Good waterproof workwear combines a genuinely waterproof fabric, taped seams and enough breathability to stop sweat building up inside. Anyone who works outdoors knows the misery of being soaked by mid-morning with hours still to go. Wet clothing draws heat from the body, causes chafing and fatigue and hurts concentration, so proper rainwear is a safety investment as much as a comfort one.

Water-resistant vs waterproof: what's the difference?

Not all waterproof claims are equal. Water-resistant fabrics, often treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, shrug off light showers but will soak through in sustained rain. For a full day outside you need garments with a proper waterproof rating and, ideally, taped seams. Stitching holes are where cheap jackets fail first.

Quality garments often quote a hydrostatic head figure in millimetres. The higher the number, the more water pressure the fabric withstands before it leaks, which matters when you're kneeling on wet ground or carrying materials on your shoulder.

Workwear designed for rain is usually tested to EN 343. It gives one class for water penetration resistance and another for breathability, and in both cases a higher class means better performance. Checking both numbers stops you buying a jacket that keeps rain out but leaves you damp inside.

Why breathability matters

Breathability is the other half of the equation. A non-breathable jacket keeps rain out but traps sweat in, leaving you just as wet from the inside. Breathable waterproof fabrics let moisture vapour escape while blocking rain, which is well worth the upgrade for active work such as groundworks, roofing and landscaping.

Coated PVC or PU rainwear still has its place. It's fully waterproof, tough and easy to wipe down, so it suits wet, less active jobs such as jet washing or working around livestock. Whatever you choose, layer it properly: a cotton hoodie underneath holds moisture, while wicking base layers move sweat away from the skin.

Don't stop at the jacket

Waterproof over-trousers protect the legs, which are usually the first thing rain hits when bending and kneeling. Packable sets can live in the van until they're needed. When choosing, look for:

• Side zips or wide legs so trousers go on over boots without a struggle.
• Elasticated or adjustable cuffs that sit over the boot, so water runs off rather than into it.
• Helmet-compatible hoods that fit over a hard hat without blocking side vision.
• Storm flaps over zips to stop driving rain getting through the front.

Finish the outfit with safety wellingtons for muddy or flooded ground. For roadside and site work, hi-vis waterproof jackets and matching trousers combine EN ISO 20471 visibility with weather protection in one garment. Our guide to hi-vis classes 1, 2 and 3 explains which class you may need.

Caring for waterproofs

Waterproofs only perform if they're looked after. Follow the care label, avoid fabric softener (it can clog breathable membranes and strip the water-repellent finish) and dry garments fully before storing them. When rain stops beading on the surface, a wash-in or spray-on reproofer can restore the finish.

Check regularly for peeling seam tape, worn cuffs and broken zips. If you want your logo on waterproof garments, bear in mind that embroidery needles pierce the fabric, so ask about printed options through our embroidery and print service. For more on cold-weather layering, read our winter workwear guide.

Quick answers

What is a good waterproof rating for workwear?

Look for garments tested to EN 343, which gives separate classes for water penetration resistance and breathability, with higher classes performing better. For long days in heavy rain, choose a higher water penetration class and taped seams.

Are breathable waterproofs worth it?

For active outdoor work, usually yes. A breathable fabric lets sweat vapour escape while blocking rain, so you stay drier inside than you would in a non-breathable coated jacket.

Can waterproof jackets be hi-vis?

Yes. Hi-vis waterproof jackets and over-trousers certified to EN ISO 20471 combine visibility with weather protection, and worn together they can achieve a higher class than either garment alone. Check the label for the combined rating.

Browse our waterproof workwear for jackets, over-trousers and full rain suits, or contact us to talk through the right options for your team.