Short work trousers for trade and industry: function meets comfort

Introduction: Why short work trousers? 

In recent years, short work trousers for men and women, often referred to as ‘shorts’, have developed into a practical and fashionable item of clothing for everyday work. They offer an interesting alternative to classic long work trousers, especially in warm weather, when working outdoors or in work environments where a high degree of freedom of movement is required. However, as with any item of clothing, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons. 

Advantages of short work trousers 

• Optimum ventilation and comfort: Especially in hot temperatures, short work trousers allow better air circulation and therefore more comfort. This leads to less overheating and increased comfort during work - a clear advantage for anyone working outside in warm temperatures or in very warm workplaces. 
• Increased freedom of movement: Short work trousers offer more freedom of movement than long trousers. This can be particularly advantageous in manual occupations, as it makes bending, squatting or climbing easier. 
• Practical and quick-drying: High-quality shorts are made from lightweight, hard-wearing materials that dry quickly. This is ideal for workplaces where you sometimes get wet, whether from rain, splashing water or sweat.

Disadvantages of short work trousers 

• Reduced protection factor: Probably the biggest disadvantage is the reduced occupational safety. Shorts leave more skin uncovered, which means an increased risk of injury from cuts or scratches in industrial working environments, in workshops or on construction sites. UV protection is also limited. Other external influences such as burns are also conceivable. For this reason, short work trousers are not suitable for all types of work or are not authorised under occupational health and safety legislation. 
• Weather dependency: In cold or changeable weather, shorts can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of hypothermia. There is also a higher health risk from UV radiation when exposed to the sun, as the legs are not completely covered. 
• Lack of functionality: Not all shorts offer the same functionality as long models. For example, there is no knee protection with integrated knee pads for those who work a lot on their knees.

What are the most important requirements for high-quality work shorts? 

High-quality work shorts are characterised by a combination of robust materials, well thought-out design and functional details. Below you will find some key requirements that should be taken into account when selecting such trousers: 

• Use high-quality, robust materials: robust materials ensure durability. The fabrics used should be tear-resistant, abrasion-resistant and resistant to mechanical stress. The right mix of materials also ensures that the shorts are breathable and dry quickly. High-quality work shorts are made from a blend of cotton and polyester with a fabric weight of 225 to 285 g/m². 
• Integration of stretch fabric: High-quality shorts usually contain a proportion of particularly elastic stretch material such as spandex. this ensures the elasticity of the shorts, i.e. maximum mobility. 
• Functionality and cut: Good freedom of movement is crucial. The cut should be ergonomically designed so that there are no restrictive movements, even during physically strenuous activities. A raised waistband on the short work shorts ensures that the trousers fit perfectly, while a slim silhouette creates an attractive look.
• Visibility: In work areas where good visibility is important (e.g. traffic and road construction), high-visibility work shorts in yellow or orange and with reflective inserts are used. High-quality high-visibility shorts comply with the EN ISO 20471 standard. In combination with other high-visibility clothing, high-visibility class 3 can also be achieved with short high-visibility trousers. 
• Versatile pocket solutions: High-quality short work trousers are in no way inferior to long trousers in terms of the number and design of pockets. Well-placed, sturdy and sufficiently sized pockets make it easier to carry tools and personal items such as a smartphone. 
• Industrial laundry suitability in accordance with ISO 1579: Easy care and machine washability are further key requirements for high-quality short work trousers. Work shorts in accordance with ISO 15797 are machine washable up to 60° and are as good as new even after frequent washing.

Industries in which short work trousers are worn 

• Construction sector and skilled trades: Freedom of movement is a must on construction sites and in skilled trades (bricklayers, carpenters, roofers, painters, etc.). Especially in the summer months or when working outdoors, many workers appreciate the lighter alternative to long trousers. Shorts in these areas often have high-visibility features and reflectors. 
• Horticulture and landscape maintenance: Garden and landscape workers benefit from the good ventilation and high level of comfort offered by shorts. The lighter material also allows greater flexibility when squatting and bending down, which is important when maintaining green spaces. One disadvantage, however: protection against insect bites and ‘aggressive’ plants such as stinging nettles is limited with short work trousers. Gardeners and landscapers often wear shorts in natural colours. 
• Logistics and warehousing: In warehouses, where physically strenuous work is often carried out, the cooling effect of shorts can help to increase work performance. However, safety must always be kept in mind here. Shorts in the warning colours yellow and orange are therefore often worn here too.
• Industry & manufacturing: In manufacturing companies, shorts can be a welcome alternative to conventional long workwear, especially in summer. However, the use of shorts must be carefully considered, as there is also a high need for protection in industrial environments. They should therefore only be used in areas where the safety requirements can be guaranteed by protective measures. 
• Agriculture: Farmers also like to wear shorts in the warmer months of the year. Depending on the area of work, high-visibility shorts are also sometimes used here.