How our signature FR pant came to be
If you’re familiar with the MWG brand, you probably know all about our Flexguard Multi-Function Utility Pant. The combination of our durable stretch canvas with functional features has made it a favorite amongst our customer base. But what truly sets this FR pant apart from the rest were the years of collaboration and development that led up to the final product.
The Early Stages of our Signature FR Pant
As we began taking on new customers across Canada and the United States, many individuals had already established their brand and style preferences. There was little to no criticism of the clothing we were supplying, but there was a desire for a product they had grown to love over the years.
A canvas pant, similar to brands like Carharrt or Wrangler, had been the pant of choice for many of these individuals prior to requiring a flame-resistant or arc-rated option. Listening to these calls, we sought to provide an option that exceeded even their greatest hopes.
Making an FR Pant Remarkable
First, we began developing a classic heavyweight canvas that would provide CAT 2 arc-flash protection. We wanted to combine that timeless fit and feel with the FR protection our customers require. To take it a step further, we worked to add a stretch component for better movement while on the job.
The result is our spectacular FLEXGUARD fabric, a durable stretch canvas with an 8.5 ATPV. This fabric served as the ideal base for our new multi-function work pant for use in electrical utilities.
Second, it was absolutely essential that this pant would be as durable as our inherent FR clothing. Because it’s a stretch canvas, the fabric does not have the same lifespan as our inherently flame-resistant fabric blends. To compensate for this reality, the durability of this pant would depend on the construction.
The construction of all our garments has always been done to the highest standards. Our history in the manufacturing of military-grade clothing in our CGSB certified factory, guarantees all of our FR clothing is produced at the highest quality.
Using triple-needle construction, bar-tacking all stress points, reinforced knees, diamond crotch reinforcement, durable belt loops, and double-layered kick plates, these pants can really take a beating. Combining quality like this with proper care and washing, and you’ll be wearing these pants for years to come.
And finally, the function. Rather than just duplicating the designs of others, we figured we would make this one unlike anything they had ever seen before. Making a truly remarkable piece involves incorporating as much input as possible. Hearing and integrating the opinions of those who will be wearing our garments has helped to build our line of FR clothing.
Working closely with powerline technicians and wind turbine technicians, the decision was made to incorporate a low profile knee pad into the design of the pant. Because a lot of tasks require crouching, kneeling, and working in confined spaces, this idea was a no-brainer. Providing more comfort and safety has always been our goal, and this would achieve both.
Instead of choosing a knee pad on our own, we decided to work with end-users to implement a design that would work best for them. At our factory, end-users and safety experts across Canada and the U.S. landed on a low-profile, impact-resistant pad to best fit their needs. This gave us the confidence to move forward with our design and bring it to the masses.
The Best Darn FR Pant Ever Made
“The best darn pant we’ve ever made” is quite the statement from a company who has been manufacturing clothes for nearly one hundred years – but it’s true. The response to these FR pants has been remarkable. Roaring reviews have came in from across the continent, all feeling like the pant had been designed specifically for their line of work. Collaborating with experts in the field allowed our design team to understand the wants and needs of the worker, creating a piece that has quickly become a must-have for workers in the electricity sector.
Our relationships with end-users, and our desire to create incredible products, makes a world of difference when introducing new items to our large programs and individuals across Canada. Hearing your thoughts and ideas helps us grow and can help you find the product you have always wanted.