Most jobsites don’t come to a halt in the summer heat, which can be uncomfortable—and even dangerous—for workers. Gearing up to keep cool is crucial. From sweat-wicking clothes to jobsite-rugged fans, here are a few hot-weather work gear items to help beat the heat.
Cooling PVA Towel
Milwaukee Tool’s Cooling PVA Towel activates with water—soak for 30 seconds and wring out—then will wick away moisture and heat for up to four hours. The towel has a UPF 50+ rating to block UV rays. The company also offers similar technology in a safety helmet cooling liner, safety helmet cooling sweat band, hard hat cooling sweat band, and cooling skull cap.
Summer Work Pants
The T1 Werkpant from Truewerk is made with a lightweight softshell fabric for maximum airflow and float yarns for comfort against the skin; a wicking finish on the inside wicks sweat away four times faster than untreated fabric, the company says. The quick-drying pants include eight pockets, a two-button front closure, articulated knees, and double-stitched seams. Six colors are available.
Jobsite Fan
This jobsite fan operates via a plug or on DeWalt’s 20V MAX battery platform to circulate air and cool the area. The fan has variable-speed control, and it can be used freestanding, on hang hooks, wall-mounted, or tripod-mounted.
Hydration Pack
The Chill-Its hydration pack from Ergodyne holds 2 liters of water while offering a low profile that’s comfortable for all-day wear. The durable pack is made with rugged 600D ripstop polyester and features an antimicrobial bite valve with cover, wide opening for easy filling, insulation to keep the water cool, and a breakaway design for safe detachment. Three color options include high-vis orange and high-vis lime as well as black.
UV-Protecting Work Shirt
Carhartt’s Force Sun Defender relaxed fit, lightweight short-sleeve button-down shirt features UPF 50+ UV protection along with Fast Dry technology that wicks away sweat and dries fast. Other features include Rugged Flex stretch technology, Carhartt Force odor-fighting technology, back vent and underarm eyelets, a spread collar, and button-closure front pocket. It comes in Steel and Dew Drop colors.
Cooling T-Shirt
The Armachillo Relaxed Fit Pocket Crew T-Shirt from Duluth Trading Company features microscopic jade in the fabric, which produces a cooling sensation that the company says lowers skin temperature, and its polyester/nylon knit wicks moisture and dries quickly. It also has an odor-fighting finish. The shirt has a longer length, and it comes in five colors.
Evaporative Cooling Vest
The PIP EZ-Cool vest from PK Safety is made with HyperKewl, an evaporative material that absorbs and slowly releases water to create a cooling effect for five to 10 hours, cooling the body by 15 to 20 degrees, the company says. The hot-weather work gear vest has a V-neck design and zipper closure. Six sizes are available.
Cooling Helmet Liner
When activated, the Cooling Helmet Liner from Klein Tools cools up to 30 degrees below body temperature while wicking sweat away from the head. It has mesh fabric at the crown for breathability and airflow. The liner is machine washable.
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