Every year we enjoy judging the Workwear and Safety category. While boots, gloves, jackets, lighting, and ladders may not garner the media coverage of the latest power tool, you can’t work without these products. Of late, more and more manufacturers are producing PPE products that serve multiple uses and extend the features and capabilities of these safety wear items. Check out our winners for the 2019 Workwear and Safety Awards!
Winner – Boots
Danner Steel Yard Work Boots
What they said:
The Steel Yard is the new standard for affordable, comfortable, high-quality work boots. With a variety of options available for every type of job site, the Steel Yard not only gets the job done but does so with protection you can trust. The boot features a full-grain leather upper, a Goodyear welt construction for a stable and durable connection between outsole and upper, and options for steel toe and external MET protection.
The Steel Yard is built with The Danner Comfort System, which ensures a double shift worth of comfort, right out of the box. This style construction is anatomically designed with a broader toe box for a more responsive fit, offering air vents for increased breathability, an Airthotic heel wrap for increased stability and a 15mm thick heel impact zone for increased shock absorption providing a complete package for total foot comfort.
Specifically, the TPU X design support stabilizer cup and extra heel shock absorber protect feet from slippage and jarring. A layer of slow-rebound memory foam conforms to your foot-shape every time you step in. And the X-Static lining keeps your feet fungal-free and feeling as fresh and cool as a summer breeze.
Additionally, this boot is available with different options for anyone facing wet or cold weather work. The Steel Yard is available with Danner Dry protection, the 100% waterproof barrier that allows moisture to escape without letting water in, and Thinsulate Ultra Insulation (400G), the high-performance insulation that keeps you warm in the snow and rain without weighing you down.
What we say:
What set the Danner Steel Yard Work Boot apart for our team is what you get starting at $150. It’s rare to see a full-grain leather upper, upgraded comfort features, stabilization, odor control, and waterproofing all tied together with a solid Goodyear welt. When you’re looking for a quality boot without jumping all the way up to ultra-premium pricing, check out what Danner has to offer.
Price: $150
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Wolverine I-90 DuraShocks CarbonMAX 6″ Wedge Boots
Winner – Gloves
Ironclad Impact Glove Hi-Viz (IEX-HZI)
What they said:
In Fall of 2018, after over 12 months of researching the perfect blend of conductivity and durability, Ironclad Performance Wear released their proprietary touchscreen fabric. Unlike existing touchscreen gloves in the market, Command technology is introduced at the beginning of the process, ensuring that gloves remain conductive throughout their entire lifecycle and that the touchscreen does not impact any other aspect of performance. Providing better conductivity test results than the human hand alone, Command technology ensures that worker’s hands are protected, while not limiting their ability to get their job done in the digitally-connected workplace.
With more industries adapting Industry 4.0 processes to better understand and monitor their workflow, Command technology serves as the critical link between the digital and human elements, boosting productivity while increasing worker hand safety. The IEX-HZI is the first glove to combine our proprietary high conductivity Command touchscreen technology with high visibility fabrics and impact protection.
On the back of the hand, High visibility Safety Orange and Yellow features, combined with reflective accents keep users’ hands visible, while ANSI Impact level 1 protection keeps them protected from accidental bumps and scrapes. On the palm, our ANSI Cut level 2 Command touchscreen technology helps workers stay safe, without causing any loss in productivity. This is the first glove on the market to incorporate all of the aforementioned features into one glove model.
What we say:
In a lengthy vote to decide which gloves deserved the PTIA 2019 award, what finally settled it was Ironclad’s Command technology. Nearly all of our contractors are dealing with smartphones and tablets through the day, and their number one complaint is having to take their gloves off every time. Even gloves that are tech-friendly seem to wear down and lose their touch. Ironclad’s Impact Glove promises crews the safety they need with the constant connection to technology that’s required without fading over time.
Price: $24.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Milwaukee 561-21 USB Rechargeable Heated Gloves
Winner – Cut Resistant Gloves
Ironclad Command Knit A4 Foam Nitrile Glove (KKC4FN)
What they said:
In spring of 2019, after over 18 months of researching the perfect blend of conductivity and durability, Ironclad Performance Wear released their proprietary touchscreen coating for knit gloves.
With more industries adapting Industry 4.0 processes to better understand and monitor their workflow, Command technology serves as the critical link between the digital and human elements, boosting productivity while increasing worker hand safety. The KKC4FN is the first to feature our Command Technology paired with a top of the line 15-gauge A4 HPPE Shell, produced using advanced knitting techniques to offer the superior cut resistance without the use of steel or glass.
A color-coded saddle reinforcement ensures long-lasting durability as well as easy cut level identification and verification. This is the first glove on the market to incorporate all of the aforementioned features into one glove model.
What we say:
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, Ironclad’s Command technology is what sets their A4 Foam Nitrile Gloves ahead of the competition. Using a 15-gauge A4 HPPE shell and advanced knitting, these cut-resistant gloves remain tech-friendly throughout their entire lifecycle, allowing you to go back and forth between the job at hand and the tech communication that makes your business flow more smoothly.
Price: $179.88 (12-pack)
For more information, click here.
Winner – Hard Hats
Klein Tools Hard Hat, Non-vented, Orange Cap Style with Headlamp (60900)
What they said:
Developed with a focus on optimal safety, comfort and fit, Klein Tools’ new Hard Hat product offering includes ten varying items. Models are available in Class E non-vented or Class C vented with some designs available in cap style or full brim and white or orange. The non-vented design was specifically built with electricians and lineworkers in mind while the vented design stands up to the demands of general construction, plumbing, carpentry, iron workers and other tradespeople.
Check out Cat. No. 60900, the Non-Vented, Orange, Cap Style Hard Hat with Headlamp. Its production process includes rigorous quality inspections and testing, tested up to 20kV. This model also includes the removable Klein Tools Headlamp/Magnetic Worklight (Cat. No. KHH56220). Klein’s Rechargeable Headlamp (Cat. No. 56034), Sweatband, Top Pad, Chin Strap, and Suspension System are also sold separately.
Core characteristics set Klein’s new hard hats apart from existing products. Long-term comfort and proper fit are achieved with an adjustable, flexible, open-frame suspension, coupled with a padded, sweat-wicking band and replaceable top pad. Their soft neck pad pivots to clear bandana knots and ponytails. Patent-pending accessory mounts on the front and back easily and precisely attach Klein Tools’ exclusive Jobsite Headlamps – no straps needed!
Additional features include accessory slots on both sides for hearing protection, face shield and more. The suspension system features one-handed adjustment, and reverse donning allows professionals to easily adjust the fit to wear the hard hat frontward or backward depending on accessibility. These hardhats are well-equipped to enhance user experience in demanding job site environments.
What we say:
What we love about Klein’s new hard hats is the combination of attention to comfort and functionality. There are vented options when you can have them and non-vented when the work calls for it. You have accessory points to add a face shield, hearing protection, and more. Clips on the back and front let you mount Klein headlamps without the need for a strap and you can buy these hard hats with a headlamp included.
All-day comfort comes from an easily adjustable open-frame suspension, sweatband, and top pad. Mercifully, those pads are replaceable once you begin to smell the efforts of your labor.
Price: $60
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Milwaukee Full Brim Hard Hat with BOLT Accessories
Winner – Hearing Protection
ISOtunes Audio IT-02 ISOtunes XTRA Headphones
What they said:
Whether you’re welding or running a miter saw, jigsaw, planer or jointer, it’s hard to ignore one simple fact: shop tools are loud. But it doesn’t end there. They can cause severe long-term hearing loss and tinnitus if used without hearing protection.
ISOtunes products like the ISOtunes XTRA are the new standard in workshop hearing protection. They’re lightweight, durable earbuds that are proven to block loud noises while allowing you to stay connected to your phone for streaming music and taking phone calls in the shop. The ISOtunes XTRA is ANSI-certified and OSHA-compliant, so you can rest assured that you’re doing the right thing for your ears.
It also includes our signature background noise-canceling microphone technology, which allows you to use many tools and machines without interrupting your phone calls. The microphone picks up steady-state noises like saws, fans, and vacuums and cancels them out so the person you’re talking to can’t hear them. Checkmate, power tools.
The ISOtunes XTRA is also much smaller than its earmuff alternative. Weighing merely grams and fitting into any pockets, ISOtunes products can be brought anywhere and used comfortably anytime… even when it’s 100+ degrees outside.
What we say:
Not every job allows you to listen to music while you work, but for those that do, ISOtunes XTRA Headphones are a solid alternative to traditional hearing protection. As an ANSI-certified and OSHA-compliant hearing protection solution, you can listen to your heart’s content with 8-hours of battery life.
Plus, the microphone tackles noise-canceling on steady-state noises like the tools you’re using when your wife calls to ask what time you’ll be home for dinner. You can have a conversation with her and keep the sander running without pausing. ISOtunes can’t help your brain focus on sanding and having an intelligent conversation at the same time, but they’ll let you try!
Price: $79.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Jackets
Truewerk T2 Fleece WerkHoody
What they said:
Engineered as a performance mid-layer, the T2 Fleece WerkHoody provides both the warmth and breathability needed when it’s cold enough to layer under an outer shell. When the weather is a bit milder, or you’re running warm, the hard fleece outer surface is both pick and debris resistant, while the brushed inner grid fleece provides excellent next-to-skin comfort and moisture management.
For guys that need a high visibility option, the T2 Fleece WerkHoody comes in an ANSI Class 2 compliant Viz Yellow (for $99) featuring reflective banding and innovative black color blocking in the areas most likely to get dirty, keeping you as visible as possible between washes.
What we say:
The more you layer, the more you look like the Michelin Man, right? Truewerk doesn’t think that has to be the case, and their T2 Fleece Werkhoody is a great example. Our team was drawn to its athletic fit that’s less bulky than most other options out there. We also really like the hi-viz yellow and reflective strips that keep you visible to others once you strip off your outer layer as the day warms up.
Price: $84
For more information, click here.
Winner – Heated Jackets
Milwaukee M12 Heated AXIS Layering System (203RN-21)
What they said:
To combat extreme weather conditions, Milwaukee introduces the M12 Heated AXIS Layering system. The new Layering System incorporates versatility into the Heated Gear line and is designed to withstand the heaviest rain and snow conditions. Using the M12 Heated AXIS Jacket as the primary source of heat, users can complete the system by adding an outer shell – either the HYDROBREAK Rain Shell or GRIDIRON Work Shell.
The HYDROBREAK Rain Shell provides 100% waterproof job site protection. With ripstop polyester for tear and abrasion resistance, polyurethane laminate providing 10K mm waterproofness, and an inner printed pattern for comfort and breathability, the HYDROBREAK Rain Shell is job site durable and built for rain. Velcro enclosures on the front zipper, pockets, and cuffs provide additional protection from rain, while a drop-tail extended back and standing collar with an adjustable hood ensure users all-day protection from the elements.
Additionally, users can combine the GRIDIRON Work Shell with the M12 Heated AXIS Jacket to survive extreme cold. With 3X the durability and 25% less bulk, the GRIDIRON Work Shell offers 60G insulation throughout the body and 40G insulation throughout the sleeves.
When pairing the AXIS with the shell, all components of the M12 Heated AXIS Layering system are optimized with pass-thru access to heat controls on both shells, offering 3X faster heat with 3 heat settings.
What we say:
The Milwaukee Axis is one of our favorite heated jackets, and it’s getting better with layering kits. The jacket itself is comfortable and flexible with an outer shell that’s easy to pull layers over. Now you can choose from two models specifically designed to work with the Axis jacket and give you access to its controls. Grab the Hydrobreak Rain Shell for mild, wetter climates or the Gridiron Work Shell for extra insulation in extremely cold climates. Each is specifically designed to enhance the heat the Axis already offers and keep you comfortable in cold weather.
Price: $269
For more information, click here.
Winner – Safety Glasses
Milwaukee Polarized High-Performance Safety Glasses with Gasket
What they said:
The MILWAUKEE Performance Safety Glasses with Gaskets provide Advanced Protection with Ultimate Performance. The safety glasses have a removable gasket that protects against debris. The lenses are high-velocity impact tested providing military-grade impact protection. The protective eyewear has fog-free lenses so the lenses will stay clear and unobstructed on any job site. Durable anti-scratch lenses withstand the demands of a job site. Clear and glare-reducing polarized options are available for working indoors or outdoors.
What we say:
Milwaukee Polarized High-Performance Safety Glasses are everything you want in protective eyewear. They provide outstanding impact protection, legitimately don’t fog up, use removable gaskets to keep debris from falling behind the lenses, and come in clear or shaded options. You can even get them with polarized lenses. They’re the culmination of what happens when you put Milwaukee’s mindset to the task instead of just sticking a couple of ANSI-certified lenses in front of your face.
Price: $39.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Work Shirts
Truewerk T.5 WerkHoody
What they said:
Traditional athletic base layers have become a popular choice on the job site for their quick-drying and moisture-wicking features, however, they aren’t designed for all-day durability, cooling or sun protection. Truewerk’s T.5 WerkHoody is a lightweight performance knit which scores a 4.5 out 5 for pick resistance, making it tough enough to stand up to rough-sawn timber, wire rope, and abrasive code inspectors.
It does all this while maintaining high air permeability to empower your body’s natural cooling process to keep you running cool, even in the blistering heat.
Additionally, the T.5 WerkHoody blocks over 90% of the sun’s UV rays, protecting your skin from harm and letting you save the sunscreen and wide brim hats for your next fishing trip or family camping adventure.
What we say:
Staying comfortable in the summer is tough enough. Trading off today’s comfort for tomorrow’s skin cancer isn’t a great idea. Instead, check out Truewerk’s T.5 Werkhoody. This lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt offers moisture-wicking and sun protection while remaining tougher than those athletic base layers that can often be more expensive. When the temperatures rise, go to work in a shirt that’s designed for industrial athletes.
Price: $44
For more information, click here.
Winner – Vests
Milwaukee High Visibility Yellow Performance Safety Vest
What they said:
Milwaukee’s High Visibility Performance Safety Vests come complete with front pockets that are reinforced with 600D tear-resistant material for increased durability, including a rear zippered tablet pocket. The vests have a comfortable padded collar and are built to survive the job site with a reinforced harness slot for fall protection. Both the High Visibility Safety Vest and High Visibility Performance Safety Vest are offered in yellow and orange and are Type R Class 2 Rated.
What we say:
You can get a cheap safety vest and check off the box, but if you have to have one, why not make it a functional part of your workwear? Milwaukee’s High Visibility Performance Safety Vest does just that, with 15 pockets to hold various gear, including an ID pocket.
Milwaukee turns to tough 600D material to construct each vest and adds a padded collar to keep you more comfortable. When summer turns to winter, internal size adjustments let you wear the same vest over your jacket that you had over your t-shirt a few months before. When you’re ready to switch to a safety vest that’s designed with the job site in mind, look to Milwaukee.
Price: $39.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Work Pants/Shorts
Truewerk T3 WerkBib
What they said:
When our customers asked us to build a better work bib, we knew we had to engineer something they had never seen before. Introducing the T3 WerkBib, unparalleled comfort and durability for the job site without the excess bulk. Utilizing our bonded three-layer fabric which is engineered with a four-way micro-ripstop outer shell, an industry-leading 10k/10k waterproof breathable laminate and ultra-soft inner fleece lining the T3 WerkBib outperforms other bibs in terms of comfort and range of motion.
The internal gaiters, covered pockets, and integrated knee pads protect both you and your tools from snow and debris, while the full-zip legs increase the T3 WerkBib’s functionality allowing you to easily take them on and off to add or remove layers or just to keep you from sweating out in the truck.
What we say:
Keeping your workwear flexible as the temperatures drop is no easy task. Truewerk applies their expertise in materials to design the T3 WerkBib to give you an unbelievable range of motion in a cold-weather bib. Starting with a fleece lining, it moves to 10k/10k waterproof yet breathable laminate and finishes with a micro-ripstop exterior. Combined with convenient and comfortable features like integrated knee pads and full-zip legs, it’s easy to see why we like them so much.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Winner – Ladders
Little Giant Ladder Systems 13610-071 King Kombo Industrial 3-in-1 All-access Ladder
What they said:
The Little Giant King Kombo Industrial 3-in-1 all-access ladder—the world’s first stepladder, extension ladder, and leaning ladder—gives you exactly the ladder you need to do just about anything.
King Kombo Industrial will help you complete most every ladder task on the job. King Kombo adjusts from storage to stepladder to extension in seconds. For tasks like running wire or accessing a hard-to-reach corner, you can quickly adjust King Kombo to be a safe leaning ladder. Thanks to its rotating wall pad accessory for the leaning position, the King Kombo conforms to and protects inside and outside corners and damageable surfaces like paint, drywall, and stucco. King Kombo’s speed will blow your mind. You have never worked this fast and safe!
King Kombo Industrial features ultra-heavy-duty feet with seriously aggressive tread for elite traction and durability for harsh industrial environments. It also brings a tough corner, pole, and stud-gripping V-bar for the extension ladder position. This heavy-duty grip conforms to inside and outside corners and even offers protection for damageable leaning surfaces like paint, drywall, and stucco and round poles. Speed, power, and safety—prepare to be faster and safer than ever on the job!
What we say:
The Little Giant King Kombo’s lightweight 3-in-1 design with its V-bar grips for corners and studs makes this a fantastic go-to ladder for both Pros and DIYers. It’s one of the most versatile ladders you can hope for from pre-drywall through painting and trim. Thanks to its lightweight design, it’s a primary option for jobs that require a lot of ladder repositioning as you work. The ladder meets or exceeds OSHA and ANSI standards in all three positions, so there’s no issue if it comes into question.
Price: $245.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Area Lighting
Milwaukee 2150-20 M18 RADIUS Site Light/Charger w/ ONE-KEY
What they said:
By utilizing advanced LEDs, optics, and lithium-ion technologies, Milwaukee developed a solution for professionals on job sites that have historically required higher output lighting. Traditionally, this category of lighting has been dominated by products not designed for longevity on the job site.
On a single charge, the new M18 RADIUS Site Light/Charger with ONE-KEY can light the site for up to 14 hours. In addition, it’s designed with a high-impact polycarbonate lens and ingress protected for long life in job site environments. With this huge advance in output, capacity, and durability, professionals can shift their view of job site lighting from a simple commodity to a long-lasting investment.
What we say:
Milwaukee packs 9,000 lumens into their M18 Radius Site Light. That’s an impressive level of output, but it’s far from the end of the story. Plugged into the wall, the 2150-20 will also charge any M18 battery you install, and you can daisy-chain multiple lights together for larger areas. You also get One-Key to work with, so you can control the light from your smartphone, allowing you to activate and control the lights remotely as-needed.
Price: $599
For more information, click here.
Finalist
DeWalt DCL074B All-Purpose Light
Winner – Commercial Site Lighting
Lind Equipment LE980LEDV-T4 Vertical Mast Beacon LED Tower
What they said:
The Vertical Mast Beacon LED Tower is the next-generation of tower lighting. Innovation never stops at Lind Equipment, and this new Vertical Mast Beacon LED Tower light builds upon the award-winning benefits of the original tower, but with several new features.
First, the Vertical Mast Beacon LED Tower is sleeker and more compact than ever before. At an even smaller size than the original lay-flat model, this innovative new model opens up even more applications for light towers than before. With a footprint that is over a foot shorter, this tower can be brought into virtually any site around the globe. It can even fit on a pick-up truck tailgate lift and through man-doors.
Second, we’ve taken light tower maneuverability to a new level. The new caster wheel steering on this compact tower increases its usability and transportability to get into tough areas on rugged terrain. Traditional light towers require a pick-up truck to tow them around job sites. But the Vertical Mast Beacon LED Tower can be moved by a single person without sacrificing any durability or light output when compared to traditional light towers.
And lastly, we’ve increased the safety of the Beacon LED light tower. The new single winch design means the tower can be handled, moved and deployed by a single worker. This improves productivity, safety, and functionality on job sites.
What we say:
Lind Equipment improves on their 2018 Pro Tool Innovation Award winner without sacrificing the light output and single-user setup and transport that impressed us in the first place. It’s a more compact design, dropping more than a foot in height and able to roll through standard doors. We also really like the maneuverability from the caster upgrades and the added safety of the new winch design. When it’s time to throw a ton of light on the site, Lind Equipment is a name you can continually turn to.
Price: $4950
For more information, click here.
Winner – Personal Lighting
Milwaukee USB Rechargeable 360° Vis Hard Hat Headlamp
What they said:
The USB Rechargeable 360° Vis Hard Hat Headlamp is the first headlamp to provide high-quality task lighting with active personal safety lighting. This headlamp offers 600 Lumens of TRUEVIEW High Definition Output with spot and flood beam options and when used with the Red LED Light Band on the back makes users visible up to ¼ mile in all directions.
The headlamp’s elastic strap and hard hat clips are designed to fit all size hard hats without adjustment. Powered by the REDLITHIUM USB Battery, users get more runtime, up to 2,000 charges and 3X faster charge speeds via USB. You also get a limited lifetime warranty on the light and LEDs.
What we say:
When working on a job site, LED headlamps let you see the area in front of you. Others, however, can find it difficult to see you, particularly from behind. The red LEDs on the back of the Milwaukee 360° VIS Hard Hat Headlamp give up to 1/4 mile visibility in all directions. With the red LEDs, you also get a solid or flashing mode that makes sure people know where you are on the job site at all times. It’s an excellent solution to keep you safely visible in low-light conditions.
Price: $99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Southwire HL25RSW 250 Lumen LED Headlamp
Winner – Portable Work Lights
Ridgid R8694520B 18V Mat Light
What they said:
RIDGID introduces the 18V LED Mat Light. This light can lay flat, roll, or hang for versatility on any job site. Three light settings up to 1,500 lumens will allow you to illuminate your workspace to your preference.
When using a 9.0ah battery, you can reach up to 25 hours of continuous runtime! The equipped power source also comes with USB charging.
What we say:
Ridgid’s 18V Mat Light is a surprisingly versatile way to light your work area. Set it on the ground for upward lighting when you’re under a car. Use the magnets to stick under the hood. Hang it on your pegboard. You can even roll it up for 180° – 360° lighting. And those are just the job-related ideas. Take it camping, fishing, hunting, or wherever your adventure takes you! How many ways will you use the Ridgid Mat Light?
Price: $99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Temporary Lighting
Milwaukee 2156-AC RADIUS LED 130W Temporary Site Light
What they said:
Easy Setup. Instant Light. No Maintenance. Our RADIUS LED 130w Temporary Site Light provides you with 15,000 lumens of TRUEVIEW High Definition Output, increasing your lighting performance in large scale commercial construction.
The temporary light is optimized to cover more floor space than a 400w Metal Halide while consuming 65% less power. The temp lighting requires no assembly and arrives ready for out-of-the-box operation with a 4ft 120v plug. It is also compatible for wiring with Romex or MC cable by using a built-in and reusable strain relief. This allows you or your contractor to quickly configure the LED temp lighting based on the needs of the job site without additional components.
When installed with Romex or MC, the job site lighting is capable of being used on temporary power systems from 120v-277v. The LED light installs faster than competitive products by having an integrated hanging cable with a quick feed retention mechanism to speed up your installation time and reduce installation material.
After the light is installed, a theft-deterrent lock hasp allows you to secure the portable job site light with a standard padlock (not included). The light is protected with a high impact polycarbonate lens protecting the light source while you use or transport it, increasing the longevity of your temporary construction lights in demanding environments.
What we say:
Milwaukee keeps a lot of the easy installation features and design of their original Radius LED temporary light and begins by nearly doubling the output to 15,000 lumens. It’s still incredibly easy to install and comes ready to use if you have prewired 120V AC plugs already in place. If you’re going to hardwire the lights in, it’s about as easy as you can hope for. We like the addition of theft deterrence for areas more prone to job site losses. As a halogen replacement, Milwaukee’s Radius LED 130W saves you time on the install and money with reduced theft and greater durability.
Price: $249
For more information, click here.
Winner – Respirators
Milwaukee N95 Valved Respirator with Gasket
What they said:
Milwaukee introduces new Respirators with and without gaskets that allow users to stay cool. Both feature valves that reduce heat inside by 10° F and have soft adjustable straps and nose bridges for a comfortable fit. The Valved Respirator with Gasket features a tight-sealing gasket for a more premium seal and better airflow.
What we say:
How in the world are you supposed to innovate an inexpensive respirator? Surely there were questions along that line when Milwaukee made the decision to start down the path of PPE. True to form, they found a way, and it’s near and dear to our Central Florida hearts.
Soft and adjustable nose bridges work with or without a gasket to find the right fit for each job. Once you put it on, the magic happens. The valve design allows air temperatures to drop some 10° over standard respirators. When you’re working in the dog days of summer in confined space, you’ll take every advantage you can get.
Price: $5.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tethering & Fall Protection
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill/Impact Driver w/ LANYARD READY Attachment Points
What they said:
This 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill/Impact Driver Combo Kit features LANYARD READY attachment points for easy tether connection. Efficient brushless motors deliver long runtime and increased performance.
The kit includes 2 of our 5 Ah batteries, a charger, and a contractor bag.
What we say:
Many tools have built-in tether points, but they’re not as common on cordless tools. You can strap a tether around the handle and deal with it affecting your grip, but that doesn’t do anything for the battery. DeWalt has a solution for their 20V Max Hammer Drill and Impact Driver that takes care of the issue.
A bar across the base of the handle provides an out-of-the-way tether point with a flexible strap that’s attached to the battery. Tool or battery drops are no longer a threat when you’re working at height when you’re drilling and driving with DeWalt.
Price: $449
For more information, click here.