GSM is grams per square metre, the weight of the fabric. A higher number is a heavier, usually denser fabric. Compare GSM between the same type of garment, such as polo against polo.

No. Heavier fabric is often more durable and warmer, but lighter fabric can be cooler and more comfortable in warm workplaces. Choose for the job and the season.

Cotton is soft and breathable; polyester is quicker-drying, more colourfast and holds its shape. Poly-cotton blends sit in between and are a popular uniform choice.

A blend of polyester and cotton, commonly 50/50 or 65/35, which balances comfort with durability and easy care. The Uneek UC101 polo is 50% polyester, 50% cotton.

Most polos, sweatshirts, softshells and fleeces embroider well. Very thin or very stretchy fabrics may suit print better. See logo printing & embroidery.

An outer face fabric bonded to a backing or membrane, giving wind and shower resistance with stretch. The Regatta TRA628 Ablaze is a 2-layer 265gsm softshell.

Recycled polyester is used in many of our garments. Performance depends on the garment, so check the ratings and care label on the product page.

They are EN ISO 20471 classes based on the minimum area of fluorescent and reflective material. Class 3 needs the most: at least 0.80 m² of background and 0.20 m² of reflective tape. Areas are measured on the smallest size. See hi-vis clothing.

Rarely on its own, because a vest has less surface area. Class 3 is usually reached with a jacket, or by combining a top and trousers. Check the label.

EN 343 rates water penetration and breathability (water vapour resistance) separately, each from class 1 to class 4. Higher numbers mean better performance. See EN 343 rainwear.

EN 14058 covers cool environments down to about -5°C; EN 342 covers cold environments below -5°C.

The letters are heat and flame tests: A is limited flame spread, B convective heat, C radiant heat, D molten aluminium, E molten iron and F contact heat. The number shows the level achieved.

Clothing tested to IEC 61482-2 against the thermal effects of an electric arc, either by box test (Class 1 at 4 kA, Class 2 at 7 kA) or by an arc rating. See arc flash clothing.

The garment dissipates static charge. It is usually worn as part of an FR outfit rather than on its own. Follow your site's requirements.

The Railway Industry Standard for high-visibility clothing on the GB mainline railway, published by RSSB. It replaced GO/RT 3279 and requires orange garments that meet at least EN ISO 20471 Class 2. See our RIS-3279-TOM orange range.

Not where RIS-3279-TOM applies: it specifies orange, and yellow is not accepted. Always check your principal contractor's requirements.

Most is polyester or polyester blends; garments for electrified lines may use FR and arc-rated blends, such as the Pulsar PRARC05 310gsm coverall. Check your principal contractor's requirements.

Logos are allowed only where they do not reduce the required orange and reflective area. Talk to us before ordering branded rail hi-vis.

Yes. Fluorescent colour fades and reflective tape cracks with wear and washing. If the label shows no maximum wash count, the garment was certified after 5 washes. Replace faded, soiled or damaged hi-vis.