When creating custom branded workwear for your company, comfort should be a top priority. After all, your employees will be wearing these apparel programs day in and day out while on the job. The right workwear can boost morale, productivity, and your brand image. But poorly designed branded workwear that lacks comfort can lead to discomfort, complaints, and a poor representation of your brand. Here are some tips to keep in mind when designing comfortable, stylish branded workwear.

Choose Breathable Fabrics

The first step is selecting fabrics that promote airflow and breathe well. Your employees work hard and are active on the job, so moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics are a must. Lightweight cotton blends, moisture-wicking synthetics, and knits with a bit of stretch are great options. Be sure to avoid cheap polyester blends that trap heat and sweat. The more breathable the fabrics, the more comfortable your custom workwear will be for all-day wear.

Prioritize Mobility

Consider the range of movement required for your employees' work. Do they need to crouch, bend, reach, and climb throughout the day? Branded workwear should accommodate their need to move freely. Look for woven fabrics with some stretch and mobility built in. Articulated knees and gussets under the arms can allow a greater range of motion as well. Just make sure the workwear isn't too baggy or tight in a way that restricts movement. The right athletic or relaxed fit paired with the right fabric will maximize mobility.

Use Lightweight Materials

In general, lighter fabrics will be more comfortable for employees who are on their feet all day. Heavy cotton duck canvas may seem durable, but can feel oppressively hot and heavy when worn for long hours. Lighter poplin cottons and cotton-polyester blends can provide durability and breathability at once. For outerwear, lightweight bomber jackets and windbreakers will be preferable to thick, heavy coats. Just make sure you still provide UV protection with lightweight fabrics when needed.

Add Ventilation Features

Look for ways to build ventilation directly into your branded workwear. Back mesh panels, underarm grommets, and strategically placed vents will help air circulate, keeping workers cooler and drier. You can add mesh ventilation to hats and hard hats as well. For seriously hot environments, moisture-wicking cooling fabrics can actively pull sweat away from the body as it evaporates. The more ventilation features, the better.

Choose Comfortable Silhouettes

The specific fit and silhouette of your workwear can impact comfort too. Oversize boxy fits restrict movement, while slim or skinny fits feel tight and binding. Aim for a relaxed straight or athletic cut, which allows freedom of movement without feeling gigantic. Higher armholes prevent restrictive pulling across the shoulders. Pants with a hint of elastic and shirts with curved hems provide give for bending and squatting. Tailor your workwear's silhouette to your employees' needs.

Prioritize Quality Construction

It's not just about the materials - quality design and construction plays a role in comfort too. Pants with an articulated knee will be more comfortable than those with a single straight seam. Sturdy triple-stitched seams prevent chafing and unraveling. Bar tacks reinforce stress points prone to ripping. Wash-tested threads and buttons stay securely fastened through industrial laundering. And smooth flat stitching prevents irritation. High construction quality directly correlates to all-day comfort.

By keeping these tips in mind as you design custom branded workwear, you can ensure your apparel programs not only reflect your brand - but also keep your employees comfortable. With the right lightweight, breathable fabrics, athletic silhouettes, and ventilation features, your workwear can perform on the job while keeping workers happy. Comfortable employees are productive employees, so invest in quality, comfort-focused branded workwear today.