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Our best recommendations for workwear for the warmer weather

As the temperatures rise, working safely and maintaining efficiency both become ever-more dependent on staying comfortable on the job. Whether you’re out in the sun, working indoors with poor airflow, or constantly on the move, the right gear can make a noticeable difference. With all of our years in supplying exceptional personalised workwear here at City Workwear, we know that better than anyone! So if you’re looking for some recommendations for the summer weather, we’ve got a couple of ideas – from breathable fabrics to summer-ready bundles.

Lightweight fabrics that help keep you cool

The right materials can help you stay cooler, drier and more focused. Lightweight cotton blends and breathable polyester are ideal for summer workwear, as they let air circulate and help moisture evaporate quickly.

Technical fabrics are increasingly common in workwear, combining durability with ventilation and stretch. It’s a good idea to look out for shirts, trousers and jackets labelled as breathable or quick-dry. Some designs include mesh lining or side vents to improve airflow without compromising safety. It's also worth noting that lighter colours reflect heat better than darker ones, so swapping out navy or black for grey or beige can help in sunny conditions.

Options for short sleeve workwear

Short sleeve garments are one of the simplest ways to adapt your kit for warmer days. Polo shirts made from lightweight polyester or cotton-rich blends remain a key favourite because they combine comfort with a smart appearance. You’ll find designs made for trade use, with reinforced seams, anti-fade finishes and tough collars that keep their shape even after repeated washes. For if you want a smarter look, short sleeve button-up work shirts made from breathable fabrics are useful for supervisors or people in customer-facing roles. Always check for garments that offer both softness and durability.

How to protect against the sun on site

Long exposure to the sun isn’t comfortable at the best of times, but it can even increase health risks. While sun cream plays a role, it’s strongly recommended to go one step further with practical workwear to maximise protection. Wide-brimmed hats or caps with neck coverage are effective for shading the face, neck and shoulders, and they’re often light enough to wear all day without discomfort. (More on those in a moment.)

For the upper body, breathable long sleeve shirts can reduce sun exposure while helping the skin stay cool. Many include underarm vents or mesh panels that enable hot air to escape. Tinted safety glasses or visors are also useful for reducing glare when working near water, metal, or concrete.

Practical headwear for hot days

Headwear forms an important part of your warm weather kit when you’re working outdoors. A simple cap may suffice in some conditions, but as we’ve touched on above, advanced features like neck flaps, sweatbands, and breathable materials can offer greater comfort. A cap with a moisture-wicking inner band prevents sweat from reaching the eyes, while mesh panels along the crown improve airflow.

If you need to wear a helmet, helmet liners or sweat-absorbing skull caps can help prevent heat buildup. Some liners can be washed regularly, so you can keep them fresh between shifts. Choose light colours wherever possible to reflect sunlight, and ensure the fit is secure enough to stay in place while you work.

Our spring and summer bundles are the best place to start

When you’re updating your kit for the warmer weather, our exclusive spring bundles and summer bundles are the fastest and most cost-effective way to get ready. These bundles collectively encompass a huge range of proven warm weather workwear – including breathable polos, lightweight hi-vis tops, shorts or summer trousers, and other useful pieces depending on the pack.

We’ve designed these for staff working in active jobs in warmer environments, so you’ll find plenty of gear that can handle long shifts in the heat while keeping you comfortable. They're ideal for anyone starting a new role, updating worn-out kit, or saving time and money during the seasonal switch.

And of course, you can also expect to find excellent value in every pack. It’s the easiest way to get sorted for the season with reliable workwear that’s ready to go from day one.

What’s more, you can customise your personalised workwear until it exactly suits what you have in mind for your business or brand. All of our customisations are done in-house using our experienced team of designers and print machinists, so you can liaise directly with us to get exactly what you’re looking for. We also provide a FREE workwear printing and embroidery service and FREE delivery for orders over £150!

Feel free to take a look around our website to see what you can find, or alternatively give our team a call on 0330 004 0440, and we’ll be happy to help however we can!