Let’s face it, when you're grafting for hours on end, what you wear can make or break your day. You want gear that’s not only tough enough for the job but actually feels good to wear. No rubbing, no bunching, no overheating. Just comfort.
Two of the biggest names on the market—Regatta Workwear and Scruffs Workwear—both claim to deliver that. But which one’s got the edge?
We tried them out, spoke to some lads on site, and looked closely at the details. Here's how it all stacks up.
Getting to Know the Brands
First off, both brands have solid reputations.
Regatta Workwear is part of the same Regatta that’s been kitting out hikers and campers for years. Their workwear line builds on that experience with weatherproof kit designed for real-world jobs. You’ll see Regatta jackets and trousers on everyone from landscapers to electricians.
Scruffs, on the other hand, are made for trades from the ground up. Since 2003, they’ve focused on building gear that holds up on-site and still looks sharp. The brand’s become known for its modern styles and performance fabrics.
You can check out both ranges over at Alex Direct:
How It Feels on the Skin
It doesn’t matter how tough your gear is if it scratches or clings in all the wrong places.
Regatta Workwear leans towards lightweight, breathable fabrics. Their trousers and jackets often come with water-resistant coatings and quick-drying linings. You can tell they were designed with movement in mind—nothing feels stiff or heavy.
Scruffs Workwear goes a bit heavier, but in a good way. Their hoodies, base layers, and jackets feel thicker, warmer, and more solid. One of the lads described putting on his Scruffs fleece as “like wearing a hug, but one that could take a beating.”
Winner: Hard to call. If you’re after light and airy, Regatta wins. But for warmth and softness, Scruffs pulls ahead.
Freedom to Move
There’s nothing worse than a kit that digs in when you're kneeling or climbing a ladder.
Regatta keeps their cuts fairly close to the body but adds clever shaping—articulated knees, stretch panels, and action backs that move with you.
Scruffs tends to run a bit roomier, which makes a difference if you’re layering in winter. Their trousers stretch in all the right places, and reinforcements don’t feel like armour plates.
Winner: Scruffs. More give, more comfort when you’re on the move.
Staying Cool or Keeping Warm
Working outdoors in Britain means battling sun, wind, rain—and sometimes all three before lunch.
Regatta really shines when it comes to staying cool. Many of their jackets are lined with mesh and have vents that actually work. On a warm day or in a sweaty warehouse, that matters.
Scruffs, on the other hand, is your mate when the temperature drops. Their insulated jackets and thermal layers hold heat well without feeling like you’ve wrapped yourself in carpet.
Winner: Depends on the season. Regatta for warm days, Scruffs when it’s Baltic out.
Do They Look the Part?
Now, we’re not saying workwear needs to be runway-ready. But it’s always a bonus when your gear looks sharp.
Regatta keeps things simple—clean lines, neutral colours, and not much in the way of loud branding. If you like understated, it’s a solid choice.
Scruffs brings a bit more flair. From contrast panels to bolder colour choices, it’s easy to spot. Their hoodies and trousers wouldn’t look out of place down the pub.
Winner: Scruffs, for adding a bit of personality without going overboard.
Built to Last, But Still Comfy
Durability’s a given in good workwear—but it shouldn’t come at the cost of comfort.
Regatta does a cracking job here. Even with triple stitching and reinforced bits, nothing feels bulky or rough. The insides are soft, and the seams don’t dig in.
Scruffs is just as strong, using Cordura on high-wear areas and bar-tacked stitching where it counts. But they’ve also nailed soft linings and flexible fabric that doesn’t pinch or rub.
Winner: Tie. Both brands strike a decent balance between toughness and comfort.
Value for Your Hard-Earned Money
Regatta usually comes in a bit cheaper, especially for jackets and layering gear. If you’re buying for a full crew or just want good kit on a budget, it’s a smart pick.
Scruffs costs a bit more, but you do get extras—like clever pocket designs, padded shoulders, and sharper styling.
Winner: Regatta for the wallet-conscious, Scruffs if you want premium touches.
So, after all that, who takes the comfort crown?
|
Comfort Category |
Best Option |
|
Fabric Feel |
Draw |
|
Flexibility |
Scruffs |
|
Climate Control |
Split (weather-dependent) |
|
Style |
Scruffs |
|
Durability vs Comfort |
Draw |
|
Value |
Regatta |
Overall Comfort Winner: Scruffs Workwear
Scruffs wins by a nose. It’s flexible, warm, looks good, and doesn’t wear you down by hour four of your shift. That said, Regatta Workwear is still a top-notch choice—especially if you need something breathable and cost-effective.
Ready to Upgrade Your Gear?
If you’re ready to feel the difference for yourself, you can grab both ranges over at Alex Direct:
