As summertime harvest work like fruit picking jobs come to a close, it’s time for farmers to gear up for winter. It’s recognised as the season of sickness, and the last thing you want when farming in winter is to get sick, but there are many ways you can be prepared and ready for your work in a colder climate.

In this blog, we’ll cover some of the necessities that you should invest in to stay warm and toasty while doing farm work in winter.

Jacket

Investing in a good jacket that’s water- and wind-resistant should be a top priority. Opt for a jacket that has insulation to help keep you warm, without running the risk of overheating. In addition, a great winter farming jacket should have a hood – detachable or otherwise – to provide a bit of extra protection against the elements.

You should also figure out if you’ll need deep pockets for carrying around everyday items like a mobile phone or farming tools. If that’s the case, then ensure your farming jacket has zipper pockets, to prevent any items from falling out while working.

Boots

As you’ll be on your feet all day, having great footwear is a must. Invest in a pair of water-proof boots that are both comfortable and lined for additional warmth. Whether you want a lace-up, slip-on or zipper boot is entirely up to you and your preferences. At the end of the day, your boot should be keeping your feet dry and warm.

You should also consider your farm’s location, as muddy and wet grounds can often lead to slips. Ensure that your shoes have strong anti-slip soles to prevent any potential incidents in wet weather.

Beanies, gloves and gaiters

While your jacket might have a hood you can pull up, it won’t do much to keep your ears warm. This is where the humble beanie comes in. A beanie can help protect your head and ears from frigid wind and rain.

While you may think a scarf is a must-have, having the loose ends hang around you can quickly become a hazard. By contrast, a neck gaiter keeps your neck wrapped up without the potential annoyance of a loosely tied scarf.

Gloves are another must-have for winter farm work. When you’re not using your hands to work, they’re exposed to the elements. Your hands are often the part of your body that feels the cold quickly, so by investing in a good pair of gloves, you can protect your hands and fingers from the elements.

Headlamp

One accessory that you should invest in for winter farm work is a headlamp. This neat tool is perfect for farm work early in the morning or late at night. When choosing a headlamp, it’s probably best to keep it simple and opt for one with an easy-to-use on and off switch.

Be sure to try one over your beanie to ensure it will be snug and won’t fall off while working. And if possible, choose a headlamp that has adjustable straps to ensure it fits your head well.