Denim Jeans & Heat
Blue jeans are not my first choice when it comes to lower body wear
on a day exceeding 90 degrees. Although normally made from cotton,
their extremely tight weave and treated fabric inhibit much of the
positive attributes of the fabric and with no vents they can trap in
heat and cause excessive sweating. The only exception would be very
lightweight denim that has been washed extensively.
Cotton Chinos & Heat
Often a better choice than jeans as cotton chinos have a looser weave
that allows more air to flow between the fabric and your legs. A
gentleman who finds he’ll need to be wearing these throughout a hot
summer would be well advised to ensure the length of his chinos are
hemmed with no break. This slightly short length may not be
“sartorially correct” to some; however, it will promote airflow when he
walks, separating the pant leg from the shoe.
Dress Trousers & Heat
Tropical wools or high end cotton weaves should be the fabrics you
look for in a good pair of summer dress trousers. By far these are some
of the best lower body coverings for summer; lightweight and
breathable, they promote proper airflow and resist trapping heat. Wool
will drape better and resist wrinkling but is more fragile and less
breathable than equivalent weight cotton. Cotton is usually less
expensive, more durable, and found in more lively colors, but unless
custom made, is often less flattering to a man’s figure due to the
stiffness of the fabric.
