Keeping warm on site in winter is important to your wellbeing and ability to get through those tough bad weather days on site. Carhartt gives PB readers its advice on how to stay comfortable even in the harshest conditions.
Roaring log fires, brisk walks, cosy woollen socks. Winter might conjure up a comforting image, but the reality for the trade can be quite different. As the days grow shorter and temperatures plummet, builders on construction sites are confronted with a unique set of challenges; there are few things more demanding than the wind howling, rain pelting and an icy chill seeping into your bones. But revamping your work wardrobe with gear that strikes the perfect balance between lightweight flexibility and cutting-edge technology will ensure you’re shielded from whatever winter throws your way.
Your base layer is the bedrock of comfort and warmth. The right base layer will provide you with an additional layer of insulation, trapping body heat close to the skin to keep you warm in cold environments. These layers should also allow air to circulate, preventing overheating during physical activities. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are designed to wick moisture away from the skin, with a quick-drying property that makes them ideal for high-intensity activities.
The Carhartt Force Short-Sleeve Pocket T-shirt (104616) ticks every box on the base layer list. Made of a polyester/cotton mix that is both sweat-fighting and fast-drying, it has mesh side panels and comes in a relaxed fit to keep air circulating and help you stay cool. The Midweight Short-Sleeve Pocket Polo (103569) is another, smarter option which also comes with a stain breaker to help fight off stains.
With your base layer locked in, it’s time to bring in the reinforcements – the mid-layer. Fleece, known for its warmth and softness, is a good choice here as it traps air between its fibres, creating an insulating layer to keep you toasty. It is breathable and dries quickly, making it a popular choice for mid-weight base layers. The Quarter Zip Sherpa Fleece Jacket (104991), for instance, has an adjustable drawstring at the hem to seal out the cold and comes in a relaxed fit, so it layers easily over tees and flannels.
If a cold snap really hits it’s time to go thermal. Thermal layers are lightweight, moisture-wicking, breathable and insulating. Pull on the Heavyweight Long-Sleeve 1/2 Zip Thermal Shirt (104428) and you won’t notice the cold weather. It′s made with a stretchy cotton blend fabric and has a hand-warmer pocket up front and a mock neck you can zip up to keep you snug and warm. It sits below the waist so keeps you snug all day.
With our ever-changing weather, carrying a waterproof isn’t just a precaution, it’s a must. A reliable waterproof should be your trusty companion, so no matter how sudden the downpour or persistent the drizzle, you can stay warm, dry and focused. Carhartt has a range of clothing that comes with Rain Defender, a water-repellent technology that easily withstands light rain. The Lightweight Insulated Jacket (102208), made with a durable Cordura Fabric fabric shell, is lighter than most T-shirts. Insulated and quilted for extra comfort it shrugs off light rain and snow and can be stored in the van or in the toolbox for quick access.
The new Stretch Insulated Jacket (106013) is another perfect choice for the changeable weather. This jacket is all about freedom of movement. With strategically placed pockets, your essential tools are always close at hand, both inside and out. Plus, thoughtful reflective accents enhance visibility in low-light conditions add an extra layer of safety to your workday.
While it’s always great to have a chance to revamp your wardrobe, there’s nothing more infuriating than losing an old favourite to a broken button or pesky little hole. Carhartt has taken care of this too with a free DIY repair kit containing buttons, zipper sliders and any fabric patches you may need to fix up any little faults that happen over time.
The DIY Patch Kit can tackle any hole smaller than 1.5″ on your trusty trousers, dungarees and jackets. Patches are available in black, dark brown, and Carhartt brown and simply iron on. The DIY Slider Kit makes it easy to repair zippers on jackets, coats, vests, overalls, coveralls and trousers, while the DIY button kit needs nothing more than a hammer and a solid surface to fix any broken buttons that come your way.
In the face of winter’s unforgiving challenges, a well-prepared wardrobe is your greatest ally. From insulating base layers to snug mid-layers and trusty waterproofs, equip yourself with gear designed to conquer the elements and step out in confidence on site.
Look out for these workwear material technologies:
- Force – sweat wicking and lightweight, this is a technology engineered to fight sweat and dry fast, so you stay cool and comfortable 24/7.
- Rain Defender – this coating is a water-repellent technology. All Rain Defender jackets and sweats are built to stand up to light rain, on the job and beyond.
- Storm Defender – waterproof breathable outerwear stops every raindrop but lets body heat escape. Storm Defender jackets are lightweight and rugged, with waterproof, breathable membranes and waterproof seams.
- Rugged Flex – This durable stretch technology is built into the fabric we use to make Full Swing garments for great freedom of movement.
For more information on the Carhartt range visit Carhartt® – Durable Workwear & Apparel.
