Jumpers

About Jumpers

Work jumpers and sweatshirts provide essential upper-body comfort and protection for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts working in demanding environments. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range from leading brands including Portwest, Makita, Snickers and Scruffs, covering everything from basic crew neck sweatshirts to specialist hi-vis, flame-resistant and even cordless heated options. Whether you need Class 3 high-visibility protection for roadside work, anti-static ESD garments for electronics environments, or simply a durable pullover for general site work, the right work jumper keeps you comfortable and compliant throughout your working day.

Modern work jumpers have evolved significantly beyond basic cotton garments. Today's range includes innovative features such as half-zip designs for temperature regulation, organic cotton recyclable options for environmental responsibility, and Makita's cordless heated base layers that run on the same 18V LXT batteries as your power tools. Professional-grade garments feature reinforced stitching, ergonomic cuts that don't restrict movement, and fabrics engineered to maintain their shape and protective properties even after countless industrial washes.

Applications

Work jumpers and sweatshirts are used across virtually every trade and industry:

• Construction and Building: Site labourers, scaffolders and general builders requiring durable, comfortable clothing with optional hi-vis features
• Electrical Work: Electricians and electronics technicians needing ESD-safe garments to protect sensitive components from static discharge
• Highways and Groundwork: Workers requiring Class 3 hi-vis jumpers for maximum visibility near traffic and plant machinery
• Welding and Hot Work: Tradespeople needing flame-resistant protection when working with heat, sparks and molten metal
• Warehousing and Logistics: Staff in unheated facilities requiring comfortable layering options
• Vehicle Maintenance: Mechanics and technicians needing hardwearing sweatshirts that withstand oils and frequent washing
• Landscaping: Outdoor workers requiring weather-resistant jumpers for year-round comfort
• DIY Projects: Home improvers wanting comfortable, durable clothing for workshop and outdoor tasks

Choosing The Right Jumpers

Site Requirements: Check whether your workplace mandates hi-vis clothing and which class. Roadside work typically requires Class 3, whilst warehouses may need Class 2 or none at all. Some environments require flame-resistant or anti-static properties as a condition of entry.

Weather Conditions: For cold outdoor work, consider heavy-weight crew necks or cordless heated options like the Makita DCX200C that integrate with existing 18V tool batteries. For variable conditions or physical work, half-zip designs offer better temperature control. Lightweight pullovers work well as mid-layers under jackets.

Fabric and Durability: Cotton-rich blends offer comfort and breathability, whilst polyester mixes provide better moisture-wicking. Look for reinforced shoulders and elbows, double-stitched seams, and ribbed cuffs for longevity. Professional garments from MyToolShed.co.uk should maintain their fit through industrial laundry cycles.

Fit and Movement: Work jumpers should allow full range of motion without riding up or restricting arms. Consider whether you'll wear the jumper over just a t-shirt or multiple base layers, and size accordingly.

Safety Information

When selecting jumpers for safety-critical applications, ensure garments meet relevant British and European standards. Hi-vis jumpers should comply with EN ISO 20471 and display clear certification labels indicating their class rating. Replace garments when retroreflective tape becomes cracked or background fabric fades below acceptable fluorescence levels, typically after approximately 50 industrial washes.

For flame-resistant jumpers used in welding environments, verify compliance with EN ISO 11612 or EN ISO 11611. Never wear damaged or contaminated FR garments, as this compromises their protective properties. ESD garments should meet EN 61340-5-1 standards. Avoid wearing loose-fitting jumpers around rotating machinery, as they present an entanglement hazard. Never modify safety garments by removing labels or tape, as this may invalidate certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Makita cordless tool batteries in heated jumpers?

Yes, the Makita DCX200C heated base layer uses the same 18V LXT battery system as Makita's power tools, allowing you to share batteries between equipment. A single battery typically provides several hours of warmth depending on the heat setting used, making cordless heated clothing a practical option for tradespeople.

How often should hi-vis jumpers be replaced?

Replace hi-vis garments when fluorescent fabric noticeably fades, retroreflective tape becomes cracked or peels away, or after approximately 50 industrial washes—whichever comes first. Regular inspection is essential, as degraded hi-vis clothing no longer provides adequate visibility protection. Keep records of when garments were issued to manage replacement schedules effectively.

Do flame-resistant jumpers need special washing?

Yes, FR garments require specific care to maintain protective properties. Use mild detergents without bleach or fabric softeners, which can reduce flame resistance. Wash separately from non-FR items, avoid excessive heat when drying, and never use starch. Always follow the manufacturer's care label instructions precisely to ensure continued protection and compliance with safety standards.