Work Bodywarmers and Gilets: The Most Practical Layer You'll Own
Work bodywarmers and gilets keep your core warm while leaving your arms free, which is why so many trades reach for one before a jacket. Ask anyone who works outdoors or in and out of vehicles all day, and they'll tell you a good bodywarmer earns its keep like nothing else in the wardrobe.
Why a bodywarmer beats a bulky jacket
The appeal is simple. A bodywarmer (or gilet) keeps your core warm, where it matters most for regulating body temperature, while leaving your arms completely free. For trades involving constant reaching, lifting and tool work, that freedom of movement makes a real difference compared with a bulky jacket.
Drivers and delivery staff love them for the same reason: warmth without overheating when hopping between cab, van and doorstep. With no sleeves, there's also less fabric to bunch up at the elbows or catch when working overhead.
Layering through three seasons
They're also the ultimate layering piece. Worn over a polo in autumn, over a hoodie in winter or under a waterproof shell in the worst weather, a bodywarmer flexes across three seasons. Pair one with our waterproof jackets on wet days and you have a system that adapts to the forecast instead of one heavy coat.
| Type | Best for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Padded or quilted | Cold, less active work and early starts | Padding works best dry, so add a shell in heavy rain |
| Softshell gilet | Exposed, windy sites and active work | Lighter insulation, so better as a mid layer in deep cold |
| Fleece gilet | Indoor and mild-weather layering | Little wind resistance on its own |
| Hi-vis bodywarmer | Roadside, yard and site work | Check the EN ISO 20471 class against site rules |
Padded and quilted versions offer serious insulation, while softshell gilets add wind resistance for exposed sites. If you want something lighter, a fleece gilet from our fleeces and softshells range makes a good mid layer.
Hi-vis bodywarmers and EN ISO 20471
Hi-vis bodywarmers bring EN ISO 20471 visibility into the mix for roadside and site work. Because they have no sleeves, they are typically Class 1 or Class 2. Class 3 garments must cover the torso and have either sleeves with retroreflective bands or full-length trouser legs with bands, so a bodywarmer alone won't get you there.
For motorways and high-speed roads, Class 3 is generally expected, while UK rail requires orange hi-vis meeting at least Class 2. Always check your client's or principal contractor's site rules. Our guide to hi-vis classes 1, 2 and 3 explains the differences, and you can browse certified garments in our hi-vis range.
Features worth looking for
Practical features to look for include:
- Zipped pockets for phone, keys and fuel card.
- A high collar for draught protection.
- A longer back hem to keep kidneys covered when bending.
- Stretch side panels or a two-way zip for comfort when driving or kneeling.
For branding, the chest and rear panels take embroidery and print well, keeping your logo visible even when worn over other layers. On quilted styles, check the logo placement so it sits flat between the stitch lines.
Most bodywarmers wash well, but follow the care label. Padded styles generally prefer a cooler wash and a low tumble or line dry to keep the filling evenly spread. For more cold-weather kit, see our winter workwear guide.
Quick answers
What is the difference between a bodywarmer and a gilet?
In workwear the terms are mostly interchangeable, as both are sleeveless jackets. Bodywarmer usually suggests a padded or quilted style, while gilet is often used for lighter fleece or softshell versions.
Can a hi-vis bodywarmer be Class 3?
Not on its own. EN ISO 20471 Class 3 garments need sleeves or full-length trouser legs with retroreflective bands, so a sleeveless bodywarmer is typically Class 1 or 2.
What should I wear under a work bodywarmer?
A polo or t-shirt in mild weather, and a hoodie, fleece or base layer when it's colder. Add a waterproof shell over the top in heavy rain.
Browse our work bodywarmers and gilets in standard and hi-vis options, or contact our team about adding your logo.
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