Continue reading about our waterproof workwear.
Why bib and brace is the ideal multi-industry workwear
Unlike some other types of workwear, bib and brace overalls have universal appeal across multiple industries. Their immense versatility sees them used everywhere from farmer’s fields and fishing trawlers to water treatment plants and construction sites.
But why are they so popular, especially compared to other types of workwear? Let’s take a quick look at a few of the many benefits they offer.
Full freedom of movement
The bib and brace design offers complete freedom of movement, including keeping the arms free. Workers aren’t restricted by shoulder seams or an overly tight fit, so they can get on with the job in complete comfort.
There’s also the fact that bib and brace overalls are so easy to slip on and off. And they can be worn over other clothes without the need to change from one kit to another.
Layer up or down
In sectors where outdoor work is a regular occurrence, it’s crucial to be prepared and protected whatever the weather. The only problem is predicting what the Great British weather will do from one moment to the next.
Bib and brace overalls provide the perfect base layer, and can be layered up or down at a moment’s notice. If it’s a chilly morning, vests, T-shirts and other insulating layers can be worn underneath, along with a heavier layer and waterproofs on top. But if the sun suddenly makes an appearance, it’s easy to shed some layers and still work comfortably.
Chest-to-feet protection
The beauty of the bib and brace design it’s ability to provide chest-to-feet protection. Without joins and seams between garments, there is less risk of water penetration. It can also keep workers warmer, save time when dressing for the day ahead, and prevent garments riding up during strenuous tasks.
What to look for in waterproof bib and brace overalls
When kitting out your crew with bib and brace workwear, there are some critical features to look out for:
Material weight and type
PVC is the gold standard for true waterproofing in demanding industrial and agricultural work—not water-resistant but 100% waterproof. For light to moderate use, 340gsm PVC offers good protection with a lighter feel. For heavy-duty tasks—like commercial fishing, pressure washing, or abattoir work—look for 500–650gsm PVC with an oil-resistant finish. Avoid PU-coated polyester if you want longevity; it will delaminate over time in ways PVC simply won’t.
Double-layer construction
The chest and legs take the most wear. Quality waterproof bib and brace overalls should have double-layer PVC on both, not just the knees but the full front panel. This makes a difference between a garment that lasts a season and one that lasts for years.
Knee Protection
Built-in knee protection – ideally, your bib and brace overalls will have triple-layer knee protection, built into the legs of the garment. This protects the knees when kneeling down (without the time-consuming task of donning separate knee pads), and also helps to prevent the material from wearing out.
Adjustable Fit
Adjustable fit – most good quality workwear overalls will offer multiple ways to adjust the fit to suit the wearer. This includes elasticated braces and waists, back divider, adjustable straps and velcro leg tapes so that the legs fit perfectly even over large work boots. Get it right, and the overalls should move with the wearer.
Hi-vis detailing
Hi-visibility is an essential safety feature for workwear. For road maintenance, construction, or any low-light outdoor setting, hi-vis neon panels and reflective tape are key safety features. Look for bib and brace designs with a bright, reflective design, so your team can be easily seen even in remote landscapes or low-light environments. Our 211 and 640 ranges are designed with visibility in mind from the start.
Welded Seams
Other nice-to-have features include welded seams or tape reinforcement at key stress points to ensure 100% waterproofing and the longevity of the garment. And you might also want an internal chest pocket, for keeping phones, keys and other essentials close at hand, yet protected from the elements.
How to clean your waterproof bib and brace
We always recommend washing your bib and brace in warm soapy water and hanging it to drip dry in a shady dry area. This will prolong the life of your bib overalls by preventing oils and other elements attacking the backing fabric of your garment. We have also prepared a helpful guide to repairing your bib and brace.
Recommended products
Need some tips? Our Crew 654 Waterproof Fishing Bib and Brace Pants are an ideal all-round workhorse, particularly for pressure washing. They’re heavy-duty and tough enough to withstand wind, water and heavy use, but lightweight enough to move in comfortably.
But if you need a high-vis design, check out the Crew 640 PVC Fishing Bib Overalls, designed to be worn with either our Crew 255 or Crew 211 waterproof fishing jackets.
For everyday wear in farming, fishing or construction, our Stormtex 669B Midweight PVC Overalls are a great choice – offering a relaxed fit and a strong 500gsm oil resistant PVC design.
If you need overalls that have double layers for farming, take a look at our Stormtex-Air 664G Waterproof Farming Bib Overalls.
Why Buy from Stormline?
Stormline is a third-generation family business, founded in 1966 and still independently owned. We design and manufacture our waterproof bib and brace overalls based on direct feedback from the workers who wear them – commercial fishermen, farmers, and industrial crews across the UK, Ireland, Europe, and beyond. Everything we sell has been tested in real work settings, not just in the lab. You will find our bib and brace overalls on deep-sea trawlers, dairy farms in Munster and Yorkshire, and industrial sites throughout Britain and Ireland.
Need help choosing? Call our UK and Ireland team on +44 0330 133 6550 or email us.
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