The Best Reflective Running Gear of 2023

Best Overall

Noxgear Tracer360 Illuminated, Reflective Vest

4.8

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We selected the Noxgear Tracer360's vest as our top reflective running pick because it offers a combination of 360-degree illumination, reflectivity, and fluorescence. Unlike other reflective running vests, the Tracer360 is designed with flexible fiber optic cables that alert drivers before their headlights hit you. Its unique LED light illumination can switch between multiple high-visibility color options and flashing modes with the touch of a button. The X shape of the lights provides visibility from over a quarter-mile in all directions.

With a slim, low-profile design, the vest is extremely breathable, water- and sweat-resistant, and allows for a full range of motion. Minimal fabric-to-body contact helps prevent overheating and chafing, while the quick-click buckle makes it easy to get on and off. The straps are adjustable, so the vest can be shared among people of different sizes and can fit over several layers or a thick jacket in cold weather conditions.

Compared to most reflective gear, you’ll pay more for the Tracer360, but if safety is your priority, it’s well worth the investment.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Material: Mesh, plastic, fiber optic cable | Type: Vest | Sizes: Small, medium/large, extra-large | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Hand wash belt, spot clean battery pack}

Best Budget Vest

Nathan Streak Reflective Vest

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With 360-degree visibility at distances of up to 1,200 feet, the Nathan Streak Reflective Vest offers excellent visibility at a budget-friendly price. Featuring a neon yellow exterior, it has reflective strips on the shoulders and reflective patches on the chest, back, and waist. While some other running vests may have larger reflective elements or flashing lights, it gets the job done effectively.

The vest is crafted with a lightweight, breathable mesh fabric to keep you comfortable and dry as you’re running. It can be adjusted for an optimal fit, and because it's light and compact, it can be stashed in a small backpack or running belt during your run and put on when you need it. Another cool feature is that the reflective strips on the shoulders can hold clip-on lights if you want to add some more visibility.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Material: Mesh | Type: Vest | Sizes: Small/medium, large/extra-large | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Hand wash, hang dry}

Best Headlamp

BioLite Lumen Headlamp 330

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A must-have item if you run in the dark, a headlamp keeps you visible to oncoming traffic and also helps you see what’s in front of you. The BioLite HeadLamp is extremely powerful, with a max output of 330 lumens, and also includes red night vision and a flashing mode. It’s simple and straightforward to operate, although some users find the small power button to be clumsy at first.

Made with an ultra-thin band, it has a slim profile and sits on your forehead without bouncing or slipping. The band is also made with moisture-wicking Lycra to keep your head dry and comfortable. However, be aware that if the fabric starts to smell from sweat, it can be a bit tedious to hand wash since the lighting housing can’t be submerged in water. Easy-adjust clips offer a perfect fit every time, and runners appreciate the tilting front panel, lightweight feel, and rechargeable 40-hour battery.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Material: Lycra, plastic | Type: Headlamp | Sizes: One size (adjustable) | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Hand wash}

Best Budget Headlamp

Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp

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If you’re a dedicated runner who doesn’t let limited daylight hours keep you from running outside, you’ll appreciate the comfort, brightness, and budget-friendly price of this Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp. It’s lightweight and low-profile but extremely powerful, with a 300-lumen output. The headlamp’s three settings—including full strength, strobe, and dimming—let you customize it for your needs.

The dual-fuel design allows you to power it with three AAA alkaline batteries, which are included, as well as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (not included). The headlamp also has a convenient low-battery light indicator to let you know when it’s time to change them. However, the battery case has a very small clasp, so it can be a bit tricky to open.

The headlamp’s compact size makes it easy to stash in a pocket just in case. With the adjustable strap, you can get a customized, comfortable fit. And the weather-resistant housing can withstand rain or sleet from any angle, so you’ll be prepared if conditions deteriorate.

Price at time of publication: $20

^{Key Specs:
Material: Plastic, synthetic material | Type: Headlamp | Sizes: One size (adjustable) | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Hand wash}

Best Reflective Bands

HiVisible Reflective Bands

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For an affordable, low-tech way to improve your visibility and not have to worry about replacing or charging batteries, these reflective bands are an excellent option.

The lightweight, comfortable bands offer 360-degree reflectivity and high visibility. Versatile and fully adjustable, they can be strapped on your arms, ankles, or wrists without limiting your mobility. Once you secure them, they stay put, so you won’t get distracted by having to readjust them. Plus, the bands are long enough that they can easily fit over clothes, which may be the preferable way to wear them since some users note they can feel scratchy on bare skin.

The bands’ compact size means you can simply tuck them in your pocket or running belt, making them great functional running gear, along with reflective shoes (and insoles for flat feet if you overpronate), socks, and hat. Each set comes with four bands and a breathable mesh bag for storage.

Price at time of publication: $14

^{Key Specs:
Material: Polyester | Type: Bands | Sizes: One size (adjustable) | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Hand wash, air dry}

Best Jacket

PYRR Fully Reflective Running Jacket

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Rather than having reflective elements or trim on it, this entire PYRR jacket illuminates, creating a glowing, moving object that’s hard for drivers to miss. The jacket looks like a basic gray color, but once it gets hit with light, the whole jacket glows to an extremely bright, near-white.

Beyond its illumination, the jacket is comfortable, breathable, and water-repellent. It also has adjustable drawstrings on the bottom to achieve your ideal fit and keep out the elements. A hood with a cinch cord offers additional protection in inclement weather.

Two front side pockets can hold your essentials, although we’d prefer if they were zippered to make sure items are secure. This jacket is an ideal option for runners who want to make sure they’re seen at night, but don’t want a jacket with lots of reflective striping or elements on it.

Price at time of publication: $90

^{Key Specs:
Material: Polyester | Type: Jacket | Sizes: XS to 2XL | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Machine wash, hang dry}

Best Budget Jacket

BALEAF Men's Cycling Jacket, Windproof Vest Lightweight Running Biking Golf

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While running jackets with reflectivity can be pricey, this one from Baleaf is extremely comfortable and functional, at a budget-friendlier price. With its bright fluorescent yellow color, it already stands out, but the reflective elements on its front and back enhance your visibility even more.

The jacket is windproof and features a ventilation system in the back, so you stay dry and comfortable. Although it’s not waterproof, it’s water-resistant and has features such as a high, stand-up collar and elastic cuffs that help keep out the elements.

The zippered large back pocket and two hand pockets are convenient for stashing essentials such as your phone. Additionally, two interior pockets are large enough to stash gear such as gloves or a hat. What’s more, the sleeves are removable, so you can turn it into a vest with a couple of pulls of the zippers.

Price at time of publication: $46

^{Key Specs:
Material: Polyester | Type: Jacket | Sizes: XS to 3XL | Sweat-wicking: No | Care: Machine wash, hand dry}

Best for Winter

Tough Headwear Skull Cap Running Beanie

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With a ring of reflective lines around it, this beanie hat will help you stay visible at night while also protecting your head during cold winter weather. It has a soft, brushed thermal lining that retains heat and a breathable outer layer that wicks away sweat, keeping your noggin warm and dry.

Made with a blend of stretchy polyester and spandex, it accommodates all head sizes—making it suitable for men and women. The beanie’s flat seam construction allows for a comfortable fit and a smooth surface if you want to wear a headlamp on top of it. The hat isn’t thick and warm enough for very extreme conditions, but it’s ideal for cool or cold weather and is thin enough to be worn during other activities, such as cycling and skiing. And with a budget-friendly price, it’s a nice option for adding to your winter wardrobe, along with shoes for walking on ice.

Price at time of publication: $11

^{Key Specs:
Material: Polyester, spandex | Type: Hat | Sizes: One size | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry}

Best for Fall

Brooks Carbonite Reflective Running Vest

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As the days get shorter and colder in the fall, this versatile Brooks vest provides extra warmth and visibility during your runs. It features 3M Scotchlite reflectivity in targeted motion zones to help drivers recognize a moving runner from up to 600 feet away. The white and neon yellow pops of color will also make you noticeable in cloudy conditions.

The vest is designed with a breathable DriLayer Seal nylon fabric that allows excess heat to escape without letting water and wind in. If you do want to unzip for ventilation, the draft flap snaps keep the vest in place. Additionally, with two zippered hand pockets and a zippered chest pocket, there’s plenty of room to keep your tech and valuables safe. The vest comes in a wide range of sizes but does run small, so you may want to size up.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key Specs:
Material: DriLayer Seal nylon, spandex | Type: Vest | Sizes: XS to XXL | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Hand wash, hand dry}

Best for Summer

Amphipod Xinglet Strobe Plus Reflective Vest

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In hot weather conditions, this lightweight, minimalist reflective vest is an ideal way for runners to increase their visibility without overheating. Its airy design features soft, adjustable straps that offer 360-degree reflectivity and allow for a full range of motion. Plus, the vest has integrated, bright three-bulb flashing LEDs in the front and back for added visibility zones.

With a convenient clip closure, the vest is quick and easy to get on and off. The super-efficient LEDs are simple to activate with the touch of a button and have a long battery life. One downside of the streamlined design is that, unlike other running vests, it doesn’t have any pockets or other storage options to hold your phone or other essentials. However, it’s an excellent option to make yourself seen without adding a lot of extra weight.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, polyester, elastic | Type: Vest | Sizes: One size (adjustable) | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Hand wash}

Best Running Hat

TrailHeads Performance Running Hat

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This bright running hat from TrailHeads is ideal for increasing your visibility and keeping you comfortable, no matter the weather. In cloudy and wet conditions, the vibrant neon yellow stands out, while the wide brim keeps the rain off your face. If the weather changes and the sun pops out, the dark underbill reduces glare and shades your face. Meanwhile, the reflective trim around the bill and on the rear closure enhances your nighttime visibility.

Made with super lightweight polyester, the hat protects your head without weighing you down. Even better, it’s breathable and moisture-wicking, so your head stays cool, dry, and comfortable. The adjustable Velcro closure delivers a custom-like fit and accommodates a wide range of head sizes, although it might be too snug for large heads.

Price at time of publication: $22

^{Key Specs:
Material: Polyester | Type: Running hat | Sizes: One size (adjustable) | Sweat-wicking: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold on a delicate cycle or hand wash; air dry}

Best Reflective Tape

Gear Aid Reflective Tape

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Reflective tape is a simple, cost-effective way to add more reflectivity to running clothes and gear. This convenient peel-and-stick tape features high-visibility glass bead technology to help you be seen in low-light conditions. It’s washable, will stick to almost anything, and won’t peel off over time.

Though it comes in a convenient roll, it isn't pre-cut—meaning you'll have to use a pair of scissors to cut it into the shape you need for your next run. Durable and weather-resistant, the tape is easy to apply and sticks well to outerwear, running shoes, bikes, backpacks, and even pet collars. If you have a favorite jacket or other running apparel that you want to wear at night, it’s an easy, low-cost way to add more reflectivity.

Price at time of publication: $8

^{Key Specs:
Material: N/A | Type: Reflective tape | Sizes: 3 x 20 inches | Sweat-wicking: No | Care: Machine washable, hang dry}

Best Phone Armband

Tribe Reflective Phone Armband

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In case of an emergency, it’s always a smart idea to carry your phone when you’re running, especially at night or early in the morning. This phone armband serves a dual purpose, giving you a place to comfortably store your phone while boosting your visibility.

It’s coated with a patented nano-sheen, reflective material that helps you be seen in low-light conditions. Made with a premium blend of Lycra and neoprene, the armband is comfortable, breathable, and adjustable, so you get a perfect fit.

The touchscreen cover allows you to easily access your phone while it’s in the case, which is helpful since it can be tough to remove the phone once it’s in there. Plus, the armband is water- and sweat-resistant, so your phone stays protected from water and sweat.

Price at time of publication: $15

^{Key Specs:
Material: Lycra, neoprene | Type: Phone armband | Sizes: Small, medium, large | Sweat-wicking: No | Care: Hand wash, air dry}

Best Clip-on Lights

Whole Human LED Safety Lights – 2 Pack

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These lightweight, super-bright lights will help you stay safe and visible when you’re running after dark. They come with five high-powered LEDs per light and feature three lighting modes—steady, slow flash, or fast flash (strobe)—to help you be seen by oncoming traffic. Plus, they’re weather-proof, so they’ll keep working through rainy or snowy conditions.

With the strong, no-slip clip, you can securely attach them to your belt, shoelaces, bike, running gear, helmet, dog collar, or clothes. It may be challenging to clip them to thick or bulky materials, but the lights also come with two long, elastic Velcro straps to fasten them around your arms or ankles. Additionally, you get two sets of high-capacity batteries and a mini-screwdriver for easy battery replacement.

Price at time of publication: $13

^{Key Specs:
Material: Plastic, stainless steel, Velcro | Type: Clip-on lights | Sizes: ‎2 x 2 x 1.5 inches | Sweat-wicking: No | Care: Not applicable}