High-visibility jackets are typically made from a combination of fluorescent materials and retroreflective strips to enhance visibility in various lighting conditions. The main fabric used is often polyester, which is durable, lightweight, and resistant to environmental factors like moisture and UV radiation. Polyester is commonly chosen for its ability to hold bright, fluorescent colors such as neon yellow, orange, or green, which are crucial for daytime visibility.
The fluorescent materials work by converting UV light from the sun into visible light, making the jacket appear brighter. This is particularly effective during daylight hours or in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.
For nighttime visibility, high-visibility jackets incorporate retroreflective strips. These strips are usually made from materials like glass beads or microprismatic tape. Glass bead technology involves embedding tiny glass spheres in a reflective layer, which reflects light back towards its source, such as car headlights. Microprismatic tape, on the other hand, uses small prisms to achieve a similar reflective effect, often providing higher reflectivity than glass beads.
The combination of fluorescent fabric and retroreflective strips ensures that the wearer is visible in a wide range of conditions, from daylight to complete darkness. The design and placement of these materials on the jacket are also crucial, often covering key areas like the torso, arms, and shoulders to maximize visibility from all angles.
In addition to these materials, high-visibility jackets may include features like waterproof coatings, breathable linings, and adjustable closures to enhance comfort and functionality for the wearer in various work environments.