What Temperature Are Women’s Overalls Good For? A Guide to Choosing the Right Style
Choosing the right pair of overalls for the weather can make a huge difference when you're spending long days outside, working in the barn, or riding in changing temperatures.
At DFR, we have three main overall styles: Insulated, Unlined Canvas, and Quick Dry. Each one has a different level of warmth and works best in different conditions.
While there isn't one exact temperature where you need to switch from one style to another, we've put together this guide based on the fabrics and feedback we've received from women wearing them in real working conditions.
At a Glance: Which Overalls Are Warmest?
| Style | Best for | Warmth |
|---|---|---|
| Insulated Canvas | Cold weather! Customers have worn them in -30°C (-20°F) | Warmest |
| Unlined Canvas | Around 0–10°C (32–50°F) | Mid-weight |
| Quick Dry | Mild to warm weather, or warmer barns with layers | Lightest |
Keep in mind that temperature isn't the only thing that affects how warm you'll feel. Wind, activity level, what you're wearing underneath, and whether you're working outside or inside a barn can all make a difference.
Insulated Canvas Overalls: For Cold Weather
If you're on the Canadian prairies, the upper Midwest, or are simply cold-blooded: these are for you!
Insulated canvas overalls are our warmest option. The heavy canvas helps block the wind, while the cozy 140 gram quilted lining adds another layer of warmth without making the overalls feel overly bulky.
They're designed for cold weather work, barn chores, riding, and those days when winter isn't going to stop you from getting things done.
For especially cold temperatures, layering is still important. A good base layer and warm top underneath your overalls can help you adjust as the temperature changes throughout the day.
Best for:
- Cold winter weather
- Outdoor work
- Winter barn chores
- Riding in colder temperatures
- Anyone who tends to get cold easily
Unlined Canvas Overalls: The Most Versatile Option
If you're looking for one pair of overalls that can work across multiple seasons, unlined canvas is truly the most versatile investment.
Made from heavy, 16 oz canvas, these overalls help block the wind while still giving you the flexibility to layer underneath as temperatures change.
We find that many ladies wear this style between 0°C–10°C (32°F–50°F), but they can easily be used outside of that range depending on your layers and activity level.
On colder days, add a thermal base layer, sweatshirt, or other warm layers underneath. As the weather warms up, you can wear lighter layers for a more comfortable fit.
Best for:
- Spring and fall
- Cooler summer days
- Mild winter weather with layers
- Riding
- Barn and farm work
- Anyone looking for a year-round canvas option
Quick Dry Overalls: For Warm Weather and Layering
Quick Dry Overalls were originally designed for warmer weather, but we've heard of customers who wear them all year round.
They're especially popular with customers who work in warmer environments. Many dairy farmers, in particular, have shared that they wear Quick Dry Overalls throughout the winter, layering sweatpants or other warm clothing underneath.
If you easily overheat, can't stand feeling restricted, or work in a warmer barn during the winter, these are for you!
The lightweight, stretchy fabric makes them a great option when you want the coverage of overalls without the weight of heavier canvas.
Best for:
- Mild to warm weather
- Summer work
- Warmer barns
- High-activity work
- People who tend to overheat
- Layering underneath in cooler conditions
So, Which Overalls Should You Choose?
Think about where you'll be wearing your overalls most often.
If you're working outside in cold winter weather: Insulated Canvas is your best starting point.
If you want something versatile for changing seasons: Unlined Canvas gives you a heavier canvas layer without the added insulation, making it easy to adjust your warmth with layers.
If you work in a warm barn or tend to overheat: Quick Dry gives you a lightweight option that can still be layered when needed.
And remember, you don't necessarily need to switch styles the moment the temperature changes. Many of our customers adjust how they wear their overalls by changing the layers underneath.
Temperature Guide
| Temperature | Style to Consider |
|---|---|
| Below 0°C / 32°F | Insulated Canvas, especially for outdoor work |
| Around 0–10°C / 32–50°F | Unlined Canvas |
| Mild to warm weather | Quick Dry |
| Cold weather + warm barn | Quick Dry with layers |
| Very cold + outdoor work | Insulated Canvas with layers |
Please note: Temperature references are a general guide based on customer experiences, not an official temperature rating or guarantee. Comfort will vary based on activity level, wind, layering, and individual preference!
One More Thing: Think About Your Activity Level
The same pair of overalls can feel completely different depending on what you're doing.
Someone mucking stalls, carrying feed, or working cattle may feel warmer than someone standing around outside for hours. Similarly, a heated or enclosed barn can feel very different from working outside in the wind.
That's why we recommend thinking about your typical work environment, activity level, and how you personally handle the cold when choosing your overall style.
At the end of the day, the best overall is the one that lets you stay comfortable enough to keep doing what you love, whether that's working the farm, getting chores done, or spending a winter day in the arena.