An expert guide to waterproof workwear for tradespeople

There are few things more miserable than being soaked through to the skin with hours still left on the clock.

The good news is, there’s a range of quality waterproof workwear out there to keep you dry and comfortable while working outside with the elements.

Waterproof workwear jackets

When looking for a seriously good waterproof jacket, you want to make sure it’s fit for purpose.

1. Waterproof rating

Waterproof ratings range from 1500mm to 10000mm. The higher the rating, the longer the fabric will remain waterproof for.

A jacket with a rating less than 1500mm will only be water resistant (or ‘showerproof’) – not waterproof. This means it’s only really suitable for very light rain.

A jacket with a rating of 5000mm or more will not only be waterproof but also breathable.

2. Waterproof coating

To make fabric water resistant, it’s treated with a Durable Water Repellency coating or similar. This is what makes the water ‘bead’ on the surface of the fabric.

Water resistant jackets are cheaper than waterproof jackets, but if you’re a tradesperson working outside in the driving rain, we recommend you select fully waterproof workwear. You’ll also find it’s more durable.

3. Taped seams

Another thing to look for when selecting waterproof workwear is whether it has taped seams. This will mean the item is 100% waterproof as water will be unable to penetrate the stitching.

4. Type of waterproof jacket

There’s a basic pakka jacket, (think the type you’d have rolled up in your bag alongside your lunchbox for a school trip), a layered jacket, and a 3-in-1 waterproof jacket.

Pakka jackets

A pakka jacket is only really suitable for light showers – something you can keep in its pouch in your bag just in case you get caught out.

Layered waterproof jackets

Two-layer and three-layered waterproof jackets are a step up from the pakka. Two-layer waterproof jackets normally have an outer waterproof shell combined with an inner lining of mesh or similar. Three-layer waterproof jackets have three layers bonded together as one to make a super lightweight and efficient jacket.

3-in-1 waterproof jackets

Then there’s the 3-in-1 waterproof jacket, which is three separate layers (a waterproof outer shell, a removable inner fleece, and lining panel often for heat retention).

We’ve listed three of our top-rated waterproof jackets below.

The Result Waterproof Jacket/Trouser Suit (with carry bag)

• Waterproof rating of 2000mm
• Includes trousers and carry bag
• Lightweight

Our Portwest Classic Rain Jacket

• Waterproof rating of 5000mm
• Medium weight jacket

The Regatta X-Pro Evader III 2-in-1 jacket

• Waterproof rating of 10000mm
• Heavyweight jacket
• Thermo-Guard insulation

Waterproof trousers for tradespeople

Whatever the weather, you still need to be out earning a living, so picking a reliable pair of waterproof trousers actually makes a great investment.

Here are some of the key things to look for when choosing the best waterproof trousers for tradespeople:

• A fully waterproof, breathable, durable fabric that allows movement
• Taped seams
• An elasticated waist
• Outer pockets
• Reflective stripes for added visibility

There is a huge variety of waterproof trousers to consider. With variables such as price, material, size, reflective, durability and more. Don’t forget that you could also get a discount as a Checkatrade member.

Waterproof hats, boots and accessories for tradespeople

You could also choose to invest in a waterproof cap made from lightweight, water resistant fabric.

Available in a range of colours, with the option to add your company logo, you can look professional and smart (and stay dry from head to toe, when paired with waterproof boots).

Waterproof backpacks are great for stopping your kit from getting soggy. Particularly useful if your work takes you out on site. Made from innovative and durable fabric, with waterproof zips, and reflective accents, the 25l waterproof Quadra SLX backpack is a dream product.

Don’t pay over the odds for your waterproof workwear

Pass our rigorous checks, create your business profile, and enjoy discounts on everything from workwear to vehicles, fuel, tools, and much more.