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Working outside in winter: staying warm with layers and good footwear
Stay warm when working outside in winter with a dry base layer, a warm middle layer and an outer layer against wind and rain. Keep your hands and feet dry with good gloves and insulated, waterproof work shoes, because that is where you lose feel and grip first. Below we explain what you need and how to do it.
👷 Calling in a professional is never unnecessary. For work at height, snow on a roof or slippery scaffolds, a professional remains the safest choice. Stop with ice, strong wind or a surface where you have no grip; no job is worth a fall.
What matters most
- Layer on layer: start dry, add warmth and finish with protection against wind. Cotton that becomes wet cools quickly. Also read our blog on thermal work underwear about thermal underwear.
- Feet by surface: a safety shoe or an safety shoe fits dry work, a firm work shoe gives more protection under the foot, an low S3S safety shoe or a high high leather S3 safety boot fits wet and rough work and an S5 rubber safety boot fits really wet ground. An Flexgel insoles only helps if the shoe still fits well then.
- Hands and sight: work gloves with nitrile coating for general work, cut-resistant gloves only for sharp material. A safety helmet and safety goggles remain needed if material can fall or splash, also in cold weather.
What do you need?
- An earmuffs if you work with loud tools; earmuffs also keep ears warm, but do not replace hearing checks.
- A rechargeable LED work lamp because winter days are short and shadows hide slippery spots.
- Spare gloves and dry socks in a bag, so you can change wet clothing at once.
How to do it
- Look at weather and surface before putting material outside.
- Dress in layers and rather start a little cool; working warms you, sweating cools you afterwards.
- Check grip of shoes on wet wood, tiles and metal before you lift or climb.
- Work in blocks, pause indoors and change wet gloves and socks at once.
- Tidy up safely and do not leave tools in snow or frost. Read more in our blog on choosing safety shoes about shoe classes and in our blog on rainwear, warm workwear and work gloves about rain and winter.
Working safely
Always wear PPE that fits the job, also when it is cold. Taking gloves off for better feel does not make cutting safer; then choose a thinner fitting model. Stop with numb fingers, shivering that does not stop or dizziness and warm up indoors.
What is the most important layer against cold?
The dry base layer and dry feet make the greatest difference in feeling. A thick coat over wet clothing helps little because moisture keeps cooling.
Can I wear ordinary shoes for a short outdoor job?
For light and dry work much is possible, but as soon as you lift, saw or stand on slippery ground, a firm work shoe with grip and toe protection fits much better.
Working warm is planning: layers, dry spares and checking grip before cold sets your pace.
Read also: Choosing work trousers, Choosing safety shoes and Thermal underwear for work
Where can you find everything for this job?
At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.
- Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
- Create a customer account and order easily.
- Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
- Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
- Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.
In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.
Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.
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