Bodywarmers

About Bodywarmers

Bodywarmers, also known as gilets or sleeveless jackets, are essential workwear for tradespeople and outdoor workers who need core body warmth whilst maintaining full arm mobility. These versatile garments provide excellent torso insulation without the bulk and restriction of a full jacket, making them ideal for physically demanding tasks where dexterity is paramount. Whether you're working on construction sites, in warehouses, or carrying out outdoor maintenance, a quality bodywarmer delivers the perfect balance between warmth and freedom of movement.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of bodywarmers from trusted brands including Portwest, DeWalt, Makita, and Scruffs. The collection includes hi-vis bodywarmers meeting EN ISO 20471 Class 2 standards for site work, traditional padded and fleece-lined designs for everyday use, flame-resistant options for hot work environments, and innovative battery-powered heated bodywarmers compatible with cordless tool systems. With features like multiple zipped pockets, water-resistant shells, and reversible designs, these professional-grade garments are built to withstand the rigours of daily trade use.

Applications

Bodywarmers are used across numerous trades and working environments:

• Construction Workers: Bricklayers, site managers, and labourers requiring warmth without restricted arm movement
• Electricians and Plumbers: Tradespeople working in unheated properties needing easy access to tool pockets
• Landscapers and Groundskeepers: Outdoor workers exposed to changeable British weather
• Warehouse Staff: Personnel in cold storage or unheated distribution centres
• Highways Maintenance: Teams requiring Class 2 hi-vis bodywarmers for roadside visibility
• Carpenters and Joiners: Workers needing freedom of movement in partially completed buildings
• Engineers and Mechanics: Working in workshops and on-site repairs in varying temperatures
• Agricultural Workers: Farmers requiring durable, weather-resistant layers
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvers tackling outdoor projects year-round

Choosing The Right Bodywarmers

Visibility Requirements: If working near vehicles or on public highways, choose a Class 2 hi-vis bodywarmer meeting EN ISO 20471 standards with fluorescent fabric and reflective tape for 360-degree visibility.

Insulation Type: Padded bodywarmers with synthetic fill offer excellent warmth-to-weight ratios, whilst fleece-lined options provide breathable insulation for active work. For extreme cold, consider battery-heated models from Makita, DeWalt, or Bosch that integrate with existing 18V cordless tool batteries.

Outer Shell Material: Look for durable 300D Oxford weave fabrics for abrasion resistance on building sites. Water-resistant coatings protect against light rain, whilst ripstop fabrics resist tearing around materials and equipment.

Storage and Pockets: Consider multiple zipped chest and side pockets for securing tools, mobile phones, and personal items. Internal pockets keep valuables safe whilst allowing easy access when wearing tool belts.

Fit and Sizing: Bodywarmers should fit comfortably over work shirts or thin fleeces without restriction. Check armholes allow full overhead movement, and consider adjustable hem drawcords for sealing in warmth.

Safety Information

High-Visibility Compliance: When working on highways or construction sites, ensure your bodywarmer meets EN ISO 20471 Class 2 standards. Keep reflective tape clean and undamaged, replacing garments when visibility is compromised as required by HSE guidelines.

Flame-Resistant Requirements: For welding, grinding, or working near open flames, standard bodywarmers are unsuitable. Use only certified flame-resistant garments meeting relevant British and European standards.

Heated Bodywarmer Safety: When using battery-powered models, only use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers. Inspect heating elements regularly for damage and follow care instructions to maintain system integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do heated bodywarmers run on a single battery?

Runtime depends on battery capacity and heat setting. Typically, an 18V 5.0Ah battery provides 4-8 hours on low, 2-4 hours on medium, and 1-2 hours on high. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks heated bodywarmers from Makita, DeWalt, and Bosch compatible with existing cordless tool battery platforms.

What's the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 hi-vis bodywarmers?

Class 2 garments provide greater visibility through increased fluorescent material and reflective tape compared to Class 1. For bodywarmers, Class 2 is the standard requirement for construction sites, highways work, and high-risk environments where maximum visibility is essential.

Are bodywarmers suitable for winter site work?

Bodywarmers excel when physical activity generates heat and arm mobility is essential, making them ideal for active trades throughout most British winters. For static roles or extreme cold, a full insulated jacket may be more appropriate. Many tradespeople keep both options available, choosing based on daily conditions.