Vests

Choosing hi-vis vests and waistcoats

A hi-vis vest is the quickest way to make someone visible, and general-purpose vests are typically certified to EN ISO 20471 Class 2 — enough for most construction sites, car parks and yards. Check the class on each product. Because a vest has no sleeves, it cannot reach Class 3 on its own; pair it with Class 1 hi-vis trousers certified as a Class 3 combination, or choose a sleeved hi-vis jacket, where Class 3 is required.

Look beyond the basic vest for the job in hand: pull-apart (breakaway) waistcoats release if they snag on machinery, zip-front styles stay on better than hook-and-loop on active work, and ID pockets and phone pockets save people taking gloves off.

For rail, choose orange garments certified to RIS-3279-TOM; for utilities and energy, there are flame-retardant hi-vis vests in the range.

What to look for

• Class 2 for general use; a vest alone cannot be Class 3
• Breakaway styles near moving machinery and vehicles
• Orange RIS-3279-TOM for rail
• Size to fit over winter layers

Full detail: Hi-vis classes explained

Standards and how to choose

Specifying vests correctly means matching the product to the right EN standard. These guides explain what the ratings mean, in plain English:

• GORE-TEX® vs Standard Waterproof Workwear: Is It Worth It?For people outdoors all day in the rain, usually yes. For occasional use, usually no. Here is how GORE-TEX® Workwear compares with PU-coated and breathable waterproofs, with real prices from our range.
• How to Wash GORE-TEX® Workwear (Jackets & Trousers)Washing doesn’t harm a GORE-TEX® Garment. Dirt does. Here is Gore’s own care routine for GORE-TEX® workwear, with the extra checks that hi-vis and rail garments need.
• EN 343 Explained: Waterproof Workwear Classes4:4:R, 3:1 or 3:3? The EN 343 label on a waterproof tells you how well it keeps rain out and how well it lets sweat out. Here is how to read it.

Related categories

• Jackets
• Bodywarmers & Gilets
• Coveralls
• Trousers
• Shorts
• T-Shirts
• Poloshirts
• Fleeces
• Sweatshirts
• Softshell Jackets

Trade accounts and bulk orders

Buying vests for a team or a whole site? We quote for bulk and recurring orders, and can hold agreed lines in stock for scheduled call-off. Request a quote with your quantities, or talk to us about opening a trade account.