About work jackets
Start with the work environment. Work near traffic and machines requires a hi-vis jacket in the class the risk assessment states according to EN ISO 20471. Long periods of rain require a shell jacket with taped seams, and cold a lined winter jacket. Softshell suits those who move a lot in changing weather. Several models are available in a women's model. Prices are shown excl. VAT, and contract customers see their prices when they log in.
Hi-vis jackets according to EN ISO 20471
EN ISO 20471 divides hi-vis clothing into class 1, 2 and 3 according to how large an area of fluorescent material and reflective tape the garment has. Class 3 gives the highest visibility and requires a garment that covers the upper body and has sleeves or long legs with reflective bands, so a vest without sleeves reaches at most class 2. Class 3 is often achieved by jacket and trousers together as a certified combination. The class can differ between sizes, since smaller sizes have less area, and it is stated on the product page when the manufacturer has specified it.
Softshell jacket, shell jacket or winter jacket
A softshell jacket is elastic and breathable, often with a membrane and fleece on the inside, and resists wind and light rain. It suits active work in changing weather. A shell jacket is waterproof with taped seams and is right when the rain persists; garments for work in rain are tested according to EN 343. A winter jacket is lined or padded, and jackets for cold below minus 5 °C can be certified according to EN 342. A 3-in-1 jacket with a detachable inner jacket covers several seasons with the same garment.
Decoration of work jackets
Embroidery suits fleece, softshell and lined jackets and withstands washing well. On shell jackets with a membrane we recommend transfer, because the stitches of the embroidery make holes in the membrane and can make the jacket leak at the logo. On hi-vis jackets the logo is placed so that the fluorescent area and the reflective tape are sufficient for the class, which we check in the proof. The minimum quantity for the decoration is shown when you choose the method on the product page, and with print and embroidery, production takes 2 to 10 working days after the approved proof.
Frequently asked questions about work jackets
Which work jacket should we choose for outdoor work all year round?
A layering system works for most: a shell jacket against rain and wind, fleece or softshell underneath, and a lined winter jacket when it is really cold. If the staff work near traffic or machines, the jacket also needs the hi-vis class according to EN ISO 20471 that the risk assessment states.
What is the difference between a softshell jacket and a shell jacket?
A softshell jacket is elastic, breathes well and resists wind and light rain, which suits active work. A shell jacket is waterproof with taped seams and protects in long periods of rain, but is stiffer. If you need protection against both rain and cold, the shell jacket can be combined with a fleece underneath.
Which work jacket suits the winter?
A lined or padded winter jacket, or a 3-in-1 jacket where the inner jacket can be taken off when it gets warmer. Jackets for work in cold below minus 5 °C can be certified according to EN 342, and this is then stated on the product page. Winter jackets are also available in hi-vis for work near traffic.
Can we get work jackets with our logo?
Yes. Embroidery suits fleece, softshell and lined jackets, transfer suits shell jackets and hi-vis. You approve a digital proof before production starts, and the minimum quantity for the decoration is stated in the quote. With print and embroidery, production takes 2 to 10 working days after the approved proof. We save the logo, so that the next order looks the same.
Are work jackets available in a women's model?
Yes, several softshell jackets, shell jackets and winter jackets are available in a women's model with a different fit over the shoulders, waist and hips. Use the manufacturer's size chart for that particular model, and save the size per person in the company portal, so the next order is right.