Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

My #1 criteria when purchasing shorts is that they have usable pockets. I'm lucky in that men's shorts usually have them, unless they're specific athletic shorts. Most women in STEM that I know have found ways around the pocket problem- wearing men's clothing, belts, backpacks, etc.

Cargo shorts are so useful at competitions though, as carrying around tools and scouting lists and such is so much easier and more convenient in my pockets than my backpack, and I'd hope nobody at competitions is making scouting decisions based off my fashion sense anyway :P

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

I don't see how that's relevant to what I wrote. I didn't say you can't wear jeans every day. Dean looks substantially less goofy wearing all denim than he would if he wore cargo pants every day.

It makes perfect sense why someone like the people you listed would only have one real day to day outfit in their wardrobe...however I don't think you'll find many of those people whose outfit includes cargo pants.

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

I used to carry a backpack at competitions. My backpack has since fallen apart and since I have no other need for one, I didn't replace it.

We have a tool bag that travels with the robot that I use if I need something. If I need to have something special or an extra set of something or another, I'll just throw them in my purse. I sort of enjoy the idea that I'm probably the only coach in FRC (or one of very, very few) doing it while carrying a Kate Spade purse. :p

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

Some team needs to convert their give-away fund for some of these:

Custom Leathercraft 1104 Multi-Purpose Poly Tool Holder

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

That looks pretty cool!!!

I have a Woolrich vest that I've had for almost 30 years that I primarily use for kiteflying. Same problem you are on the flying field and need to have extra string, tails, cutting things, tape, water, etc. It's worked well for me. It's cotton and has a vented back with mesh so it's cool to wear all day.

I've worn it at some VEX events and somewhere around here is a picture of RoboMom with our vests, they are indeed a fashion statement.

Pro tip, check them for length, I got the Woolrich one because the extra length covers well below my belt in the back when I'm down on my knees. :rolleyes:

Most days for VEX stuff I carry a small canvas bag (it's a re-purposed insulated lunch bag. There is an inside pocket for the phone.

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

Not to say that I agree with other people on this, but people often consider Dean eccentric.

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment...717-story.html

So, at least to me, suggesting that cargo pants all the time is more eccentric is kind of ironic. What's the difference? More pockets? Would carpenter pants made of denim be any better they also have more pockets.

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

I tried to convince my kids that we need team logo fanny packs but sadly they rejected the idea :( I guess I will just have to get one online and rock it solo at competitions

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

I recently determined that fanny packs are the way to go. To me, it's the best compromise: it won't swing around like a purse and get in the way, and I get to wear my preferred pants. I'm thinking of getting something with a goofy print.

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

If not fanny packs, purses, or vests, you can always try tool belts. One of my graduated students had used one from The Original Pink Box - it was definitely built to be durable!
https://www.amazon.com/Original-Pink.../dp/B002DMLJNK

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

I'm surprised how many people think wearing shorts is okay. Many facilities require long pants. OSHA leaves it to management to weigh the hazards, but I believe liability coverage often comes down on the side of long pants. See this PDF from a joint insurance fund in New Jersey.

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

Personally, I only ever wear Norts or athletic leggings to competitions because I always find myself running all around and for me, jeans or other pants are too hot and not nearly as comfortable to move around in. Also, most of my "real pants" are still pretty thin and provide very little additional protection considering I still end up with cuts and bruises while wearing them.

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

Pockets tend to wear out fairly quick holding tools. Most trades use utility belts, they hold more and are easier to organize. At the end of the day you take off your belt and everything is there for the next day. Less chance of losing tools. Kinda along the line of the fanny pack but more utilitarian.

A quick search turn up this one for women:
http://women.duluthtrading.com/store...cessor=content

A belt pouch might be good also.
http://women.duluthtrading.com/store...cessor=content

Carhartt makes work pants for women.
http://www.carhartt.com/content/prod...tFinder-121715

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

One wonders what makes one tool belt better suited for women than another.

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

I suspect the belts are smaller. A few years ago I went shopping for a new framing belt and couldn't get the the one I really liked because I was too skinny. :o

Re: Pockets on Women's Pants
 

I have a pocket obsession and need to have lots of them to keep my things organized. Since women's pants lack the pockets that I need, I have found wearing a light jacket or sweatshirt is the way to go.
I also like to wear a cinch bag and carry a carry a clipboard to gain more space.