When it comes to arc-rated and flame-resistant (AR/FR) clothing, protection is non-negotiable—but comfort matters too. After all, workdays can be long, and the right clothing can make all the difference in staying focused, safe, and at ease on the job. At Tyndale, we take a thoughtful approach to design, ensuring that AR/FR garments are not only protective, but also comfortable in the most demanding environments.

Pre-production Designer Hilary Moldovan and Technical Designer DeAnna Murphy are passionate about fine-tuning every detail—from fabric selection to fit and construction—to enhance comfort without compromising safety. Below, Hilary and DeAnna explore the key features that make AR/FR clothing comfortable and share expert tips on what to look for when choosing your next workwear essentials.

 

Fabric selection – start your comfort journey here

When choosing AR/FR clothing, fabric weight and feel play a crucial role in comfort.

• Fabric weight: Choosing the perfect fabric weight is key to keeping warm or cool while you’re braving variable weather conditions. For example, if you work in a warmer climate or perform physically demanding tasks, lighter fabrics are generally preferred for comfort. In contrast, if you work in a colder climate or outdoors in inclement weather like snow, you may lean towards heavier fabrics.
• Fabric feel: The texture and softness of the fabric contribute to how comfortable the clothing feels against the skin. Rough or stiff materials can be irritating, especially when worn for extended periods, and may distract from work tasks or discourage proper wear. We often receive requests for fabrics with a nice feel and stretch – we know they keep you comfortable while you’re twisting, turning, hammering, crawling, or whatever your workday brings.

We regularly receive feedback on the importance of fabrics that offer a balance of durability, softness, and flexibility, which is why our designs continuously evolve to meet workers’ needs.

Garment construction – designs that work with you, not against you

Comfort isn’t just about the fabric – it’s also about how the garment is designed and built. Styles evolve over time, and we’re always taking notes – consistently updating our styles’ construction and trim. Here are a few examples of some recent innovations we’ve made to our garments:

• Flexible knit fabric in our button-down shirts.
• Tagless base layer shirts with flat lock seams.
• Fleece-lined pockets in select jackets.

None of these innovations would be possible without feedback from the field, so telling AR/FR manufacturers like Tyndale what you like and don’t like about a garment can help fuel further innovations.

Variety – keeping protection fresh and functional

Comfort means different things to different people. That’s why we offer multiple styles and fits to accommodate varying body types and job site requirements: 

• Tyndale Workwear is oversized to allow for layering options.
• Tyndale Classic Casual offers a regular fit.
• Tyndale Versa is a more fitted, tailored look.

Sometimes, comfort level comes down to certain brands and the clothes they offer, which is why Tyndale keeps a $80M+ inventory of AR/FR clothing from manufacturers you know and love.

With so many options available, it’s clear that comfort is personal. That’s why providing choice is the best way to ensure workers feel their best on the job.

Choice – putting the power into workers’ hands

At the end of the day, true comfort comes down to choice —letting workers select the styles, fits, and brands that suit them best. When workers have the freedom to choose the clothing that makes them feel most comfortable and stylish, they’re more likely to comply with industry safety standards and feel confident on the job.

For more on why choice is key to comfort, read our blog post on the power of choice.

No matter the AR/FR you wear, we believe that AR/FR clothing should work as hard as you do—providing the perfect balance of protection, comfort, and style. By prioritizing fabric selection, fit, and innovative design, we ensure that every worker can find the right gear to stay safe and comfortable.