Selecting The Best Work Overalls: A Practical Guide

Work overalls, also referred to as coveralls or boiler suits, are indispensable for professionals working in construction, manufacturing, warehousing, and agriculture, where safety and functionality are critical. Finding the perfect workwear is easier when you know what to look for in terms of durability, comfort, and protection.

By the end of this guide, you’ll gain a clear understanding of key features to prioritize and receive industry-specific recommendations, helping you make an informed choice that suits your needs without hassle. 

This guide aims to answer your questions and provide you with the tools to make an informed and confident decision. Backed by expertise in workwear, we’ll ensure you have everything you need to choose the best overalls and offer guidance for your next steps, such as pairing them with the right safety shoes or work jackets.

Explore our Work Overalls collection for high-quality options.

Key Features to Look For

When selecting the right work overalls, consider the following:

1. Material Durability

Work overalls come in materials such as cotton, polyester blends, and denim. For heavy-duty tasks like construction or agriculture, choose reinforced fabrics with ripstop or abrasion-resistant properties. For lighter work, breathable materials can enhance comfort.

2. Protective Features

Look for additional protective features:

• Flame-resistant properties for industrial environments.
• Waterproof coatings for outdoor work.
• High-visibility accents for low-light conditions.

3. Comfort and Fit

Well-fitted overalls enhance movement and productivity. Follow a detailed sizing guide to ensure the perfect fit. Adjustable straps and elastic waistbands add flexibility.

Comparing Work Overall Types

Here is a breakdown of common work overall types and their best applications:

How to Choose Work Overalls for Your Industry

Different industries demand specific types of work overalls. Here’s what to prioritize based on your field:

1. Construction

Durability and protection are important, especially in industries like construction where overalls need to withstand abrasive environments or in manufacturing where fire-resistant materials are crucial for safety. Consider flame-resistant and waterproof overalls. Explore overalls for construction.

2. Warehousing

Lightweight materials that offer ease of movement are ideal. High-visibility options are also beneficial. Learn more about warehousing overalls.

3. Agriculture

Waterproof and breathable fabrics are a great choice for long hours in varying weather conditions. Find suitable agricultural overalls.

Sizing and Fit: Getting It Right

A well-fitting overall ensures both safety and comfort. Use this guide for European sizing:

For detailed instructions, visit How to Measure for Work Overalls.

EN Standards for Work Overalls

When selecting work overalls, it is crucial to ensure compliance with European Norm (EN) standards for safety and quality. These standards help identify the protective capabilities of the clothing based on the work environment. Below are some key EN standards relevant to work overalls:

• EN ISO 11611: Protection against heat and flames for welding and allied processes.
• EN ISO 11612: Protective clothing for industrial workers exposed to heat and flames.
• EN 343: Protection against rain and inclement weather conditions.
• EN 20471: High-visibility clothing for enhanced safety in low-light environments.
• EN 1149-5: Electrostatic properties to reduce the risk of sparks in flammable atmospheres.
• EN 13034: Limited protection against liquid chemicals for light industrial use.

Ensure that your chosen work overalls meet the necessary standards for your industry to maximize safety and functionality. Learn more about EN Standards from this guide in Wikipedia.

Top European Work Overall Suppliers

Here are trusted suppliers offering high-quality work overalls:

• AS Arbeitsschutz
• Portwest
• Helly Hansen
• Nitras
• Fristads

Browse the full list of suppliers here.

Related Workwear Categories

Complete your workwear with these related products to build a comprehensive solution that meets all your professional needs:

• Safety Shoes: Protect your feet with durable and comfortable footwear. Read our guide to safety shoes.
• Work Jackets: Ideal for outdoor and cold-weather environments. Learn more in Work Jackets: Selecting The Right Outerwear.
• Work Pants: Pair your overalls with specialized pants. Check out How to Choose the Right Work Pants.

Final Tips for Selecting Work Overalls

• Assess Your Needs: Match the overalls’ features to your work environment.
• Prioritize Quality: Invest in trusted brands like Ejendals or Buff.
• Review Sizing: Always double-check measurements for optimal fit.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has equipped you with the insights needed to confidently choose the best work overalls, tailored to your specific industry and requirements. Whether you’re working in construction, warehousing, or agriculture, you can trust our expertise and range of options to support your safety and comfort.

Explore our full collection of work overalls and discover trusted brands like AS Arbeitsschutz, Portwest, and Helly Hansen.

Still have questions or need guidance on your next workwear purchase? We’re here to help ensure your safety and confidence at every step. And when you’re ready to expand your gear, check out our guides on safety shoes or work jackets.

Frequently Asked Questions