Essential Construction Clothing and Gear

It’s not about fashion. Check out our favorite hard-working, practical, functional work clothes and accessories.

A New Work Jacket

Most of us work jackets until they’re absolutely falling apart (about four years) because the more worn they get, the better they feel. We recommend a canvas shell, a fleece or quilted lining, and big pockets. A medium-weight jacket is best so it will be comfortable in cool weather but can be worn with layers for way-cold weather.

This is our favorite to date: it’s the Duluth Trading Co. Action Flannel-Lined Jacket, №32526. It’s made from the ultra-durable “Fire Hose” fabric and has all the other stuff we like too: attached hood (no zippers or snaps), under arms and shoulders designed for non-binding movement, and best of all, the rugged zipper that you can expect to last the life of the coat. Plus, it has more pockets than a billiard hall, which is always a plus.

Keep-Cool Towel

Construction is a strange industry. Depending on where you live in the world you could spend your time worrying about whether or not it’s going to be hot, or trying to figure out how you’re going to work an entire day in the cold. If you work or play out in the heat, give this cooling towel a shot.

You can buy the Arctic Cove Cooling Towel on Amazon here. If you’re not one to read directions, remember this — don’t throw it in the dryer or you’ll wreck it!

Fits Like a Glove!

Going to the home center or hardware store to buy disposable gloves can be aggravating. The inventory is “one size fits all.” You gotta be kidding. Those gloves might fit your daughter’s hands but not your big paws! It’s a struggle to put them on, they often rip, and once on, they always put the squeeze on your dexterity.

We suggest you try these extra-large nitrile gloves. They’re just what the doctor ordered (no pun intended). Use them for light-duty chores like painting or spraying foam insulation. If you have a latex allergy, nitrile is a great alternative. Liberty T2010W Nitrile Industrial Gloves are available online. The same manufacturer makes a thicker glove that holds up even better for rough work and for working on your vehicles.

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