Having the right workwear in any business is very important. Especially for outdoor workers such as farmers, construction workers, gardeners etc. Keeping yourself safe, warm and comfortable should be a priority. The weather conditions can sometimes be harsh, and your work clothes is the only thing between you and the sun, wind and rain. The three essentials are work pants, shirts and boots. There are several things you should consider before going to the store and buying the first ones you see.
Work Pants
When you work in a busy environment, you must constantly be on the go and spend the majority of your time outside in unpleasant weather. In such circumstances, wearing the proper pants will not only keep you safe but also make you feel comfortable. Therefore, you need the best workwear pants to keep you safe and cosy, regardless of where you work.
Your number one priority should be durability. They need to last longer than normal, everyday clothes. Don't try to save a couple of dollars and buy cheaper ones. These pants are a long-term investment. It's not saving money if you need to buy new ones in just a few months. These pants are not a replacement for PPE but can work as such in some situations. Many of them can fight off a saw blow or keep you dry because they’re water-resistant.
The next thing on your list is comfort. This is very important with workwear. When you move around a lot you don’t want any restricted movements. You should be able to lift your arms and legs, bend down, kneel and stretch without an issue. Otherwise, there’s a big chance of getting hurt and injured. Breathability is also something to consider. Being constantly on the move can make you sweaty and you need a pair of breathable pants.
It's a big plus if they’re lightweight. It can be uncomfortable to feel the weight of your pants pulling you down. It’s also distracting and can affect your work. The material used for the pants is also worth considering. Denim can be quite comfortable and sturdier than some other materials. It's thick and oftentimes lined with fleece or flannel to keep you warm.
Canvas, cotton and cotton duck are some other choices. These fall into the pricier category but are worth the investment. they’re sturdy, wind-resistant and on many occasions, water-resistant as well. There are 3 main types of fit for your pants. The first one is slim. This is a modern model that’s not too tight. It also has a good opening at the legs so you can fit any size of boots.
The second type is the classic fit. It's the most common and is preferred by both men and women. And the third type is relaxed. It's very similar to the classic but has some additional room for movement, especially in the thigh area. Plus, it’s looser in the rear.
Look for some special features. They make the pants even better. Rivets, for example, make the seams even sturdier. Triple-needle seams make the pants more durable and heavy-duty zips can withstand dirt and repeated usage. Bar tacks also make the seams sturdier and durable water-repellent (DWR) will make the workwear water-resistant. This is perfect for people that work in the rain or in the water.
Work Shirts
Whatever your job is, you’ll need a shirt that’s up to the task. Having the right shirt to get you through an 8, 10 or 12-hour shift is a blessing. The best combo is a comfortable and durable top that’s also stylish. But sometimes you’ll have to sacrifice style to get durability and comfort. Nowadays you have a wide variety of shirts and workwear pants to choose from. It all depends on your personal preferences.
When shopping for a shirt, there are several things to consider. One of them is material. Cotton is always a wise choice. It's sturdy, durable and easy to clean and maintain. Cotton also often comes in blends that add moisture-wicking abilities to the shirt and make it less wrinkly. Next is fit. The main thing is comfort. This will allow you freedom of movement and won’t restrict you in any way.
Always try the shirt before buying it to make sure it’s the right size and fit. Different manufacturers have different sizes, and it can be confusing sometimes. Last but not least, pay attention to details. A work shirt might feel more polished and professional depending on the collar style, cuff design, and pocket layout.
Work Boots
You should think carefully before choosing your work boots. They'll be with you throughout the day, and you’ll need to find the right pair. Otherwise, you’ll end up with boots that make you feel uncomfortable and can cause pain and blisters. There are a lot of choices on the market and what you buy depends on the work that you do and your personal preferences.
When it comes to safety, you shouldn’t compromise. This is the most important feature of a work boot. So, picking the ideal type can prevent you from losing a toe or possibly your life. The right shoe in combination with the appropriate work pants and shirt is the best you can do to protect yourself. Having a steel toe on the boot is a must if you work in the construction, lumber or carpentry business.
Otherwise, you may get a composite toe that’s made of plastic, Kevlar or carbon fibre. These are sometimes better than the steel toe, depending on the work you’re doing. Good support is a combination of high-quality insole, shank, midsole, outsole and puncture plate. If they’re well put together, you’ll get a comfortable and supportive pair of boots.
However, you should think about replacing the insole of your boot if you have discomfort and blisters. It's also crucial to keep in mind that midsoles are an underrated component of any work shoe and that they have a significant impact on how well your boot supports you. Flexibility is also a must, and leather boots are the best at this.
There's nothing pleasant or comfortable in walking around with wet and cold feet inside the boot. Choosing waterproof footwear can be of great help. A lot of bacteria live in moist places and a closed boot is a great place for them to multiply and grow. Keeping your feet dry and warm can prevent you from developing infections.