Everything You Need to Know Before Buying Hi-Vis Workwear

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Best Waterproof Workwear

9 March 2023

Heavy rain can make working outdoors tough, unproductive and dispiriting, especially if you get caught without the appropriate protective clothing. At Workwear.co.uk, we want our customers to be able to work at their very best no matter how bad the weather gets, so we made this guide covering the Best Waterproof Workwear.


Looking for Something In Particular?

We've selected a few of our most popular waterproof garments to help you stay ahead of the weather. Follow the quick links below to go straight to what you're looking for.


Best Waterproof Jacket

Portwest S553 Radial 3-in-1 Stormproof Jacket

Portwest S553 Radial 3 in 1 Stormproof Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Polyester liner provides superb wind and rain protection
 Removable fleece provides additional thermal warmth
 Front zips for easy application in fast work environments
 Functional storm flap and pack-away hood for all-round protection

Best For...

 Outdoor winter work
 Transportation 
 Construction

Not the Best for...

 Working in low light conditions (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Taking our top spot for the best all-round waterproof jacket is the Portwest S553 3-in-1 Stormproof Jacket. This resilient winter coat comes in two parts: a polyester outer jacket and a thermal interior fleece. You can wear each layer individually depending on the weather, or combine the two for optimal protection in cold, wet conditions.


Best Waterproof Trousers

Portwest F441 Iona Rain Trousers

Portwest F441 Iona Rain Trousers

Why We Love It...

 Taped seams and waterproof fabric offer top-level rain protection
 Elasticated waistband provides a secure and comfortable fit
 Side access pockets for increased utility and function
 Reflective strips increase visibility in low light conditions

Best For...

 Outdoor work
 Construction
 Warehouse work

Not the Best for...

 Maximum visibility (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: With taped seams and an advanced waterproof fabric, the Portwest F441 Iona Rain Trousers will keep you well protected in wet weather conditions. Thanks to an elasticated waistband, these trousers offer excellent comfort to help you perform at your best while working outdoors.


Best High-Vis Waterproof Jacket

Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Winter Jacket T400

Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Winter Jacket T400

Why We Love It...

 Taped seams deliver 100% waterproof protection
 Interior quilt lining provides quality thermal insulation
 HiVisTex Pro lining increases visibility during night work
 Special Texpel finish repels dirt and prevents staining

Best For...

 Night shift work
 Road works
 Construction 

Not the Best for...

 Not flame resistant (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: If you're looking for a warm, dry jacket that will also help you stay visible, the Portwest T400 PW3 Hi-Vis Jacket is your best option. Made with premium polyester and elastane materials, this cosy jacket will wick water away from its surface, while a heat reflective interior lining helps defend you from the cold.

Customer Feedback: "Delighted with this jacket which I purchased for my job as a commercial flight instructor and to replace my existing Portwest bomber jacket. Much improved in terms of style and particularly fit which is much more tailored. Seems very warm too." Andy ★★★★★


Best High-Vis Waterproof Trousers

Portwest FR43 Orange High-Vis FR Sealtex Trousers

Portwest FR43 Orange High-Vis FR Sealtex Trousers

Why We Love It...

 Welded seams provide complete water protection
 Resistant to small igniting flames and static risks
 Durable fabric with an elasticated waistband for comfort
 Bright orange colour and reflective taping for greater visibility

Best For...

 Dockside work
 Motorway work
 Construction

Not the Best for...

 Heavy-duty application (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Staying as bright as possible in hazardous, low-light environments is critical to safety. The Portwest FR43 Sealtex Trousers provide extra waterproof coverage from the waist to the feet for those particularly rainy shifts. They are also bright and reflective to help you stay visible to others.


Best Flame-Resistant Waterproof Jacket

Portwest S738 Bizflame Rain FR Bomber Jacket

Portwest S738 Bizflame Rain FR Bomber Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Provides the highest possible waterproof rating under EN 343
 Multi-hazard protection against flame, chemicals and static
 Four moulded zip pockets for functional storage and utility
 Texpel stain-resistant fabric repels dirt and stains

Best For...

 Engineers
 Warehouse work
 Construction

Not the Best for...

 Leg protection (see our solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Designed for multi-hazard protection against flame risk, chemical hazards and static electricity, the Portwest S738 Bizflame Bomber Jacket is one of our most versatile wet-weather work jackets. It's warm, comfortable and has a special dirt-repellent finish to prevent stains. Strips of reflective material also help you stay visible in low light.


Best Flame Resistant Waterproof Trousers

Portwest S780 Orange Bizflame Rain Unlined High-Vis Flame Resistant Trousers

Portwest S780 Orange Bizflame Rain Unlined High-Vis Flame Resistant Trousers

Why We Love It...

 Flame resistant fabric and reflective tape for ample fire protection
 Highest possible waterproof and breathability rating under EN 343
 Unlined to allow for comfort and a full range of motion
 Reflective lining helps improve visibility in low light conditions

Best For...

 Road work
 Maintenance
 Surveying

Not the Best for...

 Lightweight protection (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Built with flame-resistant and anti-static properties, the Portwest S780 Bizflame Trousers are designed for hazardous industrial work in cold, wet conditions. Having been awarded with multiple safety certifications, these high-vis work dungarees demonstrate reliable protection against many common workplace hazards.


Best Thermal Waterproof Jacket

Portwest PW369 Hi-Vis Winter Parka Jacket

Portwest PW369 Hi-Vis Winter Parka Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Heavyweight insulatex lining offers steadfast protection from cold
 Certified under EN 343 to provide total waterproof protection
 Detachable fur hood provides additional warmth and cover for the head
 Constructed using durable 300D Oxford polyester for increased longevity

Best For...

 Industrial work
 Outdoor work
 Working on docks or at sea

Not the Best for...

 Arc flash resistance (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Stay toasty and warm in the worst of conditions with the Portwest PW369 Hi-Vis Winter Parka. The jacket features both Insulatex lining to reflect heat back into the body and a detachable fur-lined hood to prepare you for the harshest possible weather. This winter coat also has a bright yellow liner and reflective strips to help you stay visible in the dark.


Best Arc Flash Resistant Waterproof Jacket

ProGARM 9440 Waterproof Hi-Vis Orange Arc Flash Jacket 

ProGARM 9440 Waterproof Hi-Vis Orange Arc Flash Jacket

Why We Love It...

 Protects against flames, arc flash and static discharge 
 Provides certified water protection, with a hood to keep your head dry
 Double stitched tape and triple stitched seams for greater durability
 Bright reflective strips and orange colour help you stay visible

Best For...

 Oil refinery work
 Maintenance
 Utilities

Not the Best for...

 People who don't need high levels of protection (see our solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Designed to offer outstanding durability thanks to the VXS+ material, the ProGARM 9440 Waterproof Hi-Vis Orange Arc Flash Jacket provides resistance against arc flash risks, heat, flames, rain, static and more. The VXS+ fabric ensures comfort during periods of extended use, improving your performance over the course of the work day.


Best Waterproof Coat

Portwest S438 Classic Rain Coat

Portwest S438 Classic Rain Coat

Why We Love It...

 Water-resistant fabric finish and taped seams stop water penetration
 Longer length provides almost full-body protection
 Includes two pockets, front zip opening and pack away hood
 Elasticated inner cuff and lightweight fabric for a comfortable and secure fit

Best For...

 Power washing
 Working at sea
 Traffic management

Not the Best for...

 Thermal protection (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Extreme weather conditions require the maximum amount of coverage for adequate protection in the rain. The Portwest S438 Classic Rain Coat is a waterproof coat long enough to offer full protection, whilst remaining comfortable thanks to the lightweight fabric and ventilated back.


Best Waterproof Overalls

Portwest S452 Sealtex Classic Coveralls

Portwest S452 Sealtex Classic Coveralls

Why We Love It...

 Sealtex fabric with welded seams offers incredible water protection
 Front zip fastening makes them easy to put on and take off
 Made from durable materials to ensure longevity
 Available in either a bright yellow or navy colour

Best For...

 Power washing
 Factory work
 Construction

Not the Best for...

 Fire protection (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Providing full coverage from the neck down to the feet, the Portwest S452 SealTex Coveralls offer excellent rain protection to keep your entire body as dry as a bone. A convenient front zip makes these overalls easy to slip in-and-out of, and the robust material construction makes them extremely hard-wearing.


Best Waterproof Gloves

Skytec Argon Thermal Waterproof Work Gloves

Skytec Argon Thermal Waterproof Work Gloves

Why We Love It...

 Keeps your hands warm in temperatures as low as -50°C
 Features a 100% waterproof lining for assured protection
 Offers reliable protection against a range of mechanical risks
 Provides a snug fit for comfort and improved dexterity

Best For...

 Cold storage
 Farming
 Oil and gas work

Not the Best for...

 Body protection (See Our Solution...)

Editor's Verdict: Tested and proven to provide water protection, the Skytec Argons are our most recommended waterproof gloves. Not only will they keep your hands dry, their warm nylon lining will also protect your hands from freezing cold temperatures that drop as low as -50°C.

Customer Feedback: "So glad to have found these gloves - just right for farm work - warm & dry!" Brenda ★★★★★


What to Look For When Buying Waterproof Workwear

All of these clothes are waterproof, but there are other factors you may wish to consider. This includes comfort, functionality and any protection against additional hazards that you may need protection against. Following is a short list of considerations when selecting waterproof workwear. 

  • Breathable: Waterproof clothes can often prove hot and sweaty, so look for ventilated options
  • Freedom of Movement: It's important to find a garment that lets you move freely while working
  • High-Vis: In low lighting conditions it's important that you stay visible to both vehicles and other people 
  • Other Protections: If you require protection against flames, cold or arc flashes then look for the relevant safety standards
  • Durability: Garments made with tougher materials will remain intact for a longer period of time 
  • Storage: Pockets provide useful storage for carrying tools, cell phones and other equipment
  • Coverage: Some garments will offer greater areas of coverage than others

Honourable Mentions

At Workwear.co.uk, we stock such a vast range of fantastic waterproof work garments that it's hard to make a section just for each. Instead we've included this honourable mentions section to show off some of our other great products that didn't quite make the cut.

Portwest S466 Hi-Vis Contrast Traffic Jacket

Portwest S466 Hi-Vis Contrast Traffic Jacket

  (7)
£25.04 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Waterproof Softshell Jacket T402

Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Waterproof Softshell Jacket T402

£40.83 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
Portwest S770 Bizflame Rain Waterproof Fire Jacket

Portwest S770 Bizflame Rain Waterproof Fire Jacket

£109.99 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
TuffStuff 263 Hale Black Stretch-Fabric Hooded Waterproof Jacket

TuffStuff 263 Hale Black Stretch-Fabric Hooded Waterproof Jacket

  (3)
£24.09 (Ex. VAT)
Usually Dispatched in 3 - 5 Working Days  Usually Dispatched in 3 - 5 Working Days
TuffStuff 293 Newport Hardwearing and Lightweight Black Waterproof Winter Jacket

TuffStuff 293 Newport Hardwearing and Lightweight Black Waterproof Winter Jacket

  (1)
£26.96 (Ex. VAT)
Usually Dispatched in 3 - 5 Working Days  Usually Dispatched in 3 - 5 Working Days
TuffStuff 299 Cleveland Water Resistant Fleece Lined Cold Work Winter Jacket

TuffStuff 299 Cleveland Water Resistant Fleece Lined Cold Work Winter Jacket

  (4)
£30.73 (Ex. VAT)
Usually Dispatched in 3 - 5 Working Days  Usually Dispatched in 3 - 5 Working Days
Sioen 198A Monoray Yellow Lightweight Hi-Vis Rain Jacket

Sioen 198A Monoray Yellow Lightweight Hi-Vis Rain Jacket

  (1)
£48.16 (Ex. VAT)
Currently unavailable. Please check back soon  Currently unavailable. Please check back soon
Portwest C887 Action Trousers with Back Elastication

Portwest C887 Action Trousers with Back Elastication

  (1)
£14.99 (Ex. VAT)
Currently unavailable. Please check back soon  Currently unavailable. Please check back soon
Portwest S441 Classic Rain Trousers

Portwest S441 Classic Rain Trousers

£5.55 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
Portwest S351 Sealtex AIR Trousers

Portwest S351 Sealtex AIR Trousers

£19.15 (Ex. VAT)
Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days  Dispatched in 1 - 5 working days
Ejendals Tegera 517 Waterproof Outdoor Gloves

Ejendals Tegera 517 Waterproof Outdoor Gloves

  (13)
£6.66 (Ex. VAT)
In stock now  In stock now
Ejendals Tegera 295 Insulated Waterproof Gloves

Ejendals Tegera 295 Insulated Waterproof Gloves

  (14)
£14.99 (Ex. VAT)
In stock now  In stock now
 

Stay One Step Ahead of the Weather

No one wants to work outside in the rain, but when it can't be avoided, suiting up in high-quality waterproofs will make the day seem less daunting. For further information and to see our full range of waterproof workwear, feel free to browse our Waterproof Workwear Category.

If you have any questions or anything to add, then we would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below, or find us on Facebook and Twitter!