How to Choose the Right Reflective Vest for Running at Night

You may have heard the rumors. You know, the ones about those crazy running enthusiasts who wear their vests at night, avoid roads, and prefer to cross rivers rather than follow them? But there’s truth in them too! Running after sunset not only offers you a chance to see your surroundings more fully and enjoy the peace, security, and serenity they bring, but it also allows you to take advantage of all the benefits of “dim light running”. While most people may be unaware of this running trend even being around, other runners are increasingly using vests for night running as a way to improve their performance and increase their chances of success by keeping themselves safe.

What is Dim Light Running?
Running at night is often referred to as dim light running, or DLR. And that’s because the amount of visible light at night is much less than that of the day, giving you a much different experience of running in the dark. Unlike the bright daylight where you’re more likely to spot any hazards, at night the only things you may notice are yourself and the scenery around you. This means that you’re much more likely to trip or collide with other things – or worse, not notice any hazards until it’s too late! DLR runners are more aware of their surroundings and can spot potential hazards, such as intersections with streetlights or parked cars in the distance, before they can cause damage or put themselves in danger.


Why Use a Reflective Vest for Night Running?
Vests for night running are great for visibility. Not only are you more likely to be seen by other runners, cars, and other pedestrians in the dark, but wearing a reflective vest also allows you to spot hazards, such as potholes, uneven road surfaces, and other things that may be lurking in the dark. A vest is also a great safety device for runners who might not be confident enough to use lights or other reflective gear during their runs. Vests let you leave a visible trail that other runners can follow and use as a form of protection, allowing you to stay more confident while running more safely.

What to Look for in a Vest for Night Running

It can be difficult to know what to look for in a vest for night running, as there are so many different styles and brands on the market. We’ve compiled a list of the things you should keep an eye out for if you’re looking for a vest for night running. Moves with color: Vests with patterns or bright colors may unintentionally draw the eye and make it harder to see the surroundings. Try looking for vests with a color that complements the surrounding area, such as forest green for a forest trail, or navy blue for a naval path. Movement: A vest that’s too bulky or heavy may cause you to move more slowly, which may not only make you harder to spot, but also more likely to trip or fall. Make sure the vest you choose is light enough to allow you to move freely while keeping you safe.


Types of Reflective Vests for Night Running
Vests can be broken down into a few different categories, depending on how they’re designed and what they’re made of.

Strapped: Strapped vests are the most traditional type, and are generally made of thin plastic fabric. They’re attached with a strap that goes around your shoulders, allowing you to move freely while keeping the vest in place. Whichever way you run, you’ll want a vest with a strap that can be adjusted to fit snugly around your shoulders. Whichever way you run, you’ll want a vest with a strap that can be adjusted to fit snugly around your shoulders.

Light: Light vests are the most versatile type since they’re designed to keep you visible in both day and night conditions. They’re made from a breathable fabric that lets you move freely without feeling weighed down, while still offering plenty of protection from debris and hazards.

Made for Runners: It’s also worth highlighting the growing number of vests designed specifically for runners. These may be worn for any outdoor activity, but have been designed with running in mind, to offer enhanced protection for runners.


Conclusion
There are so many benefits of running at night, from seeing your surroundings to taking advantage of low light conditions, that it’s worth putting a little more effort into finding the right gear. A reflective vest is a great way to stay visible and protect yourself from potential hazards, while also improving your running experience. They may not be for everyone, but if you’re interested in giving it a try, make sure you’re equipped with everything you need.