Back when we got thrown into our first industrial jobs, workwear wasn’t very comfortable, let alone stylish. We're glad the offer is different now. Gone are the days when workwear was all about function and not much else. Today, workwear is integral to a company's branding, employer marketing and employee retention.
Women's Workwear Options
Here's the best news: there are now more choices for women's industrial workwear than ever before. In the past, women had to make do with whatever men's coveralls were availabel in smaller sizes. What women had to wear was often uncomfortable and ill-fitting. Today, there are many companies that create fantastic workwear specifically for women. The styles, the fit, the sizes, even the maternity lines - all made for the growing number of females in trades and industrial jobs. Women can now choose workwear that protects and suits them, regardless of their body type.
Innovative Materials
New materials that combine comfort, durability, functionality, and stylea re a hot trend in workwear. Taking inspration from sprotswear and outdoor clothing, breathable fabrics and moisture-wicking technology have become increasingly popular to allow workers to remain cool and comfortable while on the job.
Customisation
Companies recognise that employees want workwear that is unique to them, so they offer a variety of customisation options such as color, design and fit. Workers are more willing to pay more for workwear that suits their personal style and comfort preferences.
Eco-friendly Choices
More and more employers are choosing workwear that is made from sustainable and eco-friendly materials and is sourced from a transparent and fair supply chain. And, it's not only about reducing the carbon footprint of the business. Most of us are wearing protective clothing and work uniforms for longer hours than our regular clothes. So, what kind of materials we clad ourselves in for the bigger part of a week is important. That's why the workforce is becoming more aware and more interested in workwear that gives them peace of mind with recycled fabrics that help save marine life, organic cotton, plant-based fibers that don't harm ancient forests or responsible leathers that are processed with natural dyes and metal-free tanning agents.
New Breeds of Safety Footwear
Work boots as a key part of workwear, and the trend towards fashionable and functional workwear has certainly impacted the design of safety shoes. For too long we had to live with work boots that were bulky and uncomfortable. They often were a source of frustration for employees. Today, safety boots are available in a wide range of styles and materials, and entirely new types of work boots have been added to the range. We see safety toes with a nod to skater shoes, hybrid styles between a hiking and a safety boot, streetwear style zipsider safety boots that are extra low-cut, or safety joggers like our KAMU® boots with Infinergy® that up the ante with performance materials from well-known sneaker brands. There are more and more safety boots that are designed to look and feel like everyday footwear, making them more appealing to employees who want workwear that is both comfy and looks great.
Employee Satisfaction and Engagement
Employers are not the only ones who are pushing for fashionable, functional workwear. Workers are taking an active interest in their workwear choices. The shift to fashionable, functional workwear has had a positive effect on workplace culture. Employees who feel confident and comfortable in their workwear are more likely to be engaged and motivated at work. This can result in higher productivity, less absenteeism, and better job satisfaction - all of which is so important in light of the current skills shortage.
Workwear has evolved a lot since the days of unattractive and uncomfortable uniforms. Employers are now investing in fashionable, functional, high-quality workwear that reflects the company's commitment to safety, well-being, ecological consciousness and employee engagement. The future of workwear looks brighter than ever thanks to the latest trends.