Do you have the right apparel you need to you survive the plunging temps? Now’s the time to take a quick inventory of your cold weather work clothes to decide what can last another go around and what has seen better days.
Use the following checklist to make sure you’re prepared for colder temperatures:
Insulated Waterproof Boots
If you’re just getting your insulated work boots out of storage for the winter, they may need a good cleaning. A boot scraper is the best tool to clean the soles and sides of your boots. A quality cleaner that’s right for your footwear’s material can take away other stains. Applying conditioner can keep your leather boots looking and feeling supple, flexible, and healthy.
If you notice that your men’s and women’s boots are worn or have lost the traction you need to stay safe, it’s time to replace them. This is also a good time to consider if they still meet the specific needs of your job site. For the cold winter months, insulated waterproof boots will give your feet the best protection from the cold and wet. Choose from brands like Timberland PRO and Wolverine at Working Person’s Store for top coverage.
Winter Coat
The hero of the season and your strongest line of defense against the wind and wet is a quality cold-weather coat. Has yours given you the proper protection you need in past seasons? If not, you may want to upgrade your outdoor winter work clothes this year. Find an outer layer from brands like Carhartt and Red Kap that will keep you warm and dry and also allow you to get the job done.
Insulated Pants and Bibs
Wearing pants – or coveralls – that are insulated gives you an added layer of warmth for your seat and legs. Flannel-lined or quilted pants can be your best friend when you have to get out of bed and to the job site well before the sun’s up. Unfortunately, even quality insulated work clothes start to show signs of wear after many seasons of hard work. Take a look at the insulated pants you own and consider donating men’s and women’s winter work clothes that are beginning to get threadbare in the knees or are developing any holes. Upgrade to a pair of Carhartt coveralls or insulated Dickies gear for enhanced warmth and comfort.
Socks
If you work outside in cold weather, your feet can be at risk for frostbite. This means you need to use two layers of quality outdoor socks. If you have pairs that are worn or have holes, it’s time to throw them away and invest in new styles that will give you proper coverage. Check out this hiking Wigwam design and these Carhartt insulated socks. Start with an inner layer sock made of synthetic material to help wick away moisture and then add an outer layer wool sock for insulation to keep out the cold out.
Base Layer
Layering your clothes gives you insulation and flexibility. Use wool, silk, or synthetic materials in your base layer clothing (like long underwear and bodysuits) since they can keep moisture away from your body. We recommend having several pairs of shirts, pants, and bodysuits that can serve as your base layer to make sure you’re stocked up for winter. Go-to brands for winter work clothes include Polar King and CAT Apparel.
Insulated Waterproof Gloves
Guarding against frostbite on your fingers is an important part of winter work safety. Insulated gloves, like designs from Carhartt and Ergodyne, that have an inner layer made of light and thin synthetic material or natural wool provide superior protection. Make sure that you have at least one pair – if not more – of quality insulated waterproof gloves to keep you safe this season. Any holes or signs of wear may mean it’s time for you to invest in a new pair.
Head and Neck Protection
It may seem like a no-brainer, but winter hats reduce the amount of body heat that escapes from your head, keeping you warmer. Find a quality hat that protects your ears as well for maximum protection. Scarves, balaclavas, and face masks are other useful accessories to warm your body from the top down. Stocking up on warm work clothes and hats from Carhartt and Port Authority will help keep you from freezing your face off on the chilliest days.
Don’t fear the forecast this winter…face the elements equipped with high-quality outdoor winter workwear, construction winter work clothes, and other gear that will protect you from the brutal weather.
What’s your favorite piece of winter weather apparel? Let us know in the comments below.
