Get the Hottest (or Coolest) Look on Site.

As a builder or tradie who’s likely on-site a lot, you’ll be familiar with working in the elements.

That means choosing what you wear on a workday isn’t just a matter of ‘the next fresh high-vis on the rack’. You’ll be thinking about what keeps you warm when it’s cold, cool when it’s hot, and is safe and flexible for the job at hand all year round.

With Winter well and truly knocking on the door, now is a good time to double-check you’ve got the right gear ready to go. After all, a warm and comfy tradie is a happy tradie.

This should be your first purchase when you’re updating your work wardrobe. A really good jacket should last, keeping your upper body warm for years – but make sure it won’t affect your moveability on site, so you can get on with the job without it becoming annoying.

Something lightweight and padded with a relaxed fit will work fine. Plus, find one with pockets that zip up, so you’ve got that bit of extra carrying capacity.

If you’re outside or working on rooves a lot, think about spending extra to get the best waterproofing and wind-breaking features you can. A detachable hood might also come in handy for those days when it’s pelting down.

Full thermals might seem like the obvious call, but after a couple of hours’ work, you’ll find it hard to cool down. Go with layers instead – you can get rid of them as needed, with a t-shirt underneath.

When it’s cold out there, a singlet probably won’t do a lot to keep you warm. Switch to some breathable, long-sleeve cotton tees and overshirts instead.

For those cold winter mornings, throwing a pair of gloves on as you head out the door – and probably a beanie as well – will start your day right. Makes it easier to hold a hot coffee, too.

A quality hoodie is always a good investment. You’ll want to find one that keeps the cold out, but also allows for plenty of flex and movement. Look for 100% cotton brushed fleece and a lined hood with an adjustable toggle. We’d also say showerproof is the way to go – it’ll keep the wind out and make winter drizzles a whole lot more bearable.

As comfy as those shorts are, it’s time to transition back to long trousers or long cargo pants – just make sure they’re durable enough to last, and fit well so you can move easily.

Nothing’s worse than the moment you realise water’s gotten into your shoes. Get a pair of sturdy, weatherproof boots and keep your feet happy.

• Dress safely: Depending on your role and the work conditions you’re going into, it’s a good idea to make sure your new workwear meets your safety codes and won’t get in the way of you doing work.
• Get a thermos: A hot drink isn’t just a creature comfort - having something warm and slightly sweet like tea or hot chocolate will help warm up your system as you work, helping to keep you healthy.
• Stay hydrated: Cold weather can dehydrate you almost as quickly as hot, especially when you’re out working hard in it – and the same goes for alcohol and caffeine. Make sure you keep those fluids up.
• Eat healthy: Okay, we’ve veered away from clothes a bit, but this is an important one – keeping an eye on your diet.

By making sure you’re getting plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, you’ll keep your energy up as well as give your immune system a big boost to fight off a winter cold or flu. That means getting through the working day better, with energy to do what you love when you get home.

And yes, we know we’ve published an article of Easter barbeque recipes this month. BBQ pork ribs don’t exactly fit with a healthy diet – but you deserve a treat every now and then.

Easter’s not technically in Winter anyway, right?

Mitre 10 stocks a great range of heated jackets and vests made for the rough on-site conditions and chilly Aussie winters. If built-in heating sounds safe for your workplace then take a look online, or head in store to try one on today.

●      Makita 12V Max Heated Vest 

●      Makita 12V Max Li-Ion High Visibility Heated Jacket Skin

●      Makita 12V Max Li-Ion Heated Jacket Skin

●      12V Heated Jacket (Black)