Waterproof work jackets are an indispensable item of gear for workers who spend much time outdoors in wet environments. Constructed from waterproof materials with features like taped and sealed seams to keep you dry and comfortable while working outdoors.

There is an array of waterproof/breathable options in this category, yet comparing them can be challenging. As no standard has been agreed upon to measure waterproofness/breathability, making direct comparison impossible.

Waterproof

A waterproof work jacket should keep you dry from the outside while still allowing you to breathe comfortably, using technology such as Gore-Tex that contains billions of pores per square inch preventing water penetration into the membrane.

An essential aspect of staying dry is having a durable water repellent (DWR) coating on the outer material of your membrane, as this allows water to bead up instead of seeping through.

DWR coating will eventually wear away, which is why it's best to clean your jacket after each use so the DWR can reapply itself and extend its life span. Cleaning can make all the difference for how long your jacket will remain waterproof!

For maximum durability, opt for a three-layer jacket to fully protect the internal membrane from dirt and oils that could potentially clog it, making it less breathable.

Breathable

Waterproof work jacket is essential components of an outdoor worker's kit, offering protection from even the harshest climate conditions while helping maintain optimal body temperatures and ensure comfortable breathing lungs, so they can remain active longer.

Breathable work jackets are engineered to be both breathable and waterproof at once, featuring microporous membranes or coatings which allow sweat vapor to escape while blocking rainwater entry. This technology helps create comfortable yet watertight work apparel.

There are various breathable materials to select from, each offering their own set of advantages and disadvantages. To find an appropriate jacket for your exertion level and ensure adequate sweat-wicking protection underneath.

Every jacket type - two-layer, 2.5-layer and three-layer - has a distinct construction. A two-layer jacket combines its outer shell fabric and waterproof membrane into one cohesive unit while 2.5-layer jackets use this same structure but protect their membrane with printed or sprayed materials on the inside to shield its function from rainwater penetration.

Windproof

An ideal windproof work jacket must provide users with adequate protection from rain, sleet and snowfall, while keeping the wearer warm and comfortable. A strong shell should provide these protections; furthermore it must also feature insulation to maintain warmth for optimal performance.

Waterproof jackets are a staple for outdoor workers who spend extended amounts of time outside. Constructed using water-resistant materials and taped seams to block raindrops from penetrating through, waterproof jackets come in an array of styles with or without hoods to meet worker needs.

Some of these jackets are insulated, while others do not use any filling; others combine both types.

Some insulated jackets feature a three-layer construction, in which a waterproof membrane is adhered to an outer fabric layer for increased performance and protection while remaining much lighter than their two-layer counterparts. This provides better performance while offering less protection.

Insulated

Insulated work jackets provide a layer of insulation between you and the cold weather, helping reduce heat loss by keeping you warmer for longer. They may or may not include an internal liner.

Your body requires maintaining a constant temperature range (97-99 F). Unfortunately, our bodies cannot fully compensate for all of the heat lost; without an insulated jacket to keep us warm, hypothermia could strike quickly.

RefrigiWear's lightweight hip-length, water-repellent and windproof insulated work jacket provides warmth in cold environments with features such as Scotchlite reflective tape for increased visibility as well as soft fleece collar for comfort.

If you want a versatile and adaptable work jacket, consider investing in one with a three-in-one design. These jackets consist of two pieces which fasten together so that the insulated layer can be used when it gets cold, while its waterproof outer shell keeps out water when it rains.