The Hidden Costs of Cheap PPE (and How to Avoid Them)

When budgets are tight, it’s tempting to grab the cheapest PPE you can find.
After all, it’s just workwear, right?

Wrong.

In scaffolding and construction, your PPE is more than clothing — it’s protection, productivity, and a critical part of safety compliance.

The truth? Cheap PPE costs more in the long run. Here’s why.

1. More Frequent Replacements = Higher Spend

That £15 hi-vis hoodie might seem like a bargain… until it’s ripped, faded, or worn out within weeks.

With Pro Armour PPE, our toughened, high-tensile poly-aramid fibre (similar to Kevlar) means your gear can last up to 10x longer than standard workwear.

✅ Fewer replacements
✅ Less hassle
✅ Bigger savings over the year

2. Downtime Costs Money

When PPE fails — whether it’s torn fabric, broken stitching, or faded hi-vis — the work stops. Replacing gear mid-job means delays, and delays mean lost earnings.

Our hi-vis certified CE & UKCA hoodies mean you don’t need an extra vest. One garment = instant compliance and visibility from the moment you arrive on-site.

3. Poor Comfort = Lower Productivity

Cheap PPE rarely considers comfort. It rubs, digs in, and causes soreness — especially on the shoulders when hauling tubes all day.

Pro Armour solves this with a built-in comfort shoulder pad that spreads weight evenly and reduces strain.

Less pain = more focus = more work done.

4. Cheap PPE Can Be Unsafe

Weak stitching, thin fabric, or poor visibility aren’t just inconvenient — they’re dangerous. An equipment failure on site can lead to injury, compensation claims, or HSE problems.

Pro Armour gear is site-tough, trade-tested, and built for real scaffolding conditions — so it works when you need it most.

5. It Hurts Your Company Image

Your crew is your brand. Turning up in faded, mismatched gear makes the wrong impression.

Durable, professional PPE shows you value quality, safety, and your workforce.

Why Pro Armour Is the Smarter Choice

When you invest in Pro Armour PPE, you get:

• Gear that lasts up to 10x longer than standard workwear

• Cost savings from removing the need for extra hi-vis vests

• Built-in comfort features for better productivity

• CE & UKCA certified safety compliance

• A professional image for your team

Final Word

Cheap PPE might save you money today, but it’ll cost you more tomorrow — in replacements, downtime, and lost productivity.

If you want to save time, save money, and keep your crew working at their best, think long-term.

👉 Upgrade to Pro Armour today — work harder, work smarter, and never look back.