High Visibility Jackets: How to Warm Up and Cool Down

Safety apparel, upper or lower body coverage, is a standard requirement on a construction site, or road crew project. Clothes like high visibility jackets are especially integral for exposed working conditions. In order to choose the right jacket, take into consideration what climate you live in and what you do daily onsite.

What to Look for in High Visibility Jackets

High visibility jackets are best suited for inclement weather conditions and all the seasons.

In fall and winter, it can be nippy, so a fleece lined jacket keeps you warm, while in spring or summer, rain is the culprit you’re always fighting. In that case, usually a jacket coated with Teflon™ keeps you dry, allowing the rain to wick off.

However, in the summer, you don’t want a fleece jacket, because you’ll overheat. Try a windbreaker or a vest without a fleece lining to protect you in rainfall. You’ll always need a hood if it snows or rains, but the beauty of many high visibility jackets is you can remove the hood if you don’t need it.

What Do You Wear Underneath High Visibility Jackets?

Always dress appropriately for the season. High visibility jackets only give one kind of protection.

In winter, wear a knitted hat under your hood and a thermal undershirt to keep your torso heated. Also, cover your legs with long johns, because wearing work pants unprotected is unwise. The key is layering. If you get too hot, simply peel off some layers.

In the summer, protection is about sunstroke and avoiding wetness. A quick-dry shirt that’s breathable monitors sweat and helps with rain, while drinking water on breaks keeps sunstroke far away. Overall, light cotton fabrics are the best strategy to stay cool under high visibility jackets.

How to Choose the Right One

When shopping for high visibility jackets always ensure you’re buying the right ANSI class.

Class 1 is for warehouse personnel or delivery truck drivers. Class 2 and 3 is for roadway construction workers, surveyors, utility workers, and emergency responders. Each ANSI classification specifies the minimum amount of material and reflection high visibility jackets should have. If you buy the wrong class, you might put yourself and your crew in jeopardy.

High visibility jackets are a sound investment. Be prepared for any type of situation by shopping at SafetyGear Online for your high visibility jackets. We offer an excellent selection to keep you dry, warm, and working efficiently.