When the cold weather strikes, the right mix of materials and some well-chosen layers are the secret to staying warm whatever winter throws your way. Carhartt explains all.
The key to staying comfortable in cold conditions is the right combination of layers. The best materials will regulate your body temperature, keep moisture away from your skin and protect you from wind, rain and icy conditions. A well-planned layering system typically consists of three layers: base, mid and outer. The base layer is your next-to-skin layer, responsible for moisture management. The mid layer provides insulation by trapping body heat. The outer layer should not only shield against wind, rain and snow but be tough and hold up to rough work site conditions.
The base layer sits directly against your skin and is important because it should wick sweat away from your body to keep you warm – damp clothing can make you feel colder in the winter. Cotton can make a good base layer in certain conditions as it is breathable and comfortable. As a natural fibre, it lets air circulate, preventing overheating, and its soft texture makes it gentle on the skin. While it’s not ideal for heavy sweating or wet environments since it retains moisture, cotton can be a cost-effective and comfortable option if you’re working indoors or in less strenuous winter conditions. It also doesn’t build up static like synthetic fabrics, which can be beneficial in some work environments.
Cotton works best in winter however, when it is combined with synthetic materials like polyester. These materials make great alternatives to natural fibres and are often more budget friendly. Polyester is lightweight, quick-drying and very good at moving moisture away from your skin so it is ideal for anyone working in cold, damp environments where sweat build-up could become an issue. The Carhartt Force™ Logo Graphic T-Shirt is made of 60% polyester and 40% cotton so it wicks away moisture but is kind to your skin. It incorporates Force™ technology which is engineered to fight sweat and dry fast, so you stay cool and comfortable 24/7.
Your mid-layer is all about trapping heat but still needs some breathability. Two of the most popular materials for mid-layers are fleece and flannel, each with their own advantages.
Fleece is a synthetic material that is both lightweight and warm. It dries quickly and retains warmth, even if it gets damp. Fleece jumpers or sweatshirts are perfect for layering under a work jacket or overalls. Flannel is a great mid-layer for winter workwear because it’s warm, soft and provides excellent insulation without being too bulky. Made from brushed cotton or wool, flannel traps heat but still allows your skin to breathe. Both these fabrics are really comfortable keeping you warm while letting you move unrestricted on the job. Carhartt’s Rugged Flex™ Long-Sleeve Plaid Shirt makes a great mid-layer as it’s made from a comfortable stretch flannel with flexible Rugged Flex™ technology and comes with plenty of pockets for great storage.
The outer layer is your shield against the elements. It needs to protect you from bad weather while also being durable enough to withstand the demands of a work site. Breathability is also important so that moisture can escape, preventing you from overheating.
A jacket with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating is also a good option, as it will repel water and keep you dry during downpours. Carhartt’s Rain Defender™ technology makes water bead up and roll off your sweatshirt, jacket or overalls, so you won’t end up soaked to the skin. The Rain Defender™ Heavyweight Quarter Zip Sweatshirt makes a great outer layer when it’s not too chilly – it has an attached three-piece hood with adjustable draw cord and front hand warmer pockets with hidden media pocket so you can keep all your essentials close by.
When it’s particularly cold, an insulated jacket with a tough outer shell (like canvas or nylon) is essential. Look for jackets with reinforced elbows and seams to ensure durability, and hoods that can be adjusted or removed for extra warmth. The Super Dux™ Insulated Traditional Coat is made from DWR Tech Canvas and is lightweight and warm without being bulky. It incorporates Rain Defender™ and Wind Fighter™ technology and comes with interior and exterior storm flaps with snap closure and inner sleeve rib knit storm cuffs to keep the cold at bay.
Work clothes take a beating, so you want materials that are tough and long-lasting. Ripstop nylon or canvas are great for outer layers, as they are resistant to tears and abrasions. Reinforced areas, like knees and elbows, can add to the lifespan of your gear as you still need to move freely while staying warm. Materials with a bit of stretch, like those with Rugged Flex™, allow for better range of motion while keeping you comfortable. Carhartt’s steel pants are made from a tough stretch Ripstop and incorporate Rugged Flex™ which flexes and stretches as you move. They also come with Flex Cordura™ fabric secure kneepad pockets which conform to FprEN14404-1:2024 dimensions with cleanout openings so you can add pads to protect your knees.
Don’t forget safety boots either. The basic safety level is SB, which protects against impacts up to 200 joules. S1-rated boots also have anti-static protection, resistance to fuel oil and energy absorption in the heel area, making them great for indoor work but unsuitable if you’re in wet conditions. If water is likely to be present, you’ll need S2 or S3 boots – these offer the same protection as S1, but S2 prevent water from being absorbed in the upper part of the boot while S3 boots are resistant to midsole penetration – essential if you’re working outdoors in wet conditions where there’s a possibility that sharp objects might pierce the sole.
For more information on the Carhartt range visit www.carhartt.com.
To view the Carhartt brand video click here Creating our legacy since 1889.
