Best Summer Work Jackets 2024

30 August 2023  |  Sharman

There's no accounting for British summer! From scorching highs of 40° to grey and 19° in the middle of July. But no matter the weather, you'll probably need a lighter work jacket than during the rest of the year.

From waterproof shell jackets to hi-vis jackets or vests, we've got something for you in our Best Summer Work Jackets 2024 guide.

What Will This Guide Cover?


Best Overall Summer Work Jacket

Our Favourite: Portwest PW3 Lightweight Urban Work Jacket T603

Portwest PW3 Lightweight Urban Work Jacket

Why We Love It...

 High-performance polycotton fabric is lightweight, breathable and durable
 Sleek fit, elastic waist and pre-shaped elbows retain full range of movement
✔ Elasticated waist with pre-shaped elbows for comfort and flexibility

Perfect For...

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

Not the Best For...

Visibility (See our solution)
 
Rain protection (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: Light, comfortable and flexible, the Portwest T603 Jacket is a great choice for the summer and mild days all-year round. 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!


Best Waterproof Summer Jacket 

Our Favourite: TuffStuff 293 Newport Hardwearing and Lightweight Black Waterproof Winter Jacket

 TuffStuff 293 Newport Hardwearing and Lightweight Black Waterproof Winter Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Ultra-light and flexible fabric retains freedom of movement
 Windbreaker design uses polyurethane coating for resistance
 Waterproof fabric graded to withstand 5000mm of water

Perfect For...

 Light rain and for rainy spells on warm days
 Wearing on top of other jackets and jumpers as a soft shell
 Work environments and jobs where bulky coats are unsuitable

Not the Best For...

Working in low-light conditions (See our solution)
 
Adapting to different weather conditions (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: Designed to be thin and ultra-lightweight, the TuffStuff 293 Rain Jacket is perfect for on-the-go work and physically demanding actions like lifting equipment or climbing ladders. Despite not being overly padded or bulky, it still offers robust rain protection too, with a polyurethane coating that stops water building up on the surface of the jacket, perfect for those summer showers! With taped seams for durability, it will last a long time too. 


Best Hi-Vis Summer Jacket

Our Favourite: Blaklader Workwear Hi-Vis Level 1 Rain Jacket (Hi-Vis Yellow/Black)

Blaklader Workwear Hi-Vis Level 1 Rain Jacket (Hi-Vis Yellow/Black)Why We Love It...

 Light and flexible fabric maintains full range of movement
✔ Removable hood with adjustable sleeves and waist for best fit
 Durable polyester for waterproofing and wind resistance

Perfect For...

 Staying dry and visible without overheating
 Wearing as a shell layer in cold weather or by itself in summer

Not the Best For...

Durability (See our solution)
 
Style (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: Despite the long design for visibility and to keep you dry, the Blaklader Hi-Vis Jacket is really thin. It's also adjustable at the sleeves and hem, while featuring a removable hood to offer a comfortable and customised fit, however you want to wear it. On top of all that and its high-visibility design, it's fully certified as waterproof and windproof. 

 

Best Summer Fleece Jacket

Our Favourite: Mascot Workwear Fleece Zip Jumper (Light Blue)

Mascot Workwear Fleece Zip Jumper (Light Blue)

Why We Love It...

 Treated for dirt and water resistance to extend lifespan
 Made of 89% recycled materials for sustainability
✔ Elasticated waist and cuffs offer comfortable, ergonomic fit

Perfect For...

 Summer evenings and the odd chilly day
 Keeping you protected while retaining flexibility

Not the Best For...

Face and head protection (See our solution)
 
Outdoor work in winter (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: Fleece jackets don't always have to be super padded, and the Mascot Workwear Fleece Jumper presents a brilliant light alternative that's perfect for the warmer months. The cuffs and waist are elasticated for a fit that comfortably supports a variety of work positions. It's also treated for resistance to water and dirt to help keep you clean and enhance durability. As well as being warm, thin and functional, it's also made of 89% recycled materials for sustainability. Light blue not for you? It's also available in nine other colours!


Best Summer Work Vest

Our Favourite: Portwest S476 Berlin Executive Orange Hi-Vis Vest

Portwest FR75 Orange High-Vis Flame Resistant Vest

Why We Love It...

 Hi-Vis vest design keeps you cool and visible during summer work
 Transparent card display on chest is ideal for secure work sites
✔ Two lower pockets, chest pocket and a D-ring for plenty of storage

Perfect For...

 Wearing on top of other safety clothing and workwear
 Construction, landscaping and other outdoor work in summer

Not the Best For...

Winter work and cold weather (See our solution)
 
Maximum visibility, as arms are uncovered (See our solution)

Editor's Verdict: Stay cool, comfortable and safe while working on the hottest summer days wearing the Portwest S476 Orange High Visibility Vest. The hi-vis vest design helps prevent overheating and keeps you seen while working at night, in low visibility conditions or roadside. Unlike a lot of safety vests, it has pockets, 7 to be precise! This ranges from larger front pockets to smaller slots for pens and IDs. Alternatively, it's great for adding visibility to standard workwear or more protective clothing. Plus – if you love all the features but not the colour, it's also available in Yellow or Red.


Stay Cool All Summer

The jackets we've highlighted are lightweight, thin and perfect for getting the job done under the summer sun! But if you haven't found the one for you yet, why not have a look at the rest of our lightweight work jackets.

Looking for more than just summer jackets, check out our summer workwear section to get fully kitted out!

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