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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