Top 5 Things to Look for in a Quality Hi-Vis Safety Shirt

When you’re on a jobsite, your hi-vis shirt isn’t just clothing — it’s a safety tool. But not all hi-vis shirts are made the same. Many inexpensive options fade quickly, lose reflectivity, or fit like a box, making them uncomfortable and less effective over time. Here are five key things to look for when choosing a high-quality hi-vis safety shirt.

1. Moisture-Wicking, Breathable Fabric

A good hi-vis shirt should keep you cool and dry, especially during long shifts. Look for birdseye or mesh polyester that wicks sweat away instead of trapping heat.

2. ANSI Compliance

Make sure the shirt meets ANSI/ISEA 107 standards (Class 2 or Class 3 depending on your job). This ensures your shirt meets visibility requirements for both daytime and nighttime work.

3. UV-Resistant Color

Cheaper shirts fade fast under sunlight, losing their fluorescent brightness — which also makes them non-compliant. A UV-treated fabric stays bright longer and maintains visibility.

4. Durable Reflective Tape

Reflective tape comes in different types: heat-transfer, sewn-on, and segmented. Segmented tape offers the best flexibility and comfort, while high-quality laminated tape lasts longer and avoids peeling.

5. A Better Fit

Most budget hi-vis shirts are oversized and boxy. A more athletic or tailored fit improves mobility and comfort, especially when you’re bending, reaching, or wearing gear over it.

At HivisPro, we design hi-vis shirts using durable, breathable fabric and improved cuts for a better fit. Whether you’re working construction, traffic control, or warehouse operations, choosing quality gear makes a difference.