubic Feet per Minute

Rather than measuring air compressor power based on the type and number of tools it runs at a time, cubic feet per minute or CFM is a more scientific method for determining power. The CFM and PSI are closely related and the CFM can only accurately be measured when you know the PSI that it’s been measured against. 

The standard for measuring CFM against PSI is the coming up with the total at 90 PSI. But make sure you double-check what the CFM is and what PSI it is measured against. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the compressor will be. But some manufacturers don’t use the 90 PSI as a standard. This can lead to numbers that don’t quite match up and can lead you to purchase an air compressor that seems strong on the label but doesn’t live up to the hype.

Another standard you’ll want to keep in mind is standard cubic feet per minute. While air pressure can vary based on temperature and humidity, air compressors are tested and rated in a standard manner that allows for easy comparisons across the market.

For CFM the bigger the number the better the air compressor because it will keep the pressure up for whatever job you’re attempting to tackle. Keep an eye out for the CFM number and how it is rated against PSI to get a standard number that you can compare across brands.

4. Oil-Free Pumps

If you’ve ever had to do maintenance on equipment, you’ll know that changing the oil, while a simple job, can be frustrating and messy. Most air compressors run oil-free pumps so you’ll never have to stop and change the oil in your compressor.

This doesn’t mean that there is no oil at all in your air compressor, rather, that the oil is sealed in a compartment that keeps the motor running. This keeps the engine running smoothly and keeps the oil clean so that it won’t need to be changed.

On top of the sealed oil, most of the moving parts in an air compressor pump are the coated in Teflon. This tough substance that has found its way into nearly every area of our lives and keeps the moving parts of the pump moving with little friction so it won’t overheat or need oil.

The downside to an oil-free pump is that over time the Teflon coating can wear off, causing the pump to fail or overheat. While oil-free pumps, coated in Teflon will save you oil costs and the time needed to change the oil, they typically only last about a decade. Oil pumps can last much longer.

The oil-free or oil-using pumps should factor into your choice of air compressor. If you’re planning to keep the air compressor moving fast from site to site and won’t have much time to maintain by changing the oil, going with an oil-free pump might work best. An oil-using pump might work better if you’re planning on investing more money and time into an air compressor that will work for you for decades.

5. Tank Size

There’s an air compressor for every job and every worker and knowing how the size of your tank can impact your job is valuable information as you shop for a compressor.

The larger the tank, the longer you can work without losing the pressure as the tank refills. The amount of noise that an air compressor puts out is directly related to the size of the tanks, the larger the tank, the larger amount of noise they make.

In addition to the amount of noise the air compressor makes, the larger tank also makes the overall compressor heavier and harder to move. If you’re planning to utilize your air compressor for big jobs or long periods, you’ll want to pick a more heavy-duty air compressor with a larger tank. If you’re just planning to use it for small projects or around the garage, a smaller tank will work just fine.

6. Noise Level

The most important aspect when searching for a quiet air compressor is how loud it is and how that affects you.

Nearly all air compressor noise levels are given in decibels and those measurements are taken when you’re 10-20 feet away from the machine itself. When you’re standing right next to the machine, it may be a lot louder than the official rating.

An ultra-quiet air compressor has a decibel rating of 55-65. These are about as loud as a normal conversation and can go up to the noise level of having a conversation in a busy restaurant. Air compressors that fall into this decibel level are very quiet and can come in a variety of sizes. Many times they have a smaller tank size and therefore might not be quite as powerful. But if you’re putting the noise level as your number one priority, these air compressors will work well for you.

At the upper end are air compressors that range from 66-75 decibels. On a practical level, these air compressors sound like a vacuum cleaner running on the low end and can get as loud as garbage disposal. If air compressors get any higher in the decibel range, they’re not quiet anymore. Larger air compressors may be louder in the decibel range but they will often have more power and a bigger tank to run your projects. 

In addition to buying a quiet air compressor, you can add a set of earphones to help block the noise and protect your eardrums. Other types of air compressors can be kept in an enclosed container to keep the noise levels to a minimum. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What type of CFM do I need to run pneumatic tools?
  • For the most part, heavy-duty tools require a CFM of about 5. But smaller tools may only require a fraction of a CFM. Double-check any tools you’re looking to run off your air compressor to make sure they’ll be compatible.
• Is there a brand that works best?
  • All brands differ and people have different experiences with each one. Many large home improvement brands offer some type of air compressor, whether large or small, but companies like California Air Tools specialize in these types of machines making them attractive choices to get you through any job.
• Where can I buy a quiet air compressor?
  • You can find quiet and ultra-quiet air compressors online and in many home improvement stores around the country. Double-check prices to get the best bang for your buck on your new quiet air compressor.

The Takeaway

Whether you’re planning to do some work in tight spaces or you just want to keep the noise levels down, investing in a quiet air compressor can save you energy and damage to your eardrums.

While almost all home improvement brands offer some type of air compressor, companies like California Air Tools specialize and take pride in providing quiet air compressors that do the hard work for you. Keep in mind as you shop for your next quiet air compressor that a typical conversation is around 55-65 decibels and an air compressor that fits within this category will be one of the quietest you can find.

To make sure that your air compressor can get the job done, start to finish, compare the CFM and SCFM ratings from brand to brand. The higher the CFM, the more power the air compressor will deliver to your project.

Tank size is important to your air compressor and can make it louder and heavier than you may need. The bigger the tank, the longer you can work without the tank needing to refill. But this makes the overall air compressor louder and heavier for transporting and using at your job sites.

Oil-free pumps can save you time and maintenance costs but may not last as long as pumps that use oil. Evaluate your time and needs to make sure that you pick a pump that will work best for your job. If you’ve got the time to spare to change the oil and want your air compressor to work for the next few decades, you may want to search out one that requires oil.

There are so many factors that work hand-in-hand to create a great quiet air compressor. As you comparison shop throughout this list and into the real world, keep the decibel level, tank size, and CFM ratings in mind.

Being able to rely on your equipment and enjoy using it are hallmarks of great machines. Whatever you need to get the job done effectively and quietly is waiting for you.

And once you get your quiet air compressor, don’t forget to get the best tools on the market that air powered by it, such as an air-powered grease gun or impact wrench.

The post Quiet Air Compressors appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

The Henley is also versatile. It’s appropriate for a casual weekend or for high-performance wear at the job site. A Henley will not only last but it will look good too. Although there are many Henleys out there, most are built for style and not for durability. The Hard Hat Guy made this list of the best Henleys for the worker, not the dandy.

Just take me to the best Henley work shirts please.

Gold Standard T-Shirt for Construction Workers: The Henley

Henleys are perfect for construction workers because of their flexibility. A heavy duty Henley can substitute for a work coat. A mid-weight Henley can help keep the chill off the skin when it is breezy out and can be a good all-around work shirt. A nice lightweight long-sleeve Henley can still keep you cool in the summer while also blocking the sun’s ray or debris and sawdust from hitting your arms.

What other work shirts are as versatile? A Henley can serve as the best cold weather work shirt, the best warm weather work shirt, and the best work shirt for all seasons. You can’t beat that, really.

Also, after working all day at the construction site, you can easily wear a Henley into a bar or restaurant and it still looks good. It is an extremely versatile shirt. It is truly one of the best t-shirts for work.

Construction Workers T-Shirts: Pro Tips

The first thing construction workers need to keep in mind when it comes to clothing is safety. We have all heard stories of a worker’s shirt getting stuck in a machine and his arm getting pulled in.

Here are some tips wearing Henleys when doing construction work:

• If you work around machines, opt for short sleeve Henleys. For those who prefer long sleeves, do not roll up your sleeves or leave them loose (try to find a tight fitting sleeve). Instead, you can pin them tight or fold them and wrap them with something tight like a rubber band.
• Keep your shirt tucked in a wear a tight-fitting belt around machines.
• For increased ventilation and to avoid over-heating on the job, look for Henleys with long plackets.
• Wear wool Henleys to keep warm in the winter and 100% cotton Henleys to stay cool in the summer.
• Do not wear cotton if you get wet on the job, cotton gets colder when it is wet. Unless, of course, you want to stay cool.
• If there is a high fire risk where you work, opt for a wool Henley. Also, try not get anything on your shirt (oil, dirt, grime, etc.) as this may increase the risk of your shirt catching fire.
• If durability is a concern, the best Henley T-shirts will be made of linen, polyester or spandex shirts.

Henley Work Shirts for the Job

1. Dickies Men’s Heavyweight Henley

The Dickies Heavyweight short-sleeved Henley offers modern design and heavy duty quality. Not only can it stand up to the rigors of the job site, but it can easily be slipped on for working in the yard at home too. It also has the added benefit of being safe for work, especially for those who are at risk of getting their clothing stuck in a machine.

Crafted from jersey knit cotton and polyester (10%), the Dickies Heavyweight Henley breathes easily but does not feel flimsy. The shoulder and neck seams are taped and made to last. The loose fit and tagless neck in the back allow you to move around comfortably no matter what activity you are participating in.

Dickies is known for rugged workwear and this Henley is no exception. And with its affordable price, you can buy enough for the whole week without breaking the bank. It also comes in a variety of colors including gray, navy, charcoal, sand and black.

The Dickies Heavyweight Henley definitely qualifies as one of the best work shirts for construction workers.

2. Carhartt Men’s Workwear Pocket Henley Shirt

A construction worker favorite, the Carhartt men’s short sleeve Henley offers an original fit made from 100% cotton jersey knit (jersey knit is a material that offers comfort for all seasons of the year). The convenient left-side pocket is an added plus. It also comes in what Carhartt describes as the “a working man’s fit.” Not to mention, this Henley will make you look like a stud.

This Henley features three front buttons and a tagless neck label for added comfort, so you aren’t itching your neck all day while you are trying to work. It also has a ribbed knit collar and special construction in the side seams to eliminate twisting issues.

An all-around great heavy duty work t-shirt. You can wear it alone or even put a shirt over top of it in the winter. It’ll wear forever and soon be you favorite work shirt.

3. Carhartt Men’s Flame-Resistant “Force” Long Sleeve Henley

This Carhartt Henley is designed to be tough yet cool with Carhartt’s “Force” technology. Force technology used Carhartt’s “FastDry” technology to quickly wick away any sweat or moisture the shirt is exposed to as well as reduce body odor. It is a long-winded way of saying their Henley shirt keeps your dry and smelling nice.

The Henley also has undergone rigorous testing and complies with the requirements of NFPA 70E and NFPA 2112. For a fire-resistant shirt it is extremely comfortable and breathes very well. It also has a well-built left pocket and a rib-knit collar. It boasts the same side-seam construction as the Henley above, which makes it good for those who twist and turn a lot on the job.

The Carhartt Force is a lightweight t-shirt that wicks moisture and is super comfortable to wear. This shirt is also great for those who need a huskier fit. You can’t go wrong with this shirt.

4. Hanes Men’s Long-Sleeve Beefy Henley T-Shirt

The Hanes Beefy Henley is another great shirt from a long line of successful products made by the company. With Hanes you know what you are getting, they have been around for over 100 years so you know that you can trust them for quality. They hit the mark especially with their version of the Henley t-shirt.

This Henley it is tag-free, so no itchy neck and the sleeve are already set for added comfort in the arms. It has 3 neck buttons, like nearly all of the Henleys mentioned, and hangs long enough so it’s not riding up your back every time you try to bend over to grab something off the ground.

Highly durable, yet soft to touch, the Hanes Henley is made from long-lasting 100% cotton, or heathers from 75% cotton / 25% polyester. You know you can count on quality and longevity from this “beefy” Henley.

5. PEGENO Men’s Casual Short Sleeve Henley

One of the most versatile Henleys, this is a great shirt for both work and play. It has a unique blend of 95% cotton / 5% spandex, which keeps your cool but also allows you some flexibility. It is also soft to the touch and fits a bit snug. This is great for those who do not want to get loose-fitting clothing near a dangerous machine.

This Henley should be washed by hand or machine washed with cold water to avoid shrinkage, as it does have a tendency to shrink otherwise. It has three buttons and a nice relaxed collar. It comes in 9 different colors too, so there are plenty of options available to you. The 30-day “love it or your money back” guarantee is nice too.

6. Wrangler RIGGS Workwear Men’s Long Sleeve Henley

Wrangler is a classic brand, they have been making shirts for over 70 years. Their experience really shows itself in the Riggs Workwear Henley. Well-constructed and true-to-fit, there are no guessing games needed when buying this shirt online.

This 100% cotton Henley also looks like it is made for a construction worker, just like a Carhartt does. It is also unique with its two-button placket, as most Henley’s have three or four buttons. The leather logo adds a nice touch and also provides a bit of durability to the pocket. The utility loop in the pocket is also nice for holding things like glasses or a pen.

A great Henley with a nice relaxed fit, you cannot go wrong with the Wrangler Riggs Henley.

7. Hurley Men’s Dri-Fit Lagos Henley

Dri-Fit, the ultimate in wicking technology, helps the Lagos Henley stay dry and even if you wear it the whole workday. The Dri-Fit Henley is constructed out of 60% cotton and 40% polyester so it is nice and soft. This Henley will keep you cool and comfortable no matter how sweaty you get.

The Dri-Fit Henley is short-sleeved in style, has a pocket on the left chest, and a drop tail hem with notches. It also has a standard three-button placket. It is a made in the USA Henley t-shirt, which does improve the consistency of the quality.

Nothing too fancy with this Henley, just a great shirt for work.

8. Mountain Khakis Men’s Trapper Henley Shirt

If you are looking for one of the sturdiest Henleys on the market, the Trapper Henley will exceed your expectations. For many construction workers this Henley is becoming their “go to” long-sleeved work shirt.

Since this Henley is sturdy, it is also thick and made for cooler working conditions. It is composed of 90% cotton / 10% polyester and has nice contrast stitching on the neck and collar to give it a bit of style.

It proves to be a great work shirt due to its durability as well as its comfort. It fits true to size and comes in four different colors. Wear it once and you will see what all the fuss is about.

9. Woolly Clothing Men’s Merino Wool Long Sleeve Everyday Henley

This Merino Wool Henley is a bit more expensive than the rest of the Henleys on the list but this is due to the fact that it is made of 100% Australian merino wool, one of the world’s softest wools. Merino wool will outperform any fabric when it comes to reducing work sweat.

In fact, Merino is the best material for controlling body temperature, and does a superior job against the skin. Merino wool will provide warmth without leading to over-heating with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. It is also able to take up sweat right off the skin. It even acts as a natural water repellant. Furthermore, it is naturally antibacterial.

If you have never gotten anything from Wooly Clothing Co. you are missing out. They have superior quality and great customer service. This is one of those instances where you get what you pay for. An excellent all-around work shirt.

Learn what makes Merino wool so special.

10. Riggs Workwear by Wrangler Short Sleeve Henley

Made to work hard just like you, the Riggs Henley is a no-brainer if you desire lasting comfort and strength. Triple needle stitching, a taped neck seam and vented taped side seams, this is the type of shirt you want to wear to work every day.

This Henley also has a tagless label and is made of 90% cotton / 10% nylon. The bonus utility loop and left chest pocket will secure those small items might you need to carry with you. Unlike the long-sleeved Riggs, this Henley only comes in four colors.

Classic quality you can trust, you cannot go wrong with the short-sleeved Wrangler Riggs Henley.

11. KEY Industries Heavyweight Henley Short Sleeve T-Shirt

The short-sleeved KEY Industries Henley is crafted from one-hundred percent heavyweight cotton for optimal performance. Shoulders and neck seams are taped for added durability. This shirt features three buttons and a left chest pocket. It is also relatively cheap for the level of quality you are getting with this Henley.

One of the big pros of this shirt is that it has a lot of room under the armpits. This will help you to keep from sweating or chaffing under your arms. You’ll also feel a bit cooler throughout the workday wearing this t-shirt.

This shirt is also great for those looking for a big and tall work shirt. If you wear big and tall shirts you know they always cost a bit more than regular t-shirt. This t-shirt is cheap, by comparison, compared to most other big and tall work shirts of this quality, and work shirts in general for that matter.

12: Wolverine Men’s Flame-Resistant Long-Sleeve Henley Shirt

Safety is a priority at Wolverine and they take it seriously. The Wolverine Flame-Resistant Henley is certainly a case in point.

This Henley is part of Wolverine’s FireZerO clothing, made from 100% flame-resistant cotton. In fact, it actually has two doses of flame-resistant treatment. At the same time, it meets tough industry standards and is light enough to work in all day, every day.

This long-sleeve Henley has a ribbed collar, cuffs, thread and buttons on the front placket that are all flame-resistant. Side slits with an extended tail add to comfort levels and can easily be worn tucked. The front chest pocket is conveniently placed and can hold anything from your glasses to a pencil to a tape measure.

This shirt is thick and hot, so only buy it if you work in a cooler environment or outdoors in the winter.

13. Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Jersey Henley Shirt (Big & Tall Henley)

Crafted out of 100% cotton, this Ralph Lauren Jersey Henley is perfect for larger workers. As a big and tall shirt, it is sized 3LT. It has a 3 button closure and ribbed armbands.

Its fabric retains warmth while providing airy comfort. This Henley is also stylish enough to wear on or off the job.

Origin of the Henley T-Shirt

The Henley t-shirt has a cool origin story. In the English town of Henley-on-Thames, the Henley shirt was part of the uniform of English rowers.

The Henley worn by rowers was short-sleeved and had a longer placket (shirt opening below collar) compared to modern day Henleys. The long placket and absence of a collar ultimately helped the shirt to breath much better than other shirts.

When Ralph Lauren took a look at the vintage Henley he immediately envisioned its future. The rest is history and now Henleys can be found just about everywhere.

Like the rowers of England, construction workers can benefit from the breathability of the Henley and its incredible ventilation.

Best Work Shirt: Buttoning It All Up

For comfortable workwear, or for general everyday use, you cannot go wrong with a Henley. Henleys offer a relaxed fit that you can tuck in or leave out, depending on the situation. Flattering for all body types, they come in a wide variety of fabrics from lightweight Henleys for summer, mid-weight Henleys for fall and spring, and a heavy weight Henley for the cold winter months.

Henleys will last forever. They breathe well and they’re comfortable to move around in. You don’t to worry about your collar choking you all day either. You’re free in Henley. Soon, a Henley will be your go-to work shirt.

The post Henley: An Underrated Work T-Shirt appeared first on The Hard Hat Guy - Construction Gear Reviews.

But don’t worry, we’ve made selecting the best steel-toed work shoes an easy process for you. We researched and selected the best shoes for workers including the pros, cons and safety ratings of all the top-ranked steel toe work shoes on the market. So, whether you’re looking for the most comfortable work shoes or the most durable work shoes, we got you covered. So, what are you waiting for?

I’m in a hurry, take me to the Best Steel Toe Work Shoes now.

Choosing A Steel Toe Shoe for Work

Although steel toe work boots are most workers’ go-to choice for the job site, steel toe work shoes are a solid second. Steel toe shoes are the best work shoes for less-demanding jobs that do not require ankle protection or additional ankle support but still require toe protection.

Even though strap-on steel toe guards do exist, often times these can be a bit clunky and not nearly as comfortable. This is why the steel toe shoe will always be your best bet, especially for construction workers. It’s a great alternative to the steel toe work boot.

When Are Steel Toe Shoes Needed At Work?

Steel toe work shoes are usually required when working on almost any job site. In fact, protective footwear is required whenever you’re in danger of a foot injury from a falling object, rolling object, or any object capable of piercing the toe of your shoe.

Safety shoes are also required in any situation where you are being put at risk for electric shock. If you are in violation of this requirement, your company, or the company you work for, can be fined by OSHA up to seventy-thousand dollars. That’s no small potatoes, so wear your safety shoes.

OSHA’s guidelines for safety shoes for the job site include events where:

• Corrosive/poisonous materials are present
• Electrical shock is a risk
• An explosion could be caused by static electricity 
• A heavy object might roll onto the foot and smash it
• The foot could be punctured by an object
• Molten metal could burn the foot
• Slippery or hot surfaces are present

Qualities of the Best Steel Toe Work Shoes

As mentioned above, the best steel toe work shoes should not only be durable, they should also be comfortable. Let’s face it, your feet were not designed for standing on concrete all day long. Just because a shoe has a steel toe does not mean it cannot be comfortable. In fact, many steel toe shoes are just as comfortable as regular shoes. Some factors to consider when thinking about comfort include the inner cushion, arch support, break-in period, and adequate room (you may also want to wear a good pair of work socks).

Steel toe shoes should also protect your feet from punctures, heavy objects, slipping, chemicals and electrical shock. In some cases, you may even want to protect the top of your foot by finding a shoe with a metatarsal guard. You might even want a shoe that is waterproof, depending on what type of work you perform.

When it comes to adequate steel toe protection, Class 75 certification offers the best protection. Also, look for steel toe shoes with puncture resistance, they tend to offer more protection than shoes without it. The best work shoes will have steel toes that are resistant to punctures.

While slip resistance is an important factor, remember that no shoe is 100% slip-resistant and different slip-resistant shoes will perform better or worse, depending on what is causing the slip. Some shoes are better at gripping in wet conditions, some when dealing with oil spills or grease. Also, some chemicals can wear down your soles pretty fast so a shoe that offers resistance to chemicals will usually last longer.

List of the Top Steel Toe Work Shoes

If you’re looking for the best work shoes and need a steel toe shoe, we’ve provided a list of work shoes that offers the most comfort and protection. These are some of the best brands of steel toe work shoes you’ll find on the market. If you have a favorite work shoe that fits into the category of “best work shoe,” please list it below in the comments.

9 Best Steel Toe Work Shoes

1. Keen: Men’s Detroit XT Int. MET – Best

Safety Rating: ASTM F2412-17, F2913-17, MI75, C75, MT75, EH

An all-around excellent steel toe shoe for work, the Keen: Men’s Detroit is superior in both comfort and quality, and one of the best steel toe work shoes on the market. Not only does it meet a variety or safety standards, it also goes above and beyond with its metatarsal guard.

Also, your feet will stay comfortable on the job site no matter what terrain you are working on with the shoe’s Key-Tech Flex outsole, designed to reduce foot fatigue and add enhanced foot support.

These shoes have fantastic arch support and generally fit true-to-size. Although it is a steel toe shoe, it is designed with the worker in mind with good flexibility in the toe for when bending.

This shoe has just enough weight to indicate its quality construction. Capable of withstanding high heat, this is the perfect steel toe shoe for if you do a lot of welding or work in a hot environment.

Its anti-slip features will reduce slippage on both oily and wet surfaces. In fact, Keen is an industry-leader in anti-slip technology. So, if you deal with a lot of slippery surfaces or wet pavement, this shoe is a great fit.

The outer layer of the shoe is leather and has reflective webbing for added safety on the job. The exterior is also waterproof if you work in a wet environment all the time. This shoe is also easy to clean with just gentle brushing and a towel (add vinegar for tougher stains).

This steel toe work shoe ranges in size from 7 – 15 and from regular fit to wide fit.

This is the best work shoe on the market and one of the most comfortable work shoes for men. If safety and comfort is you priority, look no further than the Keen Men’s Detroit.

2. Skechers: Men’s Holdredge Steel Toe Work Shoe

Safety Rating: ASTM F2412/2413-2011 I/75 C/75, EH ASTM 2412-2011

The Skecher’s Holdredge has exactly what you want in a steel toed work shoe at an extremely affordable price. This shoe provides a high level of comfort compared to most steel toe work shoes due to its memory foam insole and mid-sole with shock absorption. This technology makes it a great work shoe if you suffer from sore feet or back pain.

One of the most common things you’ll hear about these shoes from workers who worn them is that they have great slip resistance. If you work in a greasy environment this shoe is highly recommended. They are also good in wet environments and grip well on ice as well.

These shoes are both leather (upper) and synthetic (front and sides). And although they’re not advertised as being waterproof, they function well in the rain and keep your feet dry. There are also air vents in the side to help reduce foot sweat.

The only downside to these shoes is that they area heavy-duty and some workers might find them a bit too heavy. They’re also only of average durability, and might not withstand the most rugged terrain and harsh work environments as long as the best steel toe shoes for work. However, at a fraction of the price of most steel toe shoes, it’s hard to complain.

These steel toe work shoes are available in sizes ranging from 7 – 14.

Although sort of plain in style, this is one of the best work shoes in every other way. Solid, dependable, all while offering superior foot protection. A great work shoe and highly recommended.

3. Timberland PRO: Men’s Gorge Steel Toe Shoes

Safety Rating: ASTM F2412-11, F2413-11 I/75 C/75, CAN/CSA-Z195-14 Grade 1, EH ASTM F2412-11, F2413-11, F2892-11

When it comes to work gear, you can never go wrong with anything Timberland. This is also the case when it comes to the Men’s Gorge Steel Toe work shoe. You get what you’d expect from a Timberland Pro shoe: good quality, unique style, and great comfort.

This shoe’s highlights include its comfort and style. Right off the bat it’s just a striking shoe and it’s going to get noticed by your co-workers. But, the main thing is that it’s comfortable. With the Timberland Pro comfort system these shoes are designed to have superior arch support as well as reduce foot fatigue. They’re also lightweight for a steel toe shoe, they fit like a glove, and they flex well due to the cement construction.

It also has a nice ghillie lacing system (the orange part) so you can get the laces tight and the shoe snug on your foot. The nylon shank also adds some good structural support to the shoe so it feels sturdy on your foot. It also helps take the pressure off your feet so you do not have to take as much of the load. This is great if you are doing a lot of climbing or walking on uncomfortable surfaces all day long at work.

The abrasion-resistant front toe guard is great if you have a tendency to always skuff up your front toe on the job site. It also gives you a little bit of added protection. The sole is also abrasion-resistant in addition to being slip-resistant and oil-resistant.

While these shoes have good durability, some people have had problems with the souls cracking or splitting after 4-6 months of use. When it comes to steel toe work shoes, I tend to start looking for a new pair right about that time period, but some people like to try to keep their shoes forever. Keep this in mind if you really put a lot of wear and tear on your shoes.

One benefit of these shoes is the electrostatic dissipation (ESD) feature. The bottom is rubber and there’s a polyurethane midsole for this purpose. If you need static dissipation where you work this is an excellent choice for you.

These shoes also meet a wide variety of safety standards, much more than most steel toe work shoes. They also feature heat-resistance as well as anti-microbial odor control so your feet do not smell.

This steel toe work shoe comes in sizes 7 – 15 in both regular and wide.

4. Reebok Work Shoe: Men’s Guide Work (Industrial and Construction Shoe)

Safety Rating: ASTM F2413 (others not listed)

It’s a shame that Reebok makes mostly alloy toed work shoes as Reebok has some of the best work shoes around. Luckily though, they made the Men’s Guide Work steel toed shoe especially for industrial and construction workers. It really cannot be beat in terms of comfort and performance, and has only some very minor downsides.

One major highlight on these shoes is the ESD protection. It simply cannot be beat for a steel toe work shoe and is only rivaled by the Timberland Pro. Due to its dual-resistor protection, you would be hard-pressed to find a better ESD work shoe.

Another highlight is the comfort of these shoes. If you are used to high or mid-tops, these might take a bit of getting used to, but you will enjoy the flexibility you have in these shoes if you walk around a lot at work.

They also have a rebound midsole which actually propels you forward as you walk, which helps to reduce overall fatigue if you work a long shift. These shoes are also great on concrete floors as the memory foams helps reduce impact and the jar to your foot you’d usually experience.

There are only a few downsides on this steel toe shoe. For one, some workers might notice that these shoes do not wear as well as an all-leather shoe would. If you need the extra durability from an all-leather shoe this might not be the best fit for you. Secondly, they are not waterproof and only contain “moisture wicking” nylon mesh. Although they hold up okay in wet conditions, they are not optimal for work in wet environments.

Sizes on this steel toe work shoe run from 4 – 16 in regular, wide, and extra-wide.

5. Caterpillar: Men’s Extension Steel Toe Work Shoe

Safety Rating: ASTM F2413-05 I/75 C/75, EH ASTM F2413-05 1/75

As should be expected from CAT, this shoe has a high level of durability and very solid construction. It is lightweight, roomy in the toe, and comfortable for a steel toe work shoe. Add that to an all-leather and waterproof exterior and you have a great dependable work shoe for the job sites.

The comfort of these shoes comes from what CAT calls “ERGO technology.” This technology takes into consideration how a worker moves throughout the work day and how he uses his feet. In essence, according to CAT footwear engineers, the shoes is “designed to fit like a glove.” Basically, all you need to know is the shoe is designed to hug your foot and accommodate your foot’s shape.

Another nice feature which helps the overall comfort of this shoe is the roominess in the toe region. Steel toe shoes have a tendency to be a bit tight near the toe and with this shoe that is not an issue. This is great if you wear your shoes for long hours or enjoy wearing heavy socks with your shoes.

This shoe also looks great and can easily be worn on or off the job site. Whether in black leather or brown, this shoe even looks formal enough to wear to a nice restaurant or if you’re heading out to an event after work.

These shoes do have slip-resistance technology as well as electrical hazard protection which meets the ASTM standards. The steel toe also complies with ASTM standards.

This steel toe work shoe ranges in size from 7 – 14 and comes in both regular and wide.

6. Keen: Men’s Braddock Low Steel Toe Work Shoe

Safety Rating: ASTM F2412-11, F2413-11, I/75, C/75 & ASTM F2413-17 SATRA & MARK II F1677-96 & EH ASTM F2412-11 F2413-11 I/75 C/75

Another great steel toe work shoe from Keen is the Braddock Steel Toe work shoe. Assembled in Portland, Oregon right here in the United States of America, this is a top-notch quality work shoe. It is loaded with special features and offers the highest safety protection of almost any other industrial work shoe on the market. Although it was designed specifically for indoor work, it also functions as a great outdoor shoe as well.

The Braddock exceeds in delivering comfort and support. In fact, it’d be hard to find a better shoe for arch support, specifically. There’s also a good amount of ankle support that you do not see with very many shoes, though some people feel they function more like boots. If you’re transitioning from boots to shoes, this is not a bad bet though. Also, due to their comfort level, some people even enjoy wearing these as hiking shoes.

The nubuck leather is water-resistant so your feet will stay dry. However, they are not waterproof so do not expect them to withstand extremely wet conditions. There are also two built-in layers which control water retention and resistance. This ensures that your feet stay cool when you need them to and warm when you need them to.

These shoes also allow for great traction on the job site. With their Mark II rating they’re good up to 0.52 oil/water. Their excellent traction is another reason they are often used for hiking.

The only downside is that there have been some complaints about soles splitting as well as the lace retainers not lasting as long as expected. The company does offer a 1-year warranty and is usually very good to their customers, but for the price you would expect a bit more durability, especially from a top name like Keen.

One of the best steel toe work shoes on the market. Would have been rated higher if not for some durability issues at this price point.

This steel toe work shoe comes in sizes ranging from 7 – 15 in both regular and wide versions.

7. Caterpillar: Woodward Steel Toe Work Shoe

Safety Rating: ASTM F2413-11 I/75 C/75 / ASTM F2413-05 1/75 EH

If you are looking for something more on the casual side, you can’t go wrong with the CAT Woodward Steel Toe work shoe. Built to be a good transition shoe for moving from on the job site to off the job site, they actually surpass the level of quality you would expect from a casual work shoe. In fact, they hold up as good as nearly any shoe on this list and the overall look is tremendous.

CAT footwear engineers must have been working overtime when designing this shoe because it is absolutely loaded with comfort technology. First off, it has CAT’s ERGO technology for excellent comfort and stability. It also offers the shoe some more flexibility when bending. There is also a carefully crafted and engineered foam footbed built specifically for shock absorption. The nylon mesh was also specifically engineered for foot cooling as well as comfort. There’s even odor control built into the antimicrobial liner of the shoe.

If that wasn’t enough, this shoe offers top of the line slip-resistance for both oil and water. It’s also great shoe for general low traction surfaces. With electrical hazard protection, this shoe can protect against up to 600 volts in dry conditions. Its leather exterior also helps it withstand abrasions and any other accidents that might happen on the job.

The quality control on this shoe is extremely consistent, most likely due to the fact that it was made at a gold-rated tannery, rated by Leather Working Group (LWG). The size and quality is consistent and the fit true.

You will really have to dig to find anything bad about this shoe. The only downside is that the arch support could be a little bit better, but that’s really nit-picking. It really is the best-of-the-best in terms of high quality casual steel toe work shoes. As more of a casual shoe though, it excels best at light industrial jobs. Although it can be used at a heavy duty site, this would be on a case-by-case basis and ultimately depends on the nature of the work.

The size of these steel toe work shoes ranges from 7 – 14 and comes in both regular and wide.

8. Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain

If you’re looking for an affordable steel toe work shoe that can get beat up and still survive, then the Timberland Pro’s are an excellent choice. At less than hundred dollar a pair, you won’t have to obsess over your shoes and just focus on doing your job. Bonus: they’re super comfortable for a steel toe work shoe right out of the box.

These steel toe shoes have a good amount of durability for a steel toe work shoe. In fact, they hold up almost as well as more expensive shoes. Quality is hit or miss though, some people have had durability issues, but most people have had a good experience with the durability.

These shoes are waterproof, have ESD/EH protection, are resistant to slipping, and have anti-fatigue built into them. Protection-wise they do the job well. Many people have noted dropping 50+ more pounds on their toes and being perfectly fine. For this shoe’s light weight, that’s a huge plus.

Comfort is great on these for most people, they even fit true to size. However, some people prefer to use their own insoles with these shoes. If your job requires you to be on your feet all day and you’ve worn these for a while, you will probably want to replace the insole. You can’t go wrong with the Keen Utility K-20 insole or the Dr. Scholl’s Work if you are looking for a replacement.

You get what you pay for usually when it comes to work shoes. With these you even get a little bit more. A great work shoe at an affordable price.

This steel toe work shoe ranges in size from 7 – 16 regular or wide.

9. Cat Footwear Men’s Brode Steel Toe Construction Shoe

Safety Rating: ASTM F2413-11 M/I/75 C/75 EH

Good for both industrial or casual purposes, the Men’s Brode steel toe work shoe by CAT is a good fit if you want more of casual look, feel and function. Great for on and off the job site, these shoes feel more like a walking shoe than a work shoe. Top that off with the added safety features and you have an all-around great work shoe.

The highlight of these shoes is the comfort. These truly feel like you threw on a pair of running shoes and headed out the door for a jog. They’re also lightweight and not too snug so your feet can breathe well in them too. There is also good toe space, so you do not have to worry about your toe being pinched while wearing these.

The durability is also really good on these bad boys. Some people have been able to get more than a year out of them, which isn’t bad for the cheap price. And the stitching on these shoes is one of the best seen in a casual steel toe work shoe. You can put these shoes through the wringer and they’re going to hold up.

Summary: Best Steel Toe Work Shoes

The technology of steel toe work shoes has really come a long way. The best steel toe safety shoes of yesterday cannot hold a candle to the best steel toe safety shoes of today. This is tough to say as someone who likes the “tried and true” and more traditional work gear. However, before you pull the trigger and buy a pair of shoes there are some things to keep in mind.

If quality and durability is your concern, stick with the brand names: Keen, CAT, Reebok, Timberland, Skechers. If you want to save money, you have to be careful because many off-brands aren’t going to last very long and the reviews online for the lesser-known names seem to be planted with only good reviews, an absolute impossibility when it comes to work shoes that require a high level of durability. Last, but not least, if you are looking for comfort CAT and Keen are the top choices for the most comfortable steel toe work shoes.

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