Types of Work Coveralls and How to Wear Them

Coveralls and overalls. Both names seem to describe the same item of clothing, but appearances can be misleading. While they do share some similar traits, overalls and coveralls are two completely separate types of work garments. Each helps to keep dirt and grime off your clothes. However, coveralls offer a much higher level of protection. 

What Are Coveralls? 

Coveralls are loose one-piece garments that protect your legs, chest, shoulders, and arms. They may have short or long sleeves and are often made of breathable cotton/polyester blends. A pair of coveralls fastens up the front, either using zips, buttons, snaps, or velcro, and they often have multiple pockets and tool loops. 

What Is The Difference Between Coveralls and Overalls?

Again, coveralls are not the same as overalls. Coveralls cover your entire body, while overalls cover your pants, but only have an attached bib and shoulder straps for your upper body. Most overalls unbutton or unclasp at the shoulder, after which you disrobe by pulling them down like a pair of pants. Overalls provide less protection than coveralls, must be worn over a shirt, and often have larger pockets and additional tool loops.

Types of Work Coveralls

Coveralls are versatile work clothes used in a wide range of occupations. Specialized coveralls are available for different jobs. The most common types of coveralls include:

• Basic coveralls: Suitable for a wide range of professions, basic coveralls like Red Kap’s Twill Action Back Coverall provide general protection against dirt and grime. 
• Disposable coveralls: Single-use, disposable coveralls are used in environments where contact with grime, paint, aerosols, or non-hazardous liquids would quickly ruin even the sturdiest reusable coveralls. 
• Flame-resistant coveralls: Flame-resistant coveralls such as Bulwark’s Deluxe FR Contractor Coverall protect workers exposed to flammable materials or open flames. 
• Insulated coveralls: Insulated coveralls provide warmth in cold work environments, such as winter construction sites or temperature-controlled warehouses. These Dickies coveralls are a typical example of insulated coveralls.
• Arc-resistant coveralls: Electricians and other employees who work with or near electrical equipment may require arc-resistant coveralls, which protect against electrical shock and arc flash damage.
• Waterproof coveralls: As the name suggests, waterproof coveralls like the Hi-Vis Contrast Coverall by Portwest protect against rain, sleet, and wet work environments. 
• Hi-vis coveralls: The durable nature of coveralls make them ideal for construction sites, oil refineries, and other locations where high-visibility garments are required for employee safety. OccuNomix’s High Visibility Winter Coverall meets ANSI Class 3 visibility standards while also keeping you warm and dry.
• Mechanic jumpsuit: Also known as mechanic coveralls, the mechanic jumpsuit fits snugger than most coveralls, reducing the risk of the garment getting caught in machinery. Mechanic coveralls also tend to have more pockets and tool loops than typical coveralls. 
• Women’s coveralls: Much like other types of women’s blue-collar workwear, there tend to be fewer coveralls specifically designed for the female body. However, those that are available are tailored to give women a better fit than men’s coveralls. 

Who Typically Wears Coveralls?

A wide range of professions requires coveralls on the job. A list of the typical jobs that call for coveralls includes:

• Chemical workers
• Electricians
• Factory workers
• General laborers
• Landscapers
• Machine operator
• Maintenance engineers
• Mechanics
• Painters
• Road workers
• Utility workers
• Waste collectors

How to Wear Coveralls

Knowing what to wear under workwear is almost as important as the workwear itself. Follow these suggestions to remain comfortable when wearing coveralls:

• Choose breathable undergarments that wick moisture away from your skin. Consider fabric designed for athletic activities or natural cotton or merino wool. (Note: if you are required to wear fire-resistant coveralls, make sure your undergarments are also fire-resistant).
• In the winter, wearing thermal underclothing beneath your insulated coveralls helps keep you warm. This can be more of an issue when dealing with women’s coveralls, which may not provide the same insulation as male workwear.
• Avoid bulky clothing that restricts your movement. If you have to wear bulky clothing beneath coveralls, you may need to choose a larger size than usually fit you.

Customizing Work Coveralls

Customize your employees’ work coveralls by embroidering or printing your logo on them. Customized coveralls make great work uniforms, especially when personalized with your employees’ names. They also significantly increase your brand recognition to the public. If you’re unsure which type of coveralls your workforce needs, or need help selecting a style and color that complements your logo, contact a Triple Crown Products customer service representative. We’ll work with you to help you choose and customize the right coveralls for your team and your company.