A work jacket is a functional garment designed to protect and provide comfort while working. Unlike ordinary jackets, work jackets are specially designed to withstand heavy use and different weather conditions. They are made from durable materials that can resist abrasion, scratches and chemicals, while offering the necessary protection against rain, wind and cold.
Work jackets combine practicality with safety for different professions and tasks. They should be durable, practical and allow the user freedom of movement without compromising protection. Many work jackets also comply with specific safety standards and certifications required in specific industries.
Modern workwear comes in different models for both men and women with customized fit and functionality. A well-designed jacket should fit the body without being too tight, while leaving room for undergarments and allowing natural movements during work.
There are many different categories of work jackets depending on their use and the specific requirements of different working environments. Each type is optimized for specific conditions and offers unique benefits that make them suitable for specific tasks.
Warm-lined winter jackets with insulation are designed for working in the cold and can keep you warm even during long periods outdoors. These jackets often have several layers of synthetic insulation or down that provide warmth without making the jacket unnecessarily heavy or bulky.
Shell jackets protect against rain and wind without adding extra warmth, making them ideal for milder weather or as the outer layer in a layering system. They often have ventilation openings that can be opened when activity levels increase.
Softshell jackets combine windproofness with breathability and are ideal for active work where you need protection from wind but good ventilation. They are more flexible than hard shell jackets and provide better comfort during movement.
Fleece jackets work well as mid-layer jackets for extra warmth and can be worn under a shell or used independently in milder weather. They wick moisture away from the body and retain warming properties even when they get damp.
Flame-resistant jackets are essential for working with fire, heat and sparks, especially in welding and metalworking. These jackets are made from special materials that do not catch fire or melt at high temperatures, protecting the worker from serious burns.
Chemical-resistant jackets are used in laboratories and industry where exposure to hazardous substances may occur. They are made from materials that resist the penetration of chemicals and can often be decontaminated after use.
Anti-static jackets are essential for electronics work and potentially explosive environments where static electricity can cause damage to sensitive equipment or trigger explosions. These jackets dissipate static charge in a controlled manner.
Certified to EN standards for different levels of protection, these jackets ensure that the garment meets specific safety requirements and has been tested to international standards to ensure reliable protection.
Jackets with reflective tape according to EN ISO 20471 are mandatory for road safety and work where good visibility is essential for safety. The standard specifies exactly how much reflective material is required and where it should be placed for optimal visibility.
Fluorescent colors such as orange and yellow are used for daytime visibility and make the worker visible even at great distances in daylight. These colors are particularly effective in foggy or hazy conditions.
Class 2 and Class 3 alerts depending on exposure indicate different levels of visibility. Class 3 is required for the most hazardous environments such as working on highways, while Class 2 is sufficient for less trafficked areas.
Combining high visibility and other protective features is common in modern work jackets that combine high visibility with protection against weather, flame resistance or other specific hazards.
What is winter workwear? Winter workwear is workwear designed for cold, wet and windy environments....
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Top Swede
Top Swede
Portwest
Portwest
Portwest
Portwest
Waterproof and water-repellent materials protect against moisture and keep you dry even during extended periods in rain or snow. Modern membrane layers such as Gore-Tex or similar technologies provide excellent water protection while allowing vapor transport.
Breathable fabric wicks away sweat and keeps the body dry even during physically demanding work. A jacket with poor breathability can lead to overheating and discomfort, negatively affecting performance.
Reinforcements on wear areas such as elbows and shoulders significantly extend the life of the jacket. These areas are subject to extra stress and are often reinforced with double fabric or special materials.
Convenient pockets for tools and personal belongings are essential for workplace efficiency. Well-placed pockets with secure closures allow you to easily reach what you need without hindering movement.
Adjustable fit with cuffs, zippers and collar give the possibility to customize the jacket according to weather conditions and personal preferences. Adjustable details also help prevent cold, wind or moisture from entering.
Vents for temperature regulation are particularly important for work jackets as activity levels can vary greatly during the working day. Zippers under the arms or on the back provide quick temperature control.
Choosing the right work jacket requires careful consideration of several factors. Assess your work environment and the risks you face where you work. Different environments require different types of protection, and it is important to understand the specific challenges of your workplace.
Check the certification requirements and protection standards that apply to your industry. Many employers and insurance companies require specific certifications, and using non-approved clothing can have serious consequences in case of an accident.
Factors to consider | What to consider |
|---|---|
Work environment | Indoor/outdoor, temperature, humidity |
Safety requirements | Certifications, protection standards, notices |
Activity level | Physical load, freedom of movement |
Weather conditions | Rain, wind, cold, heat |
Frequency of use | Daily use, seasonal work |
Choose the right size with room for undergarments and freedom of movement. A jacket that is too tight will hinder blood circulation and restrict movement, while a jacket that is too big can get caught in machinery or tools. Try the jacket with the base layer you plan to use.
Think about seasonality and whether you need multiple jackets for different seasons. Many people choose to have a thin jacket for summer and spring, a mid-thin for fall and a warm winter jacket instead of trying to find an all-round jacket.
Prioritize quality over price for longer durability. A cheap jacket that breaks quickly will be more expensive in the long run than a more expensive, high-quality jacket that lasts for years. In addition, a poor jacket can pose safety risks.
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Snickers Workwear represents Scandinavian quality with innovative solutions and has built a strong reputation in workwear. Their jackets are known for their thoughtful details and durable construction that can withstand tough use.
Blåkläder has a long Swedish tradition of manufacturing durable and functional garments for professionals. The company focuses on combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create products that meet today's demands.
Acode offers modern design combined with practical functionality and is aimed at users who value both performance and appearance. Their range covers most working environments with specialized solutions.
Helly Hansen builds on marine tradition with a focus on weather resistance and has developed many of the technologies that are standard in workwear today. Their products are particularly popular in offshore and marine applications.
Fristads manufactures professional workwear for industry and crafts and is known for its robust and functional designs. They offer a wide range of certified products for different risk environments.
CE marking and quality certifications are important indicators that the product meets European safety standards. These markings guarantee that the jacket has been tested and approved for specific uses.
Washing according to the manufacturer's instructions is essential to maintain the functionality of the jacket. Different materials and treatments require different handling, and the wrong washing method can destroy important properties such as waterproofness or flame resistance.
Use special detergents to preserve waterproofing and breathability instead of regular detergents that can damage the membrane layers. Many manufacturers recommend specific products adapted for technical materials.
Impregnate regularly to maintain water-repellent properties, especially if the jacket is used frequently in wet conditions. Most waterproofing should be done after each wash or when you notice that the water no longer runs off.
Check reflective and protective features at regular intervals as these can deteriorate over time. Reflective tapes that start to come off or fade need to be replaced to maintain safety, and protective certifications may have expiration dates.
Store your jacket on a hanger to maintain its shape and avoid permanent creasing. Hanging also helps ventilation and prevents odor formation that can occur when damp clothes are folded.
Replace the jacket when protective functions start to decline or when it shows signs of serious wear. A worn-out work jacket can be a safety hazard and should be replaced before it leads to accidents or exposure.
The right work jacket is more than just an item of clothing - it is an investment in your safety, comfort and work efficiency. By choosing a jacket that suits your specific needs and work environment, you get both the protection you need and the comfort that allows you to focus on your work.
Remember that quality and certifications should always be prioritized over price when it comes to safety equipment. A good work jacket bought today will serve you well for many years to come, while a cheap jacket may prove to be an expensive investment in the long run.
Take the time to test different options and consult with colleagues or safety officers at your workplace. The right jacket is out there - it's just a matter of finding the one that best suits your requirements and needs.
The information on this page is intended as general guidance only and does not replace manufacturer instructions or applicable regulations. Workwise does not guarantee that the content is accurate, complete, or current and is not liable for decisions or actions taken based on this information. Always follow current standards and manufacturer instructions.