Hoodies

About Hoodies

Work hoodies have evolved far beyond basic casual wear to become an essential component of professional workwear for tradespeople across the UK. Whether you're working on a construction site, in a warehouse, or tackling outdoor projects, a quality work hoodie provides the perfect combination of comfort, warmth, and practicality. Modern work hoodies are engineered with reinforced stitching, durable fabrics, and thoughtful design features that stand up to the rigours of daily professional use whilst keeping you comfortable throughout your shift.

Our comprehensive range includes everything from high-visibility hoodies that meet stringent safety standards for roadside and site work, to heated hoodies with battery-powered warmth for working in the coldest conditions. You'll find classic pullover styles, convenient zip-through options, and quarter-zip designs that offer versatile temperature control. Leading brands like Portwest, DeWalt, Scruffs, and Caterpillar bring their decades of workwear expertise to every garment, ensuring you get professional-grade quality that lasts.

From flame-resistant options for specialised environments to fleece-lined designs for ultimate winter warmth, today's work hoodies incorporate technical fabrics and smart features that enhance your working day. Many models feature reinforced pockets for tools and devices, adjustable hoods that fit over hard hats, and ergonomic designs that allow full freedom of movement without compromising on protection or warmth.

Jargon Buster

• Hi-Vis Class 3: The highest classification for high-visibility garments under EN ISO 20471, providing maximum visibility with specific requirements for fluorescent background material and reflective tape placement. Essential for roadwork and high-risk environments.
• Battery Heated: Hoodies incorporating integrated heating elements powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, typically compatible with existing power tool battery systems like Bosch 12V-18V platforms, providing controllable warmth in cold working conditions.
• Flame Resistant (FR): Fabrics treated or engineered to self-extinguish and resist ignition when exposed to flames, meeting standards such as EN ISO 11612 for protection against heat and flame in hazardous working environments.
• Anti-Static: Materials designed to prevent the build-up of static electricity, crucial in environments where static discharge could ignite flammable substances or damage sensitive electronic equipment.
• Borg Fleece: A thick, soft pile fleece fabric with a distinctive texture resembling sheepskin, providing excellent insulation and comfort for cold weather working conditions.
• Quarter-Zip: A hoodie design featuring a short zip extending from the collar to mid-chest, offering easy ventilation control and convenient on-off without fully unzipping the garment.

Who Uses Hoodies?

Professional work hoodies are relied upon daily by a diverse range of trades and industries:

• Construction Workers: Bricklayers, labourers, and site managers requiring durable, comfortable layering for varying site conditions
• Electricians and Sparks: Need comfortable, non-restrictive workwear with secure pockets for tools and testing equipment
• Landscapers and Groundworkers: Require weather-resistant options for year-round outdoor work
• Delivery Drivers and Logistics Staff: Benefit from hi-vis options for roadside safety and comfortable all-day wear
• Warehouse Operatives: Need practical, durable clothing suitable for manual handling and forklift operation
• Mechanics and Motor Engineers: Appreciate easy-wash fabrics that withstand oil and grease whilst providing warmth in unheated workshops
• Carpenters and Joiners: Value freedom of movement and reinforced designs that handle sawdust and rough materials
• Facilities Maintenance Staff: Often require hi-vis compliance combined with professional appearance
• DIY Enthusiasts: Seek quality, comfortable workwear for home improvement projects and outdoor tasks

How to Choose the Right Hoodies

Visibility Requirements: Determine whether your work environment requires high-visibility clothing. Construction sites, roadwork, and many industrial settings mandate Class 2 or Class 3 hi-vis garments. Check your employer's PPE policy and HSE guidelines for your specific workplace.

Style and Functionality: Consider whether you need a pullover, full-zip, or quarter-zip design. Pullover hoodies offer fewer cold spots and maximum warmth, whilst zip-through designs provide easier temperature regulation and convenience. Quarter-zip styles offer a compromise with ventilation control and a smart appearance.

Weather and Environment: For cold weather working, look for fleece-lined options or innovative heated hoodies from brands like Bosch that integrate with your existing battery platform. If you work outdoors year-round, consider moisture-wicking fabrics and weather-resistant treatments. For particularly harsh conditions, flame-resistant or anti-static properties may be essential.

Fabric Durability: Premium brands like Portwest, DeWalt, and Scruffs use reinforced stitching at stress points and heavyweight fabrics (typically 300-400 GSM) that resist tearing, abrasion, and repeated washing. Check for reinforced pockets and durable YKK zips that won't fail mid-shift.

Fit and Comfort: Work hoodies should allow free movement for bending, reaching, and lifting without riding up or restricting your shoulders. Many professional ranges offer ergonomic designs with articulated sleeves and stretch panels. Consider sizing up if you need to layer thermal underlayers beneath during winter months.

Pocket Configuration: Assess your daily carry requirements. Look for secure zipped pockets for phones and valuables, reinforced pouches for hand tools, and internal pockets for safe document storage. Some models include dedicated sleeve pockets for smaller items.

Popular Accessories

• Base Layer Thermals: Moisture-wicking underlayers that enhance warmth without bulk, ideal for layering beneath work hoodies
• Body Warmers and Gilets: Additional insulation layer for core warmth that doesn't restrict arm movement
• Work Jackets: Waterproof outer shells to wear over hoodies for complete weather protection
• Work Trousers: Coordinating professional workwear from the same brand ranges for consistent durability and style
• Battery Packs: Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries compatible with heated hoodie systems, often shared with power tool platforms
• Hard Hats and Bump Caps: Designed to fit comfortably over adjustable hoods for complete head protection
• Safety Boots: Complete your professional workwear ensemble with appropriate protective footwear
• Tool Belts and Holders: Complement hoodie pocket storage with additional carrying capacity for larger tools

Safety Information

When working in environments requiring high-visibility clothing, ensure your hoodie meets the appropriate EN ISO 20471 classification for your specific risk level. Class 3 garments provide the highest visibility and are mandatory for many roadside and construction applications. Always verify that hi-vis garments maintain their certification after washing by following care instructions carefully.

For heated hoodies, only use manufacturer-approved battery packs and charging equipment. Inspect heating elements regularly for damage, and never operate heated garments near flammable materials or in explosive atmospheres. Flame-resistant hoodies must meet relevant standards such as EN ISO 11612 and should be replaced if damaged, as compromised fabric loses its protective properties.

Avoid wearing hoodies with drawstrings near rotating machinery, as these present entanglement hazards. Many professional work hoodies feature breakaway cords or eliminate drawstrings entirely for this reason. Always conduct a risk assessment for your specific working environment and consult HSE guidance for appropriate workwear standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear a hoodie under a hi-vis vest or jacket?

Yes, layering a standard work hoodie beneath a hi-vis vest or jacket is common practice and provides excellent warmth. However, if your hoodie itself is hi-vis certified, ensure outer layers don't obscure the reflective strips and fluorescent panels that provide your visibility protection.

How do heated hoodies work and which battery systems are compatible?

Heated hoodies incorporate carbon fibre or similar heating elements integrated into the fabric, powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Many professional models, like the Bosch heated hoodie, are designed to work with existing 12V-18V power tool battery platforms, eliminating the need for separate battery systems and allowing you to use batteries you already own.

What's the difference between work hoodies and regular casual hoodies?

Professional work hoodies are constructed from heavier, more durable fabrics (300-400 GSM compared to 200-280 GSM for casual wear) with reinforced stitching at stress points, industrial-grade zips, and features like secure tool pockets, abrasion-resistant panels, and designs that accommodate protective equipment. They're engineered to withstand daily professional use and repeated industrial washing.

How should I wash and care for my work hoodie?

Always follow the manufacturer's care label instructions, particularly for specialised garments like hi-vis or flame-resistant hoodies. Generally, wash inside-out in cool to warm water (30-40°C) to preserve fabric treatments and colours. Avoid fabric softeners on technical fabrics as these can reduce moisture-wicking and flame-resistant properties. For hi-vis garments, replace when reflective strips become damaged or background fabric fades significantly.

Are work hoodies suitable for all seasons?

Quality work hoodies are versatile layering pieces suitable for year-round use. In summer, lighter-weight cotton-blend hoodies provide comfortable coverage and sun protection. During spring and autumn, mid-weight hoodies serve as outer layers. In winter, fleece-lined or heated options provide substantial warmth, or standard hoodies work excellently as mid-layers beneath waterproof jackets for maximum protection against British weather.