Product Review | Hoggs of Fife Monarch II Moleskin Trousers
Scotland’s Hoggs of Fife has specialised in the quintessential British country look since 1888.
All those many moons ago, the company first began making hand welted country footwear in Strathmiglo, Fife. The history of Hoggs is a rich one, but the brand has never faltered from its core values of creating the best products for the best prices and that showcase the best in country clothing.
Nothing says traditional country fashion quite like a pair of moleskin trousers. This sturdy and durable legwear is perfect for all manners of outdoor living.
Hoggs has a fantastic range of these trousers, with one of the most popular being the Monarch II Moleskin Trousers. In this blog post, we look further into what makes these trousers so great, and why they are a brilliant choice for anyone living out in the countryside.
What are Moleskin Trousers?
Moleskin is a fabric quite similar to that of corduroy or velvet. It is a densely durable woven material made of pure cotton. With a feel like suede, the fabric is sheared close over the whole of one side, as opposed to corduroy which is trimmed to create a ribbing effect.
Initially used by European farmers and hunters in the 19th century, it quickly became popular as workwear. The strong fabric was used by steelworkers to protect them from molten metal.
Moleskin trousers are lovely and comfortable to wear. They are as tough as leather but have a wonderful velvet feel. They can be warm on their own but even more toasty with thermals beneath.
When Would You Wear Moleskin Trousers?
Moleskin trousers are a versatile and timeless wardrobe classic that can be worn on a range of different occasions. Whether you need to dress up or dress down, these trousers are the perfect choice.
Traditionally worn by country folk for generations, the trousers offer a comfortable yet durable option for activities such as shooting or hunting. The cotton fabric not only provides excellent protection against the elements but also gives the trousers a soft and luxurious feel.
But don't think that the trousers are limited to outdoor pursuits. They can also be worn for more formal occasions or for casual everyday style. Pair them with a crisp white shirt and a blazer for a smart and sophisticated look, or dress them down with knitwear and some dealer boots for a more relaxed vibe.
You can often see them worn for occasions such as:
- Farming
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Country Shows
- Sunday Pub Lunches.
Who Makes the Best Moleskin Trousers?
Although there are a few companies who make and sell moleskin trousers, there's not many who can rival Hoggs of Fife in the field.
Those who wear these trousers often spend long days outdoors and know what it's worth to have the right products which are up to the tasks in hand.
That's why they value the honest approach to their clothing that Hoggs has. The brand offers genuine value for money and uses the best quality available to them to produce a garment that is warm, durable, and comfortable to wear all day, every day.
Key Features of the Hoggs of Fife Monarch II Moleskin Trousers
Whether you're out in the field or enjoying a weekend in the countryside, these Hoggs trousers are the definitive country trousers for the modern outdoorsman.
Its key features are:
- Material Composition: 98% cotton, 2% elastane and 420gsm moleskin fabric
- Teflon coated
- 4 pocket styling
- Brass zip
- 6 belt loops
- Heavyweight.
The trousers also come in different leg lengths, adding a further impressive feature to the design.
Pros and Cons of the Hoggs of Fife Monarch II Moleskin Trousers
There are lots of things to love about these trousers. Designed for the country gentleman, the garments effortlessly slip into a country clothing wardrobe and quickly get put into rotation for work and leisure.
The key benefits of owning a pair of these trousers is outlined below.
Pros:
- Quality Fabric: made from heavyweight moleskin cotton fabric, the Hoggs of Fife Monarch II Moleskin Trousers offer excellent protection, abrasion resistance, tensile strength, and insulation qualities, making them ideal for active use
- Durability: it's all about the little details with Hoggs which makes the garments stand out from the rest. For example, these trousers have a brass zip, which are stronger than moulded toothed zippers and more immune to damage
- Comfortable Fit: with a subtle stretch and additional comfort provided by the moleskin fabric, these trousers offer a comfortable wearing experience
- Convenient Pockets: the trousers come with rear and front pockets, providing ample space for storing essentials while on the go. This is great for farmers or outdoor workers who tend to carry bits and pieces around with them
- Versatility: the smart appearance of these mens moleskin trousers makes them ideal for work and more formal events, but they also offer a relaxed feel that means they don't appear out of place when worn leisurely
- Brand Reputation: anyone who's anyone in the world of country clothing knows that Hoggs of Fife is a name to trust. The positive reputation of the brand means that you can stock your wardrobe up with Hoggs' branded country clothing and never be disappointed.
However, there are a few points worth noting.
Cons:
- Heavyweight: these trousers are a heavyweight legwear option, so are mainly suitable for use during the winter. They can feel a bit weightier than jeans so personal preference will dictate whether they are suitable
- Washing Instructions: it's important to pay attention to the manufacturer's guidance when it comes to these trousers, as they can shrink if washed incorrectly.
Are These Mens Moleskin Trousers Right for You?
If you are looking for hassle-free clothing, then these trousers are definitely the right choice for you.
The key performance characteristics of the trousers quickly impress. The epitome of quality and style, they are a smart investment for any man's wardrobe.
The relaxed fit and wide range of colours make these trousers suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're heading to the farm, going for a walk in the countryside, or enjoying a casual outing with friends, these trousers will keep you looking stylish and feeling comfortable.
An excellent alternative to your everyday jeans, the Hoggs of Fife Monarch II Moleskin Trousers offer versatility, comfort, and warmth, whilst looking stylish and polished.
Alternative Mens Moleskin Trousers
When it comes to men's moleskin trousers, there are several alternatives to consider that offer different features, styles, and brands.
Whilst the Hoggs of Fife Monarch II Moleskin Trousers are known for their durability, comfort, and versatility, these alternatives also provide their own unique benefits.
There are some other great choices in the Hoggs of Fife Trousers & Breeks collection, with some other moleskin options being:
- Hoggs of Fife Carrick Stretch Technical Moleskin Trousers
- Hoggs of Fife Monarch II Moleskin Jeans
- Hoggs of Fife Carrick Moleskin Breeks.
Plus, we also highly recommend the Bronte Moleskin Trousers, which are celebrated for being tough, durable, and classically country.
Summary
When it comes to mens moleskin trousers, and country clothing in general, Hoggs of Fife offers some of the best choices.
The Monarch Moleskin Trousers II have proven to be a worthy contender for anyone in need of a comfy pair of trousers for both outdoor and professional use. They have been designed with longevity in mind, ensuring that they will withstand the test of time and remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.
