Essential Cold Store Workwear: Jackets, Gloves, and Boots

Freezers, chillers, and climate-controlled warehouses expose workers to very low temperatures. Without the right clothing, these environments can quickly become uncomfortable and unsafe.

Cold store workwear helps protect workers from cold exposure while allowing them to move safely and carry out their tasks.

If you or your team regularly work in refrigerated or freezing environments, properly insulated clothing is essential. This guide covers the key items to consider.

What is cold store workwear?

Cold store workwear is specially insulated clothing, designed to keep the wearer warm in storage areas with temperatures below 5°.

As cold store teams need to spend long periods of time in these conditions, standard workwear isn't suitable. 

Freezer clothing is designed with insulating layers that help trap heat close to the body. Many garments also provide protection against moisture, which can increase the risk of cold-related health issues.

Visibility can also be reduced in cold storage environments. In busy warehouses or loading areas, hi-vis outer layers may be required to help workers remain visible.

Cold Store Clothing: The Essentials

To make cold protection easier, we’ve hand-picked a few of the top products from our cold store workwear range. 

If you’re looking for some freezerwear essentials, these are the products to rely on:

JACKETS

Insulated jackets are one of the most important layers for cold store work.

They help maintain core body temperature while allowing enough flexibility for movement.

Recommended options include:

• FORTDRESS Polar freezer jacket - Available in sizes S to 3XL
• FORTDRESS Alpine freezer jacket - Available in sizes XS to 7XL
• GOLDFREEZE hi-glo 40 xtreme freezer jacket - Available in sizes XS to 6XL

GLOVES

Cold conditions can quickly affect hand movement and grip. Insulated gloves help maintain dexterity while protecting skin from cold surfaces.

Examples include:

• GOLDFREEZE Blauwolf coldstore gloves - available in sizes S to 2XL
• GOLDFREEZE TG2 xtreme gloves - available in sizes S to 2XL
• FORTDRESS power grip freezer gloves - available in sizes S to 2XL

BOOTS

Foot protection is essential in cold storage environments. Freezer boots provide insulation while helping reduce the risk of slips on cold or wet surfaces.

Recommended options include:

• FLEXITOG ice diamond boot liner - available in sizes 7 to 12
• FORTDRESS freezer boot füssen - available in sizes 7 to 12
• FLEXITOG ice diamond freezer boot - available in sizes 7 to 12
• FLEXITOG Alaska cold store safety boot - available in sizes 3 to 14

How to Choose Cold Store Clothing

Selecting the right clothing helps workers stay comfortable and reduces the risk of cold-related health issues.

Here are a few practical tips when sourcing cold store workwear.

1. USE A RISK ASSESSMENT

A risk assessment helps identify the cold-related hazards workers face.

This may include:

• Long exposure times
• Sub-zero temperatures
• Moisture or condensation

Understanding these risks will help you choose clothing with the right level of insulation and protection.

 

2. CONSIDER EVERY WORKER

Cold store clothing must fit properly to work effectively. 

Loose garments allow heat to escape. Tight garments can restrict movement and reduce comfort.

When selecting workwear, consider differences in body shape and ensure suitable sizing options are available for everyone on the team.

3. CHOOSE WORKWEAR THAT ALLOWS LAYERING

Layering is one of the most effective ways to manage cold environments.

Multiple layers allow workers to adjust their clothing depending on activity levels and temperature changes.

Layering also allows wet clothing to be removed and replaced quickly.

4. CHECK THE CORRECT STANDARDS

Cold protection workwear should be tested to recognised safety standards.

For cold environments, garments may be certified to EN 342, which covers protection against cold temperatures.

Choosing certified clothing helps ensure garments provide the level of insulation expected for freezer environments.

Buy Cold Store Clothing at SMI

SMI stocks a wide range of cold store clothing designed for demanding environments.

Our range includes:

• Gloves
• Jackets
• Trousers
• Thermals
• Footwear
• Headwear

If you're unsure which cold store clothing is right for your workplace, our team can help you choose suitable options.

Call us on 0330 441 3500 or send us a message to speak with one of our specialists.

FAQs

What do you wear to work in a freezer?

Workers in freezer environments typically wear insulated cold store clothing, such as:

• Boots
• Gloves
• Jackets
• Thermals

These garments are designed to be worn either under or over standard workwear.

What PPE is needed for working in a freezer?

Freezer PPE commonly includes:

• Gloves
• Thermal headwear
• Slip-resistant safety footwear

However, requirements will vary depending on the workplace. A risk assessment should always be used to determine suitable PPE.

What are the dangers of working in a freezer?

Cold environments can present several health risks, including:

• Reduced hand movements or numbness
• Cold-related skin injuries such as frostbite
• Fatigue caused by prolonged exposure to cold conditions
• Lowered core body temperature, which can lead to hypothermia

Improper workwear can also increase risk. For example:

• Exposed areas of skin
• Clothing that fits too tightly or too loosely
• Wearing too many layers and becoming wet from sweat

Properly fitted, insulated clothing helps reduce these risks and supports safer working conditions.