Workwear is no longer worn only on site. Nick Pouslon at Carhartt explains what electricians now expect from their clothing and how wholesalers can respond with varied, flexible ranges.

The right workwear is important in every job and it should always be tough, durable and safe. But times are changing and workwear now has to do more than stand up to the job. The same clothing is often worn from the first fix of the day through wholesaler visits and into the evening or weekend. Durability still matters, but it is no longer the only factor influencing buying decisions. Comfort, fit and how workwear looks off site are increasingly part of the equation.

For electrical wholesalers, this creates an opportunity to strengthen workwear as a repeat-purchase category. Core, hard-wearing staples remain essential, but there is growing demand for kit that feels comfortable and presentable beyond the job. Ranges that reflect this reality are better placed to support consistent sales and customer loyalty.

Broadening choice

Black and dark colours continue to be a reliable seller and should remain readily available, but alternative colours and finishes are gaining interest. Neutral and heritage tones such as brown, grey, olive and cream offer a cleaner, less uniform look that many electricians are comfortable wearing away from site.

For wholesalers, responding to this demand doesn’t require large or complex ranges. Introducing a limited number of alternative colourways across proven products can offer customers choice while keeping stock manageable. Smaller items such as beanies or graphic T-shirts can also be used to add variety, providing easy add-ons at the counter without increasing risk. They are also typically lower in cost, simpler to size and well suited to repeat purchasing, making them a practical way to build basket spend.

Denim adapted

Denim is a good example of how established workwear categories have been adapted to suit modern working patterns. Traditionally chosen for toughness, denim could feel stiff, particularly when kneeling, climbing ladders or working overhead. Stretch technologies such as Carhartt’s Rugged Flex add flexibility while retaining durability. The added movement makes a noticeable difference on site, improving comfort during physical tasks. At the same time, stretch denim has a more relaxed feel that works away from the job. For wholesalers, it offers a familiar category that appeals to electricians looking for practical workwear without it feeling overly industrial.

The same applies to duck fabric. Known for its resistance to abrasion, tearing and wind, duck has long been associated with demanding environments. Adding a small amount of Rugged Flex improves mobility without compromising strength, making it better suited to long days that combine physical work with travel and site visits.

Comfort that holds up

Performance remains non-negotiable. Electricians still expect workwear to cope with physical tasks, changing weather and long days. What has changed is the expectation that comfort should last throughout the day.

Waterproofing is a clear example. Jackets that block rain are essential, but if they trap heat and moisture they can quickly become uncomfortable during physical work where the wearer builds up a sweat. Breathable waterproof fabrics allow moisture vapour to escape, helping the wearer stay dry without feeling cold or clammy.

Technologies such as Carhartt’s Storm Defender are designed to keep out heavy rain but have a breathable membrane which allows internal moisture to evaporate. This kind of technology is particularly useful when working hard outdoors in inclement weather. Durable water repellent (DWR) coatings also play an important role here, causing light rain to bead and run off the fabric while maintaining breathability, making garments more suitable for variable site conditions.

Any build-up of sweat can leave the wearer cold and clammy once it cools on the skin. Cotton might be soft and comfortable to wear but doesn’t make a good base layer as it stays damp. The trade need fabrics that wick sweat, dry quickly and help control odour keep clothes feeling fresher for longer, which matters when workwear is worn beyond site hours. Carhartt Force, for example, is made from a blend of cotton and polyester. It’s soft and comfortable but pulls moisture away from the skin and helps reduce odour build-up, giving all day comfort.

Lighter layers and women’s workwear

For electrical wholesalers, it is really important to supply women’s workwear ranges designed specifically for the trade rather than adapted from men’s products. As demand grows, having appropriate stock available helps support customers and strengthens the overall workwear offer.

Demand for lighter, more breathable workwear is particularly evident in women’s workwear, where those in the trade have been clear about wanting garments that don’t feel heavy or restrictive but still stand up to demanding environments.

New fabric developments are helping address this. Carhartt’s Tencel Fibre Series for women uses Tencel Lyocell fibres to create clothing that is lighter and softer while remaining durable. This range is breathable, regulates temperature and prevents moisture build-up, making clothing made of Tencel Lyocell suitable for both work and wear away from site. The range includes lightweight T-shirts, overshirts and joggers designed with practical use in mind. Stocking these lighter layers offers an opportunity to supply an underserved part of the trade and build longer-term customer loyalty.

Workwear is constantly developing with new technologies and better choice. Electricians still expect durability and performance but they are also buying with comfort, versatility and appearance in mind. Offering greater choice and clearly communicating product benefits can help build stronger customer relationships, encourage repeat purchasing and support consistent sales.

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Peter Lawson, Brand Manager for Overland Shoes, explains how wholesalers can help close the PPE gender gap and, in turn, reap the financial benefits.

Imagine the scene. It’s early morning on a new jobsite. You have eight hours ahead of you, most of which will be spent on your feet on hard, unforgiving surfaces. You pull on your safety boots and immediately feel it – they’re too wide, poorly shaped and uncomfortable. You’d ask for a better option but you already know there isn’t one because, as always, the only choice is a generic, male-designed safety boot. So, you make-do with footwear that was never designed for you and, worse still, may actively compromise your safety.

Sounds absurd, doesn’t it? Yet for many female electricians and other tradeswomen, this is the norm. For decades, safety footwear design has centred almost exclusively on the male workforce. When women have been considered at all, it has often been through a superficial ‘shrink it and pink it’ approach, rather than addressing the genuine anatomical differences between men and women. The result is a market saturated with products that simply don’t fit a significant and growing portion of the workforce.

The irony in this is that, instead of protecting the worker, poorly-fitting safety footwear can become a danger in itself. To put this into perspective, electricians and other trade workers walk an average of 10,393 steps per day. That’s nearly five miles every shift, or up to 25 miles each week. Most people wouldn’t dream of attempting that distance in poorly fitting footwear so it’s inconceivable that many women on site are expected to do so week in, week out, operating in sectors that are already considered high-risk.

And it’s not just a comfort issue. Beyond fatigue and reduced concentration, research shows that ill-fitting boots increase strain on the body, heighten the risk of slips and trips and can contribute to long-term musculoskeletal injury. Studies also demonstrate that women forced to adapt to male-designed footwear may alter their gait or posture, further compounding the risk of injury.

Comercial imperative

For wholesalers, as key suppliers of PPE, this represents both a responsibility and an opportunity. As the number of women entering electrics and other trade roles continues to rise, demand for properly designed, female-specific safety footwear will only increase. In this way, addressing the PPE gender gap is no longer a niche consideration but a growing commercial imperative.

The good news is that solutions are already emerging. This is seen in the recent arrival of the all-new Bobcat Safety Footwear women’s collection which has been purposefully designed to deliver the optimal balance of safety, comfort and style for women across all industries.

Engineered with insights from leading sports footwear technology and extensive research into the needs of working women, the dedicated women’s range – built across five distinct design handles – uses anatomically correct, gender-specific lasts to deliver true fit, real protection and all-day wearability.

At the heart of the range is comfort that works as hard as the wearer. Every model carries the signature Bobcat design language, with safety features tuned for real-world jobsite environments and the unique comfort advantage of Redbacks Leaf Spring Technology at the core. Unlike foam or gel inserts, which simply soften the impact, Leaf-Spring Technology helps promote better posture, balance and alignment and reduce strain on the lower body. This technology is particularly effective in reducing the risk of plantar fasciitis, a condition all too common among tradespeople who spend hours on unforgiving surfaces.

No sacrifice

Meanwhile, features such as lightweight materials, composite safety toe caps, metal-free construction and puncture-resistant midsoles ensure maximum protection without sacrificing flexibility or comfort.

Style is accounted for too with the collection spanning four distinctively bold, sharp contemporary styles, shown across 5 SKUs, designed to provide a tailored solution for the full spectrum of real-world requirements. For ultimate versatility, the Akron, available in sleek All-Black or on-trend Sage, brings all-day comfort with a trendy hiker-inspired look, breathable lining and triple-density outsoles. The Rockford adds a sportier edge, pairing a lightweight build with advanced safety features ideal for logistics and light assembly. Rounding out the range, the athletic Clinch keeps feet protected through tough shifts, while the Virginia steps up for high-heat environments with waterproof leather, heat-resistant soles and supportive wedge insoles.

The range also delivers a strong margin opportunity. With RRPs from £85 to £125, wholesalers can capture higher spend while offering a product that women in the trades genuinely want, need, appreciate and value. This is supported by a robust trade marketing strategy that proactively drives customers to the counter – from social media and influencer activity to targeted PR – boosting awareness, footfall and sales.

Closing the safety footwear gender gap is no longer a question of if, but who will lead the way. Those who recognise this shift and stock products that genuinely meet the needs of all workers won’t just be doing the right thing – they’ll be positioning themselves a step ahead of the rest of the market.

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Overland Shoes has introduced Bobcat Safety Footwear, developed under license from Doosan Bobcat, Inc (Bobcat).

The launch represents a significant opportunity for merchants, wholesalers and retailers to capitalise on a bold, new category of safety footwear styles backed by the powerful legacy of the Bobcat brand.

At the heart of Bobcat Safety Footwear is the proprietary Redbacks Cushioning System – a breakthrough in comfort technology. Unlike traditional foam or gel insoles that merely absorb impact, the Redbacks Cushioning System features a unique leaf-spring technology that actively disperses pressure across the foot with every step, reducing strain across the foot and helping prevent fatigue before it starts.

Five distinct outsole series are each named after iconic American industrial locations and engineered for specific trade applications. The Delta series offers athletic-inspired trainers like the Knox (with FitLock speed lacing) and Rockford for indoor environments, while the Summit series provides versatile hikers including the Rapid and Toledo for indoor/outdoor versatility.

The Forge series delivers precision performance with ladder grip technology, the Keystone series offers heat-resistant protection for trades like welding and foundry work and the Bastion series provides maximum protection with heavy-duty boots for the most demanding applications.

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Carhartt’s occupational Work Boot range is designed to help prevent slips, trips and falls while keeping feet supported through long, demanding shifts. Built to handle tough conditions, they combine proven safety features with all-day comfort.

Carhartt’s Greenfields Rugged Flex O2 Occupational Work Boot range is designed to keep workers steady, supported and comfortable across long shifts whatever the conditions underfoot. Available in lace-up or Chelsea styles and in a full range of sizes for men and women, these boots deliver performance without compromising on comfort.

Built from hydro-treated full grain leather, the Greenfields boots are tough enough for daily wear in demanding environments. A mesh lining helps keep feet cool, the Rugged Flex technology allows natural movement, reducing fatigue over time, and a removable footbed with heel energy absorption and moisture control boosts comfort while tackling the strain of long hours on your feet.

The rubber Vibram sole is oil resistant, heat resistant up to 300°C and provides heat insulation for 30 minutes at 150°C. These features, combined with a polyurethane injected midsole and lightweight stability shank keep you steady on uneven or slippery ground and help prevent workplace accidents.

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Hours outdoors leave tradespeople vulnerable to harmful UV rays, dehydration and heat stress. That’s why Carhartt has introduced the Sun Defender range – a collection of durable, high-performance workwear with built-in sun protection that doesn’t compromise on comfort or mobility.

Sun Defender fabric is rated to UPF 40+, offering maximum protection by blocking 98% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. The range includes lightweight, breathable garments that help workers stay cool and each piece in the collection is designed with Carhartt’s Force technology, which wicks moisture away from the skin and dries quickly to prevent discomfort in warm conditions.

For upper-body protection, Carhartt has introduced the Force Sun Defender Lightweight Long-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt. Made from a lightweight polyester blend, this long-sleeved top offers full arm coverage without adding unnecessary warmth. The breathable, fast-drying material actively pulls sweat away from the skin, keeping wearers cool even in direct sunlight.

For those who prefer short sleeves but still need UV protection, the Short-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt delivers the same moisture-wicking and quick-drying benefits along with UPF 40+ shielding. The relaxed fit ensures all-day comfort while the durable fabric is designed to withstand the demands of a tough working environment.

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PEW is giving readers the chance to win one of five premium Carhartt workwear bundles – each consisting of a pair of Ripstop Cargo Work Shorts and a classic K87 Workwear Pocket T-Shirt.

Founded in 1889, Carhartt’s reputation in the trades is built on over 135 years of workwear innovation. Still family-owned and founded on delivering rugged gear for demanding environments, Carhartt has become a global leader in utility clothing – combining durability, comfort and style with job-ready practicality.

The Ripstop Cargo Work Short is a standout example. Built from 100% cotton ripstop fabric, it’s designed to resist tearing and wear in tough site conditions. With reinforced pockets, a gusseted crotch for improved movement and a relaxed fit for all-day comfort, it’s engineered for tradespeople who need reliable gear that works as hard as they do.

Paired with the iconic K87 T-Shirt – a heavyweight cotton jersey tee with a classic fit and durable construction – each prize bundle offers a smart balance of function and everyday comfort. The K87’s stitched-on chest pocket and tag-free neck label reflect the kind of attention to detail Carhartt has become known for, and that tradespeople appreciate.

For electrical wholesalers, Carhartt represents an opportunity to add a workwear brand that’s increasingly in demand across the trades. Where some workwear brands prioritise fashion over function, Carhartt’s heritage lies firmly in jobsite performance. Stocking Carhartt allows wholesalers to offer customers tried-and-tested products with clear technical and practical benefits – from reinforced seams to fabric technologies designed for longevity.

With electricians, installers and contractors seeking clothing that matches their professionalism and withstands the demands of the job, Carhartt offers a product line that directly aligns with trade expectations. Its growing visibility in the UK, paired with strong brand loyalty, makes it a smart addition for wholesalers looking to differentiate their workwear offering.

Each prize includes one pair of Ripstop Cargo Work Shorts and a K87 Workwear T-Shirt – ideal for the summer months ahead.

To view the Carhartt range visit www.carhartt.com

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning a workwear bundle from Carhartt, simply choose the correct answer from the following choices:

Q. In what year was Carhartt founded?

A) 1789

B) 1889

C) 1909

Simply fill out the form below and tell us your answer for the chance to WIN!

Deadline for entries 31/08/25

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If your work has you on your knees, your joints can really take a hit. Carhartt’s new certified Interoperable Kneepads offer the protection and comfort professional tradespeople need to stay on the job without injury or strain.

Whether fitting pipes, laying flooring, working in lofts or under sinks, kneeling on unprotected knees can lead to pain, long-term injuries – and time off the job. That’s why Carhartt has introduced its Interoperable Kneepads, designed to deliver sturdy protection without compromising comfort or mobility.

These super-light kneepads are ergonomically designed to flexibly fit around the knee and are certified to EN14404-4:2024, helping to reduce injuries caused by continuous pressure and sharp objects when kneeling. Made from lightweight polyethylene foam, they offer optimal pressure distribution while maintaining their shape, ensuring reliable protection throughout the workday.

Weighing just 70g a piece and measuring 248 x 18 x 150mm, these kneepads fit securely into a range of Carhartt’s certified Steel Pants and other Carhartt workwear that has kneepad pockets. Developed and manufactured in Germany, these kneepads are easy to insert and remove and can be handwashed to keep them in great condition.

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Carhartt’s latest range of occupational footwear, the Greenfields Rugged Flex 02 Occupational Workboot Sturdy, are flexible and ready for anything, they’re made for everyone who works hard and is on their feet all day.

The boot is both tough and comfortable. Made from premium leather with a mesh lining, it’s robust enough to handle daily wear and tear while still giving you the flexibility to move with ease. Its lightweight polyurethane injected midsole gives great cushioning and its slip-resistant outsole provides good grip on tricky surfaces from the day’s start to its finish.

For those who want all the reliability of a solid work boot without the hassle of laces, the Greenfields Rugged Flex 02 Occupational Chelsea Workboot delivers. With elastic side panels for easy pull-on convenience, these boots look good and work hard. A shock-absorbing midsole helps keep foot fatigue at bay while an oil and slip-resistant outsole means stability you can trust.

Both pairs of boots incorporate Carhartt’s Rugged Flex technology which gives extra stretch where you need it most; you can expect these boots to move and stretch with you throughout the day, making every task more manageable.

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Workwear needs to do more than just protect – it should be comfortable, durable and versatile. From knee protection and PPE to a tailored women’s range, Nick Poulson, UK Country Manager at Carhartt, looks at what wholesalers should consider stocking to stay ahead.

Tough, safe, practical, comfortable; all key words when it comes to workwear. But that’s only part of the picture. There’s another key factor on the workwear agenda too – clothing that looks just as good off site as it does on. For wholesalers, getting the balance right means offering a range that works across the board – men and women, across all seasons and fit for all jobs. That’s where companies like Carhartt deliver, providing electricians with gear built for safety, comfort and a style that works anywhere.

For electricians, safety on the job goes beyond protective boots – knees take a beating too. Whether crouching to install wiring, kneeling to access fuse boxes or working on low-mounted control panels, the constant pressure can lead to long term joint damage and discomfort. Without proper knee protection, electricians risk strain injuries that could sideline them from work.

One of the standout items from Carhartt’s latest collection are the Steel Pants, which have secure kneepad pockets that conform to EN14404-4:2024 dimensions. Carhartt now has its own kneepads which can be seamlessly incorporated into the pant design – not bulky or awkward, these kneepads are made to move around in on the job, helping anyone to stay comfortable when kneeling for any length of time.

Versatile outerwear

Working as an electrical contractor is no office job. It means moving between a variety of environments, indoors, outdoors, and can mean putting up with some uncomfortable weather conditions. Versatile outerwear is therefore really important. The Carhartt Chore Coat is a great addition to every wardrobe. It’s a classic so it looks good and is blanket-lined, wind-resistant and water-repellent to keep the wearer warm and protected. It also incorporates Rugged Flex technology so it doesn’t need to be removed to tackle a job. There’s a women’s version too; it comes in a sturdy fabric with practical and large reinforced pockets so all essentials can stay close at hand.

The number of women in the trades is increasing – and with it the demand for workwear designed specifically for female contractors. Ill-fitting or unisex garments can hinder safety, comfort and productivity so it’s really important that workwear is tailored specifically for women. A women’s range is nothing new for Carhartt – the company first sold coveralls for women back in 1917 – but it has recognised there are more women than ever entering the industry. So representatives met with real women in the field and listened when women said they wanted clothing that is lighter but still tough. The TENCEL Fibre Series has been the result. TENCEL is lightweight, soft, breathable but incredibly durable – more durable even than cotton. Colours have also been carefully chosen – delicate rose, wisteria blue, dusky apple butter and undyed ecru are all choices in the women’s range.

Championing inclusivity

Tailoring is important too – trousers cut specifically for a woman’s shape, jackets with narrower shoulders, overalls with adjustable waists. Carhartt’s range ensures that all contractors, regardless of gender, are equipped to perform their best. Wholesalers have an opportunity to champion inclusivity by stocking a balanced range of men’s and women’s workwear, reflecting the changing face of the industry and positioning the wholesaler as a forward-thinking partner to its trade customers.

No discussion of workwear trends would be complete without addressing the role of personal protective equipment (PPE). Safety glasses, for example, remain a vital piece of kit for electrical contractors, guarding against hazards like flying debris or accidental exposure to electrical arcs.

Carhartt’s range of safety glasses conforms to EN166, the European standard that outlines the specifications for protective eyewear. Made with a polycarbonate lens and frame, these glasses are almost indestructible – polycarbonate is 250 times more impact-resistant than glass and 10 times more resistant than standard plastic. Polycarbonate lenses are also thinner and lighter compared to alternative materials.

Seasonal changes

Workwear has two distinct seasons – spring/summer and autumn/winter and it’s important wholesalers stay ahead of these shifts to maximise sales opportunities. Carhartt’s spring/summer collection, launching at the end of January, features lighter weight fabrics and breathable designs tailored for warmer weather. Items such as short-sleeve shirts, lighter jackets and work shorts are perfect for contractors working in warmer temperatures. By introducing seasonal ranges early, wholesalers can ensure that customers are equipped with the right gear before demand peaks.

Point-of-sale displays can play a key role here, helping contractors easily identify seasonal collections. In-branch merchandising strategies, such as mannequins dressed in full seasonal outfits or racks organised by temperature-appropriate gear, can encourage contractors to upgrade their workwear for the months ahead. Successful wholesaling isn’t just about stocking the right products – it’s also about how those products are presented. Engaging in-branch displays, knowledgeable staff and clear signage can all contribute to a positive shopping experience, making it easy for contractors to find what they need.

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Iconic workwear brand Carhartt celebrates 135^th Anniversary

For 135 years, Carhartt has equipped hard workers with top quality workwear. To celebrate this milestone, Carhartt isn’t just throwing a party; it’s throwing a flash party that hard-working fans across Europe won’t want to miss.

For one minute at midday on 29^th October 2024, Carhartt will unleash a celebration as efficient and powerful as the workers it dresses. For this special anniversary, a limited edition of the iconic Carhartt beanie has been made and Carhartt has 20,000 to give away across the UK and EU!

Each beanie is sealed and contains a scratch card, which has a code that can be checked online. The big question is: who will get the code for a Golden Beanie? One lucky winner will receive a wonderful tour around the Great Lakes of America, the birthplace of Carhartt!

Show your craft competition

Carhartt is also inviting die-hard fans to show their spirit in the ‘Show Your Craft’ competition. Fans can share a video on Instagram or TikTok demonstrating their Carhartt pride with the hashtag #Carhartt135 and tagging @carhartt_europe from 1^st to 21^st October. The most convincing Carhartt enthusiast will win a whirlwind one-minute shopping spree in the Carhartt webshop at the stroke of noon. 

135 surprise birthday cakes

And if you have something to celebrate on 29^th October, let us know at win-carhartt.com and you might get a surprise visit from Carhartt, complete with horns, bells and one of 135 birthday cakes.

Ready to be part of this historic moment? Visit win-carhartt.com starting 1^st October 2024 to find out more about the festivities, how to participate and the fantastic prizes waiting to be claimed. The anticipation starts now and lasts way longer than the party!

For more information on the Carhartt range visit www.win-carhartt.com

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