hi-vis jacket recommendations

[Tugela]

I'd like to buy a hi-vis safety jacket to keep in the Disco. Not for when my truck breaks down, of course, because I stay on top of maintenance, but for situations where I might be helping other motorists or just want to look like a giant walking highlighter pen.

Something along these lines:

A perusal of online retailers reveals a wide range of choices. Does anyone have something they particularly like? As long as it meets the various regulatory safety requirements it's fine, I understand this thing is not going to fit like a tailored suit or perform like my Arc'teryx clothing.

My main criteria are:

• waterproof (I live in Seattle)
• solid color
• hood
• reasonably priced (<$50)

Where should I be looking? Any specific suggestions? Links please.

 

[jymmiejamz]

Would it not make more sense to just buy a vest to go over whatever high quality waterproof jacket you probably already have? Seems like a waste of money since you won't be using it every day.

 

[Tugela]

Fair question. I do see myself potentially doing this:

in which case I'd rather have a dedicated jacket I won't worry about ruining.

 

[jymmiejamz]

I can appreciate that. I would look around at where all of the construction workers shop for stuff like that. There are at least two places within walking distance of my apartment that sell clothes for workers.

 

[ukoffroad]

Grainger should be less than $100

 

[fishEH]

Do you want it insulated?

 

[Tugela]

Do you want it insulated?

I see some insulated and some not. Others have a removable insulation layer. I'd say no insulation, because I can always add layers underneath if its colder but can't make an insulated jacket cooler when it's 80 degrees.

 

[Tugela]

I would look around at where all of the construction workers shop for stuff like that.

Good suggestion. There is no substitute for trying stuff on.

 

[paxton]

https://www.amazon.com/Work-Utility...-title=High Visibility&page=1&rh=n:6572900011

 

[JohnC]

I wear a Hi Viz jacket when I commute into NYC on my bike. I know you are not looking for a motorcycle jacket but just be aware of one thing: the hi--viz jackets get super dirty very quickly. I know you are probably not concerned about the grease and dirt but if I were you I would do like jimmyjanz mentioned: get a vest instead of a jacket.

I have vests in each of my vehicles (it's required in Europe) and pull them out anytime I'm on the road either working on my truck/car or helping someone.

Just a thought.

 

[Tugela]

I ordered this jacket on Amazon for $50 shipped. The fit is decent, it has 3 zippered external pockets and 3 interior pockets. The hood is not fantastic but it's removable - for the price it meets my expectations. What I like most about it is that the material is a slightly stretchy softshell fabric. I think this is going to do the job just fine. I'll have no worries beating this thing up and getting it dirty. At least I'll be visible.