Working outdoors in winter requires special attention to workwear. The right winter clothing not only keeps workers warm, but also improves safety and comfort.
The technical features of winter clothing are critically important. Thermal insulation is the most important feature of winter clothing, and modern synthetic insulations such as Primaloft® and Thinsulate® are excellent materials for retaining warmth. In addition, waterproofing and breathability are both essential features, as moisture has a major impact on insulation performance. Waterproof membranes and surface treatments on outer fabrics keep liquid water out while allowing water vapor to escape from inside the garment, ensuring that workwear stays dry and warm.
Proper layering keeps you warm. One advantage of synthetic materials is that they often move moisture away from the skin, reducing the feeling of cold. Wool materials, on the other hand, retain their insulating properties even when slightly damp, making them especially suitable for base layers when maximum warmth is needed. The mid-layer provides additional warmth, and like the base layer, it can be made from both synthetic and wool materials. When choosing a mid-layer, it is essential to make sure it works properly with the selected base and outer layers, taking moisture transfer into account and ensuring that the clothing does not restrict movement. The outer layer must protect against wind and water, and a good winter jacket and winter pants with a waterproof and windproof membrane are essential. They should also be roomy enough to allow several layers underneath. A shell garment is often a good choice for multiple seasons, including winter, but in the coldest conditions, an insulated outer layer best complements a well-functioning base and mid-layer system.
Effective winter footwear is subject to some of the same requirements as clothing: proper underlayering—meaning socks—plays a major role in how the footwear performs. Technical materials and wool work best. It is important to choose a material that does not retain moisture, or that remains warm even when damp. In winter footwear, a waterproof membrane lining is often a necessary feature, as snow and slush can quickly penetrate a regular upper. In extremely cold conditions, or if the entire workday is spent outdoors, it is a good idea to choose footwear with a warmer-than-normal lining. On the other hand, lining that is too thick is not ideal, as the footwear can easily become too hot and sweaty, so different conditions and job tasks require different features.
The grip performance of work shoes becomes a bigger topic every year. The sole material and tread pattern are always a compromise between grip and durability, but in winter conditions, grip takes priority over durability, which is why rubber is usually the best material. Tread pattern also has a significant effect on grip, but it is worth noting that snow falling on top of ice creates the most treacherous combination, and in those conditions even high-traction footwear often becomes slippery. In such conditions, separate studded anti-slip devices should be added to the shoes.
In summary, sensible winter clothing for worksites requires careful planning and the right choice of materials. Thermal insulation, breathability, waterproofing, layering, and safety considerations are all important factors to take into account. Our workwear service specializes in identifying each customer’s needs, and through us your company can get a customized clothing collection that makes it easy to order suitable garments for employees. Get in touch if you would like more information about the service!