What Is The Best Hi Vis Workwear For 2024?

What Makes Good Hi Vis Clothing?

Good hi-vis clothing is essential for people working in low light conditions or high-risk environments to ensure their safety. Here are some key features of good hi-vis clothing:

High Visibility: The clothing should be brightly coloured, such as fluorescent yellow or orange, to be easily seen in low light conditions. Reflective materials should also be incorporated into the design to make workers visible in dark conditions.

Comfort: Hi-vis clothing should be comfortable to wear and not restrict movement. It should also be breathable to prevent overheating and ensure workers remain comfortable during long shifts.

Durability: The clothing should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigours of the workplace, such as heavy machinery, harsh weather conditions, and wear and tear.

Compliance: It is essential to ensure that hi-vis clothing complies with relevant safety standards and regulations. In the UK, the main accreditations for hi-vis clothing are the European Standard EN ISO 20471:2013, which sets minimum requirements for hi-vis clothing, and the Rail Industry Standard RIS-3279-TOM, which applies specifically to the railway industry.

Functionality: Hi-vis clothing should be designed with the specific needs of the worker in mind, such as incorporating pockets for carrying tools and equipment or being adjustable to fit a range of body types.

By incorporating these features, hi-vis clothing can provide workers with the protection they need to stay safe on the job while also being comfortable and practical.

What Colour Is Best For Hi Vis?

The best colours for hi-vis clothing are bright fluorescent yellow and orange. These colours are highly visible in low light conditions, making it easier for workers to be seen and recognized by others, such as drivers on the road.

These colours work by reflecting light back to the source, making the wearer more visible. Fluorescent yellow is particularly effective in low light conditions because it appears brighter and can be seen from further away than other colours. Orange is also an effective hi-vis colour and is often used in combination with yellow for added visibility.

Other colours, such as red and blue, are not recommended for hi-vis clothing as they do not reflect light in the same way as fluorescent colours and are not as effective in low light conditions.

Ultimately, the choice of colour for hi-vis clothing should be based on the specific needs of the worker and the environment in which they are working. However, fluorescent yellow and orange are generally considered the best colours for hi-vis clothing due to their high visibility in low light conditions.

What Material Is Best For Hi Vis Clothing?

The most common material used in high visibility clothing is polyester. Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is lightweight, durable, and easy to care for. It is also highly reflective and can be made in bright colors that are easily visible in low light conditions.

Polyester is often combined with other materials, such as cotton, to improve the comfort and breathability of the clothing. Hi-vis clothing made from polyester blends can also be treated with additional coatings or finishes to make it water-resistant, flame-resistant, or chemical-resistant, depending on the specific needs of the worker.

Other materials used in hi-vis clothing include nylon, which is known for its strength and durability, and spandex, which provides stretch and flexibility. However, polyester remains the most common material for hi-vis clothing due to its effectiveness and affordability.

What Is The Best Hi Vis Waterproof Jacket?

A good hi-vis waterproof jacket should have several key features to ensure the safety and comfort of the wearer. Firstly, it should be made of high-quality materials that are both waterproof and breathable to keep the wearer dry and comfortable in wet conditions. The jacket should be brightly colored, such as fluorescent yellow or orange, with reflective strips or patches to increase visibility in low light conditions.

It should also be functional, with pockets for storage and adjustable cuffs and hems to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Additionally, it should meet relevant safety standards, such as EN ISO 20471:2013, to ensure that it provides adequate protection for the worker. With these features, a good hi-vis waterproof jacket can provide workers with the necessary protection and comfort to stay safe and visible in wet and low light conditions. With that in mind, below we’ve chosen our top pick.

Portwest Hi Vis Two Tone Bomber Jacket

https://www.workwearexpress.com/portwest-high-visibility-two-tone-bomber-jacket

Stay visible, comfortable and dry with this fully certified two-tone bomber style jacket from our hi-vis range. Featuring waterproof taped seams and an extremely water-resistant fabric finish, this jacket is 100% waterproof, making it perfect for wet weather conditions. It's also certified to EN342 protection against cold up to -40C, ensuring you stay warm in cold weather conditions. The jacket comes with four pockets, an internal chest pocket, concealed mobile phone pocket and D-ring for your convenience. The two-way zip ensures quick and easy access, and the pack-away hood provides added functionality.

Designed with the worker in mind, this jacket features inner ribbed cuffs for warmth and comfort, fully lined and padded to trap the heat and increase warmth, and a contrast fleece collar for protection against dirt. The jacket also features reflective tape for increased visibility, ensuring you stay safe and seen in low light conditions. Additionally, the half-elasticated waist provides a secure and comfortable fit, and the fabric is rated 40+ UPF to block 98% of UV rays.

This jacket is certified to EN ISO 20471 Class 3, RIS 3279 TOM Issue 2 (Orange Only), EN 343 Class 3:1 X (WP 15,000mm), and EN 342 (0.336 (M².K/W), 2, X), ensuring it meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and protection. With print access for corporate branding, this jacket is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable hi-vis waterproof jacket that meets all the necessary safety standards.

What We Like:

✓ Protects up to -40 degrees celsius
✓ Elasticated waist for a secure but comfortable fit
✓ Concealed mobile phone pocket for safety

Best For:

✓ Oil rig workers
✓ Night construction site workers
✓ Low visibility jobs

What Are The Best Hi Vis Trousers?

If you work in a high-risk environment or need to stay visible in low light conditions, a good pair of hi-vis trousers is essential for your safety. The best hi-vis trousers are designed to keep you visible, comfortable, and protected while you work.

One of the most important features of good hi-vis trousers is high visibility. The trousers should be made of bright fluorescent colors, such as yellow or orange, to make you visible in low light conditions. Reflective strips or patches should also be incorporated into the design, ensuring you remain visible from all angles. This is particularly important for workers who operate heavy machinery or work in areas with moving vehicles.

Comfort is also a crucial consideration when choosing hi-vis trousers. You'll likely be wearing them for long hours, so it's important they're comfortable and don't restrict your movement. A good pair of hi-vis trousers should be made from lightweight, breathable materials that are both durable and flexible. Look for trousers with features such as adjustable waistbands or cuffs, reinforced knees, and multiple pockets for added convenience.

Finally, protection is also an essential factor to consider. Hi-vis trousers should be designed to provide protection against various hazards, including cold, heat, water, and chemicals. Look for trousers that are waterproof, heat-resistant, and chemical-resistant, and that are certified to relevant safety standards, such as EN ISO 20471. With the right hi-vis trousers, you can work safely and confidently, knowing you have the protection you need.

Portwest Texo Hi-Vis Trousers

https://www.workwearexpress.com/portwest-texo-high-visibility-trousers

Look and feel great while staying safe and visible with these smart and modern hi-vis trousers. Made from durable polyester/cotton fabric with a Texpel stain-resistant finish, these trousers feature reflective tape for increased visibility, as well as nine pockets for ample storage. Knee pad pockets and adjustable Hook & Loop hems ensure a secure and comfortable fit, while the elasticated back waist provides added security. These trousers also comply with the EN ISO 20471 standard, making them a reliable and safe choice for any worker.

In addition to their safety features, these hi-vis trousers are also designed for style and comfort. The contrast coloring and premium stain-resistant finish make them a smart and modern addition to any workwear collection. They're also rated 40+ UPF to block 98% of UV rays, ensuring your skin stays protected from the sun's harmful rays. With their twin-stitched seams and compliance with the RIS 3279-TOM for rail industry (orange only) standard, these trousers are built to last and provide you with the safety, comfort, and durability you need on the job.

What We Like:

✓ Knee pad pockets
✓ Blocks 98% of UV rays
✓ Stain resistant finish for the dirtiest of environments

Best For:

✓ Crane operatives
✓ Roadside workers
✓ Warehouse night workers