If you’ve ever set foot on a construction site, you’ve probably seen the iconic Carhartt® logo. It’s practically the unofficial uniform of anyone who works with their hands. But recently, another name has been making waves in the industry—Wrangler Riggs.
These two titans of the workwear world go head-to-head in our comprehensive comparison of their work pants. So, pull up a seat and let’s dive into the ultimate battle of durability and comfort: Wrangler Riggs vs. Carhartt® work pants.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Parameter | Wrangler Riggs | Carhartt® |
| Fabric | 100% Cotton ripstop | ‘Firm duck’ blend of cotton and polyester |
| Durability | High with reinforced high-stress areas | High, known for excellent toughness |
| Fit & Comfort | Relaxed fit with Room2Move technology for better range of motion | Multiple options (traditional, relaxed, loose) but can be stiff initially |
| Price | Typically lower | Usually higher |
| Insulation | Less emphasis on insulated options | Offers quilt-lined pants for added warmth |
| Variety | Limited styles and colors | Wide range of styles, fits, and colors |
| Best For | Comfort and mobility with durability at a budget-friendly price | Superb durability, insulation, and variety, at a higher price point |
The Toughest Contender: Carhartt® Work Pants
Carhartt® has been around for over 130 years, outfitting workers with dependable gear since its inception. It’s known for ruggedness and dependability, so it’s no surprise that its work pants are synonymous with durability.
Pros of Carhartt® Work Pants
- Superb Durability
Carhartt®’s signature blend of cotton and polyester—known as the ‘firm duck’ fabric—is renowned for its toughness.
This fabric can take a beating, which is perfect for any high-impact, rough-and-tumble job.
- Versatility and Variety
Carhartt® offers an incredible range of styles, fits, and colors.
Whether you prefer traditional, relaxed, or loose-fit, Carhartt® has you covered.
- Outstanding Insulation
For those chilly morning starts, Carhartt®’s quilt-lined work pants provide excellent insulation. They’ll keep you warm without compromising your movement.
Cons of Carhartt® Work Pants
- Limited Flexibility
While Carhartt® work pants are tough, they lack flexibility. The material, especially when new, can feel stiff and restrictive, which might limit your range of motion.
- Price Point
Carhartt® is often more expensive than its competitors, including Wrangler Riggs. While the quality of their products is excellent, the higher price point may be a deterrent for some shoppers.
The New Kid on the Block: Wrangler Riggs Workwear
Wrangler Riggs might not have the same storied history as Carhartt®, but they’ve been gaining recognition for their durable and functional work pants.
Pros of Wrangler Riggs Work Pants
- Reinforced Durability
Wrangler Riggs work pants come with ‘Room2Move’ technology, which includes an action gusset for added durability.
This extra reinforcement in high-stress areas means these pants can handle serious wear and tear.
- Improved Mobility
Wrangler Riggs combines ruggedness with flexibility. Their pants are designed with a relaxed fit and ‘Room2Move’ technology, ensuring comfort and a better range of motion.
- Affordable Price Point
Wrangler Riggs work pants typically come in at a lower price point than Carhartt®. This is a significant advantage for those needing durable workwear on a budget.
Cons of Wrangler Riggs Work Pants
- Limited Variety
Wrangler Riggs doesn’t offer the same extensive variety as Carhartt® when it comes to styles and colors. While their designs cover the basics, they don’t provide as many options.
- Less Insulation
Unlike Carhartt®, Wrangler Riggs doesn’t emphasize insulated options in their line. This might make them less suitable for colder environments.
Also Read: Is Carhartt B151 Pant Better THan B159 Pant?
Key Differences Between Wrangler Riggs And Carhartt® Work Pants
While both Wrangler Riggs and Carhartt® work pants are renowned for their quality, there are a few notable differences that set these two brands apart.
- Fabric and Construction
Carhartt® uses its signature ‘firm duck’ fabric, a blend of cotton and polyester, known for its resilience and strength. This fabric blend ensures durability, making these work pants withstand harsh working conditions.
However, they are often regarded as stiff and can limit movement, especially when new.
On the other hand, Wrangler Riggs employs a 100% cotton ripstop fabric that’s durable but not as rigid as Carhartt®’s ‘firm duck.’ This fabric offers a superior range of motion, owing to Wrangler Riggs’ ‘Room2Move’ technology and action gusset design, enhancing the flexibility of the pants.
- Fit and Comfort
Carhartt® offers a variety of fits, including traditional, relaxed, and loose-fit. While this allows you to pick the fit you prefer, some find that Carhartt® work pants can be somewhat stiff, potentially compromising comfort and flexibility.
Conversely, Wrangler Riggs work pants are known for their comfort. They have a relaxed fit design that allows for ease of movement. The ‘Room2Move’ technology enhances comfort and flexibility, making these pants a comfortable choice for all-day wear.
- Price
Price is another area where these two brands diverge.
Carhartt® work pants are often more expensive than Wrangler Riggs.
This could be due to Carhartt®’s long-standing reputation and the high-quality materials used in their products.
On the other hand, Wrangler Riggs offers a more budget-friendly option.
Despite their lower price point, they don’t compromise on durability or comfort, making them a viable option for those who need dependable workwear without breaking the bank.
- Insulation
If you work in colder climates, insulation can be a significant factor in your work pants choice. Carhartt® offers excellent quilt-lined work pants that provide great insulation, keeping you warm in frigid conditions.
However, Wrangler Riggs doesn’t emphasize insulated options in their product line. While their pants are designed for durability and comfort, they might not provide adequate warmth in colder working conditions.
- Variety
When it comes to variety, Carhartt® takes the lead. They offer a wide range of styles, fits, and colors, allowing you to choose a pair of work pants that perfectly suits your preference and work environment.
In contrast, Wrangler Riggs offers less variety in terms of styles and colors. While they cover the basics, you might find fewer options if you’re looking for a specific style or color.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to choosing between Wrangler Riggs and Carhartt® work pants, both offer their unique strengths. Carhartt® shines in the durability department, while Wrangler Riggs excels in comfort and mobility.
If you work in tougher environments and need ultimate durability, Carhartt® might be your best bet. However, if you prefer mobility and affordability without compromising on toughness, Wrangler Riggs would be the way to go.
Remember, the best work pants for you ultimately depend on your personal preference and your specific work environment. Whatever you choose, both Carhartt® and Wrangler Riggs offer quality options that will help you get through the workday in comfort and style.
