Autumn in the UK can be unpredictable – one minute you’re stepping out into crisp sunshine, the next you’re battling drizzle and gusts of wind. For anyone working outdoors or on the move, the fabric of your outerwear really matters.
But with so many options – fleece, softshell or padded – how do you know what’s right for you or your team?
Here’s a complete guide to the different outerwear, their benefits, when to wear them and some of our most popular options.
Fleeces : Lightweight Warmth
Fleeces are one of the most popular mid-layers in workwear. Made from polyester fibres that are brushed to create a soft, insulating surface, it’s designed to trap warm air close to the body.
Typical weight (GSM): 200-300 gsm for work fleeces – light enough to move in but thick enough to stay warm.
Best For:
- Active Jobs where you’re moving around a lot.
- Staff going in and out of warehouses, vans or buildings.
- Days where mornings are chilly but afternoons warm up.
Benefits of fleeces:
- Lightweight warmth without bulk.
- Breathable which helps stop overheating.
- Quick drying which is great if you get caught in a shower.
- Flexible which makes it easy to wear under a jacket.
Care Tip: Wash fleece at 30-40°C to avoid damaging fibres and avoid fabric softener as it can reduce breathability.
Our Best Selling Fleeces:
RG122
RG123
870F
870M
RX402
Softshell Jackets: Flexible Weather Protection
Softshell jackets are designed as a middle ground between fleece and waterproofs. They use woven fabric with a little stretch, often bonded with a microfleece lining for warmth. The outer surface is treated to repel wind and light rain.
Typical weight (GSM): 300-350 gsm depending on layering and fabric thickness.
Best For:
- Outdoor work in breezy or damp conditions.
- Teams needing a balance of protection and comfort.
- Roles where a smart, professional appearance matters (engineers, surveyors or reps).
Benefits of Soft shell:
- Wind-resistant – Keeps outs the gusts.
- Water-repellent – Holds off drizzle or light showers.
- Comfortable – The jacket stretches and moves with you.
- Professional – Looks smarter than a fleece or a padded coat.
Care Tip: Wash cool and avoid heavy detergents – reapply water-repellent spray occasionally to keep protection at it’s best.
Our Soft Shell Picks:
RG191
RG192
RG089
RS121M
140M
RX500
Padded & Insulated Workwear: Cold Weather Comfort
Padded outerwear is designed for insulation. Using quilted fabrics filled with synthetic fibres (or alternatives), these garments trap warm air to keep you comfortable for longer. Bodywarmers and gilets also let you add warmth without restricting arm movement.
Typical weight (GSM): 300gsm+ insulation, but varies by fill type.
Best For:
- Construction workers, security staff, and outdoor maintenance crews.
- Long periods outside in cold or still conditions.
- Early starts and night shifts when temperature dips.
Benefits of Soft shell:
- Excellent insulation – Ideal for cold days.
- Gives you long-lasting warmth.
- Versatile – Jackets for full protection, bodywarmers for freedom of movement.
- Stylish – Modern quilted designs look professional.
Care Tip: Wash gently and avoid high heat – tumble drying can cause damage to insulation fibres.
Our Padded Outerwear Essentials:
RS192M
RS192F
RS208
RS237
RS238
RS244
Choosing The Right Autumn Outerwear
The truth is there’s no single “best” option. It depends on your role and the weather on the day.
- Choose fleece if you’re active and need lightweight warmth.
- Choose soft shell if you’re outdoors in wind or drizzle, but still need flexibility in movement.
- Choose padded if warmth is the top priority in colder conditions.
The smartest solution is layering:
Base Layer – Wicks MoistureÂ
Fleece – Traps Warmth
Soft Shell Or Padded Jacket – Keeps The Elements Out.
Final Thoughts
Autumn in the UK is unpredictable, but your workwear doesn’t have to be. By choosing the right fleece, softshell or padded jacket, you’ll stay warm, dry and professional – whatever the weather.
