Pantaloni Eleganti

[MGW]

I need to find pants that look professional enough for office work but will hold up to daily wear and tear. I work in IT management and do a lot of face to face training, presentations, and meetings. I also do a lot of installs of various equipment, mark fiber lines for dig permits, etc. I never know from day to day what environment I’ll be working in.

Standard suit pants don’t last. Tactical cargo pants look sloppy. I’m looking for some combination of a hard use tactical pant that looks professional enough to wear in an office environment. Something that is cut to fit with out being a nut hugger slim fit. Looks good with a polo shirt or button down.

Also needs to be fairly easy to take care of. In other words no ironing if I can help it. I want to wash them, hang them to dry, and be done.

[JTQ]

LL Bean Chinos https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/502921?page=mens-chinos&csp=f&bc=12-26-590&sort_field=Relevance&start=1&viewCount=48&nav=ln-590

[JTQ]

Land's End probably has a similar product https://www.landsend.com/shop/mens-pants-bottoms/S-xff-xez-y5b-xh5-xec?cm_re=lec-_-mns-_-global-_-glbnv-pants-_-20160316-_-txt

[Eric_L]

I don’t wear these working, but I think they would hold up to casual work- marking trenches etc. The strong dungarees are thick like jeans. The futureworks are lighter. They look good. Hang dry. They are expensive.

https://shop.outlier.nyc/shop/retail/pants/

[Shoresy]

Bluffworks is worth a look.

[AKDoug]

Duluth Trading Middle Management chinos. If you pull them right from the dryer and flatten them out they are pretty wrinkle free.

[Totem Polar]

I've had good luck with these guys, myself:

https://www.kuhl.com/kuhl/mens/pants/

[OlongJohnson]

I have a Kuhl button shirt that is awesome. I need to look at more of their stuff.

[BobLoblaw]

My favorite jeans are made by Mountain Khaki. Triple stitch/bar tack/crotch gusset/reinforced blah blah blah. They fit really well and I'd assume their khaki's are solid too since it's part of their name and all.

[Erik]

I've had good luck with these guys, myself:

https://www.kuhl.com/kuhl/mens/pants/

Same. I'm a big fan of the Slax.

ETA: I'm going to have to take a look at the resistor Chinos now too, dammit.

[DocGKR]

Carhartt Rigby (https://amzn.to/2GXXbff)--cut off the rear pocket tag, put on a nice shirt, sport coat, and a pair of good shoes...

[Nephrology]

Carhartt Rigby--cut off the rear pocket tag, put on a nice shirt, sport coat, and a pair of good shoes...

I have a few pairs of these and they are awesome. I use them for daily wear and for clinic attire, couldn't be happier.

[MGW]

I've had good luck with these guys, myself:

https://www.kuhl.com/kuhl/mens/pants/


I thought the Slax might be worth trying.

[MGW]

Duluth Trading Middle Management chinos. If you pull them right from the dryer and flatten them out they are pretty wrinkle free.

Have a Duluth store close. I'll check them out.

[MGW]

Carhartt Rigby--cut off the rear pocket tag, put on a nice shirt, sport coat, and a pair of good shoes...

I hadn't even considered these. I'll check them out.

Do they shrink much?

[peterb]

I’ve used the basic Dickies work pants in black and navy blue for mixed office & field work for many years.

https://www.dickies.com/mens-clothing/mens-pants/

[Chance]

I'll second Duluth. Get one of their DuluthFlex (https://www.duluthtrading.com/mens-duluthflex-fire-hose-foreman-pants-45704.html?cgid=mens-pants-casual-pants&dwvar_45704_color=BRN#start=3&cgid=mens-pants-casual-pants) in a darker color and you can easily get away with them as business pants. They're not cheap, but they're the only pants/shorts I wear anymore.

[luckyman]

Argghhh! Went to give you the URL for my favorite Duluth pants and find out they have "improved" them. Dammit.

I've grown to love the extra pocket on the side of the leg that does not have the "cargo" look. But the "Duluth-flex dry on the fly" pants that had these now have their back pockets reworked such that they are significantly less dressy than before.
For what it's worth here is the URL to the new version:
https://www.duluthtrading.com/mens-duluthflex-dry-on-the-fly-pants-46202.html?cgid=mens-pants&dwvar_46202_color=GNM

LL Bean has a couple alternatives that aren't as good as the older Dultuths but are competitive with the new Duluth model:

https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/120662?page=cresta-mountain-pants&bc=12-26-590&feat=590-GN1&csp=f

[Doc_Glock]

I love these things. See them occasionally at Costco and buy them up. Light weight durable enough I have camped in them quite a bit. Good for clinic and lounging around.

https://www.amazon.com/UNIONBAY-Rainier-Lightweight-Comfort-Travel/dp/B079178JPW

https://www.amazon.com/Union-Classic-Comfort-Waist-Chino/dp/B07D1ZMLNT

[LJP]

Another vote for Mountain Khakis. They’re pricey, but they’re worth it.

[luckyman]

I love these things. See them occasionally at Costco and buy them up. Light weight durable enough I have camped in them quite a bit. Good for clinic and lounging around.

https://www.amazon.com/UNIONBAY-Rainier-Lightweight-Comfort-Travel/dp/B079178JPW

https://www.amazon.com/Union-Classic-Comfort-Waist-Chino/dp/B07D1ZMLNT

Hey Doc, could you comment on the pocket material for the Ranier travel tech model? These look perfect for me, but a little worried about the "mesh pocket lining" description on Amazon.

[ranger]

I have great service from the VERTX Tactical line (https://amzn.to/2KrjFHq) without cargo pockets. They were on clearance somewhere and I got grey, dark tan, and Khaki. I wear them every week to work. Great for business travel - have thrown a blazer on for dressier but usually were with polos or button downs. They are finally showing some wear after 4 years of constant use.

[SouthNarc]

I think Mountain Khakis (https://amzn.to/2YZIWfT) are your best bet to straddle office presentable and hard use.

[JSGlock34]

Mountain Khakis Teton Twill.
(https://www.mountainkhakis.com/products/mens-teton-twill-pant?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIspWxsv_24wIVC47ICh1oqwhgEAA YASAAEgJYr_D_BwE)

I have great service from the VERTX Tactical line (https://amzn.to/2KrjFHq) without cargo pockets. They were on clearance somewhere and I got grey, dark tan, and Khaki. I wear them every week to work. Great for business travel - have thrown a blazer on for dressier but usually were with polos or button downs. They are finally showing some wear after 4 years of constant use.

LAPG famously blew out the Vertx Core line a few years back, which were like Phantoms but without cargo pockets. I regret not buying a few as these have been discontinued. The Delta Stretch pants looked promising, but they have a leather reinforced tool pocket which looks out of place.

Vertx needs to bring the Core line back. It's a Phantom without pockets - what's so hard?

[RevolverRob]

If you can stomach the price:

Prometheus Design Werx Raider Field Pants - https://prometheusdesignwerx.com/collections/pants

Really want you want is a technical style pair of pants without cargo pockets. Something the Mountain Hardwear Canyon Pants may also work.

Cargo pants can look professional, but they require, 1) non-bellowed pockets. 2) a rise that fits you. 3) a hem that matches your footwear. All pants are too baggy if not hemmed to the correct length. I’ve seen more outfits ruined by poorly fitted pants and button down collars with ties than I care to remember.

[RevolverRob]

I think Mountain Khakis (https://amzn.to/2YZIWfT) are your best bet to straddle office presentable and hard use.

Who made that poor no-ass having model wear those baggy ass things in pics 3 and 4?

That looks like an outfit that a teenage boy would wear. Someone get those pants to the tailor stat!

[Doc_Glock]

Hey Doc, could you comment on the pocket material for the Ranier travel tech model? These look perfect for me, but a little worried about the "mesh pocket lining" description on Amazon.

It’s mesh in front and I have never had a problem in several years. These stupid cheap pants have outlasted Kuhl cotton stuff.

[SouthNarc]

Who made that poor no-ass having model wear those baggy ass things in pics 3 and 4?

That looks like an outfit that a teenage boy would wear. Someone get those pants to the tailor stat!


My ass makes them look pretty good!

[RevolverRob]

My ass makes them look pretty good!

That’s ‘cause you do squats.

Guys like me who should do squats, but don’t, ain’t got no ass and look like the guy in pics 3 and 4 there. I’m not critical of him...I too know the reality of pants that don’t fit when you’re short and assless.

This is why I originally spent all my fashion budget on assless chaps. But then the HR complaints and...you know that’s a whole other thread.

[SouthNarc]

That’s ‘cause you do squats.

Guys like me who should do squats, but don’t, ain’t got no ass and look like the guy in pics 3 and 4 there. I’m not critical of him...I too know the reality of pants that don’t fit when you’re short and assless.

This is why I originally spent all my fashion budget on assless chaps. But then the HR complaints and...you know that’s a whole other thread.

Aren’t all chaps....assless?

[BillSWPA]

I have had good luck with Eddie Bauer. I generally buy relaxed fit and pleated to maximize concealment of a pocket holster, but classic fit also works well.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[RevolverRob]

Aren’t all chaps....assless?

Almost.

I am reliably informed that European equestrian chaps (full, not half) are not assless. European equestrian half-chaps are just high boots offering no thigh protection.

But certainly American chaps are assless.

For instance...this American chap named RevolverRob is assless. :cool:

[MGW]

Who made that poor no-ass having model wear those baggy ass things in pics 3 and 4?

That looks like an outfit that a teenage boy would wear. Someone get those pants to the tailor stat!

They do look a little baggy.

[Totem Polar]

For instance...this American chap named RevolverRob is assless. :cool:
Well played, dude.

[MGW]

I have great service from the VERTX Tactical line (https://amzn.to/2KrjFHq) without cargo pockets. They were on clearance somewhere and I got grey, dark tan, and Khaki. I wear them every week to work. Great for business travel - have thrown a blazer on for dressier but usually were with polos or button downs. They are finally showing some wear after 4 years of constant use.

I’ve had a difficult time with the sizing on Vertx pants. I bought a few pair from that same close out. I swear every pair fit differently. Still have a pair of the grey and a pair of the Khakis. Don’t wear them much now but they lasted a long time.

[Nephrology]

I hadn't even considered these. I'll check them out.

Do they shrink much?

Not in my experience. The waistline expands a bit over time like jeans, but they shrink back to their normal size in washer/dryer.

[orionz06]

Carhartt Rigby (https://amzn.to/2GXXbff)--cut off the rear pocket tag, put on a nice shirt, sport coat, and a pair of good shoes...

I do just that for at least 3 days a week at work. Well worth it.

[TCB]

Arc’teryx X-Functional...snagged a couple pairs on a sale a bit ago. They are superior. Get your self some dead bird and flex on the Poors.

ETA: But seriously...try and find some on sale, they’re not cheap!

[OlongJohnson]

I have concluded that cotton clothing is the only way to go in Houston. I keep having synthetic shorts pick up a musty smell from the mold loads outdoors that I can't get out of them even on the "sanitize" cycle with bleach. They come out smelling fine, but when the humidity comes up, as it inevitably does while wearing them, there's that smell again. Cottons will get the same smell in them, but it comes out. Had the same thing with a synthetic tee shirt. Got stank in the pits that wouldn't come out in the laundry. No cotton shirt has ever done that.

[DocGKR]

Cotton seersucker fabric is great in sweltering climates; linen and linen blends also work well in the heat.

[vcdgrips]

OJ,
Try washing the synthetic pants with oxy-clean and the soap of choice. I have good luck knocking down the smell to which you refer in the humid Midwest re my synthetic undershirts.

[MGW]

I'm bumping my own thread because I need new shoes that match the same requirements as the OP. Comfortable, durable, look fine with khakis and a sport coat, laces (no slip ons), and don't cost an arm and a leg. I've been wearing Lems Chukka's a lot lately but the color isn't right to wear with darker pants. So far they are very comfortable and durable.

One more thing, I have a pretty wide forefoot. I hate shoes that are narrow so having a wide toe box or available wide widths would be another requirement.

[NEPAKevin]

Might be too casual, but New Balance has those those "postman shoes" that are kind of a cross between a sneaker and a dress shoe (I think they might be these (https://www.amazon.com/New-Balance-MX623v3-Comfort-Training/dp/B00V3MNRX6/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=New+balance+postal+worker&qid=1600191597&sr=8-1)? ) and usually are available in a number of widths.

[JAD]

I'm bumping my own thread because I need new shoes that match the same requirements as the OP. Comfortable, durable, look fine with khakis and a sport coat, laces (no slip ons), and don't cost an arm and a leg. I've been wearing Lems Chukka's a lot lately but the color isn't right to wear with darker pants. So far they are very comfortable and durable.

One more thing, I have a pretty wide forefoot. I hate shoes that are narrow so having a wide toe box or available wide widths would be another requirement.

I have extremely good results with Ecco. They're ugly but I've worn out several pairs of the Helsinki:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002LAQPK6/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_d4pyFb76HMAM1

[paherne]

I have extremely good results with Ecco. They're ugly but I've worn out several pairs of the Helsinki:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002LAQPK6/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_d4pyFb76HMAM1

I LOVE my Ecco dress shoes. Good for cop work, too, because they are almost always rubber-soled.

[vcdgrips]

When I hear wide toe box, I immediately think New Balance or Keen. Ecco may have something as well.

MGW -When you say no arm/leg- how much are we talking 50max, 100 max, 150 max etc.? What size and width?

[rjohnson4405]

https://www.rvca.com/mens-pants/?camp=ppc_rv_us-en_e_google_search-brand-product-clothing-mens-exact_ppctxt&utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid-search&utm_campaign=search-brand-product-clothing-mens-exact&gclid=CjwKCAjwzIH7BRAbEiwAoDxxTuDHGu9pF5JcQKrYOIFc vNl_L-c9NNiV_AZm32swgDgkVNFEzQlamxoCN1UQAvD_BwE

I wear RCVA pants for work in a similar environment, they come out of the dryer in pretty good shape to just hang. Last a long time compared to my old dress pants (even nicer brands like Brooks Brothers)

[UNM1136]

Why are sumdudes debating the assless or asslessness of chaps? One I wouldn't cross on a dare, the other, well, I probably would not let cross me, despite the dare he was given....😝

Just funnin', I got nothin' to add here....

pat

[JTQ]

I'm bumping my own thread because I need new shoes that match the same requirements as the OP. Comfortable, durable, look fine with khakis and a sport coat, laces (no slip ons), and don't cost an arm and a leg. I've been wearing Lems Chukka's a lot lately but the color isn't right to wear with darker pants. So far they are very comfortable and durable.

Clark's has a lot of options https://www.clarksusa.com/mens

[JAD]

Clark's has a lot of options https://www.clarksusa.com/mens

I went from Eccos to Clark's and back to Eccos. I wear Clark's out faster and they don't have as good a footbed. They are usually lighter though.

I don't actually have wide feet, but I have a very square foot (toes all ~same extension) that makes me need wider shoes. Going on the high side with European sizing in an Ecco gets me just right.

[UNM1136]

Why are sumdudes debating the assless or asslessness of chaps? One I wouldn't cross on a dare, the other, well, I probably would not let cross me, despite the dare he was given....😝

Just funnin', I got nothin' to add here....

pat

SouthNarc, you just shillin' 😝..wouldn't cross you on a dare... RevolverRob, you riskin somthin...😃

Just funnin, still got nuthin...

pat

[RevolverRob]

SouthNarc, you just shillin' 😝..wouldn't cross you on a dare... RevolverRob, you riskin somthin...😃

Just funnin, still got nuthin...

pat

Pat,

Don't pretend like you aren't on the email list to see RevolverRob's Fall Chap Collection -

We'll be offering a whole new line this fall - banded and braided chaps. For the chap who wants a little Native American flare to their chaps. I'm also hoping that early next year we'll launch our ECQC-optimized line of chaps. Which will feature reinforcements in the inguinal crease for the mounting of 'gear'.

[UNM1136]

Pat,

Don't pretend like you aren't on the email list to see RevolverRob's Fall Chap Collection -

We'll be offering a whole new line this fall - banded and braided chaps. For the chap who wants a little Native American flare to their chaps. I'm also hoping that early next year we'll launch our ECQC-optimized line of chaps. Which will feature reinforcements in the inguinal crease for the mounting of 'gear'.

Banded and branded, nothing in those words is anything I gotta see...😝 SouthNarc's like is all I need here...

I am on the email list, but it might be a raised catholic thing..

pat

[UNM1136]

Pat,

Don't pretend like you aren't on the email list to see RevolverRob's Fall Chap Collection -

We'll be offering a whole new line this fall - banded and braided chaps. For the chap who wants a little Native American flare to their chaps. I'm also hoping that early next year we'll launch our ECQC-optimized line of chaps. Which will feature reinforcements in the inguinal crease for the mounting of 'gear'.

Having a fall chaps selection is just, wierd...I am on that email list, but just for a "friend". You so much need a noogie/wedgie right now...

pat

[luckyman]

I went from Eccos to Clark's and back to Eccos. I wear Clark's out faster and they don't have as good a footbed. They are usually lighter though.

I don't actually have wide feet, but I have a very square foot (toes all ~same extension) that makes me need wider shoes. Going on the high side with European sizing in an Ecco gets me just right.

JAD, what’s your current choice for shoes/boots a little more sturdy than this?

[JTQ]

I went from Eccos to Clark's and back to Eccos.
I had a pair of Ecco Seawalker's, which were probably the best fit/most comfortable out of the box shoe I've ever owned. I got good use out of them, but they we're about $175 out the door. I got about 6 years of use out of them.

When those wore out, I went with a pair of Clark's Portland for $90. They were pretty close in in fit and comfort. I bought them in 2014, and I'm still wearing them.

I think the Ecco was a better shoe, but not twice as good. I'd be happy with either, though.

Edit to add: I recently bought a pair of Clarks Cotrell Edge, for $70. They are not the equal of either of the two models above, in either fit or comfort.

[Seven_Sicks_Two]

I'm going to break with the group here and suggest spending some money on a nice pair of shoes/boots/chukkas. Good ones can be resoled and will take a beating before ever getting worn out to the point of replacement. They cost a little (okay, well a lot) more up front, but something like Allen Edmonds will last longer than any Clarks, etc. that I've owned.

[MGW]

When I hear wide toe box, I immediately think New Balance or Keen. Ecco may have something as well.

MGW -When you say no arm/leg- how much are we talking 50max, 100 max, 150 max etc.? What size and width?

I’m good with $150. I’m not spending $300 on shoes though.

I really like my Keen hiking boots. I haven’t seen anything from them that really look like business casualish shoes though. Some of the Eccos look like they might work.

I’ve been a slob when it comes to shoes. I tend to go with comfort over style. I’m trying to up my game a little bit and dress like an adult without giving up comfort and practicality. I’m pushing 50. It’s probably time. I am not ready to give into the Newbalance dressy sneaker thing though.

[TGS]

I’m good with $150. I’m not spending $300 on shoes though.

I really like my Keen hiking boots. I haven’t seen anything from them that really look like business casualish shoes though. Some of the Eccos look like they might work.

I’ve been a slob when it comes to shoes. I tend to go with comfort over style. I’m trying to up my game a little bit and dress like an adult without giving up comfort and practicality. I’m pushing 50. It’s probably time. I am not ready to give into the Newbalance dressy sneaker thing though.

Given your budget, definitely Eccos for footwear, and spend the dough on DU/ER No Sweat pants. They require no ironing and look better for office wear than Kuhl Slax, while also being so comfortable you can use them as PJs. They're not as hard wearing as other options, though, and lack a cell phone pocket.

Kuhl Slax are okay, but wrinkle easily, require ironing, and like everything Kuhl makes they have a bit more outdoors cut to them. I'd refrain from trying to wear them with a dress shirt and jacket in most typical office situations, but they go well if you're on the more casual of business casual, like Silicon Valley business attire (nice tucked in shirt, fleece vest). They have the best cell phone pocket I've found.

Bluffworks makes excellent travel/everyday business casual slacks that will retain a hard crease unlike the other 2 options I've mentioned and wear well, but aren't as comfortable/flexible. I would wear these for more conservative office settings. These are kind of weird, because they're a different material than their suits which are very soft and have a lot of stretch to them.

[JAD]

JAD, what’s your current choice for shoes/boots a little more sturdy than this?

I wear Merrell trail gloves most days at work. I had a pair of 2015 Merrell Annex boots that I loved; they died a year ago and I haven’t found a valid replacement.

[JAD]

I'm going to break with the group here and suggest spending some money on a nice pair of shoes/boots/chukkas. Good ones can be resoled and will take a beating before ever getting worn out to the point of replacement. They cost a little (okay, well a lot) more up front, but something like Allen Edmonds will last longer than any Clarks, etc. that I've owned.

I have several pairs that I need to put up for sale here. The last does not even sort of work for me. Buddy swears by them — I acknowledge that I have feet wrongly.

[Mark D]

Carhartt Rigby (https://amzn.to/2GXXbff)--cut off the rear pocket tag, put on a nice shirt, sport coat, and a pair of good shoes...

Yep. I do this with Dickies too. Cut off the label and they look like chinos or pair of slacks, but they're much longer lasting. Dickies and Carhartt both have modern, tailored fit choices too.

[Seven_Sicks_Two]

I have several pairs that I need to put up for sale here. The last does not even sort of work for me. Buddy swears by them — I acknowledge that I have feet wrongly.

I was just using AEs as an example. There’s a whole subculture that nerds out about Goodyear welted shoes and boots the way we do about about guns. I’m far from an expert on the matter, but in my experience a decent pair of traditionally crafted shoes will outlast the more modern options... and look better to boot (I’m sorry, I couldn’t help myself).

[TGS]

I was just using AEs as an example. There’s a whole subculture that nerds out about Goodyear welted shoes and boots the way we do about about guns. I’m far from an expert on the matter, but in my experience a decent pair of traditionally crafted shoes will outlast the more modern options... and look better to boot (I’m sorry, I couldn’t help myself).

Yeah we've had threads about this, and there's a bunch of us here that are big AE fans (I've got 4 pairs myself).

Thing is, you've got to have some commitment to it. Over the long run the cost is lower, but even with their yearly sale you're still putting down 2-4x as much money over a pair of Ecco's on sale or being blown out at DSW. That, and the Ecco's will probably work well at first shot and fit a wider range of feet whereas even if you get fitted by the AE store, there's a good chance you'll have to return them to adjust sizing as AE and other "real" shoes are extremely particular to foot shape. Just look at how many different lasts they have....not just AE, but all of the higher end shoe companies.

The OP doesn't seem like the kind of guy that wants to invest that much attention to it.....it's not a perfect analogy, but it's sort of akin to recommending him a 1911, when what he clearly needs is a Glock.

[DocGKR]

For Shoes:

[DocGKR]

Places like Nordstroms carry decent shoes, while more are at Barneys, Nieman Marcus, and Saks. Specialty stores like Stanley Korshak, Sid Mashburn, Cuffs, Rutledges, and the unparalleled Mitchell Stores (Wilkes Bashford, Marios, Mitchells, Richards) will also have an excellent selection, as do the various boutiques from each manufacturer. If you are around Atlanta, these guys have good offerings: https://www.cobbler-union.com.