Best Lightweight Work Trousers for Summer

When it’s hot on site, it’s not just uncomfortable - it’s hazardous.

Heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion can all lead to safety risks. The good news? The right workwear can help.

Kit your teams out with lightweight work trousers that help them stay safe, cool, and focused.

Read on to learn what to look for, which fabrics to choose, and the best work trousers for summer.

WHAT’S THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIAL FOR SUMMER TROUSERS?

Not all fabrics can take the heat.

Before you buy, check that your workwear can handle the job, conditions, and any site-specific risks. 

Look for lightweight work trousers that let the body breathe, move freely, and stay protected.

The best summer materials include:

• Ripstop or lightweight canvas - breathable, tear-resistant, and supportive
• Cotton-rich fabrics - soft, breathable, and comfortable for warm conditions
• Polycotton or recycled polyester blends – lightweight, fast-drying, and durable
• Technical stretch fabrics (like polyester blends or nylon) - built for movement and long-lasting wear

TOP TIP: Want to brand your summer kit? Check the fabric to see if it can handle embroidery or heat sealing.

Explore all the branding tips and tricks you need. 

HOW TO FIND SUMMER WORK TROUSERS

Don’t hand out winter trousers in July. And don’t just find lighter work trousers either. 

Your team needs summer work trousers that are built to handle heat and hard work.

What to look for in cool work trousers: 

• Breathable, fast-drying fabrics
• Reinforced seams for durability 
• Built-in stretch for easy movement
• Vented panels in high-sweat zones
• Cotton, polyester, or blended fabrics 

TOP TIP: Don’t forget pockets, including knee pad compartments. 

EN-RATED FOR SAFETY COMPLIANCE

Safety standards stay the same, even when the seasons change. 

Your summer work trousers should still be EN-rated to meet all your site’s safety needs.

Here’s the standard you need:

• EN 14404 - Kneepad protection for long periods of kneeling
• EN ISO 20471 - High visibility for railway, motorway, or low-light work
• EN ISO 11612 - Flame and heat resistance for high-risk environments

Don’t choose comfort over compliance. Choose both with our trusted ROKWEAR® brand.

CHOOSING THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT WORK TROUSERS

For the best protection, buy summer work trousers built for the job, risks, and your team.

Here’s what we’d look for:

• Colours that match your brand
• Heat-tested, breathable fabrics
• Inclusive sizing and adjustable fits
• Pocket, holster, or kneepad options
• Balance between budget and quality
• Durable designs built for demanding jobs

Need a complete summer kit? Explore our full summer range.

DON’T FORGET YOUR LOGO

Branding matters. Get it right and it can build trust, promote your business, and bring your team together.

That being said, not every lightweight fabric is easy to brand.

Before you order:

• Don’t cover reflective tape on hi-vis.
• Look for safe areas to place your logo.
• Choose colours that work with your logo.
• Pick fabrics suitable for embroidery or heat-sealing.

DID YOU KNOW? SMI offers fast 2-day dispatch on branded gear.

Want to learn more about custom branding?
Contact us today for expert and friendly advice.

WOMEN’S SUMMER WORK TROUSERS AND ECO OPTIONS

Make sure your summer work trousers fit everyone. 

A better fit for all means more comfort, safety, and focus in the heat. 

Plus, combining inclusive fits and eco-friendly fabrics will help you to meet your sustainability goals. 

Take a look at our women’s workwear and eco ranges.

TOP 3 WORK TROUSERS FOR HOT WEATHER

Here’s our fave heat-friendly work trousers for summer:

1. ROKWEAR® WITLEY hi-vis breathable overtrouser

Need cool and compliant work trousers for railway, highway, or low-light work?

The ROKWEAR® WITLEY offers breathable coated polyester, an elasticated waist, cargo pockets, and zipped leg access for easy on and off.

2. LEO HANNAFORD breathable women’s overtrousers

Want a smarter summer work trouser for your female workers?

The LEO HANNAFORD comes with breathable fabric, an elasticated waist with a shock cord adjuster, a half-leg YKK zip for easy access, and hook-and-loop ankle adjusters.

3. CRAGHOPPERS EXPERT KIWI PRO stretch trousers

Looking for lightweight trousers with built-in sun protection?

The CRAGHOPPERS EXPERT offers UPF 40+ sun protection, part elasticated waistband, plenty of pockets, and an EcoShield DWR finish in both men’s and women’s fits.

TOP TIP: Ask your supplier for free trials and get your teams to provide feedback. 

DID YOU KNOW? SMI offers free product trials!

KEEP TEAMS COOL WITH SMI

Don’t make finding summer workwear a struggle.

With over 40 years of experience, expert teams, and more than 25,000 products, we make finding hot weather gear a breeze.

Here’s why:

• 97% stock availability 
• Dedicated account manager
• Inclusive and eco-friendly options 
• Logo-ready workwear for better branding
• Fast 2-day dispatch on branded workwear
• Good, better, best options to suit every budget

Get your team summer-ready!
Chat with our friendly team today.

FINAL TIPS FOR STAYING COOL ON SITE

Comfortable and compliant workwear is a must.

But, it’s not the only way to keep teams safe in the heat.

Try: 

• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Regular water breaks and shade time
• Breathable footwear and safety clothing
• Cooling gear like vented helmets or bump caps
• Avoiding the most physically demanding jobs in peak hours

DOES YOUR TEAM NEED OTHER SUMMER WORKWEAR AND PPE?

Check out our latest Summer Product Spotlight!

FAQs

What are good summer work trousers for hot weather?

Go for breathable, lightweight trousers made from ripstop or polycotton blends. 

For extra cooling power, opt for summer trousers made from moisture-wicking fabrics that have ventilation zones.

What trousers are best for summer?

Be careful choosing thinner work trousers - they still need to protect against the heat and safety risks on site.

Keep it simple - choose EN-rated and quick-drying, long-lasting fabrics.

What is the best material for work trousers?

It depends on the job. For demanding manual labour in high temperatures, choose ripstop, lightweight polycotton, or recycled technical fabrics. 

Find the right kit for your teams – explore the full SMI range today.