When you need to be seen, a high-visibility safety vest is a must. This is especially true in places like construction sites, roadworks, warehouses, or emergency scenes. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one?
Here is your complete guide to what really matters when buying a high-visibility safety vest—whether you're shopping for your team or yourself.
1. Material: This product is strong and long-lasting, and it is also comfortable.
The material of your vest affects how long it will last and how comfortable it is. Common materials include:
Polyester: It is lightweight, durable, and quick-drying, making it ideal for most jobs.
Mesh: It is breathable, which makes it comfortable to wear in hot weather.
The fabric is strong. It's better for cooler weather or if you need something stronger.
Top tip: If you're going to be working outside when the weather is changing, look for a vest that lets your skin breathe while keeping you safe.
2. ANSI/ISEA Class Ratings: Learn about your class.
High-visibility vests are divided into three classes, as set out in the ANSI/ISEA 107 standard. These categories are based on how much you can see and the type of workplace.
Class 1: For low-risk areas (e.g., parking lot attendants).
Class 2: For zones with more traffic and better visibility (e.g., construction workers, survey crews).
Class 3: For the highest level of visibility, especially near fast-moving traffic or in low-light environments (e.g., highway workers, emergency responders).
Pro tip: The type of vest you use should match the specific dangers present at the work site. If you're not sure, start with Class 2.
3. The brighter the colour, the better.
Hi-vis vests usually come in bright colours like:
Bright yellow-green.
Fluorescent orange-red.
These colours are designed to be seen well in different types of light, from bright sunlight to dim evening light. Choose a colour that contrasts with your surroundings and is allowed on your job site.
4. Reflective Tape: It's hard to see at night or in low light.
Reflective tape is very important for being seen in dim lighting or at night. Look for:
Wide strips (2 inches or more) make it easier to see.
It is fully reflective, including the shoulders and waist.
Retroreflective material is a special kind of material that reflects light back to where it came from, like car headlights.
Pro tip: Make sure the tape placement meets ANSI/ISEA standards and covers all the necessary angles for visibility.
5. How well it fits and how easy it is to adjust: Move freely and safely.
If a vest doesn't fit well, it can be just as dangerous as not wearing one. Think about:
You can make it fit well by adjusting the sides or using Velcro straps.
You can wear this over other clothes or jackets.
The design is very flexible to make sure you can move around easily.
Pro tip: Try the vest on with your work clothes to make sure it doesn't move around or get in the way.
6. Extra Features: You can customise it, and it has pockets.
Depending on your role, extra features can be more than just handy – they can also help you get more done.
It has lots of pockets for tools, pens, ID badges or phones.
Make sure you have the right ID to keep things safe and legal.
Zipper or hook-and-loop fasteners make it easy and secure to put on.
We can add custom logos or company branding to help teams look professional.
7. Making sure you meet the rules and getting official confirmation of this
Always check if the vest meets the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standards or any local rules that apply to your industry. Compliance means that a product has been tested to make sure it is safe and works well.
The right vest is the best way to stay safe.
Investing in the right high-visibility safety vest is more than just ticking a box – it's about keeping you and your team safe, seen, and comfortable. By focusing on key factors like material, visibility, reflective features, and comfort, you'll find a vest that fits your job and protects your team.
Are you ready to find your perfect high-vis vest?
[Shop our collection of high-visibility vests now ➜]