In reality, most high-visibility vests are also reflective vests, they’re designed with both fluorescent colors and reflective materials to ensure full 360° visibility in any lighting condition. However, it's possible to find basic reflective vests (like running vests) that aren't fluorescent and aren't ANSI compliant.

So, when selecting safety gear for your team, it's best to look for ANSI-certified reflective vests that meet the standards for both color and reflectivity ensuring maximum visibility and compliance on the job site.

Before choosing the right reflective clothing for yourself or your team, it's important to first understand the safety regulations that apply to your job. Your state’s OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines determine whether high-visibility clothing is required for your work environment.

Once you've identified those requirements, use the table above to determine which ANSI class (1, 2 or 3) is appropriate for reflective vests used on your job.

For a quick overview, Oregon OSHA provides a helpful fact sheet outlining who should be wearing reflective gear at work.

Few things are more frustrating than wearing safety gear that’s too hot, cold or uncomfortable. One of the top reasons workers stop wearing high-vis clothing is discomfort. Reflective gear isn’t just something you throw over your clothes, it needs the right material, thickness and breathability, plus features like ribbed cuffs or a hood to keep you protected from the elements.

For winter, look for high-vis jacket with windproof exteriors and fleece lining. Ribbed cuffs help retain warmth, but avoid overheating layering under a lighter jacket may be better for workers moving between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Also, dirty reflective vests can reduce reflectivity and even cause OSHA compliance issues. Make sure your high-vis clothing is washable and that the reflective strips stay effective after repeated laundering.

The color of your hi-vis vest plays a key role in visibility. The most common colors yellow and orange are chosen because they stand out in different environments. Yellow is ideal for urban or indoor settings, while orange is better for roadside or construction areas to contrast against natural backgrounds. Always consider the work environment and what color will provide the highest visibility against your surroundings.

Proper size and fit are essential for both comfort and safety. A vest that's too tight can restrict movement, while one that's too loose may shift around or reduce visibility. Choose a size that allows room for layering over your workwear without feeling bulky. Our hi-vis vests are available in a wide range of sizes from Medium to 3X-Large ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for every worker.

ANSI does not manufacture products, but it accredits the standards developed by organizations like ISEA (International Safety Equipment Association), ensuring they are rigorous and consistent.

In the context of high-visibility apparel, the most common standard is:
ANSI/ISEA 107 – This is the official performance standard for hi-vis safety clothing.

It covers:

• Color requirements (typically fluorescent yellow-green or orange-red)
• Reflective strip widths and placement
• Amount of visible material on the body
• Classification of garments (Class 1, 2, 3) based on use cases and risk levels