Spring didn’t last long here in central Florida, and we rolled into summer without so much as a “see ya later.” While some of you may have a gentler transition, there’s no doubt the hot weather is on the way. In preparation (or reaction in my case), I’ve pulled the best summer workwear on our radar for construction, landscaping and lawn care, or agriculture.
Obviously, heat is a key factor, so I’ve focused on workwear to help keep you cooler. This is also storm season for parts of the country, so I have some solid rain gear picked out as well.
Do you have any summer workwear finds to share? Tell us about them in the comments below!
Jump to These Top Workwear Sections
- New Workwear Lines
- Work Boots and Footwear
- Work Shirts
- Work Pants, Shorts, and Belts
- Work Outwear
- Safety Glasses and PPE
New Workwear Lines
ForgeLine Performance Fieldwear for Men and Womeb
For more than 20 years, ForgeLine has quietly operated as Patagonia’s government business, engineering and designing mission-critical fieldwear for U.S. Special Operations Forces.
They’ve taken everything they learned in the Lost Arrow Project, and ForgeLine has now officially launched its new line of Performance Fieldwear specifically designed for people who work and play in demanding outdoor environments.
Initially, we told you about the Oaks Camp and Grass Valley pants and jackets, but the line is quickly expanding with other options to round out the line.
While the jackets aren’t likely to be much help this season, Cozy Dell Merino shirts and the Sespe River rain jacket are solid summer picks. Both are available for men and women.
Work Boots and Footwear for Summer
Irish Setter Pipestone Work Boots for Men and Women
I did a double-take the first time I saw Irish Setter’s new Pipestone work boots. You almost never see a resoleable Goodyear welt construction for under $150 these days, especially from well-known brands. Still, Irish Setter pulled it off, and the Pipestone is one of the best values you’ll find today.
As a wedge work boot, it does its best work on hard surfaces where the higher surface contact improves your comfort and stability. It doesn’t have many upgraded features compared to models like the Wingshooter, but it covers the slip and electrical hazard ratings that are the most common requirements. There’s also an option for a steel toe.
So, if you’re looking for a durable work boot from a quality brand on a budget, take a close look at the Pipestone.
Price: $139.99 – $149.99
READ
Why More Pros are Turning to Wedge Work Boots (Including Us)
CAT Excavator Power Spring Work Boots for Men
Josh had the opportunity to review CAT’s new Excavator work boots featuring Power Spring technology, and that’s the key focus of this upgrade.
The basic concept is a dual-density midsole. The outer structure is firm to promote stability, while the inner section is softer to absorb the impact of your foot strikes. Looking at the boot, it’s clear that the design is different from a traditional midsole and outsole connection. But does it work?
To use Josh’s own words, “the moment I put on these boots, the benefits of this technology were evident.” That’s strong praise from a guy who writes more boot reviews over the course of the year than anyone else on our team.
Price: $174.95 – $204.95
Red Wing IronFlex Work Boots for Men and Women
Red Wing recently launched the IronFlex line of work boots with a unique foundation. It’s designed from literally millions of foot scans from Red Wing’s Ultimate Fit Experience, along with Red Wing’s internal wear testing and fit expertise. With so many data points to draw from, it’s the most dialed-in fit I’ve seen.
Of course, every foot is different, and these aren’t custom work boots. But for most people, they should fit better than other off-the-shelf options.
Red Wing also went with an interesting attachment approach. The heel of the boot features welted construction, while the front is cemented, combining durability and flexibility.
The IronFlex is a medium-duty, waterproof work boot with three styles available for men and one for women. The men’s line includes an option with the BOA Fit System.
Price: $234.99 – $274.99
Tecovas Longhaul Temp Control Work Boots for Men
We’ve had a fantastic experience with Tecovas’ Longhaul work boots, and for summer 2026, there’s an upgraded version with Temp Control.
At the basic level, the Longhual has a round toe, waterproof design with a composite safety toe for protection. They feature a long-lasting Goodyear welt and a heeled outsole with an aggressive lug pattern for traction.
What’s not so obvious at first glance is how comfortable these boots are. Almost every boot claims to be all-day comfortable, and Tecovas is no different. With more than a year of near-daily wear by our own Josh McGaffigan, we can vouch that those claims are legit.
Temp Control takes it to the next level. Incorporating technology from Kulkote, the material activates in warmer conditions to absorb heat from your feet and manage energy transfer. As that happens, it creates a cooling effect. When it’s cooler, the material acts as an insulation, making this version of the Longhaul a four-season boot in many parts of the country.
Price: $265
Read
Tecovas Longhaul Work Boot Review
Danner Ground Control Work Boots for Men
One of the trends I’m loving in work boots this year is a refocus on the mid-range price point. Danner’s new Ground Control is part of that, offering a waterproof boot that’s under $175.
In terms of style, it’s a straightforward 6-inch full-grain leather heeled boot with an outsole designed to give you excellent traction on any surface. It uses a direct attach connection, offering better durability than cement with a shorter break-in period than a Goodyear welt. The polyurethane midsole isn’t as cushy as air-injected EVA foam, but it’s going to last longer.
If you need a safety toe, you’ll have to settle for steel rather than a lightweight composite design. However, you’ll get Danner quality for a compelling price, so that’s a trade-off worth making.
Price: $160 – $170
Summer Work Shirts
Milwaukee Workskin Hooded Sun Shirts for Women
Long-sleeve hooded performance shirts are my go-to style in the summer, and Milwaukee just expanded its offerings with a women’s specific fit.
It hits all the right notes with fabric that’s moisture-wicking, odor-fighting, has plenty of stretch, is lightweight and breathable, and carries a UPF 50+ sun protection rating.
But one thing that sets it apart is a vertical hood vent running. The material is already highly breathable, so why the hood? It’s for your hair. If you have longer hair, you can choose to wear it down without tucking it into your shirt and deal with it sticking against your back when you have the hood up. It’s a little detail that makes a big difference in your comfort.
Price: $49.97
Ariat 360 AIrflow Polo for Men
Polo shirts are great for days you bounce back and forth between the office, client meetings, and site visits. Thanks to Ariat, they don’t have to be boring or uncomfortably hot.
Their new Airflow 360 polo takes a high-tech spin on the classic style with a moisture-wicking 92% polyester/8% elastane blend. It’s woven into Ariat’s 360 Airflow design that maximizes breathability on the hottest days to keep you comfortable. Plus, FreshTEK odor control helps keep those nasty-smelling bacteria in check so you can be just as comfortable around him.
The 360 Airflow Polo is available in 6 color options and sizes from small to 2XL.
Price: $54.99
Brunt Workwear Martin Sleeveless Pocket Tee
When it’s hot out, some of us cover up as much as we can to protect our skin from the sun, while others prefer to exercise their right to bare arms. If you’re on the latter side of the argument, Brunt’s Martin Sleeveless Pocket Tee is right up your alley.
Made from a 5.4-ounce 60% cotton/40% polyester blend, it’s a midweight shirt that holds up to rip and tear risks better than the ultra-lightweight designs some Pros prefer. It’s also the same base as the Martin short- and long-sleeve shirts, including the chest pocket and pencil holder. It just skips the sleeves for those of you who want ultimate arm freedom.
This style is available in five colors, but note that the safety yellow is 100% polyester.
Price: $24.99
Mossy Oak Tombigbee Light Pocket Tees
Mossy Oak came up with something that you’re going to want to pay attention to. Instead of the typical polyester or polyester/nylon blends we normally see, their Tombigbee Pocket Tees are made from 56% bamboo viscose, 40% polyester, and 4% spandex.
What does the bamboo viscose do for you? It makes for a super-soft shirt that’s more porous to improve breathability and sweat-wicking and has natural odor-fighting properties to keep you fresh longer. In some ways, it’s similar to Merino wool, but less expensive.
That’s why I’m saying to keep an eye on this material. Once more Pros begin to realize the benefits, I’m betting we’ll see it grow in popularity. Try the short- or long-sleeve Tombigbee for yourself instead of your typical cotton or polyester tees and feel the difference.
Price: $45 – $49
Spring Work Pants, Underwear, and Accessories
Truewerk T1 Pro Werkpant for Men
Truewerk’s T1 Werkpant is a warm-weather staple when the job demands high durability, and the T1 Pro uses the same technical fabrics and innovative features to usher in the next evolution.
The T1 Pro takes the industry’s first and most advanced softshell work pants and adds integrated knee pads. It’s a feature that’s not very common in the US market, and most options are much more expensive. Better still, they’re not overly bulky, and there’s nothing to strap on or worry about finding storage space for. Just put your T1 Pros on and get to work.
The T1 Pro is more than just the knee pads, though. In addition to the lightweight T1 fabric with its 4-way stretch, T2 fabric reinforcement on the knees improves durability, zippered thigh vents aid cooling, a PFAS/PFDA-free DWR treatment sheds light precipitation, there’s a comfortable stretch waistband, and of course, Truewerk’s trade-focused pocket loadout keeps your essentials close by.
Even if your expertise isn’t flooring, you might be surprised how often you’re down on a knee during the day, and it adds up over a career. Protect your knees before they become a problem, so you can keep doing life the way you like it.
Price: $119
KUIU Motive Workgrade Pants for Men
Building on their initial success in the workwear scene, KUIU launched a new work pant purpose-built for the summer season. The Motive Workgrade Pant features a lightweight, durable build that’s not afraid to show up early and stay late.
The material is a four-way stretch, double-ripstop nylon with double-layer knees and extra durability paneling, plus an anti-odor treatment and DWR water resistance. There are pockets galore, including utility drop pockets on the right thigh and a zippered cargo pocket on the left thigh.
But it’s the comfort that steals the show during hot weather. At just 172 grams per square meter, they’re seriously lightweight and elevate cooling even more with their zippered mesh side vents. Toss in a brushed inner lining and UPF 50 sun protection, and you have a complete summer work pant.
Price: $149
Truewerk Cloud AV Werkpant for Men
I’ve been wearing Truewerk’s Cloud Werkpants since they launched, and they’re my go-to lightweight pants for the hottest days on the job. With the Cloud AV Werkpant, they’re now even better.
The main fabric has been updated so that it’s significantly more tear-resistant while still maintaining the lightweight, quick-drying feel that I want. There are also now laser-cut leg vents. Positioned on the inner thigh where heat builds up, they are engineered to actively manage airflow.
But that’s not all. Reengineered Cloud AV Werkpants have a comfortable stretch waistband that stays put when you’re wearing a tool belt, offer easy mobility with a wider leg opening, and protect your legs from the sun with UPF 30+ protection. You’ll stay cooler on the jobsite while maintaining a clean, professional look.
Price: $79
1620 Lightweight NYCO Utility Shorts for Men
In April, 1620 launched an updated version of its utility shorts, making them an even better fit for summer. The big deal is that they’re now around 15% lighter. They’re made from Cordura’s Stretch NYCO (Spandex + Nylon + Cotton) twill, which claims to be 10 times tougher than cotton canvas. And frankly, it’s a pretty darn comfortable material in my experience.
At 8.5 oz/ sq yd, it’s a little heavier than some of the summer pants and shorts I prefer, but it’s hard to argue with its durability. Plus, it dries twice as fast as 100% cotton duck, and it meets the NFPA1975 no melt/no drip thermal property.
When it comes to features, it’s a pretty straightforward work short. However, it does have a cell phone drop pocket on the thigh, a functional hammer loop, and generous rear pockets. And as always, they’re made in the USA.
Price: $128
Arcade Mag Belt
We’ve been recommending Arcade belts for a couple of years now. Their micro-adjustable buckle system and strong webbing make them a natural fit for the trades and all types of outdoor work.
Now, they’ve come up with something new: a magnetic buckle system. I was a little skeptical of how relevant they might be, mainly because of the strength of the buckle’s closure. But my fears were unfounded, and despite the one-hand opening and closing, it won’t accidentally pop open on your.
Both versions—the Aero and the Polar—are part of the Adventure series, so they’ve got a bit more stretch to them. They’re a great fit for lawn care, landscaping, and other jobs that don’t require tools clipped directly on your belt. It’s also a solid bet for everyday wear, and the metal-free construction is TSA-friendly.
Price: $49.95
Helly Hansen HH Connect Plumbers Pocket
Helly Hansen’s Connect system is a brilliant design that allows you to zip purpose-built pouches to select work pants and shorts for men and women. There’s even a belt for non-compatible pants and a wall hanger.
While the system isn’t new, there is a new pouch, and this one is built specifically for the needs of plumbers. Made from 100% Polyamide, it features a heavy-duty construction, including a YKK zipper and AMANN threads.
There are several tool slots and pockets, focusing primarily on hand tools and smaller hardware, plus a tape holder and zippered cell phone pouch. While it was designed with feedback for the plumbing trade, electricians may also like this one.
Price: $35
Summer Work Outerwear
Milwaukee Workskin Sun Hat
Some products resonate with me more than others. As a Floridian, Milwaukee’s new Workskin Sunshade Hat immediately got my attention.
Made from lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking polyester, it carries a UPF 50+ rating, and the shell has a water-resistant coating to shed light precipitation. Inside, there’s a custom wicking sweatband to keep sweat from dripping down onto your face and eyes.
Plus, it has a detachable neck shade that can also clip onto your favorite ball cap. It and the chin cord also store on the hat, so you never have to worry about losing them when not in use.
The hat is available in two sizes and comes in grey or high-vis yellow. While most jobsites already have visibility regulations in place, I love the high-vis option for lawn care and landscaping to keep your crew safer around traffic. While they might not have intended it this way, the grey one makes a great fishing hat, too.
Price: $39.99
Truewerk S1 Stormshell Rain Jacket and Pants for Men
Summer is storm season, and in our neck of the woods, it’s a daily threat, so we always leave prepared. This summer, I’m packing Truewerk’s updated S1 Stormshell jacket and pants.
This highly packable jacket now stows in its own hand pocket so you can keep it close at hand, and it has a more relaxed fit for easier layering. Once the rain starts to fall, you’ll appreciate that its waterproof, sealed seam design is also lightweight and breathable. If you need even more airflow, simply unzip the underarm vents to let more heat escape. Unlike other rain jackets, the hood includes a bendable brim to help keep water out of your eyes.
The natural pairing is Truewerk’s S1 Stormshell pants. Featuring the same easily packable, lightweight, and breathable concepts, they’re designed to keep you comfortable in the rain.
So, ditch the excuses for leaving your rain gear behind, and lean on Truewerk’s lightweight, purpose-built S1 Stormshell jacket and pants when the work doesn’t allow for a rain delay.
Price: $149 S1 Stormshell Jacket, $99 S1 Stormshell Pant
Safety Glasses and PPE
Wiley X Saber Advanced SafetySunglasses
Wiley X’s Saber Advanced isn’t new. They’ve been around for a while, and they’re one of the most popular styles available. So why bring them up now?
There’s one big change to its certification. In addition to the ANSI Z78.1+ it had before, it now carries the MIL-PRF-32432A Ballistic safety standards rating as well. That’s a big deal if you’ve been eyeing these for duty use.
Aside from the change, the Saber Advanced is a solid all-around design. It uses a non-polarized lens, which keeps the price down and makes electronics easier to read. The classic wrap-around design is excellent at blocking debris and wind, and the lenses are interchangeable, so you can match the conditions easily.
Price: $58 – $100
