Hi-vis / reflective gear
Drivers see fluorescent yellow 5× further than black in daylight, and a reflective ankle band 30× further at night. Cheapest safety upgrade you can buy.
Reflective material at the ankles is the single most-detected element of cycling kit — it moves, it's at headlight height, and the human eye locks onto motion at night. Combine with a hi-vis (fluorescent yellow or orange) shell during the day and you've doubled your detection distance in every condition.
Proviz's Reflect360 line is fully reflective from every angle — invisible-looking grey in daylight, brilliant white under headlights. Pricier than a normal vest, but the visual impact is dramatic.
Where to buy
Two paths — match your spend to the bike. Quality picks last longer and protect resale; affordable picks get you riding safely today.
Quality picks
Quality
Proviz Reflect360 Plus Cycling Jacket
$140
Fully reflective 360°, waterproof, cyclist cut — looks normal by day, lights up like a beacon at night.
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Quality
Salzmann 3M Reflective Vest
$32
Adjustable hi-vis vest with 3M Scotchlite trim — fits over any jacket, sized S–XXL.
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Pro tips from our test team
- Reflective ankle bands first, vest second, helmet third. Ankles win every visibility study.
- Don't rely on backpack reflectives — they get covered by your body in the riding position.
- Wash hi-vis garments separately. They pick up dye and lose color fast in mixed loads.