Construction, work & hi-vis
Work & hi-vis overtrousers
On site, overtrousers are PPE. That means standards and labels matter, not just comfort. Here's how to read them.
Two standards to look for
EN 343 Protection against rain
EN 343 is the European standard for garments that protect against rain and foul weather. Garments are tested (including seams) and given a class for water penetration resistance and a class for water vapour resistance, i.e. breathability. A higher class number means better performance in that test.
The classes are shown next to a pictogram on the label. Check the current version of the standard referenced on the label, and read the maker's information, which should explain what the numbers mean for that garment. Some labels also carry an advisory limit on continuous wear time for less breathable garments.
EN ISO 20471 High visibility
EN ISO 20471 covers high-visibility clothing for people who need to be seen, especially near traffic and moving plant. It specifies fluorescent background materials (typically yellow, orange or red) and retroreflective bands, and sets Class 1, 2 and 3 based mainly on the minimum area of each material. Class 3 gives the most conspicuity.
Trousers on their own generally reach Class 1 or 2. Class 3 is usually achieved by wearing certified trousers together with a certified hi-vis jacket, and the label or instructions should tell you which combinations achieve which class. If your site requires Class 3, check that the combination you are wearing is certified to meet it.
Some sectors have their own additional rules. Rail work, for example, commonly requires orange hi-vis to specific industry standards, and highways contracts often specify minimum classes. Always follow the requirements for your site.
Features that matter for trades
- Durable face fabric and reinforced knees: scaffold, rebar, brick and concrete are brutal on fabric.
- Knee pad pockets if you kneel a lot, and trousers cut to fit over work trousers with pads in.
- Wide leg openings or side zips to get on over safety boots or rigger boots.
- Welded or fully taped seams.
- Bib-and-brace styles for work that involves lots of bending and reaching.
- Keep hi-vis clean. Dirty, faded or damaged hi-vis may no longer meet its class. Replace it when it's worn, and follow the care label, which may limit the number of washes.
Overtrousers for other activities
Hillwalking & Fell
Cycling & Commuting
Farming & Agriculture
Fishing & Angling
Dog Walking
Motorcycling
Festivals
Kids & School
New to overtrousers? Start with the buying guide, then check sizing & fit.