Portwest C701 Durable Reinforced Combat Trouser in Navy (Tall) – Size 42
Product description
Built for hard wearing days
The Portwest C701 Durable Reinforced Combat Trouser is a workwear-style combat trouser built around the idea of repeated wear and rougher handling. On paper, it’s made for people who want practical storage and extra reinforcement where trousers often give up first.
It comes in a navy colourway and the listing specifies a Tall fit, which is worth thinking about if standard leg lengths tend to feel a bit short. The fabric blend is a polyester/cotton mix, so you get a balance between comfort and the kind of day-to-day robustness you’d expect from this category.
Storage and access that doesn’t fight you
What stands out immediately is the number of pockets. There are six pockets for added carrying capacity, alongside side and accessible pockets, plus two patch back pockets. That’s the kind of layout that can help if you’re regularly moving around and need items kept to hand rather than in a bag.
A small but practical detail is the self-gripping (self-adhesive) fastening, which is designed for easier access. If you’re the sort of person who doesn’t want to faff with complicated closures mid-task, that’s the right direction—just bear in mind it’s still a fastening system, so you’ll want to make sure the fit sits well around your waist for comfort.
Reinforcement where it matters
This model is described as having reinforced seams and reinforced tension points. Over time, seams are often the first stress area, especially with workwear that gets used hard—so the reinforcement focus is sensible rather than cosmetic.
Depending on how you use them, this could be more convincing than trousers that only look rugged. If your priority is truly durable construction for kneeling, bending, and constant movement, these are built with that in mind.
UV protection for outdoor days (UPF 40+)
The fabric is rated UPF 40+ and is stated to block 98% of UV rays. That’s a meaningful feature if you spend time outside—commutes, maintenance jobs, site work, or any routine where sun exposure adds up.
Worth noting: UPF ratings are about fabric protection, not about how fully your whole body is covered. If you’re working in intense sun for long periods, it’s still smart to pair this with sensible sun habits.
Tech summary (what the listing says)
- Exterior fabric: Kingsmill 65% polyester, 35% cotton
- UPF rating: UPF 40+
- Wash care: max 60°C normal wash, do not use bleach, tumble dry on normal setting, dry by dripping and line drying, iron max 150°C, professional dry cleaning normal process (tetrachloroethylene)
You may also want to double-check your preferred colour and height within the range, because Portwest notes multiple navy options (including different “high/low” variants), and this specific listing is for Tall.
Who it suits, and who might want to look elsewhere
It’s a solid pick if you want a combat-style trouser with reinforced construction cues, multiple pockets for practical carry, and UPF 40+ fabric protection for outdoor use.
It may not be the best match if you’re after something lightweight for hot weather or if you prefer a more minimal pocket layout. Also, if you need very specific tailoring, don’t assume Tall will be perfect without checking fit—combat trousers can sit differently depending on how you like them around the waist and hips.
A quick everyday example: imagine a busy day that starts outdoors and keeps you moving—tools, gloves, small essentials, and the usual “where did I put that?” moments. With the pocket count and reinforced focus described here, these trousers are designed to reduce the hassle of switching items between bag and hands.
Final verdict
When it makes sense
Buying this Portwest C701 Tall combat trouser makes sense if you need rugged, reinforced workwear-style trousers with plenty of pockets, plus fabric-rated UV protection for outdoor time.
When you might skip it
You may want to skip it if you’re looking for a super-light summer option, or if you don’t need multiple pockets and would rather prioritise a simpler, less bulky trouser design. And double-check the Tall sizing (and how it suits your leg length preference) before committing, because comfort is where the best value shows up.
Mini FAQ
What fabric is the Portwest C701 made from?
The exterior fabric is listed as Kingsmill 65% polyester and 35% cotton.
Does it offer UV protection?
Yes—UPF 40+ is stated, with 98% UV ray blocking in the description.
How many pockets does it have?
The listing describes six pockets for added capacity, including side pockets and patch back pockets.
Is it easy to access items?
The description mentions accessible pockets and a self-gripping closure intended to make access easier.
How should it be washed?
The care instructions list max 60°C normal wash, no bleach, tumble dry on normal, line drying, iron up to 150°C, and professional dry cleaning normal process (tetrachloroethylene).