15 Best Safety Vests Reviews 2023 | Get Maximum Visibility

If you work in construction or road maintenance, then the importance of a safety vest is apparent to you.

It’s better to be safe rather than sorry; it isn’t something that should ever be compromised.

Hence, in this segment, we’ll present you with the best safety vest available on the market.

However, the process isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. Before we begin, there are some things that you should keep in mind.

Buyers Guide

As mentioned above, there are some things that you should always keep in mind before setting out to buy the right vest.

Here are the main factors for consideration!

Class type

The class type of safety vests dictates where their usage is applicable and how effective they are at ensuring visibility. If you’re in a high-risk setting, then always choose a class 3 vest.

However, if you’re looking for something for day-to-day usage, then a class 1 vest will do the job just fine.

Color

Depending on the line of your work, you’ll have to choose what type of colored vest you want.

For this, you might have to check out your state’s current laws because some colors can only be worn by officials.

Comfort

Since there is a decent chance you’ll need to wear your vest for an extended period, it’s best to go for something that is comfortable and isn’t a hassle to put on or get out off.

1. Neiko 53941A High Visibility Safety Vest

Neiko presents a very effective model that will guarantee to get your job done.

With a total of 4 stripes (2+2; vertical/horizontal), this model ensures that you’ll get maximum visibility during the day and night.

The Neiko is lightweight and comfortable. By allowing the user easier accessibility and ease of change, this model is highly optimal if you’re on the job at peak hours and want to take the vest off occasionally.

The quick zipper also helps with quick removal.

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Pros:

• Lightweight
• Quick zipper
• Maximum breathability

Cons:

• Heats up in the summer
• Thin material might rip easily 

2. JKSafety Safety Vest

This model by JKSafety is a class 2 vest that is applicable for all scenarios.

Catering to both genders, this model’s recommended audience is those individuals who work day in and day out in the labour industry.

This model adheres strictly to all safety protocols set out by the relevant authorities and has nine functioning pockets that the user can access easily without any effort.

Ideally, this model is labelled as the best safety vest with pockets, which is why it is featured second on this list.

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Pros:

• Suitable for both genders
• High visibility
• Extra pockets

Cons:

• Not lightweight
• Velcro pocket closure falls off 

3. Salzmann 3M Multi-Pocket Safety Vest

The Salzmann is the standard go-to model for professionals and is highly recommended for individuals who are looking for a back-up vest in storage.

Manufactured from high quality and hard-wearing fabric, the model has two clips on the shoulder for additional functionality and comes equipped with four large pockets that you can use to store your phone, keys, or wallet.

The Salzmann also adhered to ANSI’s standard and approved for optimal performance.

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Pros:

• Highly breathable
• Includes radio clips on the shoulder
• Optimal for cyclists

Cons:

• Not flame retardant
• Heats up quickly in summers 

4. GripGlo Reflective Safety Vest

If you’re looking for a simple product to get the job done, then the GripGlo is the ideal way to go about it.

This model’s lightweight feature ensures that it is the go-to model for cyclists and joggers who want high visibility when the sun goes down.

For maximal visibility, the model also has two horizontal reflective strips on the front AND the back, so that the user is granted maximal visibility coverage.

Overall, GripGlo is best for runners and athletes.

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Pros:

• Good visibility coverage
• Durable
• Easy zip

Cons:

• Fits quite tightly 

5. Active Kyds High Visibility Kids Safety Vest

It’s never too early to start teaching your children about road safety. If that’s on the agenda, then this model is the best one to work with.

The model is geared towards a younger audience between the age of 3 and 7.

Furthermore, it comes with an easy Velcro strip design which makes the vest easy to put on and take off.

This is a great model to consider if you want to keep your children safe when out for a jog or on construction site.

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Pros:

• Exclusive model for kids
• Easy to put on
• Durable

Cons:

• Not suitable for older children
• Velcro occasionally snags clothes 

6. XSHIELD XS0008-10 High Visibility Safety Vest

The XSHIELD is a model that you should consider if you’re looking for something that comes in bulk.

If you’re preparing for a team meeting or project, then this model will work best. The model offers high visibility and durability while also being quite lightweight and easy to put on.

Furthermore, this model’s light structure and bulk packages mean you can easily replace it as well with similar samples.

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Pros:

• Comes in bulk
• Lightweight
• Easy and comfortable fit

Cons:

• Not for heavy-duty work
• Might tear open on rough usage 

7. CIMC, Yellow Reflective Safety Vest

Like the model above, the CMIC also comes in a package of 10 and is optimal for you if you’re looking for a bulk project.

The model comes in a variety of sizes and offers good visibility coverage. The model is quite lightweight and easy to work with, while also featuring two large pockets.

However, the downside is that this model isn’t suitable for any heavy-duty work since it isn’t manufactured from sturdy raw material.

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Pros:

• Good bulk package
• Lightweight
• Easy fit

Cons:

• Not heavy-duty
• Bad durability 

8. SHORFUNE High Visibility Safety Vest

Manufactured from 100% polyester knitted fabric, the SHORFUNE is a highly reputable model that is optimal for your professional and personal usage.

The model comes packed with five different pockets that you can use for a variety of purposes.

The fluorescent appeal of this vest will grant you excellent visibility coverage that you require so that you can work safely during the day and the night.

However, this model isn’t recommended if you’re looking for something as a jogger or a cyclist.

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Pros:

• Contains five pockets
• Great visibility
• Contains mic tabs

Cons:

• Velcro starts wearing out eventually
• Decent build quality 

9. Radians SV55-2ZGD-L SV55

This model caters to a predominantly female audience.

Manufactured from 300D woven polyester and polyester mesh, this model by Radians is a heavy-duty class 2 safety vest that is highly recommended for users who want something they can work in the fields with.

The model features dual-mic tabs and has reflective edges as well, which will offer maximum visibility and ensure maximal protection for the user.

This model is arguably one of the best on the list.

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Pros:

• Comfortable
• Durable
• Heavy duty

Cons:

• Heats up quickly
• A little stiff in the beginning 

10. ML Kishigo 1513 Ultra-Cool

The ML Kishigo is a black series heavy duty vest that is recommended for professional construction workers and roadside workers.

The model offers excellent visibility and comes equipped with desirable features, which include full large pockets and a zipper closing.

Made from polyester, this model offers good durability and sits tight on the user, giving the appearance of the second layer of skin.

Overall, this model is quite good and highly recommended for heavy-duty work.

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Pros:

• Durability
• Functionality
• Good visibility

Cons:

• Mediocre stitching
• Top pockets are fragile 

11. KwikSafety High Visibility Safety Vest

This model is arguably the best looking model on this list. If you’re looking to combine aesthetics with functionality, then the KwikSafety is the answer to all your needs.

This model is recommended for all types of users who want to look good while doing their job be it at a construction site or going out for a jog.

The model contains two functioning pockets and sits right onto your shoulders with an unparalleled fit that will look good and give you the visibility and safety that you need.

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Pros:

• Aesthetics
• Looks good
• Highly functional

Cons:

• Pockets are a little weak
• Contains a few loose threads 

12. XIAKE Class 2 Reflective Safety Vest

If you’re looking for a professional-looking model that will function well and give you a look that will make sure you stand a class apart.

This model is optimal for heavy-duty and industrial applications. Featuring nine different pockets, the XIAKE will enable you to carry a lot of stuff on you as well.

Adhering to all safety standards regulated by ANSI, this model is one you can rely on, especially if you’re working in a dangerous environment.

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Pros:

• Nine pockets
• 360 degrees visibility
• Heavy-duty

Cons:

• Ambiguous product sizing 

13. Radians SV55-2ZOD-M

This model is the second one featured in the list that is manufactured by Radians.

As the last one was for a female audience, this one is designed and manufactured for menswear. The features are all the same and identical.

Hence, if you’re looking for identical-looking models to cater to a diverse workplace, then Radians should be your go-to manufacturer due to their meticulously crafted high-grade safety vests.

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Pros:

• Comfortable
• Durable
• Heavy duty

Cons:

• Heats up quickly
• A little stiff in the beginning 

14. KwikSafety FIRST LADY Safety Vest

This model was too good to be not featured on this list. Catering to women, the KwikSafety has several admirable features that make it optimal for usage.

For starters, the model is easy to prepare, store, and wear. Secondly, it comes with three pockets that you can use for storage.

It is colored orange and looks good as well, due to its slim design and proportionate spacing of the Velcro strips and the pockets.

Overall, this model is highly recommended.

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Pros:

• Looks great
• Easy to breathe in
• Offers good visibility

Cons:

• Ambiguous sizing
• Strings come to lose occasionally 

15. Radians ST11-2PGS-XL Class 2

At the end of the list, this product is arguably a bonus. Instead of an actual vest, this is an XL T-shirt that will offer you the same amount of visibility as a vest.

Furthermore, due to its size and appearance, it is also economical and easy to work with.

The max-dri feature ensures that you don’t end up making a mess or smell bad due to sweat.

Overall, this product is highly recommended if you’re looking for something different or don’t like vests in general.

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Pros:

• One-size-fits-all
• Max drying effect
• Easy to take-off/put-on

Cons:

• No zip pocket
• Mediocre flexibility

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the use of a safety vest?

The major use of a safety vest is to increase the visibility of the wearer to other people in the vicinity so that unwanted accidents can be prevented.

These vests have reflective stripes or material embedded in it so that other people can easily view them, even in the dark.

What is a class 2 safety vest?

A class 2 safety vest is that which is required in working environments that present a greater risk, such as the highway or a crowded center.

These vests have more reflective material and grant more visibility to other users.

What are safety vest made of?

Safety vests are manufactured from high-grade polyester. The main feature that this provides is that it is easy to make clothes out of and gives a good reflection.

Further metal or mesh might be imbedded to increase the effect of reflection.

What color is a safety vest?

Safety vest come in a wide variety of colors.

The general rule is that these colors should be dark and visible; they should contrast deeply and stand out in the background.

Hence, most vests are black, orange, blue, or dark green.

What is a class 3 reflective vest?

Class 3 reflective vests are those that are recommended for those workers who are posted on the highway.

These vests offer the highest amount of reflection and visibility to passing viewers in the vicinity and guarantee maximum protection from unwanted accidents.

Does OSHA require safety vests at construction sites?

Yes. OSHA has ruled in favor of employees to wear a safety vest at all times when at construction sites.

The main reason for this decision was to promote the general welfare and reduce the risk of unwanted accidents in a professional setting that is quite dangerous.

What is a high visibility vest used for?

A high visibility vest is used for alerting people nearby, especially drivers and motorist.

Once aware, the latter actively chooses to steer clear from them. This is the most applicable at night time when general visibility is very low.

Why do rail workers wear orange?

In the railway industry, the colors yellow and green are used for train signaling.

Hence, to reduce any confusion or misunderstanding, railway workers wear orange.

Other than that, this color is also quite bright.

What is PPE in safety?

PPE, short for Personal Protective Equipment, is equipment that will protect the user at all times, especially if the workplace is a dangerous environment for a normal individual.

How often should you replace your high visibility clothing?

The general rule is that high visibility clothing should be replaced if it is soiled, dirty, unclean, or not visible from about 1000 feet day or night.

In that case, it’s best advised to find another vest.

Why do we wear a safety vest?

We wear safety vest to ensure that drivers and motorists can view us at all times, due to the reflective glare produced by the suit.

This prevents unnecessary accidents or confusions.

What does the ASNI class mean?

Short for American National Standards Institute, ASNI overlooks the standard measurements and calibration of most equipment distributed in the US.

ASNI class refers to the quality of the standard proposed.

Why is yellow the most visible color?

More light is reflected in bright colors. Hence, yellow being a bright color adheres to this rule of Physics and hence appears as the brightest color.

Conclusion

As emphasized above, a safety vest can often be the difference between life and death.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, which is we recommend that you opt for a model that is most applicable to you.

If you liked one of the products mentioned above or would like to get in touch with us, you can leave your feedback in the comment section below!