Like they say in the southwest, “security guys don’t get snow days”. The winter weather may keep everyone else indoors, but not security guards. They stand their posts in parking lots, event perimeters, and construction sites – often for long hours in pretty harsh conditions. Security organizations do invest in cold-weather security uniforms, but often don’t pay attention to their effectiveness on the field. It isn’t just comfort that matters, but functionality that prevents hypothermia, frostbite, and performance-reducing discomfort.
Cold Weather Challenges for Security Teams
Cold-weather challenges security teams with competing demands like maintaining a professional appearance while battling the weather. Standard issue polo shirts and thin jackets may not quite cut it when temperatures go too low. The weather can make your team sick or worse, as they simply can’t function effectively in the cold, particularly from December through February. Proper winter security uniforms dramatically improve the retention of the team.
What do I mean by “winter security uniforms”? Well…
More Than Just Heavy Jackets
The jackets chosen for the job are meant to be part of a layered outfit. But the “the heavier, the better” approach won’t work every time. It does have a lot to do with layering, actually.
- Base layer: Moisture-wicking shirts and leggings prevent sweat accumulation that leads to dangerous cooling
- Mid layer: Insulating fleece pullovers or vests trap body heat
- Outer layer: Waterproof, windproof security jackets
Security teams operating in extreme conditions need all three layers, while moderate cold regions can work with just the base and outer layers alone.
Quality security jackets form the foundation of winter preparedness. To outfit a team, wholesale procurement is optimal. Fortunately, some brands specifically design security apparel styles, even for colder temperatures – Port Authority and CornerStone. Then there are more.
Jackets from CornerStone and Port Authority
Port Authority jackets wholesale collections offer security-specific styles with features like durable outer lining, multiple pockets for equipment, and roomy cuts that accommodate protective gear underneath.
Here are a few top Port Authority jacket styles you can check out:
Port Authority J317 Core Soft Shell Jacket – Soft shells may not always be ideal, but the J317 makes for an excellent layering piece. It’s a bestseller for security teams in moderate winter regions.
Port Authority J333 Torrent Waterproof Jacket – Originally meant to be a functional waterproof jacket, the J333 can come in handy thanks to its excellent breathability (3000G/M2 fabric breathability rating). It also comes with a drawstring carry pouch, adjustable self-fabric tab cuffs, front zippered pockets, and a port pocket for decoration access.
Port Authority J331 All-Conditions Jacket – An insulated jacket that’s seam-sealed. The J331 can stand up to wet, wind, and cold with impressive protection. It’s waterproof, breathable, has a lot of pockets, and enough adjustability. Exceptional durability, too.
Port Authority J799 Heavyweight Parka – An actual heavyweight, the J799 is engineered to take on unforgiving weather with a 100% polyester shell and 100% polyester quilted lining. There are a lot of pockets in this one. In extremely cold environments, the J799 is meant to be worn over the Port Authority J323 Down Jacket for exceptional warmth and comfort.
Port Authority J302 Herringbone 3-in-1 Parka – The J302 has a water-repellent shell that has a subtle herringbone texture, a soft hand, a detachable hood, and two exterior storm flaps. The quilted inner jacket has two zippered pockets and an interior zippered chest pocket. A solid layering piece that won’t disappoint.
Cornerstone jackets, on the other hand, are built for various work environments. Their jackets are known to deliver amazing comfort over superior insulation. The brand offers an impressive ANSI-compliant lineup.
Here are some of their styles worth checking out.
CornerStone J763H Duck Cloth Hooded Work Jacket – Great for mild or harsh weather, the J763 is best layered over shirts and vests. It comes with a hood, hand warmer pockets, and an interior pocket.
CornerStone CSJ41 Washed Duck Cloth Insulated Work Jacket – This enzyme-washed hooded jacket has a brushed, quilted lining and insulation throughout with poly fills in the hood and sleeve lining to keep wearers very warm. An easy pick for a layered security team outfit.
CornerStone CSJ10 Elements Insulated Parka – Insulated and fully seam-sealed, the CSJ10 is excellent for taking on almost any tough work environment. It’s waterproof, breathable, triple-stitched, and fully seam-sealed. This jacket gets you all the way.
CornerStone combines rugged, durable protection and a very nice appearance. They are practically built for security in northern states. But there are more options in the wholesale outerwear market.
If you have a bigger budget, you can get Carhartt jackets. The Carhartt Washed Duck Active Duc Jac is an iconic style. So is the brand’s Detroit Jacket. The North Face also offers really great jackets for security teams working in the cold outdoors. Then, some brands specifically cater to outdoor enthusiasts, like Outdoor Research. This particular brand offers puffy jackets and vests engineered for superior warmth and comfort, but can be quite pricey when outfitting an entire team.
Accessories Must Be On the List
Accessories like headwear add to the warmth, prevent heat loss, and protect the ears and the head. Fleece-lined caps or wrap-around ear warmers that maintain communication clarity should be part of the gear, too, obviously. Just as important as headwear, if not more, are gloves. Purpose-built security gloves are tactile enough to allow for touchscreen use and provide a good grip in icy conditions.
Cold-weather security requires investment in proper gear, but pays off through:
- Reduced staff turnover during winter months
- Fewer cold-related injuries and worker compensation claims
- Higher vigilance levels from comfortable, protected officers
- Maintained professional appearance regardless of conditions
Security professionals are unsung heroes. They deserve cold-weather uniforms that match their commitment to remain on post. The right winter security gear combines protection, professionalism, and performance, keeping your team safe while they keep others secure.
So, what brands do you choose to outfit your team?