Winter is tough on those who work outdoors. Cold, wet weather can slow you down, increase your risk of injury, and make you downright uncomfortable. If you’re in charge of a team that works outside in winter, high-visibility winter gear is a must-have investment. It will keep your team safe, warm, and focused on the task at hand.

In this article, we’ll look at essential winter wardrobe items, from durable jackets and reliable wet-weather gear to sturdy all-season boots. We’ll show you what to look for in high-vis winter gear and highlight some great options from Westpeak. So, whether they’re fixing roads, on construction sites, or anywhere else that’s exposed to the elements, your team will have the right gear to get the job done. 

The Importance of Hi-Vis Clothing in Winter

In the colder months, visibility on the job decreases alongside daylight hours. In these low-light conditions, hi-vis clothing is a non-negotiable for any employees working outdoors. Bright coloured reflective clothing make sure your team is seen in all conditions, reducing the risk of accidents and ultimately, safeguarding lives. 

Hi-vis jackets and other reflective gear are designed to stand out against dark, snowy, or foggy backdrops. Whether early morning or late afternoon, these clothes catch the light and make your workers visible. But hi-vis gear isn’t all about safety; it also needs to keep your team warm. The best hi-vis winter jackets keep the weather out while ensuring your team is seen.

We offer a great range of hi-vis fleeces, including our incredibly popular half-zip styles, available in day-only, day/night and TTMC options. With two hand warmer pockets and a 330gsm heavy-weight fabric, they’re ideal for layering under a waterproof coat or for wearing on cold, dry shifts.

Choosing the Right Winter Hi-Vis Jackets

Not all hi-vis jackets are created equal, so choose wisely when selecting your team’s winter workwear. When you shop with Westpeak, you know you’re buying quality. Our designs prioritise wearability, waterproofing, and breathability - three key features you should always look for in a winter jacket

Wearability is an important consideration if you want to ensure unrestricted movement on the job. An insulated jacket may provide an all-in-one solution to colder weather but may be too bulky for your needs. Meanwhile, a lined waterproof can be layered over a fleece, but this does necessitate two uniform items. The best solution for wearability will depend on the environment and the particulars of the role. 

Waterproofing is measured in 0 to 20,000mm, with higher ratings giving more protection against the elements. For heavy, sustained rain, you should be looking for a minimum waterproof rating of 10,000mm. 

Breathability is another factor to consider, as when trapped, sweat can condense, leading to damp clothing and a chill on the skin. A breathable jacket allows moisture to escape without letting rain in. 

Westpeak Workwear offers a great range of hi-vis rain jackets that meet these criteria and hi-vis fleece jackets for indoor wear. 

For example, the Stamina Day/Night Jacket boasts a 20,000mm waterproof outer layer, a breathable mesh lining, and is completely seam-sealed. It features bright colours and reflective strips, making it ideal for low-light conditions. Available in sizes S-8XL. 

Essential Wet Weather Gear for Winter

The weather may be miserable, but that doesn’t mean your team needs to be. When working outdoors in the rain, having the right workwear is key to keeping your team dry, comfortable, and focused on the task at hand. We recommend that your wet weather provisions include hi-vis jackets and hi-vis waterproof overtrousers designed for downpours.

Materials like PVC or coated nylon resist water and wear, making them ideal for harsh working environments. Make sure the waterproof gear you choose also has sealed seams, which prevent water from leaking through joints.

Another great product in our Bison Stamina range, the Stamina Hi-Vis Overtrouser features a 20,000mm waterproof rating and is completely seam-sealed. Hi-vis colour options include orange or yellow, with double bands of reflective tape for day/night visibility. Available in sizes ranging from S-8XL, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for every member of your team. 

Winter Work Boots and Safety Footwear

Good footwear offers safety, stability and comfort - an important trio when working outdoors. When choosing winter work boots and safety footwear, we recommend looking at three main features: insulation, waterproofing, and slip resistance.

Insulation keeps toes toasty in freezing temperatures, which is especially important for those on their feet all day. Boots with thermal lining or padded insulation keep the chill out and make sure your staff aren’t distracted by the cold. 

Waterproofing is another must-have feature for winter boots because wet feet can lead to discomfort or even cause health issues. Look for boots with a waterproof seal to keep feet dry through rain and snow. 

Slip resistance may seem like an obvious one, but a worrying about of boots aren’t designed with adequate grip. Boots with deep, grippy soles provide stability and prevent slips in wet or icy conditions. 

For a great all-around winter workboot, Blundstone Rotoflex Unisex Boots feature a fuel, oil, heat, and water-resistant leather upper with excellent abrasion, cut, and slip resistance. The soft yet resilient foam cushions feet and reduces impact while allowing ventilation and moisture control for comfortable all-day wear. Available in sizes 5-16, Blundstone’s are one of our best-selling work boots for all seasons.

Shop Winter Hi-Vis Workwear at Westpeak

Come rain or shine, with Westpeak, your crew will be ready to hit the ground running. Browse our full range of hi-vis clothing and wet weather gear online, or get in touch to request a catalogue. Our friendly team are waiting to take your call.