Best FLAME RESISTANT (FR) COVERALLS for 2020
Flame Resistant “FR” coveralls are designed to protect your body against flames. FR material will self-extinguish after the heat source is removed. You may be familiar with fire-retardant clothing and wonder if it’s the same as FR material. They are different! Fire retardant clothing is made with non-flammable fabrics while FR textiles are chemically treated to be self-extinguishing.
FR coveralls are worn in many industries including manufacturing, oil and gas, aerospace, agriculture, and electrical. Protection against flames and flash arcs are required in many of these industries.
Best FR Coveralls for 2020
Carhartt is the most one of the most well known companies servicing millions of men and women everyday at work. Their classic designs are both functional and stylish. The cotton and nylon blend makes this coverall very breathable for all day comfort. This is one of the most popular styles they offer, made for hot summer days or cool fall nights. The elastic waistband allows these coveralls to fit perfectly while snap pockets allow you to carry anything you need.
- Key Features
- Colors: Khaki, Grey, Navy
- Stand up collar with snaps
- 6 Pockets: 2 front, 2 back, 2 side entry
- Elastic waist
- Specifications
- Brand: Carhartt
- Size: S - 2XL
- Fabric: 88% Cotton, 12% Nylon
There are many people who prefer overalls to coveralls. Our favorite FR overall is Carhartt’s cotton-duck lined overall. These are insulated overalls designed for cold environments. Along with cold weather, they are also NFPA 70E certified with CAT 4 rating. These are heavy-duty overalls designed for hazardous working environments. Their classic look and design has kept millions of people safe everyday at work.
- Key Features
- NFPA 2112 and NFPA 70E Certified
- CAT 4 Rating
- Colors: Brown, Dark Navy, Black
- 5 Pockets: 1 Multi-compartment front bib, 2 front, 2 back
- Quilt Lining for Insulation
- Elastic waistband and adjustable suspenders
- Specifications
- Brand: Carhartt
- Size: 30W - 50W
- Fabric: 100% FR Cotton Duck
Battling winter weather requires different material than summer days. Walls’ FRs are meant for the tough outside winters to keep you safe. They are lined with acrylic insulation and a cotton/nylon twill shell. This combination keeps your body heat in while allowing sweat to escape. A feature we love about these is the leg zippers that allow air movement and easy access to your shoes and boots.
- Key Features
- Colors: Navy and Grey
- NFPA 2112 and NFPA 70E Certified
- Arc Rating, ATPV 32 calories/cm²
- Storm flaps on legs
- Elastic waistband
- Specifications
- Brand: Walls
- Size: S - 2XL
- Fabric: 88% cotton and 12% nylon shell with insulated lining
Caterpillar coveralls are gaining popularity in both the United States and globally. One of their most popular products is their FR lightweight twill coverall. Designed and delivered to keep you comfortable when your working outside in hot weather. Caterpillar takes coveralls another step with their features: added neck protection with snaps and mesh pocket designed for gas detection devices – another thing you don’t have to worry about while working.
- Key Features
- Colors: Navy and Kelp
- NFPA 2112 and NFPA 70E Certified
- CAT 2, ATPV 9.5 calories/cm²
- 5 Pockets: 2 chest, 2 back
- Elastic waist
- Specifications
- Brand: Caterpillar
- Size: 32 - 50
- Fabric: 88% Cotton, 12% Nylon
Bulwark has been one of the most trusted brands of FR coveralls for past few decades. They pride themselves on durable, protective, and comfortable coveralls that will last years. Their classic twill coveralls are one of our favorites and is very affordable. If you want to be protected for a great price we highly recommend you start here. Stitched with cotton and nylon, these coveralls have the flexibility for full body movement and the breathability you need on hot days.
- Key Features
- Colors: Dark Navy
- NFPA 2112 certified
- CAT 2, ARC Rating ATPV 11 calories/cm²
- 6 Pockets: 2 front, 2 back, 2 side
- Elastic waist
- Specifications
- Brand: Bulwark
- Size: S - 3XL
- FabricL 88% Cotton, 12% nYLON
FaQs
What are coveralls?
Coveralls are worn over clothing to protect skin and clothing. They are the gold standard for personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect against a number hazards, including harsh weather, chemicals, fire, and dirt. They cover your body from your neck to ankles plus arms and shoulders. The arm and shoulder protection is the main difference between coveralls and overalls. Some disposable coveralls come with a protective hood that can be used to cover your head as well.
wHAT MATERIAL DO frS COME IN?
Coveralls are made in different styles, colors, functionality, and material. FRs are designed to reduce the risk of burns and are made of either 100% cotton or a mixture of cotton and nylon twill. Nylon twill is a strong material that’s designed to be flame resistant. It’s important to know that coveralls may be FR but not arc resistant.
hOW ARE frS SAFE?
FR coveralls offer protection against flames and flash arcs. It’s important to buy certified tested coveralls to be sure you are protected. The manufacture of FR material is governed by two organizations: the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
Flash arcs are a common hazard in many environments. NFPA 70E standard has four protection categories ranging from least to most protective. It’s important to know the arc level you may be exposed to before wearing coveralls. The guidance is to at least meet the minimum arc rating.
NFPA 2112 standard covers flame resistant materials. The organization mandates certain tests to be performed on material before manufacturing. The fabric is tested to determine if a maximum of 50% total body burn will occur when ignited for 3 seconds. In addition, the material cannot melt, drip, or have after-flame burning.
wHAT STYLES DO frS COME IN?
Manufacturers make a variety of styles of FRs clothing. They are not created equal and will depend on your working environment and environmental conditions.
- Standard FRs are coveralls that are flame resistant by definition. They are made with either cotton or nylon twill for protection. They are ideal for hot weather, light rain, and cool climates.
- Insulated coveralls are designed to be worn in colder climates. They are insulated with materials to battle harsh winters while affording protection against flames.
- Overalls can be made of flame retardant fabric although by design, overalls do not protect shoulders and arms. A FR jacket must be worn to cover your torso for full body protection. Some people find this more comfortable while others prefer wearing only one garment, a FR coverall.
Coveralls keep you safe, comfortable, and are designed to last years of wear. It’s important to maintain proper care of them as tears, abrasions, and other damage will reduce their protective capabilities. Read our thorough guide here for best practices and tips for maintaining your coveralls’ health.
What Fr size should i buy?
Coveralls are designed to be loose-fitting garments that fit over your clothes. Each manufacturer has their own fit and sizing. Wearing the correct size is important to stay safe as well as being comfortable all day.
