If your job involves working outside or constant movement between indoors and out, the best line of defense against the cold is a little thought and preparation.
Wearing several thin layers of clothing is more effective than wearing one or two very heavy layers. Several thinner layers trap heat and so insulate better than one thick layer. This also gives you the option to add or remove layers as you get warmer or colder during the day. The result is that you are less likely to suffer from the extremes.
Thin glove liners worn under another pair of gloves will keep hands warm longer. Lightweight cotton and poly blend string knit work gloves stretch to conform to the hand for a snug fit and make a perfect liner for work gloves or to provide light hand protection on their own. Choose a glove that stands on its own or lines other gloves for warmth.
Consider a cold weather hardhat liner to wear under your hardhat. Don’t just put on a stocking cap or do rag. These could interfere with the suspension of the hardhat reducing the protection, and may make it uncomfortable to wear. Hardhat liners secure to the suspension without altering the protection of the hardhat.
Your feet can be particularly vulnerable to the cold because they are often planted in cold mud or snow. Keep your feet dry! Wear waterproof work boots in the winter, or keep a pair of rubber boots handy for working in wet or snowy conditions. Spray or cream waterproofing products are also available. Consider wearing two layers of socks. The first sock should be of wicking material to keep you dry. The second of wool, which will help keep you warm even if it gets wet.
Top off your winter work wear with a warm coat and insulated overalls or coveralls.
And finally, stay hydrated. We all talk about it in the summer but don’t forget that between the cold crystallizing moisture outside and all the furnaces removing moisture inside, you will dry out as well.