Jun 14th 2022
We’re often asked what the difference is between coveralls and bib overalls, and as two of our most popular items of workwear include coveralls and bib overalls, we thought we’d explore the differences between the two.
What are coveralls?
With coveralls, the clue is in the name. Coveralls cover literally everything - leaving only your feet, hands and head exposed.
Also known as a boilersuit, coveralls are usually loose-fitting garments worn by those undertaking heavy manual work.
Coveralls are most commonly accessed by a long zip or set of buttons spanning from the collar down to the bottom of the stomach, making them easy to get on and off.
5 advantages of coveralls
Coveralls are a great choice if you’re working in harsh, cold environments because they don’t leave much of the body exposed to the elements - when paired with boots, a hat and gloves, the only area left open will be your face, making for a warm, covered and comfortable experience. You can also opt for insulated coveralls, which take the heat up to the next level. They’re also great for protecting the clothes you’re wearing underneath.
The advantages of coveralls include:
- The best thermal choice if you’re working in cold temperatures
- Little to no wind exposure for those working outdoors
- Plenty of pockets for optimum storage
- Protection for the clothing you wear underneath
- Easy to get on and off
Our own KEY coveralls are all designed with features such as a bi-swing back, water and stain resistant finish, heavy-duty zippers and a combination of chest and leg pockets, providing you with tough workwear for even tougher jobs.
What are bib overalls?
Bib overalls are trousers topped with a bib-style torso held over the body by two loose-fitting shoulder straps. Bib overalls don’t cover the arms, making them a cooler option if you’re working in the heat, or good for pairing with a hoodie or flannel shirt for a warmer experience. You may have also heard people refer to bib overalls as “bib and brace workwear” or “dungarees.”
Our own bib overalls are available in unlined duck finish, flex, denim or insulated - we also have the classic hickory stripe overalls for men.
5 advantages of bib overalls
Bib overalls are versatile and durable garments that provide a larger range of upper body movement and increased airflow, which is essential for certain types of work.
They can be paired with a wide range of shirts depending on the elements that you work in, or even worn with a hi-vis jacket for comfort, safety and essential visibility.
The advantages of bib overalls are:
- Increased range of movement
- More airflow around the torso
- Lots of flexibility
- Ideal for wearing with a variety of different shirts, jackets and tees
- Often equipped with plenty of pockets
KEY classic unlined duck bib overalls feature a composition of 100% cotton in a hand-brushed and washed finish, with double-knee cleanout, multi-pocket top, storage loops and adjustable straps.
Differences between coveralls and bib overalls
Hopefully after reading this article, you’ll know that the difference between overalls and bib overalls is that overalls only leave the head, hands and feet exposed, but bib overalls leave your arms open thanks to their bib and brace build.
Looking for durable coveralls and bib overalls? Explore our entire range now.