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Posted by Bethan on Jul 16, 2025
A Practical Guide for UK Weather and Work
If you’ve ever stepped onto a working farm, you’ll know—this isn’t the place for your Sunday best. Whether you're feeding animals, lambing in the early hours, or mucking out in the rain, your clothes need to work as hard as you do.
So what should you wear to a farm? The right farm clothing can keep you dry, warm, and protected, whatever the job or season. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential layers and kit for both men and women, including gear recommendations for winter, muddy ground, and everyday farm tasks.
What to Wear to Work on a Farm: The Essentials
Farm work is tough on clothing. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about durability, practicality, and staying dry when the heavens open.
Here’s a quick checklist of everyday farm clothing for men and women:
- Waterproof outerwear – jackets and trousers that can handle muck and weather. (Read our farmer’s guide to choosing durable and comfortable waterproofs)
- Base layers – thermals or breathable tops depending on the season
- Mid-layers – fleeces or padded gilets for extra warmth
- Hardwearing trousers – preferably waterproof or reinforced at the knees
- Waterproof farm boots – wellies, dealer boots or lace-ups with good grip
- Warm accessories – gloves, thermal socks, and a hat in colder months
Let’s break this down by situation.
What to Wear to a Farm in Winter
Winter on a UK farm is no joke—cold winds, icy paths, and non-stop mud.
Key clothing tips:
- Layer up: Start with thermal base layers, then a fleece or insulated mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof jacket like the Game Technical Apparel Outlander Jacket or a padded wax coat.
- Don’t forget your legs: Thermal leggings under waterproof trousers keep the chill out. Look for trousers with reinforced knees and plenty of pockets.
- Choose lined boots: Go for waterproof farm boots with insulation. The Grisport Contractor Boot is ideal for cold, muddy conditions.
Extra winter tips:
- Keep a pair of thermal socks on rotation
- A windproof beanie or hat with a torch can help on dark mornings
- Always have a spare mid-layer in the car or barn
Feeding Animals: Early Starts and Quick Changes
Feeding time can be a splashy affair—think water, slobber, and feed spills.
Clothing ideas:
- A fleece-lined country gilet over your hoodie or shirt gives warmth without restricting your arms
- Waterproof smocks or overalls are ideal for feeding pigs, chickens, or sheep
- Quick-drying layers like the Game Jackets are great if you're in and out of buildings
Boot choice: Slip-on wellingtons with a good tread work well here. Consider the Hoggs of Fife Field Sport Neoprene Wellingtons.
Mucking Out: Be Prepared to Get Dirty
If you're tackling a stable or animal shed, your gear needs to take a beating.
Go for:
- Heavy-duty overalls, bib & brace or boiler suits to protect your layers underneath. Check out our best selling Hoggs of Fife Green King II waterproof Bib and Brace for the ultimate protection
- Waterproof, wipe-clean farm jackets with storm flaps and press studs
- Sturdy waterproof farm boots with ankle support (think lace-up styles like the Hoggs of Fife Artemis boots)
RELATED ARTICLE: Find out why farmers are going crazy for the Hoggs of Fife Bib and Brace
Top tip: Keep a pair of gloves handy and consider elbow-length waterproof gloves for messier jobs.
Lambing Season: Flexibility is Key
Lambing means long hours, quick responses, and being out at all times of day (or night). Your kit needs to be breathable, flexible, and ready to go.
Best picks:
- Layered clothing for adjusting to barn warmth or outdoor chill
- A fleece jacket or gilet with deep pockets for your phone, torch, and notebook
- Lightweight, easy-move cargo trousers or farm leggings with stretch
Many farmers swear by the Ridgeline smock style jackets, as they’re windproof, waterproof, and warm—without being bulky.
For Women on the Farm: Function First, Still Stylish
Farm clothing for women used to be hard to come by—but not anymore. At Cherry Tree Country Clothing, we offer womens farming clothes designed specifically for a female fit without compromising on practicality.
- Look for ladies farm trousers with stretch and reinforced seams
- Choose womens farm jackets with a drawcord waist for a snug fit
- The Stoney Creek Ladies Tempest jacket offers weather protection without weighing you down
And if you’re asking what to wear to a farm in winter, start with thermals and build up layers just like you would for a hike—because farming is a workout.
Our Picks for Women on the Farm:
Stoney Creek Ladies Tempest Jacket
Hoggs of Fife Workhogg Ladies Stretch Trousers
Hoggs of Fife Ladies Jodhpur Chelsea Boots
A good pair of waterproof boots with great grip is essential, especially when working in wet or muddy conditions. If you're unsure where to start, browse our full selection of women's farm boots - perfect for yard work, feeding animals, or just keeping your feet dry and warm.
For Men on the Farm: Tough Gear That Lasts
Country clothing for farmers needs to last through daily wear and tear. For men, the focus is usually on durability and protection.
Try:
- Waterproof jackets with storm cuffs and zipped vents
- Farm shirts in brushed cotton or fleece-lined styles - trusted by UK farmers for comfort, durability and long-lasting wear. (Find out why Hoggs of Fife shirts are a farm favourite.)
- Work boots that can handle 12-hour shifts on concrete, mud, and grass, whether it is a pair of dealer boots or lace-up boots
Our Picks for Men on the Farm:
Hoggs of Fife Zeus waterproof work boots
Ridgeline Monsoon Classic Smock
Champion Ayr Pure Cotton Shirt
Final Thoughts: Dress for the Job
On a UK farm, weather can change by the hour. Having the right farm clothing for women and men isn’t about fashion—it’s about comfort, safety, and getting the job done.
Whether you're heading out for lambing, mucking out the stables, or just tackling chores in the drizzle, gear up in durable, waterproof, and practical country clothing.
Take a look at our full collection of farming jackets and farm boots designed for real life in the countryside.
We’re here to keep you warm, dry, and ready for anything the land throws your way.
FAQ: Common Questions About Farm Clothing
You’ll need waterproof farm boots—either lace-up ankle boots with deep tread or neoprene-lined wellingtons. Avoid trainers or standard hiking boots, as they’ll soak through.
If you’re working in wet grass, livestock pens, or doing outdoor jobs in the rain, yes. Waterproof overtrousers or lined waterproof trousers are a game-changer—keeping you dry and warm underneath.
You can, but they’re not ideal. Once wet, they stay wet. Opt for technical work trousers or cargo trousers designed for movement and weather resistance.