Clothing for fishermen and harbour workers
Short answer: Fishermen and harbour workers are out in wind, rain, salt water and cold for hours at a time. Close fitting inner layers that keep the skin dry, warm socks and long johns are the foundation under oilskins and workwear.
Wind, water and cold
Work on a fishing boat or at the harbour is one of the coldest and wettest jobs there is. The wind is rarely still by the water, and salt water and rain find their way in at the sleeves and neck. The work is heavy, with nets, crates, ropes and moorings, and you sweat under the oilskins while your face and hands freeze. The most important thing is to keep the body dry from the inside, so sweat does not chill you when you take a break or stand still on the quay.
Long johns under the oilskins
The legs spend a long time in wind and cold, and a close fitting inner layer makes a big difference. Long johns keep the thighs, knees and calves warm and stop work trousers rubbing against the skin. Bamboo long johns fit closely, are smooth and take moisture away from the skin, so they feel less clammy after heavy work. Wear them under work trousers and oilskins, and combine them with a warming mid layer on the coldest days.
An inner layer on the upper body
The same principle applies to the upper body: a close fitting layer next to the skin, a warming mid layer and oilskins or a waterproof jacket on the outside. The innermost layer has to fit closely enough to move moisture away before it turns cold. Browse bamboo underwear for men for undershirts and underpants that work together as the base under everything else. Choose a top long enough to stay tucked in.
Feet in rubber boots
Rubber boots keep water out, but the feet sweat inside them, and a wet sock in a cold boot is one of the coldest things you can experience. Many people wear a thinner sock underneath and a thick wool sock on top. Bamboo socks for men are smooth and soft and work well as the inner layer. Make sure the boot does not become too tight, because that makes the feet colder.
Hands, head and neck
The hands are in water and cold for many hours a day, and good work gloves, ideally with a thin liner, protect them. A hat under the hood and a neck warmer keep heat in around the head and stop water running down the back of the neck. Bring a spare pair of gloves and socks, so you can change when the first pair gets wet.
Salt water, washing and drying
Salt water makes clothing stiff and can irritate the skin. Rinse oilskins with fresh water after use and let them hang to dry. Wash the innermost layer at 40 degrees without fabric softener, so it keeps its ability to absorb moisture. Dry everything completely before putting it on again, because damp clothing is cold clothing. If your fingers or toes turn white or numb in the cold, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What matters most for staying warm on the water
Keeping the skin dry from the inside with a close fitting inner layer, so sweat does not chill the body.
Why long johns
They keep the legs warm and prevent chafing under work trousers and oilskins.
How do you keep your feet warm in rubber boots
With a thin sock underneath and a thick one on top, and a boot that is not too tight.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
