Best Construction Work Jackets 2024

29 August 2023  |  Sharman

Keeping comfortable while you work is important, but for builders and others that work on site, you need a jacket that's also durable and practical. Construction involves serious wear and tear, while also continuing all year round, through every season.

From light and casual bombers to hi-vis and all-weather protection, we've got the jacket for you in our Best Construction Work Jackets 2024 guide.

What Will This Guide Cover?


Best Overall Construction Work Jacket

Our Favourite: Blaklader Workwear Softshell Jacket (Black/Dark Grey)

Blaklader Workwear Softshell Jacket (Black/Dark Grey)

Why We Love It...

 Made with durable, water- and wind- resistant material
 Ergonomic and adjustable at multiple points for comfort
✔ Includes wide variety of pockets for convenient storage

Perfect For...

 Keeping warm without being overly padded or rigid
 Year round work in most non-extreme weather

Not the Best For...

✘ Extreme cold (See our solution)
 
Roadside or night work (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: It doesn't get more versatile than the Portwest C465 Hi-Vis Jacket! The hood folds away, while the fur lining, fur collar and the sleeves themselves are all completely removable. This means that it can be worn as a bomber jacket, winter coat, body warmer/gilet or just as a simple vest – all with reliable hi-vis!


Best Waterproof Construction Jacket 

Our Favourite: TuffStuff 295 Sutherland Grey Waterproof Windbreaker

TuffStuff 295 Sutherland Grey Fleece Lined Waterproof WindbreakerWhy We Love It...

 Waterproof windbreaker design is lightweight and protective
✔ Kangaroo pockets offer storage for tools and equipment
 Polyurethane coating is tough and resistant to dirt and water

Perfect For...

 Heavy rain, with extreme weather waterproof rating of 3,000mm
 Wearing as a shell layer in cold weather or by itself in summer

Not the Best For...

Lighter protection (See our solution)
 
Extreme cold (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: Construction doesn't stop for heavy rain but the TuffStuff 295 Sutherland Grey Windbreaker will keep you dry. The hardwearing polyurethane offers brilliant rain and water resistance, as well as the durability needed for tough jobs. It also features large kangaroo pockets, perfect for on-the-go storage of tools and equipment or personal belongings. 


Best Hi-Vis Construction Jacket

Our Favourite: Portwest C465 Hi-Vis Contrast Bomber Jacket

Portwest C465 Hi-Vis Contrast Bomber Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Can be worn as a bomber, fur-lined winter coat, or as a vest
 Extremely hi-vis with bright yellow colour and reflective strips
✔ Robust material is waterproof and taped for extra protection

Perfect For...

 Roadside construction work all-year round
 Changing weather and temperature throughout the day

Not the Best For...

✘ Extreme rain (See our solution)
 
More casual wear (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: It doesn't get more versatile than the Portwest C465 Hi-Vis Jacket! The hood folds away, while the fur lining, fur collar and the sleeves themselves are all completely removable. This means that it can be worn as a bomber jacket, winter coat, body warmer/gilet or just as a simple vest – all with reliable hi-vis! It's the best choice for roadworks and night work, no matter what time of year.

 

Best Winter Construction Jacket

Our Favourite: Portwest T740 WX3 Waterproof Thermal Winter Work Jacket

Portwest T740 WX3 Waterproof Thermal Winter Work Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Heavily lined and padded, with knitted sleeves and hand warmer pockets
 Extremely waterproof with highly resistant fabric and taped seams
✔ Versatile with 11 pockets for storage, detachable hood and reflective trim

Perfect For...

 Working in heavy rain, storms and extreme cold
 Low-light conditions like winter or evenings

Not the Best For...

Summer work (See our solution)
 
Flexibility (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: The Portwest T740 WX3 Winter Jacket is extremely warm and extremely waterproof. The heavy padding and lining, combined with the highly resistant fabric make it the perfect choice for tough jobs in extreme weather. It also includes 11 pockets for ample storage, as well as a reflective trim to make working in low light conditions safer. With a drawstring waist, along with hook and loop sleeves and a detachable hood, it offers each wearer a customised and comfortable fit too. 


Best Lightweight Construction Jacket

Our Favourite: Portwest PW3 Lightweight Urban Work Jacket T603

Portwest PW3 Lightweight Urban Work Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Premium polycotton fabric is lightweight, comfortable and durable
 Sleek fit, elastic waist and pre-shaped elbows retain full range of movement
✔ 4 Pockets for convenient storage and reflective trim for safer visibility

Perfect For...

 Mild and lightly windy weather year round
 Working on scaffolding and other environments requiring flexibility

Not the Best For...

Winter work (See our solution)
 
Rain protection (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: Light, comfortable and flexible, the Portwest PW3 Jacket is a great choice for construction in mild weather. The polycotton fabric is high-performance, offering both durability and breathability. it also boasts a side elastic waist, along with an adjustable design and sleek, ergonomic fit, perfect for technical work where a bulky jacket won't do. All of this at a brilliant price, too!


Get the Job Done While Staying Comfortable

The jackets we've highlighted in this guide are tough, functional and perfect for builders in a variety of situations. But if you're still on the hunt, why not have a look at our full range of Construction Jackets, we're sure you'll find the best jacket for you!

Do you have any questions about construction workwear? Why not let us know in the comments below!