After a Harsh Winter, Experts Warn: Winter PPE Will Be Your Lifesaver Again This Season

Last winter’s storms were a harsh wake-up call. The January 9–11, 2025, winter storm blanketed the Southern U.S. in snow and ice, impacting nearly 80 million people, canceling over 3,000 flights, and knocking out power for more than 120,000 residents, even in regions unaccustomed to winter weather. These conditions created chaos, from stranded commuters to overwhelmed first responders, and exposed a critical oversight: the lack of proper Winter Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

As we brace for another unpredictable season, the message is clear: prepare now, or risk repeating last year’s mistakes.

Why Winter PPE Matters, Then and Now

Outdoor workers, emergency personnel, and residents caught in last winter’s storms often found themselves ill-equipped for prolonged exposure and prone to hypothermia, frostbite, slips, and falls.

Dr. Susan Matthews, Occupational Safety and Health Researcher at NIOSH, in the past emphasized: “In extreme cold, the body can lose heat up to 25 times faster in wind and wet conditions. Proper insulated PPE is one of the most effective defenses against hypothermia and frostbite.”

With NOAA forecasting a season of variable weather, generally mild but with sudden, severe cold snaps expected in February, resilience depends on preparation.

Comprehensive Winter PPE: From Head to Toe Safety 

Winter PPE is not just about warmth; it’s about safety, mobility, and visibility in the harshest conditions. The following gear proved critical last season and will be again this year:

Insulated, Wind-Resistant Outerwear (Winter Jackets & Coveralls)
Some examples include insulated winter jackets, quilted thermal parkas, windproof softshell jackets, insulated coveralls, and reflective high-visibility winter coats. These PPE provide winter protection when:

• Thermal insulation traps body heat, while windproof shells block chilling gusts.
  

• Moisture-resistant coatings keep snow and freezing rain from soaking in.
  

• Reflective strips improve visibility in low-light, snowy conditions.
  
  

Thermal Gloves and Gauntlets
Some examples include insulated thermal work gloves, quilted fleece-lined gloves, waterproof insulated gloves, windproof softshell gloves, extended-cuff gauntlet gloves, high-visibility thermal safety gloves and heavy-duty cold storage gloves. Winter gloves provide winter safety by providing

• Multi-layer designs provide warmth without sacrificing dexterity.
  

• Extended cuffs seal out snow and wind.
  

• A non-slip grip ensures safe handling of tools in icy environments.
  
  

High-Visibility Clothing with Reflective Strips
Some examples include high-visibility insulated safety jackets, reflective thermal parkas, high-visibility winter vests, insulated coveralls with reflective tape, waterproof high-visibility coats, reflective bib overalls and high-visibility fleece-lined hoodies. They help worker stay safe by providing

• Fluorescent fabrics stand out against snow.
  

• 360-degree reflective tape ensures visibility in headlights or floodlights.
  

• Layering designs makes them compatible with insulated gear.
  
  

Anti-Slip, Insulated Boots
Some examples include insulated steel-toe work boots, waterproof thermal safety boots, slip-resistant rubber snow boots, composite-toe insulated boots, high-cut cold-weather lace-up boots, anti-slip ice-grip safety boots and electrical hazard–rated insulated boots. These boots will keep you safe during winter because

• Cold-rated rubber soles maintain traction on ice and packed snow.
  

• Insulated linings prevent frostbite in toes.
  

• Waterproof exteriors keep feet dry in slush and snow.
  
  

Protective Head and Face Coverings (Balaclavas, Thermal Hats, Shields)
Important options include full-coverage thermal balaclavas, fleece-lined beanie hats, insulated hard hat liners, thermal face masks with windproof panels, and goggles or face shields with anti-fog coating. These PPEs provide winter protection because

• Full-coverage balaclavas shield ears, nose, and mouth from frostbite.
  

• Moisture-wicking fabrics prevent cold penetration from sweat.
  

• Face shields and goggles protect from wind-driven ice pellets and glare.
  
  

By combining thermal protection, traction for winter terrain, and high-visibility design, PPE serves as a frontline defense against seasonal hazards,not just a workplace regulation.

Safety Education + PPE: A Practical Strategy

PPE works best when paired with safety education.  Mannsupply recommends distributing Winter Safety Glossaries alongside gear. These glossaries explain alerts such as “wind chill warning,” “frostbite risk,” and “ice storm advisory,” ensuring communities know when to wear what gear and how to act quickly.

 Preventing a Repeat Scenario

Last winter cost lives and disrupted communities. This year, preparation can make the difference.

Take action now:

• Equip frontline workers, schools, and vulnerable populations with PPE kits.
  
  

• Distribute Winter Safety Glossaries.
  
  

• Encourage businesses and municipalities to integrate PPE into emergency plans.

Equip with PPE. Educate with glossaries. Build winter resilience before the storm hits.

Visit  https://mannsupply.com/pages/winter  for resources, PPE kits, and guidance.