There’s no denying it, Autumn and Winter in the UK can be brutal for anyone working outdoors. From sudden downpours to cold winds and long, damp days, the season puts both people and their clothing to the test. For businesses, ensuring staff are dressed appropriately isn’t just about appearance, it’s about keeping teams safe, comfortable, and able to do their jobs properly.
A reliable work jacket is the first line of defence. The right choice keeps employees warm and dry, while still allowing them to move freely and carry out tasks without restriction. Add to that the benefit of personalisation and businesses gain a uniform that doesn’t just protect but also promotes their brand.
In this guide, we’ll explore what to look for in an autumn work jacket, the advantages of personalized waterproof jackets, and how investing in quality outerwear now can save money and stress later in the season.
What to Look for in an Autumn / Waterproof Work Jacket
Choosing the best jacket for staff isn’t as simple as picking the warmest or the cheapest. Several factors determine whether a jacket will actually perform in challenging UK conditions.
Waterproof Ratings & Fabrics
One of the first things to check is whether a jacket is genuinely waterproof or just water-resistant. Look for waterproof ratings (measured in mm). A 5,000mm rating is suitable for light showers, while 10,000mm or higher is better for sustained rain. Fabrics like PU membranes, TPU laminates, and taped seams make the difference between staying dry and ending up soaked through.
Breathability
A jacket might keep rain out, but without breathability, staff end up sweating underneath. Breathable fabrics allow moisture from the body to escape, keeping the wearer comfortable during physical work.
Insulation & Lining
Autumn jackets often need to balance warmth with flexibility. Lightweight linings are enough for early autumn, while quilted or fleece linings come into their own as winter sets in. Some jackets use removable liners, offering versatility across seasons.
Visibility Features
Shorter daylight hours and grey skies reduce visibility, which can increase risks in many work settings. Jackets with reflective strips or hi-vis panels ensure staff remain visible and safe.
Fit & Layering
The ideal jacket leaves room for fleeces or hoodies underneath without being too bulky. Adjustable cuffs, hems, and hoods allow staff to adapt to different conditions.
Durability
Work jackets go through more wear than casual clothing. Reinforced areas at the shoulders and elbows, quality zips, and storm flaps all extend a jacket’s life, making it a worthwhile investment.
Personalisation Options for Work Jackets
Adding a company logo or employee name transforms a jacket from standard outerwear into a personalised work uniform. This not only reinforces a professional image but also creates a sense of belonging among staff.
Embroidery
Embroidery is a popular choice for jackets because it’s long-lasting and resists fading, even after repeated washes. Logos embroidered onto chest panels or sleeves look sharp and professional.
Printing
Printing offers flexibility for larger logos, reflective designs, or vibrant colour schemes. Heat-transfer and vinyl prints can be applied to jackets with smooth surfaces, while specialist techniques ensure durability without compromising waterproofing.
Placement & Style
Logos can be positioned on the chest, back, or sleeves, depending on how visible you want them to be. Reflective prints can be combined with hi-vis jackets for maximum safety. Colour matching also helps ensure that branding stays consistent across your team’s clothing.
By choosing the right method and placement, businesses can create personalized waterproof jackets that stand out for the right reasons.
Benefits of Investing in Personalised Waterproof Jackets
Some businesses hesitate to invest in higher-quality jackets, but the benefits often outweigh the cost.
Keeps Staff Comfortable and Productive
Wet and cold staff work slower and are more prone to mistakes. A jacket that keeps employees warm and dry directly improves morale and efficiency.
Professional Brand Image
Whether your team is visiting customers, working on-site, or travelling, branded jackets act like walking advertisements. Consistent, personalised outerwear projects professionalism and builds trust.
Durability and Cost Savings
Cheap jackets wear out quickly, leading to repeat purchases. A high-quality waterproof jacket that’s personalised properly, can last multiple seasons with the right care. That longevity saves money in the long run.
Bundle Savings
Ordering custom workwear bundles that include jackets can reduce the per-unit cost. Businesses often find it more cost-effective to buy complete sets for staff rather than sourcing items individually.
Popular Autumn Work Jacket Styles & Use Cases
Different industries and working conditions call for different jacket styles.
Softshell Jackets
Lightweight, breathable, and flexible, softshell jackets are ideal for milder autumn days. They offer wind and shower resistance but are best paired with fleeces for heavier weather.
Insulated Jackets
These provide extra warmth thanks to fleece or quilted linings. They’re well suited to outdoor roles where staff spend long hours in the cold.
Waterproof Shell Jackets
Also known as hardshells, these are designed to handle serious rain. They typically feature high waterproof ratings, taped seams, and storm flaps.
Parkas
Longer jackets that extend protection to the thighs. Perfect for harsher winter days when wind chill is severe.
Hi-Vis Jackets
Essential in industries where visibility is critical, hi-vis jackets combine waterproofing with reflective safety panels.
Fleece-Lined vs Non-Lined
Fleece-lined jackets are warmer but can be heavier. Non-lined options are versatile for layering.
By selecting jackets based on actual work conditions, businesses can ensure staff stay comfortable without overspending on unnecessary features.
Where to Buy Custom Embroidered & Personalised Work Jackets in the UK
Finding the right supplier matters just as much as choosing the right jacket. Look for:
- Fast turnaround times: Essential during seasonal transitions when staff need gear quickly.
- Sample images: Helps check the quality of embroidery or print before bulk ordering.
- Clear waterproof specifications: Ratings, taped seams, and lining details should be transparent.
- Warranty or guarantees: Adds reassurance that the jackets will perform as promised.
For businesses preparing for colder months, investing in high-quality personalised waterproof jackets is one of the most practical ways to protect staff and promote a professional image. Ordering as part of a jacket bundle can also bring cost savings, while ensuring the entire team looks consistent from day one.
Equipping Your Team For The Season Ahead
Autumn and winter are tough seasons for UK workers, but the right jacket makes all the difference. A good work jacket is more than just clothing, it’s protection, comfort, and a reflection of your business’s professionalism.
Investing in personalised waterproof jackets means staff stay dry, warm, and visible while representing your brand wherever they go. From softshells to hi-vis parkas, there’s a jacket style for every job. And with careful personalisation, your workwear becomes part of your company identity.
Don’t wait for the first winter storm to catch your team unprepared. Equip them now with jackets that combine durability, weather resistance, and custom branding. An investment that pays back in both staff wellbeing and business image.
Popular FAQs Around Workwear JacketsWhat are the best autumn work jackets in the UK?
The best choices include softshell jackets for milder days, waterproof shells for heavy rain, and insulated jackets for colder conditions.
Are personalised waterproof jackets worth the investment?
Yes. They keep staff comfortable, last longer, and provide valuable brand visibility, making them cost-effective over time.
What’s better for logos – embroidery or printing?
Embroidery is durable and looks professional on jackets, while printing is better for larger or reflective designs.
Can waterproof jackets be personalised without losing protection?
Yes. Modern embroidery and print methods are designed to maintain waterproofing when applied correctly.
