I've been wearing carhartt pants for nearly a year now after a friend reccommended them to me.  I have yet to rip out a seam or tear out knees.  Additionally they are a step up from jeans in a casual work environment, as I can iron them, and look a bit more professional on days I go to meetings.  The cell phone pocket means that my cell phone when mounted on my hip or pocket used to catch or get knocked off occassionaly during the day-no more worries on that issue!  Yes, they cost a few bucks more than jeans, but are certainly worth it! Made mostly in the USA from what I read, I've also purchased two jackets, and look forward to making further purchases!