How to Choose the Right Hi-Vis Vest: A Complete Guide for 2025

Whether you’re working on a construction site, in a logistics hub, or managing outdoor events, a high-quality hi-vis vest is more than just a uniform—it's a critical part of workplace safety. With so many options available today, selecting the right hi-vis vest can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down what to look for in a safety vest and introduces five top-rated models designed to meet various professional needs in hi vis workwear Germany and beyond.

Why High-Visibility Vests Matter

High-visibility (hi-vis) clothing is essential for keeping workers visible in hazardous environments, especially where vehicles or machinery are present. A hi-vis vest makes it easier for others to spot you from a distance, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

In Europe, visibility clothing is governed by standards such as EN ISO 20471 and EN 17353, which classify garments based on their visibility performance in different environments.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hi-Vis Vest

1. Certification Level

Before purchasing a vest, check if it complies with the appropriate safety standard.

• EN ISO 20471 is the go-to certification for professional high-risk environments.
• Class 1 provides the lowest level of visibility, suitable for low-risk jobs.
• Class 2 is appropriate for higher-risk settings, such as roadwork or logistics hubs.
• EN 17353 is used for medium-risk non-professional activities, like cycling or delivery work in low-traffic areas.

2. Color and Reflective Tape

Bright fluorescent colors like yellow and orange are commonly used for daytime visibility, while reflective strips are essential for nighttime safety. The amount and placement of reflective tape influence the certification level.

3. Fabric Type and Breathability

Depending on your working environment, you may need a more breathable mesh fabric or a heavier, solid polyester for durability and warmth.

4. Functionality and Storage

Look for pockets, ID holders, pen compartments, or D-rings based on your job requirements. A vest with practical storage can improve workflow efficiency.

Top 5 Hi-Vis Vests to Consider in 2025

To help you narrow down your options, here are five outstanding hi-vis vests from WERKVIS, a professional workwear dealer based in Cologne, Germany, specializing in European-designed hi vis workwear.

🔸WV201 – Basic Hi-Vis Vest with Multiple Solid Colors

Key Features:

• Available in solid Yellow, Orange, and other single solid colors (no color blocking)
• Lightweight 120gsm polyester tricot
• Certified EN ISO 20471 Class 2 for Yellow and Orange
• Certified EN 17353 Type B3 for other solid colors
• Sewn reflective tape
• Velcro front closure

Use Case & Description:

The WV201 vest offers a range of solid color options to suit various work environments. The fluorescent Yellow and Orange variants meet the strict EN ISO 20471 Class 2 standard for high visibility in demanding workplaces, while other solid color versions (such as solid blue, green, or others) comply with the EN 17353 Type B3 standard, suitable for moderate-risk, low-traffic settings.

This vest’s simple design, with sewn reflective strips and adjustable Velcro fastening, makes it an affordable and reliable choice for warehouse teams, event staff, and light industrial workers who need certified visibility without complex features.

🔸2. WV202 – Lightweight Mesh Vest for Active Work

Key Features:

• Available in fluorescent yellow and orange
• EN ISO 20471 Class 2 compliant
• Lightweight mesh fabric for better ventilation
• Full-length zipper and reflective tape

Product Insight:

When you need breathability without compromising visibility, WV202 is a solid choice. Made from mesh polyester, this high vis vest keeps you cool on warm days. It’s perfect for warehouse workers, security personnel, or logistics staff who need mobility and comfort.

🔸 3. WV203 – Multi-Color Options for Varying Risk Levels

Key Features:

• Available in full yellow, full orange, yellow-orange, and yellow with other contrast colors
• Certified to EN ISO 20471 Class 2 (full yellow/orange and yellow-orange)
• Certified to Class 1 (yellow with other colors)
• Breathable mesh with front zipper
• Functional pockets and ID holder

Product Insight:

WV203 offers versatility with color-coded certification levels. If your team works across different job zones, this hi-vis vest helps distinguish roles while maintaining safety standards. A great solution for companies needing varied compliance within one uniform series.

🔸 4. WV204 – Heavy-Duty Utility Vest

Key Features:

• 120gsm solid polyester fabri
• Certified to EN ISO 20471 Class 2 (full yellow and yellow-orange)
• Certified to Class 1 (yellow with other colors)
• Two-way front zipper
• Multiple pockets including pen holder, ID holder, and two large flap pockets
• D-ring for ID/key attachment

Product Insight:

WV204 is tailored for professionals needing storage and structure. The solid polyester gives it a firmer shape, while the multiple compartments support fieldwork that requires tools and documentation. It’s especially suitable for site managers or field supervisors who need function and visibility.

Click the photo below to get more hi vis vests:

🔸 5. WV205 – Lightweight and Breathable with Utility

Key Features:

• 150gsm polyester corn mesh for flexibility
• EN ISO 20471 Class 2
• Soft, breathable construction
• Chest pocket with pen slot
• Transparent ID pocket
• Lower flap pockets
• D-ring for keycard/ID

Product Insight:

WV205 merges comfort with utility. It’s lightweight, highly breathable, and comes with all the storage features a worker might need on the go. Ideal for drivers, technicians, or anyone who needs long-day wearability without sacrificing functionality.

Where to Buy Hi-Vis Workwear in Germany?

If you’re looking for a workwear dealer in Germany that specializes in high-quality, certified hi vis workwear, WERKVIS is your go-to supplier. Based in Cologne with a European design team, WERKVIS offers fast delivery, fair return policies, and a growing reputation for reliability and performance. Whether you need standard hi-vis vests or more functional models, you’ll find gear that works as hard as you do.

Final Thoughts

Whether you need a breathable mesh vest for the summer, a utility model with storage, or a no-frills compliance vest, choosing the right hi vis vest depends on:

• Your work environment’s risk level
• The required EN standard and class
• Functionality like pockets or mesh
• Reliable sourcing from a certified workwear dealer

Each of the five vests introduced here—WV201, WV202, WV203, WV204, and WV205—offers unique strengths tailored to different industries and roles. By understanding certifications and matching features to your work conditions, you can ensure your team stays safe, comfortable, and compliant throughout the year.