The Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Gardening Overalls
Having the right overalls can make gardening tasks much more comfortable and enjoyable. When choosing gardening overalls, factors like durability, versatility, and stain-resistance are key. The optimal overalls provide protection and mobility while also being breathable and easy to clean.
We'll provide tips on finding the right fit and size along with recommendations for ideal colors. You'll also learn the best practices for caring for your gardening overalls. With the right information, you can choose high-quality overalls that meet your specific gardening needs.
Different Styles of Gardening Overalls
Bib Overalls
Bib overalls are a classic gardening staple. They feature adjustable straps that go over the shoulders along with a front flap secured by buttons or snaps. The bib-style top provides extra protection for your chest and stomach.
The pros of bib overalls for gardening include the flexibility of the straps for a customized fit. They also offer more coverage and are less likely to gap open compared to other styles. Potential drawbacks are that the straps can dig in and cause discomfort. Some people also find bib overalls to be hotter in warm weather.
Look for bib overalls made with lightweight cotton or a cotton-blend for optimal breathability. Features like multiple pockets, reinforced knees, and hammer loops also come in handy for gardening tasks.
Coverall Jumpsuits
Coverall jumpsuits are another go-to option, providing full-body protection. Coveralls have long sleeves and legs and often a front zipper closure. Many also have an elastic waistband for stretch and flexibility.
Coveralls are great for more intensive gardening jobs involving digging, hauling, and working on the ground. The continuous coverage means you have to worry less about dirt and debris getting inside your clothes. Drawbacks are that coveralls can feel bulky, especially in hot weather. Full-length styles also need to be removed completely for bathroom breaks.
Look for lightweight cotton/polyester coverall blends. Features like vents, zippered legs, and multiple pockets optimize these for gardening use.
Other Styles
Other styles like dungarees, salopettes, and boilersuits are also suitable for gardening wear. Dungarees resemble jeans with straps over the shoulders. Salopettes are similar but have front and back panels hanging below the waistline. Boilersuits are essentially coveralls but with a more loose-fitting design.
All these styles offer durability and protection for garden work. Consider key features like pocket designs, fabric breathability, and ease of movement when choosing among these options.
Essential Features for Gardening Overalls
Fabric and Materials
The fabric and materials used are one of the most important factors when selecting gardening overalls. Look for abrasion-resistant fabrics that can handle snags from thorns and branches without tearing. The fabric should also be flexible enough for squatting and stretching.
Natural fibers like cotton and cotton blends are ideal for breathability in hot weather. Synthetic fibers like polyester add durability, while spandex provides stretch. Denim and duck canvas are also tough options.
Features like soil release coatings and stain guards will help overalls shed dirt more easily and stay cleaner between washes. Oil and water-repellent finishes can also enhance durability.
Adjustability
Since gardening involves repetitive motions like bending and kneeling, adjustability is key. Look for overalls with adjustable shoulder straps so you can customize the fit. Waist adjustments at the sides also prevent gapping when moving.
Elastic panels, drawstrings, and gussets provide flexibility. Suspenders offer more adjustability but can be hot. Self-fabric straps often feel more comfortable in warmer conditions.
Design Elements
Reinforced knees and hems increase durability for kneeling and squatting while gardening. Articulated knees with gussets prevent restrictive bunching and splitting seams.
A gusseted crotch improves mobility for movements like high-stepping over plants. Hammer loops, holsters, and utility pockets provide handy storage for small tools and gloves.
Vented panels, mesh lining, and UPF fabric help prevent overheating on hot days. Look for vents placed at sweat zones like the lower back, underarms, and behind the knees.
Choosing the Right Size and Fit
Finding the optimal size and fit is crucial when selecting gardening overalls. Trying them on in-person is best to ensure they feel roomy but not overly baggy.
Allow at least a few extra inches around the waist and through the legs and seat for unrestricted mobility. Keep in mind that cotton overalls will shrink slightly after washing.
Adjustable shoulder straps and side openings create more wiggle room. You want overalls loose enough to squat and bend freely without restriction or exposure.
Consider adjustable hems or different inseam lengths to accommodate height. Look for petite and tall sizing options if needed. Suspenders and front pleats can also help achieve the right tailored fit.
Ideal Colors for Gardening Overalls
Choosing the right overall color comes down to balancing style and stain-masking ability. Darker dye colors like black, brown, navy, and olive green do the best job at hiding dirt and soil discolorations.
Khaki is another great choice for disguising stains. If you prefer something lighter, go for an overall white color rather than light gray or blue, which will show marks more.
Red and brighter colors can add personality to your garden outfit but are high-maintenance when it comes to showing stains. Floral prints and patterns work best on darker background colors to hide smudges.
Caring for Your Gardening Overalls
Investing in quality overalls means you'll want them to last. Choosing machine-washable overalls made of durable, stain-resistant fabrics will make cleaning easier.
Pretreat any extra-tough stains before washing. Turning overalls inside out before washing can also help preserve the colors. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle after every wear.
Avoid using bleach, which can damage fabric fibers over time. Line or air drying your overalls will help them maintain their shape and prevents shrinkage from high heat in the dryer.
Top Gardening Overalls
Here are some of our top overall picks offering optimal comfort and performance for gardening:
Carhartt Men's Quilt Lined Duck Bib Overalls - Made of 12-ounce, 100% ring spun cotton duck. Features include a triple-stitched main seams, multiple utility pockets, and a quilted lining for warmth.
Walls Workwear Duck Insulated Coveralls - Durable and flexible 9 oz. cotton duck fabric with an insulating polyester batting fill. Features an action back, tool pockets, and knee pads.
Dickies Women's Stretch Denim Overall - Made from a durable cotton/spandex denim blend with a soil release finish. Features an elastic waistband, multiple pockets, and stretch fabric.
Truewerk Women's T4 All-Purpose Overalls - Designed for women with adjustable straps, stretch gusset crotch, hammer loop and ruler pocket. Made from a proprietary durable cotton twill.
Carhartt Force Extremes Coverall - Triple-layer protection in a polyester/cotton shell, rain defender layer, and insulation. Ideal for all weather conditions.
Choosing the perfect gardening overalls involves considering key factors like comfort, durability, adjustability, and stain-resistance. Seek out high-quality materials like cotton, cotton blends, and durable synthetics.
Look for reinforced knees, gusseted crotches, and plenty of storage. Darker colors will best hide inevitable garden stains and debris. With the right pair of overalls suited for your needs, you can garden in comfort and style.