Truewerk vs 1620 Work Pants: Ultimate 2025 Comparison

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Let’s just get it out there: picking the right work pants can make or break your day on the jobsite. I’ve spent years crawling under houses, busting out demo, and finishing up trim work, all while cycling through every work pant brand out there. After torching through countless pairs that couldn’t keep up, I landed on two brands that completely changed the game for me, but are also very different—Truewerk and 1620 Workwear.

When it comes to a Truewerk vs 1620 work pants comparison, let’s be real, there’s a lot more at stake than just picking “a pair of pants.” The right workwear can make your whole day smoother (or miserable). But what really sets them apart? And which is actually better for the jobs most of us tackle?

Ready for the real scoop on comfort, durability, and where each brand wins and loses? The truth behind the Truewerk vs 1620 work pants battle might surprise you.

Let’s get after it!

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Truewerk vs 1620 Work Pants: Brand Overview & First Impressions

First things first, let’s talk about what makes these brands actually stand out in a sea of generic “work pants.”

Truewerk is all about modern technical performance. They lean hard into the athletic, stretchy, almost sport-gear vibe. My first time ordering Truewerk, I was honestly surprised by how slick their site felt, how helpful customer service was, and how fast the shipping was. Read my Truewerk pants review here.

Then you’ve got 1620, which feels more like the old-school, made-in-USA, “we build stuff that lasts” attitude, except upgraded for modern tradesmen. The first time I held a pair of 1620s, I could feel the difference: heavier fabric, tight stitching, even the packaging felt premium. Not gonna lie, the price tag made me gulp at first, but these pants are built like tanks. Read my honest 1620 pants review here.

Here’s a quick rundown of what jumped out to me the first time I bought each:

Honestly, both brands blew away every cheap pair I’d trashed before. The main thing? Each is targeting a slightly different kind of DIYer or tradesman. That’s why I keep both in rotation, depending on what kind of day (and job) I’m staring down.

Ready for the real test? Let’s dig into which pants actually last when the work gets dirty.

Durability & Fabric: Which Work Pant Actually Lasts?

If there’s one thing that separates work pants from the pile of retired jeans in your closet, it’s durability. I’ll be honest, Truewerk vs 1620 work pants is a heavyweight match when it comes to fabric and toughness, because both have stood the test of time in my experience.

Truewerk uses these wild technical fabrics that almost feel like high-end hiking gear. The first time I wore them on a muddy remodel, I half-expected them to snag or rip, but nope. They flexed, stretched, and shed mud way better than old-school canvas ever did. Still, after almost a year of crawling through crawlspaces and snagging them on framing nails and more, I did notice a bit of pilling and some minor abrasions but that’s just wear.

Nothing detrimental and no holes yet.

1620, though? Different animal. Their pants feel almost overbuilt in the best way. I’ve hammered fence posts, dragged lumber, even slid down a rocky hillside (don’t ask), and they barely looked scratched. That heavier fabric, most models use high-denier Cordura or blended canvas, just laughs at rough jobs. I’ve had a pair outlast three of my “other brand” pants combined, no joke. Even the stitching and bar tacks seem bombproof.

Only real downsides? You’ll feel it in the summer, they’re tough, but they’re warm and they cost a pretty penny.

After a year or more, here’s how they’ve held up for me:

Brand	Fabric & Build	Long-Term Durability	Weather Strengths
Truewerk	Stretchy, lightweight blends	Some pilling, minor wear	Great in heat & humidity
1620	Heavy-duty Cordura/canvas	Practically “indestructible”	Awesome in cold, tough in heat

So, what’s the verdict? If you want work pants that’ll survive almost anything (and maybe even look better with scars), 1620 takes it.

Still, both have survived jobs that shredded my old “work pants.” Just depends what kind of abuse you’re throwing at them.

Fit, Comfort, & Mobility: Real-World Wearability

Let’s talk about the stuff you notice after hour six on the jobsite: fit, comfort, and how these pants move with you (or don’t). In the Truewerk vs 1620 work pants battle, both brands bring a unique vibe, but they’re very different when it comes to wearability.

Truewerk is straight-up the most comfortable work pant I’ve ever thrown on, especially when I’m moving nonstop. They’ve nailed the athletic, flexible fit. The waistband actually moves with you (not against you), and I never feel pinched, even crawling around on subfloors or stretching up a ladder. Seriously, on sweaty days or when I’m framing in the Santa Barbara sun, I’ll reach for Truewerk every time.

If you want the full breakdown, check out my Truewerk pants review for the nitty gritty.

Now, 1620 is a whole different beast. The fit feels more like a classic, tailored work pant that’s structured, a bit more rigid out of the bag, but it breaks in well (once you finally do). What I really love is how they nail the balance: you get that pro, sharp look without feeling too trapped in stiff canvas.

After several washes and wears, the comfort goes up a notch, and the mobility is decent, but it takes a while. The knee articulation and gussets help, especially when I’m squatting or kneeling for trim work. However, kneeling and raising the knees high is a bit more taxing than in Truewerks.

For all the details, check my full 1620 pants review.

Quick rundown for how they stack up day-to-day:

Brand	Fit Style	Comfort Rating	Mobility
Truewerk	Athletic, flexible	10/10	Super stretchy
1620	Tailored, classic	8.5/10	Structured and stiff but more mobile after the break-in

One tip: sizing can vary! I always recommend double-checking the size guides, especially if you’re used to big-box brands. I’ve learned the hard way that sizing up is a must for my fit and build.

Bottom line? If your day is non-stop movement, Truewerk is hard to beat for comfort and flexibility. If you want a slightly more structured fit that’ll still let you move but looks sharp on and off the site, 1620 delivers.

Jobsite Performance: Functionality & Features

When it comes to real jobsite use, the little features on your pants matter way more than you think. In the Truewerk vs 1620 work pants matchup, both offer great function, just with a different approach.

Truewerk is loaded with pockets and clever details. Tailored pockets keep your phone and bits safe, even when you’re climbing ladders. I’ve come to love the phone and pencil pocket combo on the right thigh. The waistband stays put, and knee pad pockets are a lifesaver for floor work or tiling.

1620 goes heavier on the old-school durability. Deeper, reinforced pockets mean you’re not blowing out seams, even carrying tools all day. Their knee pad slots and double knees are built for serious abuse, and tool pockets are actually sized for the real stuff we carry.

Both shed stains and water well, but Truewerk feels lighter and dries quicker. 1620 takes sparks and scrapes better thanks to the heavier fabric.

Quick pro/con rundown:

Brand	Pocket Setup	Knee Pad Ready	Stain/Water Resist	Special Features
Truewerk	Lots, velcro pockets	Yes (certain models)	Excellent	Grippy waistband, light
1620	Deep, reinforced	Yes (certain models)	Very good	Heavy double knees, rugged

Bottom line: Both are built for the jobsite. Truewerk for lighter, flexible comfort, and 1620 for tough jobs where nothing can fail.

Style, Versatility, & Everyday Use

Let’s be honest, how your work pants look might not matter at 7 a.m., but when you’ve got to run errands, grab lunch, or meet a client after the job, suddenly it counts. In the Truewerk vs 1620 work pants debate, I’ve found both can handle jobsite grime and still look presentable when the day’s done. But they each have their own style.

Truewerk leans athletic and modern. You can wear them to the jobsite, out for errands, or even on a weekend hike. They come in lots of colors, clean up well, and don’t fade much, even with heavy use.

1620 delivers a classic, pro look that works on-site and when meeting clients. They’re heavier, but they clean up sharp and look good even after a tough day. For anything from a job walkthrough to dinner out, 1620 fits right in.

Here’s a quick style/versatility comparison:

Brand	Style Vibe	Everyday Use	Color Options	“Dress Up” Potential
Truewerk	Athletic/Modern	High (on/off site)	Many	Decent (casual look)
1620	Classic/Pro with Modern Fit	High (but heavier)	Many	High (looks sharp)

Bottom line: Both move from jobsite to everyday life easily. Truewerk if you want a lightweight, flexible style; 1620 for a polished, professional, and rugged vibe.

Price, Value, & Longevity: Is the Investment Worth It? Discount Code Alert

Let’s cut to the chase, regardless of Truewerk vs 1620 work pants, they aren’t cheap…

That’s usually the first thing that scares people off, and I get it. Dropping over a hundred bucks on a pair of work pants can feel nuts if you’re used to bargain brands. But, if you do the math on how long they last (and the headaches they save), the price starts making a whole lot more sense if you actually work for a living.

Truewerk comes in a bit cheaper, especially if you catch a sale or snag a bundle. The initial investment isn’t exactly small, but the comfort and flexibility you get are worth every penny, especially if you’re moving a lot or working in hotter climates.

1620 costs more upfront, a lot more. But these things are built to outlast just about everything else I’ve worn (and you’ll save with my code “TEKTON10“). My first pair is still going strong after heavy abuse, and I’m convinced I’ll get double or triple the lifespan compared to other brands (even Truewerk).

The “cost per wear” is actually pretty reasonable if you’re in the trades full-time, and the peace of mind that comes with that “Made in USA” label is just… different. Plus, their warranty is one of the best in the business, so you know they stand behind their gear.

Here’s a breakdown for clarity:

Brand	Upfront Cost	Expected Lifespan	Cost Per Wear	Warranty & Support
Truewerk	Moderate (nearly $100)	2-3 years regular	Low-moderate	Good, responsive
1620	High ($180-$300+)	4+ years heavy use	Very low (long term)	Outstanding, USA-based

If you’re a DIYer or just getting into the trades, it’s tempting to cheap out, but honestly? You end up paying more in the long run when you keep replacing blown-out pants. Truewerk is great if you need comfort and flexibility on a budget. But if you want your pants to last (and look sharp doing it), 1620 is absolutely worth the investment, and you can use my discount code TEKTON10 to save a good amount.

Either way, don’t forget to check out my full Truewerk review and 1620 review for deeper dives and up-to-date deals.

My Honest Verdict: Which Work Pant Wins?

Alright, if you’re still here, you’re probably ready for a straight answer, Truewerk vs 1620 work pants, which one should you actually buy?

After years of sweating, crawling, climbing, and hammering in both brands, here’s the truth: there’s no single “winner” for everyone. Each shines for a different reason, and honestly, that’s why I keep both in my lineup.

If you need something that moves with you all day, feels feather-light, and stays cool even when you’re hustling in the heat, go with Truewerk. They’re unbeatable for breathability and flexibility. I reach for mine any time I know I’ll be on the move, or when a job gets messy and I don’t want to feel bogged down.

But if you’re after pants that’ll take a beating, hold up for years, and look pro doing it? 1620 is the king. These are the ones I’ll throw on for heavy demo, rough framing, or any time I want to feel like I could take on the world (or just a gnarly foundation repair). Plus, supporting made-in-USA gear always feels good.

To make it easy, here’s how I break it down:

Scenario	My Go-To Brand	Why?
Hot weather, high mobility	Truewerk	Breathable, light, stretchy
Heavy demo or harsh conditions	1620	Durable, tough as nails, double knees
All-day comfort (inside/outside)	Truewerk	No chafing, great waistband
Client-facing or sharp looks	1620	Professional, holds its shape and color
Made in USA matters	1620	100% American made, great warranty
Budget-conscious DIYers	Truewerk	Lower upfront cost, solid sales/bundles

Final tip? If you can, grab one pair of each and rotate based on your workday. That’s what I do, and I’ve never looked back. If you want the full deep-dive or want to see which models I recommend, check out my detailed Truewerk pants review and 1620 pants review.

No matter which you choose, both brands deliver serious value and will leave those “big box” work pants in the dust.

Truewerk vs 1620 Work Pants Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably as obsessed with finding the perfect work pants as I am. The Truewerk vs 1620 work pants debate isn’t about picking one “best” pair—it’s about knowing what fits your work, your budget, and your style. I’ve sweated, stained, and flat-out abused both brands, and I’d happily trust either on any jobsite.

If you want more honest reviews, field-tested DIY tips, and exclusive gear deals, make sure you join my email list below. I share the real stuff I learn out in the field, not just what you see in ads. And if you’re hungry for more, check out my other gear reviews and hands-on guides right here on Tekton Travis.

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