Choosing the Right Hi-Vis PPE for Construction

TireSocks, Inc. on November 3, 2025

What Works, What Doesn’t, and Why It Matters

Why the Right Hi-Vis Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Matters

Not all high-visibility clothing is created equal. Maybe you’ve had a vest that fell apart in a week, or a stiff jacket that made your job harder instead of safer. For construction crews, equipment operators, and industrial workers, PPE must do more than meet a standard—it has to protect, fit comfortably, and hold up under real job-site conditions while minimizing exposure to hazards.

With OSHA placing greater emphasis on the proper fit and functionality of personal protective equipment (PPE), now is the time to make sure your safety apparel meets standards without slowing you down, and gear that you will actually wear. Properly fitted, high-quality PPE isn’t just about compliance—it’s essential for protecting against hazards that cause serious workplace injuries.

Let’s break down what works, what doesn’t, and how to choose the right hi-vis PPE for your job.

Understanding ANSI/ISEA Standards

Hi-vis PPE isn’t just about bright colors—it’s about being seen when it matters most. Whether you’re on a job site, operating heavy equipment, or working near traffic, the right gear can mean the difference between visibility and vulnerability. That’s where ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 comes in. This standard, set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), classifies high-visibility gear based on the amount of reflective and fluorescent material used:

  • Class 1 Safety Gear – Basic visibility for low-risk jobs (e.g., warehouse work, delivery drivers).
  • Class 2 Safety Gear – Enhanced visibility for moderate-risk jobs (e.g., construction sites, road crews).
  • Class 3 Safety Gear – Maximum visibility for high-risk environments (e.g., highway work, low-light conditions).

For most construction workers and similar professions, Class 2 or Class 3 PPE is typically required, ensuring visibility from all angles—even in low light or poor weather conditions.

TireSocks Tip: Before buying hi-vis gear, check that it meets ANSI/ISEA 107 standards. If it doesn’t, it’s not job-site approved. Compliance isn’t just a box to check—it’s a key factor in minimizing exposure to hazards and keeping workers safe.

Why Cheap PPE Puts You at Risk

Buying cheap personal protective equipment may seem cost-effective initially, but it typically results in higher long-term costs and increased risks. Cheap gear often has thin fabric, weak stitching, poor reflectivity, and uncomfortable fits. These issues lead to frequent replacements, discomfort, and increased hazard exposure.

Instead, invest in durable PPE gear that lasts in demanding job-site conditions. TireSocks’ Hi-Vis PPE line is built for real job-site conditions, with reinforced seams, long-lasting reflectivity, and weather-resistant materials.

Consider options like:

Layering Hi-Vis PPE for All Weather Conditions

Your hi-vis gear needs to match seasonal conditions—freezing winters and scorching summers aren’t just uncomfortable; they’re hazardous. Here’s how to layer the right way:

Hot Weather:

Choose lightweight, breathable options like short-sleeve hi-vis shirts and mesh-backed vests to keep cool. Add safety accessories, such as safety glasses, to minimize exposure to workplace hazards.

Cold Weather:

Layer a moisture-wicking base layer of clothing under insulated jackets or bomber jackets for added warmth. Use wind-resistant and waterproof gear like Class E rain pants and hi-vis rain jackets to stay protected from harsh conditions. Always make sure your outer layer includes sufficient reflective material to maintain maximum visibility.

Hard hats and respirators are also essential for added protection, but remember—they’re not just for cold weather. Hard hats protect against falling debris in any weather, and respirator masks are crucial for working in environments with dust, fumes, or other harmful substances, no matter the temperature.

TireSocks Tip: Make sure your top layer has reflective tape so you’re still visible, even with multiple layers. Make sure every layer of your hi-vis gear has reflective tape – especially the top layer – so that you never lose visibility, even as you shed layers throughout the day. This ensures you stay compliant and visible in all conditions, no matter how the weather or your workload changes.

Proper Fit and Functionality Are Critical

PPE must fit correctly—gear that’s too loose or too tight is a real safety risk for workers.

  • Too Loose: It gets caught in equipment, creates tripping hazards, and reduces visibility when bunched up.
  • Too Tight: Restricts movement, making it harder to do your job safely.

Properly fitted gear encourages consistent worker use. Look for adjustable cuffs, elastic waistbands, and flexible fabrics that move with you comfortably.

Durability & Washability for Long-term Protection

Hi-vis PPE doesn’t work if it’s covered in dirt and grease. OSHA requires gear to be clean and reflective at all times, so make sure your PPE can handle regular washing without breaking down. PPE is crucial not only for visibility but also for protection against chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, and mechanical hazards. Regular cleaning and inspections are necessary to make sure PPE remains effective and compliant with safety standards.

Check for:

  • Reinforced stitching to prevent tearing.
  • Reflective tape that stays bright after multiple washes.
  • Waterproof and wind-resistant materials that hold up in extreme weather.
  • Resists tears and weather damage
  • Handles daily wear without breaking down

Practical PPE Features Make the Difference

PPE should be functional, not just compliant. Look for these small features that make a big difference, and make your job easier:

  • Tool Storage: Multiple pockets for gloves, safety glasses, or earplugs.
  • Mic Tabs: Securely attach communication devices for easy access.
  • Adjustable Components: Adjustable cuffs, hoods, and drawstrings for secure, comfortable fits.

Face shields, safety glasses, and shoes, as well as hard hats and respirators, significantly enhance PPE protection and ensure comprehensive safety.

Common PPE Mistakes to Avoid

Proper training on the use of PPE is critical. Employers must provide sufficient protection and comprehensive training, emphasizing the proper use and regular inspection of PPE. Common mistakes include: 

  • Wearing gear incorrectly
  • Skipping inspections and maintenance
  • Covering reflective material with logos or accessories
  • Neglecting PPE maintenance, leading to reduced effectiveness

Customizing PPE Without Sacrificing Safety

Want to add your company logo? No problem—but don’t cover reflective material. OSHA limits how much space logos can take up, so always check ANSI standards before customizing. It’s important that any customizations don’t mess with the gear’s performance or visibility, as that can put your crew at risk in dangerous conditions. Safety and visibility should always come first.

TireSocks Tip: Custom branding is great for team visibility and company pride—just place it strategically so your crew stays compliant. Contact us for custom logos and branding options.

Industry-Specific Hi-Vis Gear

PPE requirements vary across industries. Specific job sites require PPE tailored to the unique challenges faced by workers in the construction, manufacturing, or transportation sectors. TireSocks offers specialized gear, including high-visibility shirts, jackets, pants, and headwear designed to address industry-specific safety and health requirements.

Invest in PPE That Works As Hard As You Do

The right hi-vis PPE isn’t just about staying compliant—it’s about staying safe, comfortable, and effective on the job through the proper use of personal protective equipment. Buy once, buy right, and don’t settle for cheap gear that falls apart.

Find gear that holds up. Check out TireSocks’ Hi-Vis PPE now.