Body warmers for work are becoming an increasingly popular choice. They suit a range of different industries and job types. Body warmers, also known as thermal vests or insulated vests, can offer several benefits when incorporated into work uniform.

About Body Warmers

Body warmers are insulated jackets without sleeves. They are a great way to keep workers warm while still giving them full range of motion in their arms.

We have a huge range on our website which are suitable based on the weather conditions you may expect for your workers.

Why Choose Body Warmers for Workwear?

Why are body warmers becoming so popular? Here are our top 5 reasons that we believe more and more companies are choosing to use them as part of their work uniforms:

1. Temperature Regulation: Body warmers provide an extra layer of insulation to keep the body warm in colder environments. This is especially useful for individuals working outdoors in cold weather or industries where temperature control is challenging. We even have body warmers which are heated to provide extra warmth. Also, body warmers can be easily layered over other clothing items, providing flexibility in changing weather conditions. Workers can add or remove layers based on their comfort.
2. Customisation and Branding – Employers can customise body warmers with company logos, names, or other identifiers. This reinforces a sense of team identity and allows for easy identification of employees. At First Avenue, we can offer printed or embroidery options for branding on all our garments.
3. Flexibility and Range of Motion: Body warmers are sleeveless, allowing greater freedom of movement in the arms. This is important in jobs that require a wide range of motion, such as construction or warehouse work.
4. Comfort: Body warmers can be lightweight, ensuring workers stay warm without feeling weighed down by heavy clothing. This is especially important for jobs that involve physical activity. There are also harder-wearing options for harsher working environments.
5. Durable: Workwear, including body warmers, is often designed to be durable and resistant to wear and tear. This ensures a longer lifespan, even in demanding work environments where body warmers are usually worn.

Body Warmer from First Avenue Supplies

When selecting body warmers for work, it’s important to consider the specific needs of the job, the working environment, and any safety regulations that may apply.

If you’re looking for a body warmer for work but aren’t sure what you require, contact us; we can talk you through our options and find the best solution.

We also have a blog describing our top body warmers in more detail – this may help you consider what you require.

Winter workwear is one of the product ranges we offer at First Avenue. We have been suppliers of winter workwear for many years to a whole host of clients. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality garments and accessories for all our clients in many industries.

Investing in Winter Workwear

You may choose to invest in winter workwear for many reasons. The most obvious and important is to protect your employees from the harsher weather we come into contact with at this time of year. It may also be a way to give a sense of team morale as everyone is offered/wearing the same clothing or uniform. It could also be for advertising purposes, as your logo is viewable on the clothing.

Some industries and jobs will invest in winter workwear as standard, including areas where employees are outside a lot: builders, construction industry, parking attendants, bricklayers, road construction, agricultural workers and the like. However, other sectors may still want to invest in winter clothing for their employees; this could be offices where employees are required to move from building to building regularly, warehouses and stores, delivery drivers, etc.

In all these industries, different types of winter workwear will be required based on the amount of time spent outside and the elements the workers will be exposed to. If you want to talk through any of the options we have available, please get in touch with us.

Types of Winter Workwear from First Avenue 

At First Avenue, we supply a wide range of winter workwear. Each product category has a range of different options depending on what is required.

Here are some of the main elements in our winter workwear range.

Coats and Jackets: Anything from lightweight waterproof jackets to thermal jackets and everything in between. We also offer different fits for males/females so everyone is catered for and feels comfortable.

Fleece: Adding an extra fleece layer under a coat or jacket may be required for outside workers at very cold times of the year. We have a range of colours and styles available to suit your brand, and we can add logos to these in-house.

Body Warmers: These are perfect for keeping your core warm whilst allowing for flexibility and movement of the arms. They are a popular choice amongst many industries. Please take a look at our top Body Warmers in our previous blog post https://firstavenuesupplies.co.uk/best-work-body-warmers/  

Gloves: We have a wide range of different work gloves. Some are suitable for harsh working activities, and others for weather protection outdoors. Depending on where your employees are working and what they are doing will determine the best gloves for you to invest in.

HI-VIS: Of course, through the winter, with the darker nights, you need to ensure your employees working outside are going to be easily seen. HI-VIS is perfect for this. We offer a range for all weathers – find out more in our HI-VIS clothing blog post https://firstavenuesupplies.co.uk/branded-high-vis-clothing/

Hats: Hats are another garment which is often required for winter. They provide warmth for any outdoor workers and are also a great product to apply additional branding to. We offer a range of waterproof, fleece-lined, thermal and reflective hats, covering all areas.

If you are looking for winter workwear and want more information on what we have available, then contact us today. We would be happy to talk you through our range and find a selection of products to suit your requirements. We look forward to hearing from you.

At First Avenue Supplies, we specialise in adding customisations, such as logos, to various clothing items. This is perfect for work uniforms in many different sectors.

Our vast product range includes everything from PPE to polo shirts, to Hi-Vis items and everything in between. When it comes to adding the company logos, what is better? Printed vs embroidery?

Printed vs Embroidery 

There are pros and cons to both printed and embroidered logos. It depends on the materials, size and colours required.

Printed Logos

Here are some of the pros and cons of printed logos on clothing.

Pros of Printed Logos on Clothing 

Cost-Effective: Printing logos is more cost-effective than embroidery, especially for bulk orders. This is because the process of printing is less labour-intensive.

Detail and Colour Reproduction: Printing allows for intricate details and various colours. It’s especially good for designs with gradients or photographs, as this is very difficult to achieve with embroidered logos.

Fast: Printing is quicker than embroidery, which involves stitching each thread individually. This can be crucial for tight deadlines.

Suitable for Lightweight Fabrics: Printing works well on lightweight and delicate fabrics that may not hold up well under the weight of embroidery.

Cons of Printed Logos on Clothing

Not as Durable: Printed logos may not be as durable as embroidered ones, particularly if they undergo frequent washing or abrasion.

More Likely to Crack and Fade: Over time, printed logos can crack or fade, especially if not cared for properly or exposed to harsh conditions.

Not Ideal for Thick Fabrics: Printing may not work well on thick or textured fabrics, as the ink might not adhere properly.

Embroidered Logos 

Here are some of the pros and cons of embroidered logos on clothing.

Pros of Embroidered Logos

Durability: Embroidery is highly durable – far more durable than print. It can withstand repeated washings and harsh conditions, making it ideal for workwear and uniforms.

Premium Appearance: Embroidery often gives a premium, high-quality look that can convey a sense of professionalism and attention to detail.

Texture and Dimension: Embroidery adds a raised, textured element to the garment, which can make the logo stand out.

Long-lasting: Unlike prints, embroidered logos are less likely to fade, crack, or peel over time.

Cons of Printed Logos

Cost and Time: Embroidery is generally more expensive due to the intricate process and time it takes. It’s also slower, making it less suitable for rush orders.

Limited Detail: While embroidery can include a fair amount of detail, it may not reproduce very fine details or a wide range of colours as well as printing can.

Not Suitable for Delicate Fabrics: Embroidery may not work well on all fabrics – particularly very delicate fabrics or materials as the stitching process can damage them.

Not Ideal for Large Designs: Very large or complex designs might translate poorly to embroidery.

Printed vs Embroidery 

When it comes to printed vs embroidery on your garments, several aspects should be taken into consideration;

• The delicacy of the fabric
• The durability required
• The size of the logo
• The colours required

If you are looking for company workwear with a logo and are unsure whether to choose printed or embroidery for your garments, then contact the team at First Avenue Supplies today – we can advise on the best option for you.

At First Avenue, we specialise in all types of workwear. One of our categories is Outdoor Workwear. Outdoor workwear encompasses a wide range of clothing and gear designed to protect workers who perform tasks in various outdoor environments.

There are various types of outdoor workwear. The requirement for each class depends on factors such as weather conditions and potential hazards.

Types of Outdoor Workwear 

We have a selection of outdoor workwear for all areas. Here are some of our common types:

High-Visibility Clothing

High-visibility outdoor clothing is designed for workers in environments where they need to be easily seen, such as construction sites, roadwork, and warehouses.

Features of high-visibility clothing

• Bright colours (usually neon yellow, orange, or green) combined with reflective materials for visibility during low-light conditions.
• Logo additions available
• Highly durable

Protective Footwear

Our protective footwear forms part of our outdoor clothing selection but is also frequently worn indoors in factory and warehouse environments. Protective footwear shields the worker’s feet from hazards like falling objects, sharp objects, chemicals, or extreme weather.

Features of protective footwear:

• Steel toe caps
• Slip-resistant soles
• Puncture-resistant materials
• Waterproofing for specific conditions.

Work Gloves

Our work gloves offer hand protection against cuts, abrasions, chemicals, and other hazards. They are suitable for indoor or outdoor use for protection against the elements.

Features of our work gloves:

• Various material options are based on the specific job (e.g., leather, rubber, or synthetic materials).
• Designed for specific tasks, including welding, landscaping, or chemical handling.
• Logo additions available.

Head Protection

Head protection is another element of our outdoor workwear. Our hard hats guard against falling objects, electrical hazards, and other impacts. These are also used indoors in warehouse environments.

Features of our protective headwear:

• Various classifications based on the level of protection needed (e.g., Type I or Type II).
• Built-in visors on some types.
• Bright colours to help with visibility.
• Logo additions available.

Safety Eyewear

When it comes to outdoor workwear, people often forget that safety eyewear is as important as everything else. Safety goggles and glasses shield eyes from dust, debris, chemicals, and other potential eye hazards.

Features of our safety eyewear:

• Impact-resistant lenses
• Anti-fog coatings
• UV protection.

Respiratory Protection

Respiratory protection is essential for dusty and dirty areas as it filters out harmful particles, gases, or vapours in the air. If you’re working in a hazardous environment, indoors or outside, you should check the requirements for respiratory protection.

Features of our respiratory protection:

• Different types of masks and respirators based on the level of protection needed (e.g., N95 respirators for particulate matter, full-face respirators for chemical protection).
• Options for branding and logo additions

Weatherproof Clothing

Our weatherproof clothing protects against the elements you would be exposed to outdoors. We have a wide range, each suited to different types of weather. Waterproof outer garments for rainy and wet conditions, insulated clothing and body warmers for the cold months and sunglasses, caps and visors for protection from the sun.

We often find that outdoor labourers require a selection of all types of outdoor clothing to ensure they are correctly protected in each season.

Features of our weatherproof clothing:

• Waterproof
• Water-resistant
• Sealed seams to keep moisture out
• Layered construction for insulation
• Wind resistant fabrics
• UV protection
• Logo options available on request.

Outdoor Workwear from First Avenue

When selecting outdoor workwear, it’s crucial to consider the specific hazards associated with the job and choose workwear that meets the necessary safety standards and regulations.

If you have a requirement for outdoor workwear or any type of branded workwear, contact our team today or pop into our store. We look forward to hearing from you.

Hi-vis long-sleeved polo shirts are a type of clothing designed to enhance the visibility of the wearer in environments where low light conditions or poor visibility could be a safety concern.

This type of garment is commonly worn by workers in industries such as construction, road work, security, and other outdoor occupations where the risk of accidents due to low visibility is high.

Key Features of Hi-Vis Long-Sleeved Polo Shirts

High-Visibility Colours – long sleeved polo shirts typically come in bright fluorescent colours. Our range includes either yellow or orange. Bright colours are easily noticeable even in dim light and adverse weather conditions, making them safer for industrial workers.

Customisation Options – At First Avenue, we can add your logo to your hi-vis items. This promotes brand recognition and helps distinguish employees on job sites. It can also help with team morale and bring the workforce together.

Reflective Material – Besides the bright colours, our hi-vis polo shirts often feature reflective stripes or patches, adding extra visibility at night.

Comfortable Design– this garment combines the casual and comfortable design of a traditional polo shirt with the safety features of high visibility, making them comfy and functional.

Materials – Our long-sleeved hi-vis polo shorts are made from lightweight and breathable fabrics, allowing for comfort when wearing for long periods of time and in all weather.

Usage – Hi-vis long-sleeved polo shirts are suitable for various outdoor environments where visibility is essential. They are often worn by construction workers, utility workers, road maintenance crews, airport personnel, law enforcement officers, and more.

It’s important to note that while hi-vis clothing significantly enhances visibility, it doesn’t make the wearer entirely immune to accidents. Proper workplace safety protocols, awareness, and precautions are still crucial to ensuring the well-being of workers in hazardous environments.

Hi-Vis, long Sleeved Polo Shirts from First Avenue

At First Avenue, we supply many different types of PPE and hi-vis clothing for many businesses.

For more information or to make an enquiry, contact us today.

At First Avenue Supplies, we offer personalised workwear, including PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) with company logos. We can provide printed or embroidered logos depending on the items and garments selected.

Types of PPE with Company Logo

Our range of PPE workwear with company logo options is vast. We have various types of gear available to safeguard different body parts. Here’s a glimpse of what we provide:

HI-VIS Gear: Visibility is crucial, regardless of the weather. Our extensive HI-VIS collection includes vests, jackets, trousers, and t-shirts. We can provide an embroidered or printed logo for HI-VIS clothing depending on the garment selected and your logo requirements.

The materials used in our HI-VIS clothing are lightweight, comfortable, and flexible to ensure maximum visibility and ease of movement.

Hats and Helmets: Hard hats and helmets are essential in various manual labour careers. We can print your company logo directly onto the hard hat. Our up-to-date, lightweight, and comfortable range of headgear includes accessories like chin straps, sweatbands, and visor holders.

Ear Defenders and Ear Plugs: Safeguard your ears with our earplugs and defenders, available with your company logo.

Knee Pads: We prioritise user comfort when it comes to knee protection. These are another item which is suitable for the addition of your company logo. Our options are designed to keep your knees safe, regardless of the hazard you face.

Gloves: We have a wide range of different gloves available depending on the industry and application they are required for. Depending on the type of glove you need, we have options for adding logos and various colours available.

Other PPE We Offer

Some PPE items we offer may not be suitable for adding company logos, but they remain part of our portfolio. These are;

• Face Masks
• Face shields and visors
• Safety goggles
• Disposable gloves
• Safety shoes

Why Invest in PPE with Company Logo 

There are many reasons businesses choose to add company logos to their PPE. Some of the main reasons we come across are;

Branding and recognition – PPE with a company logo helps promote brand visibility and recognition. When employees wear PPE featuring the company logo, it constantly reminds them of the organisation’s presence and reinforces its brand identity. It can also contribute to the employees’ unity and belonging.

Professional image – Personal protective equipment with a company logo enhances the professional appearance of the organisation. It shows that the company takes safety seriously and is committed to providing a safe working environment for its employees. This can inspire confidence in customers, clients, and stakeholders who visit the workplace.

Employee morale – PPE with a company logo can foster a sense of pride and belonging among employees. By incorporating the logo, the company shows appreciation for its workforce and emphasises their importance in representing the organisation.

Exposure and marketing – Customised PPE sets your company apart from others, especially in industries where safety gear is commonly used. It allows your business to stand out by creating a unique visual identity. This is particularly beneficial when employees work in public or customer-facing roles, as it provides an opportunity for brand exposure and marketing.

Compliance and accountability – Incorporating a company logo on the workwear in industries where PPE is required can assist with compliance and accountability. It helps identify whether employees are using the provided PPE and can aid in monitoring and enforcing safety protocols. It also allows for easier identification of employees during safety inspections or audits.

PPE with Company Logo from First Avenue Supplies 

We have been providing PPE with company logos for various businesses for many years. We work closely with our clients to ensure we can provide high-quality products for your organisation.

For all your workwear requirements, contact First Avenue Supplies – or visit our Bletchley Milton Keynes store.

Company-branded hoodies are a popular form of uniform or promotional merchandise within various industries. With the addition of embroidery or printing, they can feature a company’s logo, name, or other branding elements.

At First Avenue, we have a range of different hooded jumpers which can be customised in-house. Take a look at our catalogue online or our PPE catalogue for more durable hoodies for harsher industries.

Company-branded hoodies can serve as a functional uniform element and keep employees warm in the winter months. They can also serve as a walking advertisement for the company should employees choose to wear them outside of work.  

Why Invest in Company–Branded Hoodies?

Custom Designs – Using either print or embroidery, we can brand our hoodies with company logos prominently displayed on the front or back. We have a range of colours and styles for you to choose from, and they are available in men, women, or children’s fits.

Brand Visibility – Any uniform element can be used to increase brand visibility and create a sense of unity among employees and customers. They can be used for various purposes, including employee uniforms, corporate gifting, promotional campaigns, or merchandise for sale.

High Quality – All of our hoodies are made from high-quality materials. Our embroidery and printing are first-class so you can rely on your clothing to last.

Company–Branded Hoodies from First Avenue

Overall, company-branded hoodies serve as effective promotional tools that offer both practicality and style. When you invest in customised uniform, you open the doors to more than just items of clothing.

If you would like to discuss an order for company clothing, give us a call – we can discuss your options and give you a quotation.

Alternatively, feel free to browse our online catalogues here and supplier catalogue here

Branded High-Vis Clothing 

Branded high-vis clothing items are part of our product offering at First Avenue Supplies. Various items have been in our inventory for years. If you use high-vis clothing in your workplace and are looking for branded items, then contact us today to discuss the options we offer.

What is High-Vis Clothing?

High-vis clothing, short for high-visibility clothing, refers to garments designed to enhance the visibility of individuals in various environments. They are mainly used in situations where there is a risk of accidents or collisions and people need to be seen easily. High-vis clothing is bright, fluorescent colours such as neon yellow or orange and incorporates reflective sections making the wearer more noticeable even at night.

High-vis clothing is usually worn by workers in industries such as construction, road maintenance, transportation, emergency services, and any occupation that involves working in low-light conditions, near moving vehicles, or in hazardous areas.

Types of Branded High-Vis Clothing 

There are various garments which are part of the high-vis range. These include;

• Vests
• Jackets
• Trousers
• Shorts
• Polo shirts
• T-shirts

In our range, we have different variations of all of the above.

Each of our garments can be branded to your organisation by adding a logo. We use either print or embroidery to add your logo to the chosen garment. The most popular placement for logos on high-vis clothing is on the left breast side or along the back of the garment.

Branded High-Vis Clothing from First Avenue

At first avenue, we have a wide range of high-vis clothing suitable for branding. We can fulfil orders of any quantity. To discuss your requirements give us a call or pop into our store in Bletchley – we look forward to meeting you.

Importance Of Safety Shoes: The Benefits Of Protective Footwear

In this article, we will explore the importance safety shoes.

At First Avenue Supplies, PPE and Safety Wear is our speciality – that includes everything down to safety shoes.

If you work in an industry which handles hazardous materials or exposes you to dangerous conditions, you probably already wear safety shoes. The use of proper protective gear is essential in preventing workplace accidents and injuries.

The Importance of Safety Shoes

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to safety footwear, as different work environments and conditions require different types of protective shoes. However, one thing remains consistent – the protective benefits they offer.

Here are the top 4 benefits of wearing safety shoes:

1. Foot protection

Of course, this is the most obvious reason for wearing safety shoes. There are many different elements the show can protect the wearer from;

• Falling or dropped objects – in the industrial settings these shoes will be worn, there is a risk of heavy objects being dropped. Safety shoes have a strengthened or steel toed cap to provide some protection to the wearer.
• Punctures/cuts – If you work in an area with sharp or dangerous objects, you need to wear shoes with thick, strong soles and uppers to protect your feet. They can also offer cut resistance and water resistance for wet environments.
• Burns – Safety shoes can protect you from hot substances, fire, and chemicals that can cause burns or skin injury.
• Weather – If you work outside in wet or cold environments, you need weatherproof and insulated footwear to protect your feet from the elements.

2. Prevents Slips and Falls

Wearing nonslip shoes or adding nonslip floor tape can reduce the risk of slips and falls, which are common causes of workplace injuries.

3. Provides Electrical Safety

Non-conductive shoes made of leather or rubber can protect you from electric shocks, sparks, or static accumulation. Antistatic or conductive shoes can also be worn if static electricity accumulates.

4. Reduces Foot Fatigue

Standing or walking for extended periods on concrete can cause foot fatigue. Protective footwear with cushioning and arch support can reduce muscle strain, which can lead to chronic low back pain and other musculoskeletal problems.

Safety Shoes from First Avenue Supplies

At First Avenue Supplies we have a huge range of safety footwear that we can offer. Each different type is suitable for a different industry.

All of our safety foot wear can be seen in our catalogue on page 584 for more information or to discuss your requirements please contact us today or pop into our Milton Keynes store.

At first avenue, we specialise in work wear of all kinds. One of our popular product lines – specifically at this time of year – is our body warmers.

Body warmers, also known as Gillets, are extremely popular and becoming more and more used in the work place in various industries.

Body warmers are jackets without the arms. They are great for allowing the wearer to have full use and mobility in their arms whilst also keeping them warm and protected from the elements.

We stock a variety of types here at First Avenue Supplies which are available to view and try on in our shop.

Best Work Body Warmers

Here is a run-down of our best work body warmers and their different features.

Regatta Soft Shell Body Warmer

The Regatta soft shell body warmer is a lightweight option. Softshell jackets have been popular since 2007 and the soft shell body warmers and gillets are also very popular.

In general soft shells body warmers wear very well. They’re not necessarily the most warming option because they are relatively thin, however they are a durable, light weight layer for your workforce.  

The most popular one we sell is made by Regatta. It is available in various colours, the most popular being navy, black and the dark grey.

Tee Jays Crossover Body Warmer

The Tee Jays Crossover, body warmer is another extremely popular product. This is a lightweight body warmer with some padding. It has soft shell panels at the side which give a bit more flexibility.

This is more of an executive smart looking body warmer. It pairs very nicely with

Tee Jays long sleeve polo shirts. Tee Jays crossover body warmer is only available in the colour black.

Tee Jays Zeppelin Body Warmer

Tee Jays Zeppelin body warmer is more of a premium product with a premium price tag. This is a luxury body warmer, with soft shall panelling down the side. This is available in navy as well as black.

This is one of our favourite body warmers for this year, they were extremely popular last year and can look really smart with an embroidered logo.  

Result Ice Bird Body Warmer

The Result Ice Bird body warmer is on the lower end price wise making it very good value for money. It is mid-weight with a bit of padding for warmth.

This body warmer is available in various colours – one of them being dark grey which is the main reason we offer this product. So, for the customers that were asking for dark grey, this was the main reason we bought this in.

Other available colours include royal blue, navy and black.

Result R88 Body Warmer

If ultimate warmth is the top of your priority for your body warmer then the Result R88 is the one for you. This is the body warmer which we have had in our range for the longest.

Unlike the other options we have discussed, the Result R88 is brushed and not shiny. It is very soft, but very thick and padded with a fleece lining.

The Result R88 is so thick and cosy it is the limit of thickness that we can embroider. We do embroider a lot of these through the depths of the winter. Available colours are red, black and navy.

Result Compass Body Warmer

Another of our best sellers is the Result Compass which is a very reasonably priced body warmer. It’s a mid weight body warmer with the softshell panels down the side.

These are only available in black in the body, but the contrasting zips are available in other colours. This is a great alternative way to add you brand colour into your workwear. The zips are available in; red, black, green, orange, yellow, blue and grey.

Portwest Heated Body Warmer

Th Portwest Heated body warmer uses tunnel heating technology to provide heat for the wearer.  The batteries can last 8 to 10 hours depending on the heat setting being used. There are three different heat settings which can be used as required.

These can be embroidered with your company logo in certain areas.

The only downside to this body warmer is the fact that it cannot be washed too regularly. If the wearer is going to be working in an area where they are getting dirty regularly this may not be the product for you. Each heated body warmer can last roughly 15-20 washes in it’s lifetime.

Best Work Body Warmers from First Avenue Supplies.

All of the above body warmers are available in our shop in Milton Keynes. We’re open Monday to Friday, so pop down and you’re welcome to try these on.

They are all available with your company logos printed or embroidered depending on your preference.

Contact us today to discuss your requirements or for more information on work body warmers or any of our products.  

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