PPE for Landscaping: Gear That Works and Looks Good

Aug 14, 2025

Landscaping PPE isn’t just about safety; it’s about surviving the sun, dodging debris, and getting laughs while you're at it.

Here’s the gear that’ll keep you alive and looking sharp.

Gloves: Breathable, padded, and grip-strong
Eye Protection: ANSI-rated or wraparound glasses
Hearing Protection: Low-profile muffs or plugs
Respirator/Mask: For dust and chemical sprays
Boots: Steel-toe, waterproof, toxin-safe
Hi-Vis Gear: ANSI-rated, breathable, not boring

Landscaping work comes with more hazards than people think, flying rocks, thundering equipment, chemical sprays, and heat that feels like it’s radiating straight from hell’s backyard.

Whether you're mowing lawns, trimming trees, or laying mulch in the August sun, the right personal protective equipment (PPE) can be the difference between a good day and a trip to urgent care.

Want the full breakdown of what PPE actually works for landscapers? We’ve got you covered, head to toe.

PPE for Landscaping That Doesn’t Suck

Let’s be honest, slapping on a vest and calling it a day might check a box, but it doesn’t cut it out here.

Landscaping isn’t just sunshine and fresh air. It’s hot-as-hell mornings, chemical sprayers blowing back in your face, 120-decibel engines screaming in your ears, and thorns, rocks, or the occasional pissed-off wasp coming at you like they’ve got a vendetta.

Sure, OSHA has rules. But out in the field, rules don’t stop the sweat, the stink, or the sting. That’s why real PPE has to go beyond the checklist.

It needs to move with you, breathe with you, protect without slowing you down, and yeah, not make you look like you’re about to direct traffic at a Taylor Swift concert.

But the deeper reason guys gear up? Identity.

Your gear says who you are. And if you’ve got to wear it every damn day, it better feel like it was made for your world, not some safety catalog written by a guy named Brent in khakis.

And don’t even get me started on the mystery of bug spray and PPE.

A lot of folks worry: “Do these clothes even work with repellent?” Good question. Some chemical fabrics can actually trap heat and hold sprays too close to the skin.

That’s why breathable, well-fitted PPE matters; it lets air flow, keeps bugs out, and doesn’t turn into a chemical sauna the second you get misted. Look for gear that’s designed for repellents or layer it smartly with treated undershirts.

Bottom line? If your PPE isn’t keeping you safe and sane, it’s not doing its job.

Head-to-Toe Guide to Essential Landscaping PPE

Landscaping’s a full-body sport, and a contact one at that. Whether you’re new to the game or upgrading your old setup, here’s how to gear up the smart way.

Gloves That Grip, Breathe, and Don’t Cramp Your Hands

Let’s start with the MVP.

Your gloves. The best gloves for landscaping don’t just protect, they flex, breathe, and last longer than your foreman’s patience. For chemical work, go with nitrile. It’s resistant, tight-fitting, and won’t soak up whatever you’re spraying.

For cuts and abrasions? Leather or synthetic leather with padded palms gives you protection without feeling like you’re wearing oven mitts.

Using trimmers or blowers for hours?

Look for vibration-dampening gloves that help prevent fatigue and long-term nerve damage. You’ll thank yourself when your hands aren’t buzzing after an 8-hour trim session.

And yes, “Any gloves that don’t make my hands sweat like hell?”

That’s the holy grail. Prioritize mesh-backed or moisture-wicking models that let your skin breathe. Because nobody wants to peel off swamp gloves at lunch.

Cramping is another silent killer. If your hands cramp up wearing gloves all day, that’s not just annoying, it’s dangerous. Poor ergonomics mean poor performance. Get gloves that fit snug, flex naturally, and actually match your grip style.

Eye Protection That Blocks More Than Bugs

Have you ever caught a pebble in the eye from a weed trimmer? Not fun.

Whether it's flying mulch, chemical splash, or just UV rays from working under the sun, your eyes need protection that works, not something you picked up last-minute at the gas station.

Go ANSI-rated goggles for heavy-duty stuff like trimming or chemical work. Wraparound safety glasses work for lighter duty, but make sure they’re snug and fog-resistant.

Wearing sunscreen under your goggles?

We’ve heard the sting. To avoid that lovely eye-burning experience, go for mineral-based sunscreens or use an absorbent headband to keep the sweat drip-free.

Bonus: you’ll look like you’re about to break into a montage scene.

Hearing Protection You’ll Actually Wear

Chainsaws, mowers, blowers, landscaping’s not exactly a quiet gig. But here’s the thing: hearing protection only works if you actually wear it. So the age-old question becomes.

Earmuffs or earplugs?

Earplugs are compact, disposable, and great if you don’t mind the occasional dig into your brainstem. Earmuffs are the comfort kings, with better sweat protection, no weird pressure in your ears, and easier to pop on and off between jobs.

“But what about muffs that mess with hats or safety glasses?”

Fair point.

Go low-profile. There are great options out there that don’t pinch your glasses or knock off your ball cap every time you turn your head.

Respirators & Masks for Chemical and Dust Work

If you’re spraying herbicides, cutting pavers, or blowing mulch in dry heat, you need to protect your lungs. A dust mask might do the job for light work, but anything involving chemicals or prolonged exposure?

You’re going to want a half-face respirator with replaceable filters.

And we get it, “I feel like I’m gonna pass out in this gear.” You’re not alone. Respirators can feel suffocating if they don’t fit right or don’t vent heat well. That’s why fit and airflow matter.

Look for lightweight models with exhalation valves and adjustable straps. Breathable doesn’t mean breakable.

Boots That Don’t Soak Up Toxins or Twist Your Ankle

Landscaping terrain is unpredictable, including mud, gravel, wet grass, and concrete edges. Your boots better be ready. For protection, steel-toe boots are a no-brainer when heavy tools or limbs are involved.

But don’t stop there, chemical-resistant rubber boots are a must for anyone spraying pesticides or herbicides. Fabric and leather can absorb toxins. That’s a one-way ticket to regret.

And let’s address a real complaint: “These boots stay wet all day and stink.” Waterproof means nothing if the boot can’t breathe.

Look for moisture-wicking linings and changeable insoles. Trust us, your socks (and your coworkers) will thank you.

High-Vis Clothing That’s Actually Wearable

You need to be seen. Period. ANSI Class 2 or 3 high-visibility shirts and vests are required in many zones, especially around traffic. Class 2 works for suburban lawns.

Class 3? That’s highway-grade.

But let’s be real, most hi-vis gear makes you feel like a cone with a pulse. Our take? Safety shouldn’t kill your style.

That’s why Armed American Supply designs high-vis shirts that meet the standard but come loaded with personality. Funny slogans. Quality prints. Breathable fabric that doesn’t turn into a sponge the second it gets humid.

You ever think, “Is there ANY PPE that doesn’t make me feel like I’m in a hazmat suit?” We did too. That’s why we built something better, a gear that keeps you safe, makes you laugh, and won’t make you sweat like a boiled egg in July.

What the Safety Labels Don’t Tell You

If you’ve ever reached for the same gloves and mask no matter what you’re spraying, you’re playing a risky game.

Every chemical, from herbicides to fungicides to insect repellents, comes with its own set of PPE rules. And those aren’t just suggestions. They’re on the label for a reason.

That label isn’t decoration.

It’s a manual for what to wear so your skin doesn’t absorb the stuff you’re trying to kill weeds with.

The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) will tell you everything you need to know: whether you need chemical-resistant gloves, a full respirator, eye protection, or even a specific kind of boot.

But the problem is, too many guys rely on one-size-fits-all advice.

But PPE isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works for grass trimmings isn’t gonna cut it when you’re handling Triclopyr.

And just because your buddy wears those cheap cotton gloves for everything doesn’t mean you should, especially when they’re soaking up spray like a sponge.

If you’re not reading the label and adjusting your gear accordingly, you’re trusting luck. And out here, luck runs out fast.

Beyond Basics, PPE That Makes the Crew Laugh

Look, not every part of landscaping is glamorous. It’s sweaty, it’s loud, and sometimes, it’s just you, a leaf blower, and eight hours of nonstop grime.

But the right gear, the right gear, doesn’t just keep you safe. It lightens the load. That’s why funny PPE isn’t a joke, it’s a tool.

When the crew’s been busting their backs since sunrise, a shirt that gets a chuckle can shift the whole vibe. It breaks the ice, kills the awkward, and reminds everyone that while the job is serious, we don’t have to be.

Hi-Vis Hoodies That Actually Fit

If you've ever thrown on a hi-vis hoodie and thought, “Why do I look like a reflective marshmallow?”, been there. Most safety gear is either as stiff as plywood or cut like it’s for linebackers.

Not ours.

We make hoodies that fit real humans, not mannequins. Not too heavy, not paper-thin. Just the right weight to get through morning chills without sweating bullets by noon.

And the designs? Let’s just say, you won’t look like you got dressed by HR.

Because here’s the truth: Don’t show up looking like a traffic cone from HR. Show up looking like someone who knows the job, owns the job, and has a damn good time doing it.

Stickers That Say What You’re Thinking

Hard hat stickers aren’t just decoration, they’re personality. They’re protest signs. They’re therapy. And here, they make up nearly 30% of what we ship.

Why?

Because saying “Fet’s Luck.” or “Shit Show Crew” in sticker form is way more fun than playing nice. Slap one on your helmet, toolbox, or water jug, and suddenly you’re not just another guy in a vest, you’re the guy with something to say.

In a world where workwear is usually beige, safe, and boring, a little humor goes a long way. PPE that starts conversations? That’s not optional, that’s essential.

PPE Mistakes Landscapers Make

Let’s cut through the noise. Some of the biggest risks on a job site don’t come from chainsaws or chemicals. They come from using the wrong gear, or worse, a gear that’s way past its prime. Here’s what too many guys get wrong.

1. DIY with the Wrong Materials

We’ve all done it. You grab whatever gloves are lying around and hope for the best. But using cotton gloves to handle chemicals?

That’s like wearing a paper towel to a barbecue. Cotton absorbs, holds, and spreads, exactly what you don’t want when spraying pesticides. If it’s not chemical-resistant, don’t trust it.

2. Wearing Leather When It Soaks Up Toxins

Leather might feel rugged, but it’s a sponge when it comes to liquids. Spray chemicals in it once, and it’ll hold that stuff like a grudge.

If your gloves or boots are leather and you’re working around fertilizers or herbicides, you’re asking for a chemical bath, slow, silent, and skin-deep.

3. Not Replacing Gear Often Enough

PPE isn’t forever. Gloves wear out. Boots crack. Respirators lose their seal. And yeah, that old hi-vis tee that’s been washed 50 times?

Probably not that visible anymore. Holding onto gear too long might save you a buck, but it’ll cost you more if it fails when you need it most.

4. Believing All Hi-Vis Is the Same

Newsflash! Slapping on something neon doesn’t make it safe. ANSI standards exist for a reason. Class 1 is for parking lots. Class 3 is for highways. Wearing the wrong type in the wrong zone is like using a Band-Aid for a bullet wound.

And don’t get me started on the stiff, scratchy kind that turns into a sweat trap by 9 AM. You deserve better, because if you're going to be seen, might as well be seen in something that fits, breathes, and makes people smile.

Stop treating PPE like a one-and-done. Your gear should evolve with your job, your environment, and your standards. Because your safety isn’t disposable, and neither are you.

Where to Buy PPE That Keeps You Safe and Seen

By now, you know the deal.

PPE is about compliance, comfort, and showing up like a pro.

But if you’re tired of gear that fits like a trash bag, fades after one wash, or makes you look like you stole your uniform from a construction-themed Spirit Halloween, it’s time for an upgrade.

We don’t do drop-shipped junk or generic blanks. Every piece of our high-vis gear is designed and printed in the USA, made for real workers who demand durability with a side of attitude.

Whether you’re laying sod, running a mower, or spraying down a stubborn thistle patch, if you’ve got jokes, pride, and busted knuckles, we’ve got your shirt.

👉 Check out our high-vis collection built for the bold.

PPE Doesn’t Have to Be Miserable

Safety and personality shouldn’t be at odds.

Just because you need to follow the rules doesn’t mean you have to dress like a robot on probation. Real PPE protects you, great PPE protects you, and says something about who you are.

You’ve got enough to deal with on the job site. Your gear shouldn’t be one more annoyance. With the right materials, the right fit, and the right message, PPE can be something you actually want to put on.

Because let’s face it, hard work deserves better than boring gear.

So if you’re ready for workwear that holds up, cracks a joke, and makes you stand out without sacrificing safety, you're in the right place.

👉 Explore our high-vis shirts and stickers, built for landscapers who don’t just work hard, they work loud.

FAQ

What PPE do I need to apply Roundup or Triclopyr?

You’re dealing with some gnarly chemicals here, and both products have specific label requirements for PPE.

At a minimum, you’ll need chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or butyl), safety goggles or a face shield, long sleeves and pants, and a chemical-rated respirator if you're spraying in confined or windy areas.

Don’t skip the boots, rubber or vinyl, not leather, and make sure your pant legs go over the boot, not tucked in.

Check the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) every time; these aren’t general-use garden sprays. These are potent tools, and they demand real protection.

How do I keep cool while still wearing long sleeves?

Two words: fabric matters. Cotton traps heat. Thick polyester traps sweat. What you want is moisture-wicking, breathable blends, think lightweight high-performance gear that lets air move and dries fast.

And color matters too; lighter colors reflect heat better than dark ones.

Pro tip: wear an undershirt treated with bug repellent, then layer a light long sleeve over it for sun and bite protection without baking yourself.

Can I wash pesticide-covered clothes with my regular laundry?

Nope. Bad idea. Pesticide residue doesn’t just vanish in the wash; it spreads.

You’ll contaminate your other clothes, your washer, and potentially your family’s stuff. Always wash pesticide-exposed clothing separately, on a hot water cycle, preferably twice.

Better yet, keep a dedicated laundry bag or container for work gear and don’t mix it with everyday laundry. Gloves, boots, and anything leather that’s been contaminated?

Most of it needs to be tossed; it can’t be safely cleaned.

Do I need different PPE in the winter?

Absolutely. Cold-weather PPE needs to do two jobs: keep you warm and keep you safe.

Layering is your best friend. Start with a thermal base, add moisture-wicking mid-layers, and top it off with insulated hi-vis gear. Just make sure each layer doesn’t compromise mobility or visibility.

Gloves should still provide dexterity, boots should have slip-resistant soles for icy surfaces, and headgear should accommodate hearing protection.

Armed American hoodies are cut to fit over your work layers without making you feel like the Michelin Man.