Working outdoors during the winter presents some unique challenges. You have to deal with very low temperatures, freezing winds, heavy snow, or even freezing rain. This means you need to have the right work gear for winter, as it will keep you warm while ensuring you are mobile and can work comfortably.
If you often work outdoors, we’ll take you through the essential work gear for winter.
Work Jackets
A work jacket is the most important piece of winter work gear. It forms the shield that protects most of your body from snow, wind, and rain, so it’s your first line of defence. It also comes with crucial layers that ensure you don’t lose heat to the environment.
One essential feature of the ideal jacket is that it should withstand moisture, so investing in a waterproof work jacket is crucial. This kind of jacket repels water, ensuring you stay dry even when it’s raining or snowing. The jacket should also be flexible to ensure you can do all your tasks without strain. Work gear brands like Strauss understand these demands, and they incorporate breathable materials that can regulate your body heat and even let sweat escape without letting cold air in.
Head and Neck Protection
When working outdoors in the winter, your head and neck are some of the most vulnerable parts of your body. Losing a lot of heat through the head can easily make you uncomfortable and even lead to danger if the conditions are extreme. You’ll also need to ensure that wind, rain, and snow don’t hit your head directly.
To stay safe, wear proper head and neck gear. This can be a hat, a balaclava, or a neck gaiter. Such pieces will help maintain warmth and protect your head from rain, biting winds, and snowflakes.
Hand Protection
When it’s chilly, your hands will be the first part of the body to feel the effects. And since they are the main tools of work and are always in motion, you need to keep them protected. This is because not only will they be uncomfortable, but cold hands will compromise your ability to handle tools and equipment. The shaking will also mean you can’t do jobs that need accuracy.
Before you go to work outside, ensure you have winter gloves. These should offer the right amount of warmth and mobility for your fingers. Depending on the type of job and environment, they can also be water and oil-resistant.
Footwear
Cold, wet feet will make your day miserable and can lead to serious health issues like frostbite. While working outside in the winter, ensure you have winter boots that are insulated enough to keep your feet warm. These boots should also be waterproof and light to ensure you are comfortable throughout the day.
How can outdoor professionals prepare for extreme weather conditions?
If you’ll be working outdoors during the winter, be ready for extreme weather conditions. The best way to prepare is to have the appropriate gear, such as a work jacket, work boots, head and neck protection, and waterproof work trousers.
However, before you step outside, check the weather predictions in the area you’ll be working in. This will help you plan your work gear accordingly. If necessary, carry extra pieces of clothing to switch to different clothing in case conditions change or your primary gear becomes damp or damaged.
What features should you look for in a work jacket for outdoor work?
When selecting outdoor gear, a work jacket should be the first item you focus on. Ensure yours offers both warmth and breathability, as this will maintain your body temperature and prevent overheating. Waterproofing and insulation are also critical, as you need to stay dry and warm in wet or snowy conditions.
Apart from that, you can consider durability as you’ll need a work jacket that can last long enough depending on the rigours of your work. High-quality work gear will often balance all these factors, but ensure you consider your type of work when selecting one. Ultimately, the best work jacket is one that allows you to focus on your job, not on how cold or uncomfortable you are.
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