As the temperature rises, it's essential to wear clothing that keeps you cool and comfortable, especially if you're working outdoors on construction sites. Heat-stress can be a real issue, and wearing the right clothing can help prevent it. Here's why wearing cool clothing is so important, and what to look for when choosing summer FR Clothing.
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
One of the most critical features of summer FR workwear is moisture-wicking fabric. Moisture-wicking fire-resistant fabrics are designed to pull sweat away from the skin and onto the surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate quickly. This keeps you dry and comfortable, even in hot and humid conditions. Look for FR workwear made from our proprietary fabrics such as COMFORT WEAVE, EVOLUTION, or FLEXSAFE, which are excellent choices for moisture-wicking.
Breathability
Breathable fabrics are another essential feature to look for when choosing summer FR Clothing. Breathable fabrics allow air to circulate, which helps to keep you cool and comfortable. FR fabrics like COTTON COMFORT are a good option for breathability, but tends to hold onto moisture. Fabrics like EVOLUTION or FLEXSAFE are better choices for breathability because they don't hold onto moisture as much as natural fibers.
Comfort
Comfort is also an important consideration when choosing lightweight FR Clothing. You want to choose clothing that doesn't restrict your movement or cause chafing or irritation. Look for clothing with stretchy fabrics or features like gusseted crotches, which allow for greater range of motion. Also, consider the fit of the clothing - loose-fitting clothing can be more comfortable in hot weather than tight-fitting clothing.
Effects of Heat Stress
Heat-stress is a real issue, especially for workers in outdoor industries like construction. When the body is exposed to high temperatures for extended periods, it can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Heatstroke is a more severe condition and can cause confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Wearing cool clothing can help prevent heat-stress by keeping the body temperature regulated and allowing sweat to evaporate quickly.
Wearing cool FR clothing in the summer is crucial for staying comfortable and preventing heat-stress. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics, breathable materials, and comfortable fits when choosing summer workwear. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that you stay cool and comfortable, even in the hottest of weather conditions. Stay safe, stay cool!