Outrig Supply Co yellow and black hi-vis hoodie in a crane yard

Shutdown Season Survival Guide — What Crane Crews Need on Site

Shutdown season is a different beast. Long hours, rotating shifts, unpredictable weather, and weeks away from home. Whether you're heading to a mine site in the Pilbara or a refinery on the east coast, being prepared makes the difference between a smooth run and a rough one. Here's what crane crews actually need on site.

The Right Gear for the Conditions

Shutdown work means early mornings, cold nights, and everything in between. Layering is key — a heavyweight hoodie for the cold starts, a quality tee underneath for when the temperature climbs. Don't cheap out on your off-shift gear either. What you wear in the crib room and back at camp matters for morale.

What to Pack

Keep it practical and keep it minimal. You're not going on holiday — you're going to work. Focus on:

  • 2–3 quality tees that hold their shape after repeated washes
  • A heavyweight hoodie rated for cold mornings (300GSM+ fleece)
  • A structured cap that sits clean under your hard hat
  • Comfortable off-shift footwear — your feet take a beating on site

Gear That Represents the Trade

Shutdown crews have their own culture. The gear you wear off shift is part of that identity. Outrig Supply Co was built specifically for crane operators, riggers, and dogmen — people who take pride in their trade and want gear that reflects it.

Limited drops, built to last. Designed in Western Australia by people who've been on the tools.

Shop the Founders Drop — Australia-wide shipping.