Your definitive guide to summer workwear

When temperatures rise, so does the risk of injuries in the workplace.

Dehydration, sunburn, sunstroke, and accidents are real everyday risks, whether you’re working outdoors or in a hot building.

With the right summer gear, your team can stay comfortable and protected.

This guide covers everything you need to pick the best workwear for summer.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING HOT-WEATHER GEAR

Not all fabrics are made for the heat.

Before buying, consider the conditions your team will be working in this summer.

Here’s what to look for:

• Lightweight fabrics that move with you and don’t trap heat
• Breathability with cotton or mesh panels that let heat escape
• UV protection (UPF-rated) fabric that guards against the sun’s harmful rays
• Moisture-wicking materials that draw sweat away from the skin, like polyester blends or tech-fabrics (technical textiles)

COTTON VS SYNTHETIC: WHICH COPES BETTER WITH HEAT?

Both fabrics have pros and cons, depending on the job.

Cotton lets the skin breathe, leaving you comfortable all day long. The problem with cotton products is that they hold moisture, which is not great for longer shifts. 

Synthetic fabrics like polyester or polycotton are better at moisture wicking and dry faster.

BEST WORKWEAR FOR SUMMER

If you work in construction, roadworks, landscaping, warehousing, transport, agriculture, or outdoor maintenance, the right workwear could save your life. 

From men’s workwear polos to women’s Hi-vis tops, there’s plenty to keep you cool.

Check out our top choices this summer:

SUMMER WORK TROUSERS AND SHORTS

Good summer workwear trousers and shorts should be light, breathable, and flexible. They should also be durable and UV-protected. 

Look for:

• Vented panels
• Built-in stretch
• Reinforced seams 
• Cotton, polyester, or blend fabrics
• Multiple pockets (like knee pad pockets)

Our fave: ROKWEAR® Marley Cargo shorts

Tough, multi-pocketed, with strong lining. Ideal for summer work.

MEN’S WORKWEAR TOPS FOR SUMMER

Men’s work tops and polos should be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. 

Look for:

• Breathable fabrics in light colours
• Loose-fitting designs, or with an adjustable waist
• Polos and tees made with moisture-wicking fabric
• Light button-up shirts with rollable sleeves and mesh ventilation

Our fave: ECOROKWEAR® GREATHAM Polyester polo shirt

Lightweight, durable, triple-stitched, and made with 100% recycled or recovered polyester.

LIGHTWEIGHT SAFETY FOOTWEAR

Heavy boots in the heat? No thanks.

Look for:

• Flexible soles
• Ventilated safety trainers
• Breathable fabrics and linings
• Protection without the heavy metal
• Lightweight safety boots with toe caps

Our fave: ROKWEAR® NORITE S3 trainer boots

Abrasion-resistant, light, flexible, with Ripstop and Cordura fabric, plus a 200 Joule composite toe cap.

ECO-FRIENDLY SUMMER WORKWEAR

Work smarter, cooler, and greener with our ECOROKWEAR summer workwear range. 

It lets you stay cool and comfortable, and reduces waste with a build of recycled and sustainable materials.

Whether you’re after eco workwear, work polos, or Hi-vis tops, we’ve got you covered.

Check out our full Eco workwear or Eco Hi-vis range.

SUMMER PPE ACCESSORIES

The extras make a big difference when you’re on the job all day in extreme heat.

Consider these PPE accessories:

• Sunscreen
• Hi-vis caps
• Neck shades
• Cooling towels
• Cargo bucket hats
• Lightweight baseball caps
• UV-protective safety glasses

TROUSERS OR SHORTS IN SUMMER?

Shorts are cooler and lighter, but don't protect your lower legs.

If your work involves kneeling, heavy lifting, or working with sharp things, lightweight trousers might be better. 

They’re flexible and breathable, with added pockets and padding for extra protection.

Choose what keeps you cool, covered, and safe.

Browse our full range of work trousers and shorts to decide.

Still not sure? Our team is happy to help.

Call us on 0330 441 3500 or send us a message - let’s find you the right summer gear.

SUMMER WORKWEAR FOR WOMEN

Whether on-site, on the road, or in the office, the right summer workwear lets you work comfortably.

With more women’s workwear options available than ever before, there’s no need to suffer in the heat.

Consider these top options to stay cool on the job:

• Ladies safety footwear
• Ladies’ cargo shorts and trousers
• Women’s hi-vis tops and trousers

Our fave: U216 Ladies ultra cool polo shirt

With textured, breathable fabric, wicking properties, and enzyme washing for an extra-soft hand feel, you get nothing but comfort.

See our full women’s workwear range or learn about how we support inclusivity in PPE.

LOOKING AFTER YOUR TEAM IN HOT WEATHER

Making sure you and your team are safe, comfortable, and focused on the job goes beyond just clothing.

Here’s what you can do:

• Provide PPE with ventilation and moisture control.
• Check that everyone is wearing the proper protective gear.
• Watch out for heat stress or dizziness in you and your team.
• Supply fans, water bottles, sunscreen, UV-protective eyewear, and sun hats.
• Choose light-coloured, breathable EN ISO standard workwear and footwear.
• Make sure your team is taking regular rest breaks in shaded or cool areas.

FAQs

What is the coolest clothing to wear in the summer?

Polyester blends or moisture-wicking synthetics are good for summer workwear. Although cotton dries slowly, it’s a decent, breathable option.

Can you wear shorts on a work site?

It all depends on the type of work you do and the hazards you face.

Industrial and construction jobs are usually too risky. The risk of injury from sharp or falling objects, as well as chemicals, is too high. Also, shorts don’t usually meet PPE standards. 

Lightweight cargo trousers are a good alternative.

On the other hand, trousers may not be necessary for lightweight work such as IT, satellite installations, delivery work, or HVAC jobs.

What should I wear to the office in hot summer?

Dressing for work in the summer is all about staying cool while looking professional. 

For trouser wearers, we’d choose:

• Linen trousers 
• Lightweight chinos
• Wide-leg or cropped styles
• Lightweight cigarette pants

Pair with a short-sleeve button-down shirt or polo and loafers for a cool but smart look.

For skirt and dress wearers, we’d choose:

• Breezy midi skirts
• Tailored summer dresses
• Lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen
• Sleeveless or short-sleeved blouses

WHY CHOOSE SMI FOR SUMMER WORKWEAR

We’ve got everything you need to stay cool, comfortable, and compliant this summer. 

Plus, we offer full branding options for your team. Branding your workforce is easier than you think.

Here’s how we make it easy for you:

• 97% stock availability
• Maximum 3-hour response time
• 2-day dispatch on branded garments
• 5PM order cut-off for next-day delivery
• Own delivery fleet in key regions for extra reliability

At SMI, we’re dedicated to protecting your people, no matter the time of year.

NEED ADVICE?

Chat with our friendly team today! Drop us a message, or give us a call on 0330 441 3500.