Having the right tools for the task is essential when there’s work to do around the farm (and there’s always work to do). Like a rope, wire, or wrench, the right outdoor workwear is essential for safely completing outdoor jobs.
Farm clothing must provide the necessary protection and comfort needed when working outdoors. Whether tending the animals, working in the fields, or doing other farm-related tasks, the appropriate clothing helps you work safely and efficiently.
Why Farm Clothing is Essential for Outdoor Work
One of the main reasons the right farm wear is essential is its ability to protect you from various elements. Outdoor workwear made from durable materials can withstand the rigors of farm work and everyday hazards such as thorns, branches, and rough surfaces. It also protects against the sun's harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays in the summer, preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
The best outdoor workwear is breathable and lightweight, allowing proper ventilation to prevent overheating during the hot summer. The right summer farm clothing wicks away sweat and moisture, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Reliable outdoor farm and ranch clothing often includes reinforced knees, multiple pockets, and adjustable straps. These features enhance functionality and convenience, allowing you to carry essential tools and equipment easily.
Key Features for Choosing the Right Summer Farm Clothing
When choosing summer farm and ranch clothing, look for key features that ensure maximum comfort and durability. When selecting your summer workwear, choose clothing with the following:
Durable Materials
Opt for clothing made from sturdy and durable materials such as cotton canvas or denim. These materials resist tears and abrasions, ensuring that your clothing lasts longer and offers protection against everyday elements.
Breathable Performance Fabrics
Look for clothing that is breathable and allows adequate air circulation. Summer temperatures can be scorching, so choose clothing with lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. These materials allow for better air circulation and help keep you cool. Dickies cooling Temp-iQ® Short Sleeve Tee-Shirts are an excellent option for maximum breathability, with ultra-soft performance fabrics designed for optimal movement and cooling.
Light Colors with Moisture-Wicking Properties
Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight, helping you stay cooler in hot weather. Sweating is inevitable when working outdoors, especially in the summer, so consider clothing with moisture-wicking properties. Carhartt’s Force Technology shirts and pants use durable, sweat-wicking fabrics to keep you dry and comfortable while drawing sweat away from your skin.
Insect & UV Protection
Ensure your work clothing protects against the sun's harmful UV rays. To ensure adequate sun blockage, look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. Summer is also the season for bugs and insects. Protect yourself from bites and stings by choosing farm clothing that covers exposed skin on arms and legs.
Reinforced Areas & Functional Designs
Clothing with reinforcements in the knees and elbows provides extra durability and protection in high-wear areas. Consider clothing with multiple pockets, adjustable straps, and other functional features, such as Carhartt Rugged Flex Pants. These will make it easier to carry tools and equipment and increase overall convenience.
The Benefits of Comfortable Farm Wear
Choosing comfortable workwear makes your outdoor farm activities more enjoyable and productive. Comfortable farm clothing offers numerous benefits when working outdoors, including:
Increased Productivity
When you're comfortable in your clothing, you can work more efficiently. Comfortable farm clothing allows for freedom of movement, reducing restrictions and fatigue. When you're comfortable, you can better focus on the task.
Reduced Risk of Injuries
Farm work often involves physical labor and potential hazards. Wearing the right farm clothing that fits properly can help prevent accidents and injuries common in everyday farm and ranch work.
Enhanced Well-Being
Comfortable farm clothing helps improve overall well-being by preventing overheating and irritation. It allows your skin to breathe and protects you while completing outdoor tasks.
The Importance of Durability in Farm Clothing
Durability is vital when adding new workwear to your wardrobe. The demanding nature of farm work requires clothing that can withstand the rigors and challenges of outdoor jobs.
Durable farm clothing provides reliable protection. It is a barrier against scratches, bites, cuts, and other injuries while working on a farm. Investing in durable clothing can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure your safety while performing various tasks.
Farm clothing made from durable materials is also better suited to endure rough surfaces, pokes from trees or brush, and other potential hazards without tearing or getting damaged easily.
Summer Footwear for Farm & Ranch Jobs
Summer workwear is only complete with the right footwear. When choosing footwear for outdoor farm and ranch work, it's important to prioritize comfort and safety. Consider the specific demands of your farm tasks and your personal preferences.
Breathable Western Work Boots
Ariat VentTEK work and cowboy boots are a great choice for everyday farm and ranch work. VentTEK technology is a mesh panel built into the decorative shaft of boots to provide ventilation while working outside. The breathable mesh is incorporated in work and western-style Ariat boots to complement your needs and lifestyle.
Best Summer Irrigation & Chore Boots
Water-proof boots are a must when irrigating or just handling the barn chores. The Dryshod Haymaker is a hard-working farm boot designed for rugged outdoor terrain. Perfect for all weather conditions, the Haymaker features a water-repellent top to keep your feet warm and dry during winter and irrigation and a roll-down calf pipe to keep you cool during miscellaneous summer jobs. Haymaker boots also offer a gusseted option for a stretchier fit and more comfortable workwear.
Safety First: FR Clothing & Reinforced Footwear
Farm and Ranch work comes with a variety of tasks. Not only are there everyday chores with irrigation and animal care, but often, some jobs require mechanical, electrical, and fabrication skills. With these roles comes the need for specific safety features.
Flame Resistant Clothing
Flame-resistant (FR) clothing protects against flames and extreme heat with ignition-resistant, self-extinguishing materials. This helps prevent injuries and burns and provides peace of mind. OSHA requires FR-certified clothing for those who work in environments with a risk of fire or heat-related accidents. Jobs that require FR clothing include electrical, welding, and some mechanical tasks.
Steel Toe
Steel toe boots are designed to protect your feet, especially against heavy objects or equipment that may accidentally fall. Reinforced steel toe caps will shield your feet from injuries.
Composite Toe
Composite toe boots are a lighter alternative to steel toe boots made from non-metal materials such as carbon fiber or Kevlar. They offer similar protection as steel toes while maintaining a lightweight feel and are often more comfortable to wear over extended periods.
Gearup with IFA Workwear Programs for Farm & Ranch Business Owners
The right farm clothing is essential for protection, comfort, and functionality while working outdoors. Investing in high-quality farm clothing ensures you can work efficiently and comfortably in the elements.
For farms and ranches needing durable and reliable summer farm clothing, IFA’s B2B workwear program is the perfect solution for small farms and ranches and large-scale industrial plants and facilities. IFA’s workwear program covers various men’s and women’s outerwear, clothing, footwear, and gloves to outfit employees with the most reliable and durable brands.
IFA members with a cash or credit business account can join this program. Ensure your farm or ranch has the best summer farm clothing with help from IFA.
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Information for this article was provided by Sandra Plaga, Clothing & Accessories Category Manager, IFA Country Store; and Rebekah Oman, Footwear Category Manager, IFA Country Store.