Proviz REFLECT360 Gilet Review

If you have followed my blog for a while, you will know that safety is a big concern for me and I stress the importance of safety a lot.  You can never expect that drivers will see you in a bike lane next to the road, but there are some lights and clothing that will increase your visibility.

Proviz was started in London by two brothers who worked corporate jobs and commuted by bicycle.  They used equipment to help them be more visible but realized that there was a void in the market that they wanted to fill. The first device they invented was an electroluminescent light pack.  The company’s most popular products are in the REFLECT360 series which was introduced in 2014.  It is unique because it uses 100% reflective materials, which look grey in the daytime, but is highly reflective at night.  The REFLECT360 series includes jackets, gilets, vests, backpacks, helmet covers and more. 

I am reviewing the REFLECT360 gilet.  First of all, I was absolutely shocked by how reflective it really was.  The tag that came with the gilet, which is similar to a vest, said to take a picture with your camera’s flash on.  I have included pictures with my flash on and off so you can see the difference. 

The gilet has several features that really make a difference.  The shoulders are fitted, which works hand in hand with the armholes.  They hug your arms so there is no excess material, which would allow air to get in and cool you off.   They don’t restrict arm movement either.  There are two zippered side pockets where you can put your gloves, a hat, or your phone.  The back of the gilet is perforated to allow heat and moisture to escape.  There are zipper pull tags so you don’t need to take your gloves off to get your pockets open.  There is a softer material around the neck area for comfort as well.

I was very pleased with the fit and function of the REFLECT360 gilet.  It has been a little cold and the gilet allows me to keep my core a little warmer, while not totally overheating.  I noticed that my sweat made the reflective material work even better, not that it is a real selling point.  I believe that Proviz uses the same type of glass beads in their gear that is used in the striping of your local roads.  There really isn’t any comparison between this and other visibility products as far as what is more visible. 

Pros:

Decent Price as low as $52.97 (on Amazon)

Light weight and breathable

Makes you very visible to traffic

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This will be one of the products I feature in my running safety post where I provide the best safety products out there.  The REFLECT360gilet is comfortable, looks good, and it will make sure you are seen.  While you should still make sure to be a defensive runner and always pay attention to oncoming traffic, this is one product that could really help you to be safer.  You can pick yours up at the Proviz website or on Amazon. 

Note:  I received this product in exchange for a review.  The review is my personal opinion of the product and I was not required to give a particular opinion of it.  I am not a doctor, so please use all of the products that I review at your own risk.