Workers don’t just wear hi-vis to recognize each other. They wear them to keep them visible to potential hazards like heavy machinery and cars. Hi-vis clothing reduces needed reaction time by 2.1 seconds, savings the lives of countless workers. As the weather cools down, hi-vis shirts and bandanas will no longer provide enough warmth for workers. Luckily, there are several options that will keep workers warm while still keeping them visible. Here are some of our favorite hi-vis winter workwear solutions.
The hi-vis lime insulated vest provides excellent visibility, Type R-Class 2, in both day and night conditions thanks to its bright color and reflective striping. It is a great option to wear over a hi-vis shirt to help maintain visibility or add extra warmth. The vest comes in hi-vis lime on one side and black 270g quilted lining. Each side has two handwarmer pockets for extra warmth. When reversed, the dark color absorbs sunlight for optimal temperature regulation. The dark color also hides dirt and dust. The dark side does not meet ANSI standards.
Hi-vis sweatshirts are another great option for transitional weather. The Type R-Class 3, RSSH32 series pull-over sweatshirt is made with 100% polyester 280 gsm fleece. It comes in hi-vis lime and has black over the stomach and on the wrists. The sweatshirt features reflective striping, a large front pocket, and black bottom on the front. The hood is meshed lined with an adjustable pull cord and the wrists and waist fit snugly thanks to the elastic band. If you prefer a zippered front option, the RSZH32 series has a similar look to this sweatshirt but zips in the front and has an additional pocket.
The RJ31 series jacket also comes in both hi-vis lime and hi-vis orange and meets ANSI Type R-Class 3. It is made with a water-resistant, Teflon® treated, polyester shell with quilted lining – perfect to combat winter weather. The chest features a cell phone/radio pocket with a clear outside panel, mic tabs, and a pencil pocket. The total pocket count is four. Elastic bands at the wrist and waist give it a comfortable fit and keep the cold out. Like many of our hi-vis winter workwear solutions, it features a black stomach and wrists to hide dirt and grime.
If workers choose to wear their own outerwear, visibility can be increased with a reflective armband. These one-size-fits-all bands come in hi-vis lime and hi-vis orange and feature silver reflective striping.
No matter which of the hi-vis winter workwear solutions you choose, you are making the right choice for your safety! If you need help deciding between options, our customer service team is happy to help.