The choice between a high-visibility vest and a high-visibility jacket is primarily influenced by the requirements of the work environment, weather conditions, and the necessary safety class.
High-visibility jackets provide higher protection and warmth, while high-visibility vests offer flexibility and wearing comfort.
High-visibility vests are primarily used in logistics and warehouse work where mobility is crucial.
The vest is worn over regular work clothes and is excellent for indoor work or short outdoor activities.
Typical applications include:
The vest serves as workwear to quickly identify personnel on job sites.
The lightweight construction allows the worker to move freely without restrictions.
For municipal rescue services, red high-visibility vests are used, while healthcare uses green and police use blue.
Reflective vests with Velcro closures are easy to put on and take off.
More advanced models have pockets and reinforcements for tools.
High-visibility jackets are required when class 3 certification is needed, which is the highest level of protection in high-visibility clothing.
Jackets are used in traffic-intensive workplaces where maximum visibility is vital.
High-visibility jackets are chosen for:
Jackets cover a larger body area than vests and meet stricter requirements according to EN ISO 20471.
The arms have reflective materials that increase visibility from all angles.
This is critical when vehicles approach from the side.
Vests are often sufficient for class 1 and 2, but high-visibility jackets are needed for the highest safety level.
The Transport Agency and other authorities specify when each garment should be used based on risk assessment.
Winter conditions often require high-visibility jackets or insulated high-visibility vests.
Parkas with high-visibility reflective materials combine warmth with visibility for cold climates.
Jackets often have removable linings for seasonal adaptation.
High-visibility vests are best suited for spring months and summer when less insulation is needed.
They breathe better and prevent overheating during physically demanding work.
Breathable materials are important for comfort during long workdays.
Weather adaptation:
Softshell vests offer a compromise between a vest and a jacket.
They provide wind protection without the bulk and warmth of a full jacket.
High-visibility clothing is divided into three safety classes according to the EN ISO 20471 standard.
Each class is based on specific requirements for reflective materials and fluorescent fabrics.
The certification ensures that high-visibility vests and jackets meet the necessary visibility requirements for different work environments.
Class 1 represents the lowest safety level with minimal area of reflective materials and fluorescent fabrics.
This class is suitable for environments with low risk where traffic movements are limited or controlled.
Class 2 requires larger areas of both reflective and fluorescent materials than class 1.
It is suitable for work environments with moderate traffic exposure or where work speed exceeds 25 km/h.
Class 3 constitutes the highest safety class with maximum requirements for both reflective and fluorescent material areas.
A class 3 reflective vest or equivalent high-visibility garment is required when working near fast-moving traffic over 50 km/h.
This class requires that the entire body is covered with high-visibility clothing, which often means a combination of a high-visibility jacket and high-visibility trousers.
The EN ISO 20471 standard establishes specific measurements for reflective strips and fluorescent materials on high-visibility garments.
The standard requires that reflectors are placed strategically to create a clear body outline.
For class 1, a minimum of 0.10 m² of reflective material and 0.14 m² of fluorescent fabric is required.
Class 2 requires 0.13 m² of reflective and 0.50 m² of fluorescent material.
EN ISO 20471 class 3 sets the highest requirements with 0.20 m² of reflective material and 0.80 m² of fluorescent fabric.
The certification also ensures that the materials retain their properties after washing and wear.
All approved high-visibility garments must be labeled with the standard number and classification.
Reflectors work by reflecting light from headlights and other light sources back towards the observer.
This creates strong visibility even at great distances in dark conditions.
Fluorescent materials enhance visibility in daylight by converting invisible UV light into visible light.
The combination of reflective and fluorescent materials ensures visibility under all lighting conditions.
The placement of reflective strips is critical to creating a clear body outline.
Horizontal bands around the waist and vertical bands over the shoulders help observers quickly identify a person's position and movements.
Portwest
PW3 Hi-Vis Cotton Comfort T-Shirt L/S
Portwest
Portwest
Portwest
Portwest
Hi-Vis Cotton Comfort Polo Shirt L/S
Portwest
Portwest
PW3 Hi-Vis Zipped Class 1 Winter Hoodie
The materials and construction determine how long a high-visibility vest and jacket last under tough working conditions.
The right material choice affects both comfort, freedom of movement, and how well the garment withstands weather and wear.
Softshell is a popular material choice for high-visibility jackets due to its combination of wind protection and breathability.
This material provides the worker with flexibility while protecting against light rain and cold wind.
Softshell high-visibility jackets are particularly well-suited for outdoor work where freedom of movement is important.
Fleece is often used as an inner lining in high-visibility jackets for extra warmth.
The material transports moisture away from the body while insulating effectively.
Fleece-lined high-visibility jackets work well in cold environments where the worker needs to move actively.
Polyester dominates in high-visibility vests due to its quick-drying properties and low weight.
The material retains its fluorescent colors longer than many other textiles.
Polyester vests are cost-effective and easy to maintain.
Cotton blends offer a softer feel against the skin but require longer drying times.
These materials are primarily used in high-visibility vests for indoor work or less demanding environments.
The right fit directly affects the worker's mobility and safety.
High-visibility vests should fit snugly enough so that the reflective strips do not flap, but loose enough to allow layering underneath during cold months.
Adjustability through side adjustments or Velcro closures allows the same high-visibility vest to be adapted to different body types.
Many models have elastic panels at the sides that provide extra flexibility without compromising visibility.
High-visibility jackets require more careful size selection since they often contain multiple layers of material.
Armhole openings must be large enough not to restrict arm movements during lifting and stretching.
Length of sleeves should cover the wrists even when the arms are raised.
Ventilation through mesh panels or zippers under the arms prevents overheating during physical work.
These features are particularly important in high-visibility jackets where multiple layers of material can create heat buildup.
Water-repellent treatment protects both reflectors and fluorescent fabric from deterioration. Many high-visibility jackets have DWR treatment (Durable Water Repellent) that keeps rain and snow away from the material's surface.
The reflective strips wear out most during washing and daily use. Segmented reflectors bend better than continuous strips, as they do not crack as easily when moving.
Sewn-on reflectors last longer than glued ones, even though they make the garment slightly more expensive to produce. It often feels worth it in the long run, especially if the garment is used frequently.
Reinforcements at shoulders, elbows, and pocket openings make a significant difference in longevity. Double fabric or extra strong seams here help resist tearing and wear.
Color fastness in fluorescent materials varies quite a bit between different manufacturers and treatments. UV-treated fabrics maintain their signal colors better outdoors.
Following the washing instructions according to the manufacturer's guidelines can actually extend both color and reflective properties over many washes. It's easy to be careless, but it pays to be meticulous.
The three largest manufacturers have slightly different strengths. Blåkläder focuses on durability and comfort, Jobman on functionality and price, while Projob stands out with innovative design.
Blåkläder has become known as a premium manufacturer of workwear and puts a lot of effort into quality and comfort. Their high-visibility vests are robust and made of materials that withstand heavy use.
High-visibility jackets come in several variants—waterproof for outdoor jobs and thinner models for indoor use. The reflective tape is smartly placed for the best possible visibility.
High-visibility trousers from Blåkläder combine safety and ergonomics. They are reinforced where needed and have adjustable details for a good fit.
The materials breathe, which prevents feeling confined during long shifts. Prices are quite high, but the garments also last longer than many others.
Blåkläder also has a wide range of sizes and colors. There is something for most work environments and preferences.
Jobman takes a more functional approach and tries to balance price and performance. The high-visibility vests are available in all three safety classes according to EN ISO 20471.
The product range includes both simpler and more advanced garments, with extra pockets and ventilation if desired. The high-visibility jackets are practical with smart pockets and easy to care for.
High-visibility trousers focus more on function than luxury. They have standard reinforcements and basic adjustments.
The materials are chosen to withstand washing and last long. Prices are competitive, so even small companies can afford them.
Delivery times are short, and the range covers most needs in construction and transport. It's quite convenient.
Projob stands out with innovative design solutions and modern fit. The high-visibility vests combine classic safety with a more stylish look and better ergonomics.
The high-visibility jackets often have extra features, such as removable hoods and modular pockets. Projob uses materials that breathe better than many others.
High-visibility trousers are often more streamlined, but safety is still top-notch. The reflectors are nicely integrated into the design, giving a professional impression.
In terms of price, Projob is in the mid-range. They target workplaces where both safety and style matter.
What is winter high-visibility clothing? Winter high-visibility clothing combines high visibility with protection against cold, wind and precipitation. It is mainly used in occupations where workers spend time outdoors during...
What is waterproof high-visibility clothing? Waterproof high-visibility clothing combines high visibility with protection against moisture and is used in working environments where rain, snow or moisture can affect safety. They...
Choosing the right high-visibility clothing involves considering the work environment and how the garments should be combined for optimal visibility. Maintenance and the ability to brand the company also play a role.
Different jobs require different combinations to achieve the right safety class. For road work, a class 2 high-visibility vest is often sufficient, but more hazardous environments require both a jacket and trousers to achieve class 3.
Temperature plays a significant role in the choice between a vest and a jacket. A vest provides more freedom of movement and ventilation when it's warm.
Jackets offer better protection against cold and weather but can be a bit bulkier. It's always a trade-off.
Important combination rules:
The risks of the work environment also dictate the choice. Near heavy machinery, a higher safety class is required than in simpler indoor jobs.
High-visibility clothing loses effectiveness quickly if washed incorrectly or worn too much. Reflective materials typically withstand 25-50 washes if handled carefully.
Fluorescent colors fade quickly if exposed to too much UV light. It's easy to forget, but it makes a difference.
Washing recommendations:
It's wise to inspect the garments regularly. Cracked reflective strips or faded colors significantly reduce safety.
Many employers replace high-visibility clothing every six months or year to be on the safe side. Quality labeling according to EN ISO 20471 means the garment has been tested for durability.
Cheaper garments without certification rarely last as long. It's actually worth checking for the labeling.
Company branding on high-visibility clothing requires some thought. Logos and text must not cover reflectors or significantly reduce the fluorescent area.
Branding options:
Custom solutions may be needed for certain industries. Electricians sometimes need flame-resistant garments, while food workers want clothes without pockets where dirt can accumulate.
Some workplaces require industry-specific additions such as ID pockets, radio bands, or tool hooks. Such features must be integrated without compromising safety.
The choice between high-visibility vests and jackets depends on weather, certifications, and the requirements of the work environment. Fit and material make a significant difference for both safety and comfort.
A high-visibility vest is a simpler garment to throw over clothes and provides basic visibility. It has no sleeves and only covers the upper body.
High-visibility jackets have sleeves with reflective strips and provide more coverage. They can achieve class 3 certification due to a larger reflective area and also protect against the weather.
High-visibility vests are best when it's warm and ventilation is needed. They do not restrict freedom of movement, which is nice during physical work.
High-visibility jackets are essential when it's cold or raining. Insulated vests sometimes work as a compromise if it's cool but not freezing.
Jackets made of waterproof material protect against rain while maintaining visibility. It's hard to beat that combination when the weather is really rough.
Fluorescent materials in yellow or orange determine how visible one is during the day. The quality of the pigments affects how long the colors last after washing and sun exposure.
Retroreflective strips provide visibility in darkness. Their placement and area determine which safety class the garment receives.
The durability of the material determines how long the reflectors stay in place and function. It's easy to underestimate, but it matters.
Hard hats, gloves, and shoes do not directly affect visibility. They can be combined with both vests and jackets without issue.
Outer clothing over high-visibility garments can, however, cover the reflectors and significantly reduce visibility. If more layers are needed, the outermost garment must also be high-visibility certified.
Rain and winter clothing should be chosen with high-visibility specifications to maintain the safety level. It's not always obvious, but it's worth considering.
EN ISO 20471 is the current European standard for high-visibility clothing. It has replaced the older EN 471 and specifies requirements for class 1, 2, and 3 based on reflective area and color.
CE marking indicates that the garment complies with EU safety requirements. The Work Environment Authority has guidelines for which classes are required in different environments.
Road work usually requires class 3, while warehouse jobs often manage with class 2. It's good to double-check what applies to your specific job.
Incorrect size can hide reflective strips or create folds that reduce visibility. Oversized garments can easily get caught in machines or tools.
If the clothing is too small, freedom of movement is restricted, and there is a risk of tearing. High-visibility vests must fit snugly against the body for the reflective strips to be clearly visible from all angles.
High-visibility jackets need to have room for layers underneath but must not be so loose that they flap or hide safety details. Adjustments such as zippers and Velcro straps make it easier to achieve the right fit, regardless of body type.
The information on this page is intended as general guidance only and does not replace manufacturer instructions or applicable regulations. Workwise does not guarantee that the content is accurate, complete, or current and is not liable for decisions or actions taken based on this information. Always follow current standards and manufacturer instructions.
