Independent arborist gear picks · Typical prices shown, checked at the retailer

Arborwear

Arborwear Double Thick Hoodie, Black, Large

A heavyweight two-layer hoodie built for cold mornings and hard tree work.

$99 Typical price. Retail prices change, so check today's price before you buy.
Check price at retailer ↗
  • Two layers of heavyweight fabric
  • Hood for wind and drizzle
  • Holds up to brush, bark and rope
  • Black hides sawdust and grime
  • Size large

Apparel

The Arborwear Double Thick hoodie is a heavyweight sweatshirt made with two layers of fabric for extra warmth and durability. This listing is the black version in size large, a workhorse layer for winter tree work.

Why a double thick sweatshirt

Most hoodies are built for the couch. A double thick sweatshirt is built for the work: two layers of fabric that trap more heat and take more abuse before they wear through at the elbows and cuffs. On a cold morning dragging brush, that extra layer is the difference between comfortable and miserable.

Arborwear built its name on tree-work clothing, and the Double Thick hooded sweatshirt is one of its best-known pieces. Many crews treat it as their go-to winter layer.

The extra fabric also helps with abrasion. Hoodies on tree crews get dragged across bark, rubbed by rope and snagged on brush, and a single-layer sweatshirt can wear through at the forearms in one season. The double thick hoodie lasts longer under that kind of use.

Black, size large

This listing is the black arbor hoodie in large. Black hides sawdust, bar oil and chipper grime better than lighter colors. If you prefer navy, see the navy Double Thick hoodie.

The cut is roomy enough to layer over a base layer, with space to move your arms when climbing or throwing line.

Check the size against your usual Arborwear size if you already own their gear. Large fits most medium-build adults with room for a base layer, but the cut runs generous on purpose.

The kangaroo pocket on the front is handy for keeping hands warm while you wait for the climber, and big enough for a phone or a pair of gloves.

Working in a hoodie safely

A hood is great on the ground. When you climb, tuck it in or wear it under your helmet only if the helmet still fits correctly. Keep drawstrings short or tucked so they cannot catch on rope, branches or moving equipment.

Around chippers, loose clothing is a serious hazard. Keep sleeves snug, never reach into the infeed, and follow ANSI Z133 and the chipper manufacturer's instructions. A hoodie is not high-visibility clothing; add a vest for roadside work.

On wet days, wear the hoodie under a waterproof shell. Heavy fleece holds water when soaked, so keeping it dry keeps it warm.

Remember that a hoodie is not a substitute for PPE. When you run a saw, wear chaps or chainsaw pants, eye and hearing protection, gloves and a helmet, as ANSI Z133 requires.

Care

Wash cold, inside out, and tumble dry low or hang dry to limit shrinkage. Skip fabric softener. With reasonable care, a double sweatshirt like this should last through several winters of hard use.

If the cuffs or elbows wear out after years of use, the hoodie can still serve as a shop or yard layer. Many tree workers keep an older one in the truck as a spare.