Yes, somehow it’s that time of year again already. The thermals are on, the radio has gone full Slade, and it feels like only two minutes since everyone was asking what you wanted for Christmas last year.
Well, that’s where the Twelve Trade Days of Christmas steps in to lend a helping hand.
If you’re shopping for a hard worker who never stops, or you’re that grafter trying to drop a few ‘well-placed’ hints, you’re in the right place for proper workwear gift ideas that are sure to be an upgrade from novelty mugs and sprout-themed socks this year.
So, in the festive spirit of The Twelve Days of Christmas, we’ve rounded up twelve trade-tested gifts. The best workwear gifts for tradesmen and outdoor workers that’ll get used, not left in the bottom drawer, from heavy hitters to handy stocking fillers, (no calling birds or lords are a-leaping here), just boots, base layers, beanies, and gear built for hard graft.
Let’s get started, because the sooner you sort the list, the sooner you can put your feet up (preferably in new boots!)
Big Ticket Trade Gifts (The Heavy Hitters)
1. Blundstone Classic 585 Chelsea Boots
A best seller and number one on the list has to be a pair of trusty Blunnies. The Blundstone Classic 585 Chelsea Boots are a style that have earned a bit of a legend status, and for good reason.
Crafted from premium water-resistant leather with a shock-absorbing sole, they’re as solid on-site as they are down the pub. And with no laces comes no faff, just pull on and crack on with your day- they’re the kind of winter work boots that actually make sense as a Christmas gift.
2. Leatherman Surge Multi-Tool
A great kit isn’t just about the clothing, but what we have in the pockets, too. One of Leatherman’s most powerful tools, the Surge Multi-Tool is another top pick when it comes to pocket-sized performance, packing 21 industrial-grade tools, from pliers and screwdrivers to full-size scissors, into one solid stainless-steel unit.
Built for tradies, tinkerers and anyone who’s always fixing something, it’s the sort of tool that lives in your pocket for years, not the shed drawer (and is a whole lot more useful than that screwdriver torch pen thing you got last year!)
3. Ridgeline Torrent Waterproof Jacket
Rounding up the top three big-ticket best-sellers is fan favourite, the Ridgeline Torrent Waterproof Jacket. This hugely popular jacket offers complete protection at a down-to-earth, no-nonsense price, and, as you’d expect from Ridgeline, there’s no skimping on technology or features.
For those who work outside, the Torrent Jacket is a go-to. Lightweight but hard-wearing, it’s built with quiet, waterproof fabric, sealed seams, and a proper storm hood, making it a top-tier winter workwear gift that delivers warmth, breathability, and all-round comfort —whatever the forecast.
Winter Warmers (Built for the Cold)
4. Hard Yakka Puffa 2.0 Insulated Jacket
While it may have come from down under, the Hard Yakka Puffa 2.0 Insulated Jacket offers proper Aussie-grade protection that knows how to handle the British weather.
Packed with eco-friendly 3M Thinsulate™ insulation, it’s warm without the bulk, and a quality jacket any worker will appreciate hanging by the back door. It’s the kind of winter workwear gift that’ll get worn every day until spring, and if their old coat’s on its last legs, it’s the upgrade that’ll keep them on the move from the yard down to the pub, and everything in between.
5. Helly Hansen Lifa Base Layer Crewneck
While it may not be the flashiest gift under the tree, a good base layer is the unsung hero of any workwear wardrobe, and is definitely the most useful.
Lightweight, breathable, and built with Helly’s famous Lifa® technology to lock in warmth while keeping sweat at bay, the Helly Hansen Lifa baselayer is perfect for anyone who spends their winter working outdoors. An option not everyone will buy for themselves, as a treat from a loved one this Christmas, they’ll be glad you did.
6. Hoggs Field Sport Neoprene Wellingtons
For those on muddy ground most days, a warm, durable pair of wellies are worth their weight in gold, and the Field Sport Neoprene Wellies make the perfect gift for outdoor workers.
Insulated with 4mm neoprene and fitted with Vibram® soles for grip that doesn’t quit, they’re comfortable enough to live in and tough enough to earn their keep from day one-dry feet guaranteed.
7. Ridgeline Ballistic Hooded Fleece
Now this is a fleece that keeps out the chill. Soft on the inside, tough on the outside, the Ridgeline Ballistic Hooded Fleece combines warmth and comfort with a double-thickness hood, thumb loops at the cuffs, and a kangaroo pocket for warming cold hands.
It’s one of those layers they’ll always reach for, whether on the peg, in the van or in the LandRover, and makes the perfect go-to gift idea for anyone who wants quality and comfort in their workwear wardrobe.
Stocking Fillers & Everyday Essentials
8. Viper Tactical Snood
When the wind has a bite, the Viper Tactical Snood is a small gift that makes a big difference. Soft, stretchy, and breathable, it doubles up as a neck warmer, face cover or beanie all in one- it’s one of those extras no one thinks they need until they have one!
And for under a tenner, it’s a stocking filler for workers that’s as useful as it is affordable, and fits perfectly into pockets for those who like to stay prepared.
9. Hard Yakka Beanie & Socks Bundle
It wouldn’t be a Christmas gift guide without a bundle, right? We like to say: Warm head, warm feet, happy worker. The Hard Yakka Beanie & Socks Bundle certainly ticks those boxes.
With a ribbed knit beanie and a pair of thermal crew socks made from REPREVE® Eco-performance fibre, it’s a gift that keeps on giving, covers two essentials in one go, and is a cut above the Santa sock option!
10. Deerhunter Basic 2-Pack T-Shirt
Everyone needs the basics, and no one’s ever complained about having too many tees (unless they’re on the washing pile!) The Deerhunter Basic 2-Pack of T-Shirts is the treat every hard worker will appreciate under the tree, with their soft yet durable cotton, reinforced necklines, and the best part: being able to hold their shape wash after wash.
Perfect to throw on under a hoodie and take them right through to summer, these Deerhunter T-shirts are an everyday essential that always fits the bill.
11. Dickies Everyday Trousers
For tradies and trouser-wearers, a proper pair of work trousers is better than any Christmas Jumper, and the Dickies Everyday Trousers prove just why.
Sporting reinforced knees, plenty of pocket space, and available in both men’s and women’s options, these trousers make a workwear gift idea that won’t break the bank and never disappoints- especially if their current pair’s seen one job too many!
12. Fort Penarth Hoodie
And finally, on the twelfth day of Christmas, we’re wrapping up with a warm winner- the Fort Penarth Hoodie. A great padded work shirt that doubles up as a comfortable jacket, this tough all-rounder is as comfy as it looks, with its soft sherpa fleece on the inside and classic flannel on the outside.
Built to handle long working days, but still smart enough for clocking off duties, the Penarth Hoodie is guaranteed to be a winter favourite to wrap up this Christmas this year.
Twelve Gifts, One Happy Hard-Worker
So, there we have it, The Twelve Trade Gifts of Christmas, wrapped up and ready to gift to a special grafter this season.
From big-ticket jackets to stocking-filler essentials, we’ve made sure to pick the best in comfort, quality, and of course, with that all-important trade sense. So, whether you’re buying for family, a mate, or just ticking off your own list, shop smart this Christmas and give something that’ll actually last past the mince pies and the merriness.
And don’t forget to beat the rush! You can explore all 12 gifts, plus the full Hollands Workwear range, and get your gifting sorted before the posties call last orders!
About the Author
Matthew Holland brings a wealth of expertise to the world of workwear. With an extensive background in warehousing and outdoor work, he possesses an intricate understanding of the high-quality, functional garments needed for the demands of the workplace. Using his hands-on experience and knowledge gained, he continues to contribute valuable insights that resonate with professionals seeking superior workwear across various industries.
