7 Best Construction Work Jacket

When you choose a work jacket, your first thought isn’t going to be style, but can this jacket endure the wear and tear of my job?

Many professions can really beat up a work jacket through exposure to a harsh work environment, especially if you are in a hands-on profession like those in the construction industry.

Fortunately, there are some great jackets made available by the clothing industry that not only stand up to a daily beating but are comfortable and stylish at the same time. New fibers and materials now resist tearing, abrasion, punctures, and liquids.

And for those, like many construction professionals that work outdoors, many new work jacket models are weatherized to resist rain, snow, wind, and very cold temperatures.

So, we went to work to find the best work jackets for the construction industry, and below is what we found and appreciated. 

Work Jacket	Material	Closure	Insulation	Waterproof
Caterpillar Triton Work Jacket	60% cotton, 40% polyester, Stretch material	Two-way zipper	Quilted  insulation	Waterproof laminate lining
Carhartt J130 Active Jacket	100% cotton	Zipper	Quilted Flannel lining	No
Ororo Polyester Jacket with Detachable Hood	100% polyester	Zipper	No, Battery powered heating system	No
North Face Gotham Jacket III	DryVent by North face	Snap closure	550 fill down insulation	Waterproof
Carhartt Jefferson Tradition Work Jacket	60% cotton, 40% polyester	Zipper	3M Thinsulate	Water repellent
Wrangler Rugged Men’s Wear Denim Work Jacket	100% Cotton Denim	Button	No	No
Timberland PRO Baluster Men’s Work Jacket	100% cotton	Zipper	Thermolite	Water repellent

The Reviews

Best Overall Construction Work Jacket

1.) Caterpillar Triton Work Jacket

This is an impressive work jacket regardless of your specific profession. It is waterproof and windproof yet incredibly breathable at the same time.

The range of motion is excellent due to this stretchable material. When moving your arms and bending elbows, there is no binding whatsoever.

The angled cuff design keeps them from interfering when you are working. Elbows are reinforced while the jacket does feature hidden storm cuffs.

This jacket also comes with a detachable hood for convenience but in any case, the hood ends can tuck into pockets to prevent flapping. It also features an adjustable cord for a custom fit.

The jacket closes thanks to two-way zippers that are weatherproof. Lined with quilted insulation that is soft to the touch and presents no bulk. 

Pros

• • • Stretch material 60% cotton-40% polyester is not binding
    • Waterproof
    • Adjustable and detachable hood
    • Two-way zippers that are weatherproof
    • Pockets
    • Machine washable
    • Beard guard and weather flap
    • Reflective detailing

 

Cons

• • • Quality control issues

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Best Washable Construction Work Jacket

2.) Carhartt J130 Active Jacket

This Carhartt work jacket should keep you warm to about just below freezing. It is exceptionally soft and flexible without a bit of stiffness during wear. As a result, you have superior movement capabilities allowing for good performance while on the job.

The jacket has a hood that is adjustable thanks to a drawstring and features a total of four pockets with two located externally as well as two on the inside.

Manufactured in 100% sandstone duck cotton, it features a flannel-lined quilted interior for warmth. Weighing in at only twelve ounces it will protect from harsh wind conditions.

Cuffs are rib-knit to keep the cold from entering as well as the waistband. This jacket is machine washable with recommended hanging for drying.

Pros

• • • 100% duck cotton
    • Machine washable
    • Quilted flannel interior
    • Rib-knit cuffs 
    • Rib-knit waistband
    • 4 pockets
    • Adjustable hood

Cons

• • • Hood is nonremovable 

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Best Heated Construction Work Jacket

3.) Battery -powered heated Ororo Polyester Jacket with Detachable Hood

Looking for innovation? This Ororo jacket is cutting edge thanks to built-in warming technology. You won’t have to worry about layering or wearing the wrong jacket if the weather turns bad quickly. This jacket features an original built-in system for temperature control with heat settings that are adjustable!

Some like it hot! Three carbon fiber heating elements on the back, left and right chest, guarantee sufficient heat to the body. The jacket will warm up very rapidly and the heat lasts, not dissipating quickly.

You can set your heat preference to low, medium, or high. Powered thanks to a 74V UL/CE battery that lasts approximately ten hours, this battery also works as a USB port.

Lightweight and flexible, the hood is detachable for convenience and the jacket is machine washable with the battery removed. It may cause perspiration due to limited breathability but is extremely convenient being both exceptionally lightweight and warm.

Pros

• • • Lightweight
    • Machine washable
    • Rechargeable Battery powered
    • Battery doubles as a USB port
    • Detachable hood

Cons

• • • Must be recharged to ensure warmth
    • Limited breathability

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Best Waterproof Construction Work Jacket

4.) North Face Gotham Jacket III

This is truly a multi-functional work jacket making it great for construction pros as well. It provides exceptional warmth and flexibility all in one jacket and it is waterproof! So, if you work often in intemperate weather, this jacket will keep you dry.

The jacket’s hood is adjustable, and the faux-fur trim is removable. The jacket features a seam-sealed 2L shell that is breathable. A secure pocket for media gadgets like your smartphone or MP3 player allows you to pass the cord through the jacket from within. 

Waterproof down together with a storm flap keep you ultradry even in rainstorms. The flap can also be snapped onto the coat so that the front zipper is covered giving added insulation.

Available in more than a dozen colors, the jacket is machine washable. Sizes are available beginning with X-small all the way to  3X-large.

Pros

• • • Waterproof and windproof
    • Machine washable
    • Media pocket integrated into the design
    • Adjustable hood

Cons

• • • Hood is not removable
    • Sizing is generic
    • Not the best choice for extreme weather

You may require a work jacket for chilly mornings or moderately cool temperatures, in this case, you will not require the same protective qualities of those pros that find themselves working in real winter climates and weather.

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Best Light-Insulated Construction Work Jacket

5.) Carhartt Jefferson Tradition Work Jacket

A 60%- 40% cotton and polyester blend we like this jacket because it comes with 3M Thinsulate for a bit of warmth even if it is a lighter jacket.

Featuring a water-repellent finish, it features a front zipper closing with a stand-up collar for protection and a quilted lining.

Snap-flap chest pockets together with two large lower pockets offer lots of convenience along with two inside pockets.

The inside pocket on the left has a media port to your inner clothing. Sizing includes small to XX-Large and five different color variations are available.

Pros

• • • Machine washable
    • Inner storm flap
    • Water repellent
    • Rib-knit cuffs
    • Pocket Media port
    • Thinsulate lining for warmth

Cons

• • • Not made for extreme weather

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Best Denim Construction Work Jacket

6.) Wrangler Rugged Men’s Wear Denim Work Jacket

Nowadays, many denim jackets are more style icons in casual wear than actual work jackets. This Wrangler jacket is the exception. This rugged wear jacket is suited to work as well as looking great fashion-wise.

It boasts a construction that is reinforced to ensure durability and several storage pockets for when you are on the job and need to carry small tools or accessories.

This jacket is produced in 100% cotton denim and closes with a full-button design.  Four pockets are integrated, two with flap closure and two pockets, one on each side.

This is an unlined jacket for those who may want a little protection but not too much in warmer climates. Best for the fall, and spring, it is not designed for winter weather, although it can be used as a layering piece.

The fit is pretty roomy, meaning that you’ll have a decent range of movement. It is a waist-length jacket, so if you are looking for a longer jacket, this is not the style you want.

Pros

• • • 100% cotton denim
    • Machine washable
    • Unlined
    • Button closing
    • Classic relaxed fit 
    • Heavy-duty resistance and reinforced construction
    • Affordable

Cons

• • • Not for harsher temperatures
    • Not rainproof

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Best Canvas Construction Work Jacket

7.) Timberland PRO Baluster Men’s Work Jacket

A canvas work jacket in 100% cotton with a coating that is water-repellent, this jacket features differing insulation with a bit more in the chest area and a bit less in the sleeves.

Three color choices along with two chest pockets that are zipper closed give this jacket a nice clean appearance.

The lining is 100%nylon ad a stand-up collar will protect your neck from drafts. Ribbed knit cuffs keep the air out of your sleeves.

Quality materials and exceptional jacket construction give an excellent feel when worn thanks to comfortable roominess that still protects. Machine washable.

Pros

• • • Machine washable
    • 100% rugged cotton jacket
    • Finish is water-repellent
    • Stand-up collar
    • Thermolite insulation
    • Available in both hooded and non-hooded styles

Cons

• • • Sizing considerations
    • Only three colors

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The Best Construction Jacket for Winter or Not

Different work jackets may be designed for different seasons, but most times there is no doubt that you need a jacket.

You may require a work jacket for chilly mornings or moderately cool temperatures, in this case, you may not require the same protective qualities of those pros that find themselves working in real winter climates and weather. We’ve found a great selection of construction work jackets despite the weather.

The best construction jacket should meet several requirements:

• • • Keeping the wearer warm
    • Providing flexibility and mobility while on the job
    • Durability 
    • Pockets that are conveniently located with secure closures
    • Quality materials and construction

Name brands can naturally be a guarantee when acquiring workwear.

Depending on where you work and the climate, there are some other characteristics to factor into the equation when selecting:

1.) Insulation. Is the jacket sufficiently insulated to keep you warm? What kind of insulation does it provide? Down, synthetic, or other. Will the jacket keep you warm and at the same time react well to high activity levels?

Hypothermia is always a risk in harsh winter climates, so warm workwear is a must. Don’t expect the jacket alone to do all the work, layer winter clothing for increased protection.

2.) Weight. The importance of clothing weight should never be underestimated. If the jacket is overly heavy or bulky, it will not only slow your productivity but be equally as uncomfortable. Also, consider if you will be working and wearing it for long periods.

3.) Material. The fabric is crucial to a work jacket’s performance and durability. The material should provide some degree of resistance to the elements and withstand rain, wind, snow, and abrasion yet guarantee breathability.

Ripstop, nylon, and taffeta are known to offer protection but are not necessarily as durable as other fabrics and may not resist abrasion. Both polyester and nylon blended with cotton are quite resistant to abrasion and protect from inclement weather.

4.) Waterproofing. If you work in an environment that is particularly wet, neoprene, or a polyurethane nylon blend should stop water penetration but won’t guarantee warmth.

5.) Design. Does the jacket’s design help or hinder your work? Is it practical for your professional needs? Does the design of the shoulder, underarm, and elbow areas permit movement and stretching? Will this jacket ride up your back as you move about on the job?

When looking for a winter work jacket always try it on before purchasing. When you try it on, mimic your most common work movements to see if it feels comfortable.

Conclusion

With a bit of common sense and by trying the best construction jacket on before purchasing, you are bound to find the best construction work jacket for your professional needs.