Electricians vs Plumbers: What Work Trousers Do They Prefer?

If you’ve spent more than five minutes on-site, you already know that what you wear makes a difference. It’s not just about looking the part—it’s about being able to get on with the job without constantly hitching up your trousers, digging around for tools, or swearing under your breath every time you kneel down.

And when it comes to work trousers, electricians and plumbers have their own ideas about what works best. After all, they face different tasks day in, day out. So we had a proper look at what’s out there, compared some top options, and asked around to get a feel for what real tradies are wearing right now.

Here’s how it breaks down.

What Do Electricians Want in Work Trousers?

Sparkies are in and out of tight spaces, up and down ladders, lifting floorboards, poking around in walls. They need trousers that move with them—not against them.

Must-haves:

• Slim fit or tapered legs (nothing to snag)
  
  

• Stretch for crouching and climbing
  
  

• Holster pockets that aren’t in the way
  
  

• Lightweight enough to wear all day
  
  

Here are two solid choices that tick all the right boxes.

🔧 DeWalt Albany Slim Fit Stretch Holster Trousers

These have become a bit of a favourite. They’ve got a neat, modern cut but still pack in the features.

Why sparkies like them:

• Bit of stretch in the fabric—lets you move without ripping anything
  
  

• Holster pockets for all your basics, but they’re not bulky
  
  

• Knee pad pockets for crawling about (which you do a lot)
  
  

• Look decent if you’re dealing with customers
  
  

If you’re working in someone’s home or bouncing between jobs, these strike the right balance between looking sharp and getting the job done.

🔧 Regatta Infiltrate Stretch Holster Trousers

A bit more rugged than the DeWalts, but still built for movement.

Standout bits:

• Four-way stretch—you’ll feel the difference
  
  

• Plenty of pockets without feeling overloaded
  
  

• Reinforced where it counts
  
  

• Reflective touches for low-light jobs
  
  

They’re ideal if your day swings between indoor rewire and site installs. Comfortable, practical, and they hold up well over time.

What About Plumbers?

Plumbers, let’s be real, have it rough some days. One minute you're under a sink, next you’re chasing pipes through brick or crawling through a muddy crawl space. Your trousers take a beating, so durability’s a must.

What they look for:

• Strong knee areas (pads or reinforcement)
  
  

• Big pockets for fittings, tape, tools
  
  

• Tough material that doesn’t soak up every spill
  
  

• A waistband that doesn’t dig in when you’re crouched for half the day
  
  

Two proper workhorses stand out here:

🔧 Dickies Everyday Trousers

These are nothing fancy, but they get the job done. You’ll see them on every kind of tradesperson—and there’s a reason for that.

What plumbers like:

• Hardwearing poly/cotton blend
  
  

• Cargo pockets with loads of space
  
  

• Knee pad pockets (pair with decent inserts)
  
  

• Just the right weight—not too light, not too heavy
  
  

Affordable, no-fuss, and they last. If you’re getting through jobs where you’re covered in dust or grime by lunch, these are a solid shout.

🔧 Regatta Ada Women’s Stretch Holster Trousers

Let’s not forget the women on site—these trousers are made to actually fit. Finally.

Why they’re a game-changer:

• Proper female cut—no more baggy waist or awkward leg fits
  
  

• Stretch fabric you can move in
  
  

• Holster and utility pockets right where you need them
  
  

• Knee pad inserts and reinforced areas
  
  

They’re a rare find: flattering but built for work. For female plumbers doing the same graft as the lads, these just make sense.

Who Prefers What? Here's the Breakdown

Final Thoughts: Fit for the Job

Whether you’re rewiring a loft or fixing a burst pipe under a kitchen floor, the right trousers make a real difference. Not just in comfort, but in how quickly and easily you can crack on with the job.

• Electricians lean toward lighter, flexible trousers like the DeWalt Albany or Regatta Infiltrate—ideal when you’re moving quickly or working above ground.
  
  

• Plumbers usually go for sturdier kit like the Dickies Everyday or Regatta Ada—with reinforced bits, extra pockets, and room to move while you’re elbow-deep in pipework.
  
  

Either way, don’t settle for kit that slows you down. There’s too much graft to be done.

Where to Grab These Trousers

You can pick up all the trousers mentioned here from Alex Direct, including:

• DeWalt Albany Slim Fit Stretch Holster Trousers
  
  

• Regatta Infiltrate Stretch Holster Trousers
  
  

• Regatta Women’s Ada Stretch Holster Trousers
  
  

• Dickies Everyday Work Trousers