We asked installer Ben Clews to put some of the latest workwear from Scruffs through its paces. HVP Editor Joe Dart finds out how he got on.

Ben Clews is a plumbing and heating installer based in Stoke-on-Trent. Owner of his own business, BP Clews Energy Services, we asked him to trial a range of workwear from Scruffs for several weeks and talk to us about his experience with the products. 

He tested the outfit in a number of different everyday situations, including a couple of boiler services, a boiler install, and a new bathroom install, and he got plenty of use of the products in both inside and outside working environments. Hear how he got on below.

Scruffs Worker Softshell Jacket

Specification:

  • Water-resistant fabric provides protection from light rain
  • Fleece lining to help retain body heat and provide added comfort
  • Secure zipped pockets for the safe storage of accessories
  • Adjustable hood for secure protection from the elements
  • Elasticated cuffs and hem for a secure and comfortable fit
  • Suitable for layering in cold conditions
  • Fabric: 100% polyester.

Ben's thoughts:

  • “The jacket’s quite lightweight, it’s nice and warm, and quite waterproof. I was wearing it over a jumper, it’s quite a good fit really.”
  • “Good quality.”
  • “Good for working outside.”

Scruffs Pro Flex Plus Holster Trousers

Specification:

  • Flexible slim fit with four-way stretch fabric throughout for comfort and freedom of movement
  • Abrasion resistant top-loading stretch CORDURA knee pockets for enhanced durability
  • Two kneepad positions for comfort
  • Easy access holster pockets
  • Cargo pocket, rule pocket, mobile phone pocket, and secure zipped pocket
  • Hammer loop, tool loops, and D-ring for tool and accessory storage
  • Adjustable hem with hard-wearing canvas fabric reinforcement for enhanced durability
  • Triple-stitched seams for long lasting durability
  • YKK zipped fly
  • Fabric: 92% nylon, 8% elastane, 200gsm.

Ben's thoughts:

  • “[They weren’t able to provide my exact leg length so I found them] long along the leg, meaning your kneepads are in the wrong place. So when you’re kneeling about, you’re continually having to rearrange them. That’s not a trouser fault, that’s a size/length fault.”
  • “They’re incredibly lightweight. Even though they’re stretchy, they could have done with being a bit heavier weight material.”
  • “I can see the advantages of them being stretchy because, when you’re up and down steps and things, they are moving with you, that’s a bonus.”
  • “The pockets were fine, but I felt again that if you put anything too heavy in the side pockets, it’d be a bit too stretchy. It just wasn’t comfortable putting a heavier weight in there.”

Scruffs Rapid Safety Boots

Specification:

  • Fully waterproof for all-day comfort
  • Lightweight, flexible protection from sole penetration
  • Poron sock provides extra cushioning for added underfoot comfort
  • Padded tongue and collar for extra comfort
  • Slip-resistant for safe working
  • Under foot shock absorption to reduce stress on the foot and ankle
  • Anti-static footwear prevents electrostatic build up, to eliminate the risk of electric shock
  • Heat-resistant sole provides extra comfort and protection in hot working environments
  • Safety rating: S3.

Ben's thoughts:

  • “They’re nice and lightweight and they took a good week to break in. My normal boots that I wear at the moment are Scruffs, but as soon as you put these on you go out and they’re immediately comfy. They’re nice and sturdy, and there’s a good sole on them.”
  • “I didn’t sweat too much in them, I know it sounds daft but your feet can overheat in certain boots.”
  • “A good recommendation, they are. They’re waterproof too, which was helpful for how wet I got.”
  • “They were nice and stiff around the ankle, so I felt as though I could get a good ankle support.”