The Best Reflective Vests
There is no denying that some danger is involved in running or cycling after the sun has gone down. Sometimes, though, you don’t have much of a choice. Maybe it’s the time of year when the sun sets especially early, or maybe you get stuck working late. Regardless of the reason, if you’re a runner or cyclist, you’ll likely find yourself running in the dark at some point. To make sure that you stay safe and visible on your run, get yourself a reflective vest. While they may seem cumbersome, reflective vests have come a long way since their inception. These days, they offer an easy, reliable way to stay visible without adding a bunch of bulk. Here are a few of our favorites.
Freemove Reflective Vest
More Than Just a Vest
Visibility is key when running or cycling at night. Even if you are staying on the sidewalk or keeping to the side of the road, cars need to know that you’re there, and this reflective vest will ensure they do. It is visible from a distance of 750 feet, and is reflective all the way around, so you can be seen from the front and the back. The side velcro closures make this vest easy to put on and easy to wear while you’re running without getting in your way. Not only do you get this vest, but you also get 2 highly reflective arm/ankle/wrist bands that give you an added level of safety. This package deal has you all covered.
Pros:
- This reflective vest is visible from 750 feet away
- The vest is reflective all around so you can be seen from any direction
- The velcro side on the vest is adjustable
- The reflective vest comes with ankle/arm/wrist bands that provide additional safety
Cons:
- The vest runs a bit short
Noxgear Tracer360 Illuminated Reflective Vest
You Won’t Even Know It’s There
This vest brings a whole new meaning to the word “vest.” It has taken away the need for fabric and has simply created a vest made of fiber optic cables that provide all the safety you need to be seen at night. The cables are connected by a small belt that gives you a lightweight, high-tech way to stay visible. The unique shape of the LED lights gives drivers and other passersby more of a chance to see you because your front, back, and sides are illuminated. One of our favorite things about this vest is how adjustable it is. If you need to put on a heavy coat for your evening run, then you can adjust the cables to fit over your coat. And if it’s a hot evening, then you can make the vest smaller to fit over just a t-shirt.
Pros:
- This vest’s modern design makes it feel as if you’re wearing nothing
- The cables on this reflective vest can run in 6 different colors and even modes that flash a variety of colors to make sure you are really seen
- The vest is very adjustable and easy to adjust, whether you’re wearing multiple layers or hardly anything
Cons:
- Cleaning the vest is a bit challenging
AUOON Reflective Running Vest
Safety Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive
Spending some money on getting the right gear to be safe at night is a must — especially if you’re someone who finds yourself running or cycling outside regularly. But guess what? You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get the gear you need to be safe. With this reflective vest, you get the protection you need at a great price. This reflective vest comes in one size and is adjustable to fit everyone’s different sizes. It provides a nice lightweight alternative to a standard reflective vest so that you don’t have extra weight while you’re on the go. It also comes in a variety of colors so you can have some fun with your safety gear.
Pros:
- Comes in different colors so you can switch up your vests
- Lightweight and also waterproof in case you get stuck in the rain
Cons:
- Runs small, so it won’t work for larger people
Tourun Reflective Running Vest
Visibility is The #1 Priority
People will have a hard time not spotting you in this reflective vest. This vest is bright yellow and has reflective bands that will give you 360-degree visibility at night. It also comes with two bands that can be used for your wrists, your arms, or your ankles to provide additional visibility. You can also link the two bands together to provide a separate waist reflector in place of or in addition to the vest. The adjustable waist on this vest makes it fit most people simply by changing the belt.
Pros:
- This vest is highly visible and safe
- Comes with 2 bands that have a versatile use
- Comes in one size and can be adjusted to fit different bodies
Cons:
- Tends to run a bit small
Tarvol Safety Reflective Vest
The Classic Reflective Vest
Though changes in technology and style have created many new options for reflective vests, sometimes the original classic style is the way to go. This reflective vest is the tried and true style you’ve seen on everyone from joggers to construction workers. Its bright yellow color will catch your eye, and the 2 reflective bands will provide extra safety at night. The full-sized vest can be worn over your clothing, but it still lightweight enough to allow you to run or bike. The velcro in the front makes it easy to put on and take off, and when it needs a wash, you can simply throw it in the machine.
Pros:
- This classic reflective vest provides quality protection at night
- The vest has 2 reflective bands that go all the way around for added visibility
Cons:
- The reflective bands fade a bit after washing
Frequently Asked Questions
When should you wear a reflective vest?
Reflective vests should be worn when you are running, walking, or cycling at night. They should also be worn in construction zones where vehicles are being operated.
What are the highest visibility colors?
Neon yellow is one of the easiest colors to see, and that’s why most reflective vests you see are that color.
How do the reflective strips work?
The strips are made of a material that is coated in glass beads. These glass beads reflect light to the light source (ex: a car’s headlights). This means that the only person who can see the reflection is the person with the light source (ex: the driver).
What is the best reflective material?
The material that is the most reflective and thus the most visible is diamond mylar.
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