Work Jackets (29)

Work Jackets: Staying Warm When Working Hard

C&W Berry offers a wide range of work jackets designed for various lengths, sizes, and functions to suit your needs.

Wearing appropriate clothing is essential when working outdoors or during cooler seasons. Explore this article to learn more and find the perfect jacket for your workday comfort and safety.

Table of Contents

1. What Are the Main Types of Work Jackets?
2. Things to Look for When Purchasing a Work Jacket
3. Work Jackets by Season

1. What Are the Main Types of Work Jackets?

Work jackets come in a range of shapes and sizes, each with their pros and cons, therefore it is necessary to assess the environment and conditions of where the jacket is to be worn. Some work jackets are designed with mobility and control in mind, others are designed to insulate and keep warm, here is a brief list of the most used work jackets, and their advantages.

Fleeces: Fleeces are designed to keep the wearer warm, as opposed to providing resistance to things like water, oil, grease. They are often worn under another outer layer, with the fleece providing warmth and an outer coat providing water resistance. Another benefit of a fleece is that it is relatively light-duty and it can be seamlessly worn in social settings, or other casual environments.

Body Warmers: Body warmers are most commonly worn in a cold environment where movement is important. They are designed to keep the wearer's torso protected whilst allowing the arms to move freely, especially useful in places such as warehouses or sheltered building sites. Bodywarmers can be paired with garments such as fleeces or long-sleeve shirts to keep the wearer completely warm and covered, whilst still having their arms free enough to complete tasks.

Mid-Layer Jackets: Mid-layer jackets are one of the most versatile types of work jackets; they can be worn as an outer layer, or underneath a waterproof coat. Mid-layer jackets are lightweight, flexible and comfortable making them perfect for most environments or settings. During cold weather, these jackets create a warm cover whilst remaining lightweight, allowing the raincoat to provide the water resistance. On warmer days, these mid-layer jackets can be worn as an outer, keeping the wearer covered, whilst remaining light enough to work in.

Waterproof Jackets: Waterproof jackets are the preferred choice with trade workers when working in the colder seasons. They provide the wearer with warmth, water resistance and covers most of the upper body. Waterproof jackets are perfect for working in the colder seasons of the year and are available in both lightweight and heavyweight variations. Combined with a warm underlayer, these jackets can helps keep you dry, warm and comfortable in testing conditions.

2. Things to Look for When Purchasing a Work Jacket

• Warmth: One of the first considerations to make is the warmth the jacket will provide, if work is usually undertaken within properties, a full heavy-duty jacket may not be suitable in this case. On the other hand, if work is usually carried out externally, it is advised to have a bigger jacket available
• Resistance: Resistance is another important factor when it comes to selecting a new work jacket. Wind and rain resistance are vital when working outside during the colder seasons and should be one of the main considerations when selecting a new work jacket
• Pockets: Pockets and storage is another important part of a work jacket, and can sometimes be a deciding factor when it comes to purchasing. Some trades involve the handling of lots of tools and parts and may require more pockets to assist on the job

3. Work Jackets by Season

Spring

Layering and Lighter Jackets: Spring normally fluctuates from wet to sunny conditions, so it is important to wear versatile work jackets. Some of the main attributes are:

• Breathability - To prevent overheating, work jackets with mesh linings or vents are ideal for warmer conditions. They allow air to circulate more easily, keeping it cool for longer
• Layering - Lighter duty jackets are perfect for spring, as they can be layered, allowing for temperature to be controlled more efficiently
• Water Resistance - Waterproof work jackets are ideal for Spring, where showers may occur. Lighter rain jackets benefit from providing mobility and water resistance

Summer

UV Protection and Breathable: During Summer, sun protection and breathability are the main priorities, and lightweight work jackets should be worn to prevent overheating. The following should be considered:

• Ventilation - Light jackets and mid-layer jackets utilise mesh panelling to improve the airflow, ideal for working in hotter weather whilst keeping protected
• UV Protection - It is advised to wear work jackets with good UV-protecting qualities for working in the sun for long periods
• Light Materials - Lightweight synthetic materials are excellent to wear during hot days, as they protect from UV whilst keeping cool

Autumn

Resistance and Layering: For Autumn, water and wind resistance is very important when working outside. Here are the main points to consider during Autumn:

• Wind and Rain Resistance - Waterproof and wind-resistant work jackets are vital during Autumn as the weather becomes more challenging and daylight does not last as long
• Layering - For maximum protection and comfort, layer fleeces and waterproofs together to fight the cold and rain
• Durable Materials - Strong materials are ideal for Autumn due to the harsher conditions, and work jackets with tougher durability should be preferred

Winter

Insulation and Resistance: Work jackets should be thick enough to provide warmth and resistance during the Winter, priorities should be:

• Insulation - Down and padded work jackets would help to insulate against the harsh weather, as well as provide excellent wind and rain resistance
• Wind Proofing - Features such as elastic cuffs, full-zips and hoods can prevent wind from becoming a big problem when working during winter
• Waterproofing - Waterproof work jackets are perfect for Winter, when the rain is heavier and more frequent

For further technical information relating to our range of work jackets, please telephone our main sales line on 01772 431 216, or email [email protected].