What is the difference between a class 2 and class 3 high-vis?

Hi-vis specifications in the United Kingdom are based on the ISO 20471 Standard. This standard specifies the testing needed for hi-vis workwear to make sure it is fit for purpose. It also helps to classify the different types of hi-vis workwear garments, so that we know what level of visibility is needed in different environments to ensure the safety of staff. A class 2 high-vis is suited to moderate-risk working environments, including working near vehicles going under 40mph. However, class 3 hi-vis garments are required if you are working near a motorway or dual carriage way. It’s important to note, you can adapt the classification of your hi-vis outfit, by wearing multiple hi-vis garments at one time. For example, if you wear a class 2 hi-vis vest and a class 2 pair of hi-vis trousers they can equal a class 3 hi-vis ensemble. Check out our guide to hi-vis workwear here.

Why do tradies wear hi-vis?

High-vis clothing are commonly worn in working environments where people are working with or around hazardous materials and machinery. It is essential for workers to wear hi-vis clothing on construction sites, due to the amount of large machinery on site. Operators of these vehicles not only need to be seen for their own safety, but they need to be able to clearly see every potential hazard on site, including their colleagues. The bright colours and reflective materials of high-vis clothing ensure that workers can see each other clearly. Each worker will stand out from each other and their busy environment. This visibility is crucial in keeping every worker safe on site.

What is the British standard for hi-vis?

Previously, the British standard for hi vis clothing was the BS EN 471. However, this was replaced by the ISO 20471 in 2013. In the UK, we now follow the ISO 20471 as our standard for hi-vis clothing. The ISO 20471 standard ensures that hi vis garments are properly tested to record their performance and level of visibility. High-vis garments are split into the different classification levels: 1, 2 or 3, so that the right level of visibility is worn to match the environment.

Is black hi-vis legal?

Whilst black hi-vis vests are not illegal in the UK, they do not comply with the standards set by the ISO 20471. To be compliant with this standard, hi-vis clothing needs to consist of fluorescent fabric and reflective strips and black hi vis does not fit this description. Black hi-vis clothing is commonly worn by security personnel and event staff, or anyone who is in an indoor or low visibility risk setting. They are great for identification, but do not perform highly enough to comply with ISO 20471. Black can be used as a contrast colour on hardwearing sections of a hi-vis garment, but the need for the majority of the garment to be made out of fluorescent materials remains.

What is the best hi-vis colour?

The most common hi-vis colours that are compliant with ISO 20471 are yellow and orange. But the best hi-vis colour is yellow. Not only is it the preferred colour choice in the majority of workplaces, yellow is one of the most fluorescent colours that can help to keep you seen and safe. Yellow is a brilliant colour choice for your hi-vis if you work on a building site, in a dark warehouse or in a busy factory, as you will stand out against your background. But, if yellow is a colour that is used for signals or is commonly found in your working environment, orange is the second best choice for your hi-vis.

What is the best hi-vis colour?

The most common hi-vis colours that are compliant with ISO 20471 are yellow and orange. But the best hi-vis colour is yellow. Not only is it the preferred colour choice in the majority of workplaces, yellow is one of the most fluorescent colours that can help to keep you seen and safe. Yellow is a brilliant colour choice for your hi-vis if you work on a building site, in a dark warehouse or in a busy factory, as you will stand out against your background. But, if yellow is a colour that is used for signals or is commonly found in your working environment, orange is the second best choice for your hi-vis.

Men’s Hi Vis Jackets & Coats | Affordable High Visibility Workwear

Our range of hi-vis coats combines trusted protection with professional comfort, offering safety solutions from leading brands such as Portwest, Regatta, and Result. Designed to meet EN ISO 20471 standards, these coats ensure maximum visibility in low-light or high-risk environments. Available in sizes ranging from S to 6XL, they provide inclusive options for all of your team. Whether you're looking for a lightweight hi-vis rain jacket or a padded winter parka, each garment is tailored with functionality in mind—offering features like waterproof outer shells, breathable linings, storm flaps, and multiple secure pockets.

With high-performance materials such as polyester Oxford fabric, PU coatings, and quilted insulation, our hi-vis coats are built for durability and comfort across demanding roles in construction, transport, rail, and roadside maintenance. Popular colour options include traditional yellow and orange, often with reflective tape for 360° visibility. To enhance brand identity, we also provide in-house customisation, including embroidery and printing for logos, job titles, or department names. Whether you’re outfitting a full workforce or sourcing individual pieces, our hi-vis coats deliver safety without compromising on professional presentation.

Don't Have Time?

Let us do the hard work for you!

Hi-Vis Categories

Portwest Hi‑Vis Winter Bomber Jacket S463 Product Code: PW_S463

Yoko Hi‑Vis Classic Bomber Jacket Product Code: YK200

Yoko Hi‑Vis Two Tone Motorway Jacket Product Code: YK204

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Softshell (3L) T402 Product Code: PW_T402

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Soft Shell Jacket Product Code: RS117

Portwest DX4 Hi‑Vis Detachable... Product Code: PW_DX445

Uneek Road Safety Jacket Product Code: UC803

Uneek High Visibility Bomber Jacket Product Code: UC804

Portwest Hi‑Vis Winter Traffic Jacket S460 Product Code: PW_S460

Portwest Hi‑Vis Rain Lite Bomber Jacket S161 Product Code: PW_S161

Portwest Hi‑Vis Contrast Winter... Product Code: PW_S466

Portwest Iona Lite Traffic Jacket S433 Product Code: PW_S433

Portwest Hi‑Vis 3‑in‑1... Product Code: PW_C469

Portwest Hi‑Vis Contrast Rain Lite... Product Code: PW_S166

Portwest Hi‑Vis 3‑in‑1... Product Code: PW_C465

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Winter Jacket T400 Product Code: PW_T400

Portwest Hi‑Vis Rain Jacket H440 Product Code: PW_H440

Portwest Hi‑Vis Breathable Winter... Product Code: PW_S461

Portwest Iona Winter Bomber Jacket S434 Product Code: PW_S434

Portwest Classic Iona Rain Jacket F440 Product Code: PW_F440

Portwest Hi‑Vis 3‑in‑1 Bomber Jacket C467 Product Code: PW_C467

Portwest Hi‑Vis Contrast Softshell (3L) S429 Product Code: PW_S429

Result Core Hi‑Vis Motorway Coat Product Code: RS218

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis 3‑in‑1 Jacket PW365 Product Code: PW_PW365