Safety jackets–also called high-visibility or “hi-vis” jackets–do more than make workers visible. They serve as critical protective equipment that helps prevent accidents, ensures regulatory compliance, and allows teams to work confidently in hazardous conditions. Whether you manage a road crew working in low light or oversee logistics operations in busy shipping yards, choosing the right hi-vis jacket directly impacts worker protection and job site efficiency.
The best custom safety jackets balance multiple demands: they meet ANSI visibility standards, protect against harsh weather, provide comfort during long shifts, and maintain a professional appearance with custom branding. We've identified six safety jackets that consistently deliver on these requirements across different industries and working conditions. Each recommendation includes specific insights on customization options, helping you create branded safety wear that serves both protection and professional identity. Let’s start with a quick breakdown of what to look for.
Top Features of Popular Safety Jackets
What sets leading safety jackets apart from basic high-visibility gear? Let's go over the key features that make certain jackets consistently popular across demanding industries and environments.
- Compliance: Popular safety jackets are designed to meet ANSI/ISEA 107 standards for high-visibility apparel, ensuring workers are protected according to the required Class 1, 2, or 3 compliance for their job environment. This guarantees that the jacket provides the necessary visibility and safety features mandated for specific risk levels and work settings.
- Reflectivity: These jackets feature 360° reflective tape, strategically placed around the torso, shoulders, and often sleeves, with required widths (typically 2 inches for Class 3) to ensure workers are visible from all angles in both daylight and low-light conditions. Proper tape placement is critical for outlining the human form and maximizing safety, especially at night or near moving vehicles.
- Weather resistance: Modern safety jackets offer a range of weather protection, including windproof and waterproof shells, insulated linings for cold climates, or breathable materials for active work in milder conditions. Features like fully seam-sealed construction, water-repellent finishes, and adjustable hoods help keep workers comfortable and dry in challenging environments.
- Durability: Built to withstand harsh job site conditions, these jackets use tough fabrics like ripstop or Oxford polyester and reinforced stitching to resist abrasion, tearing, and daily wear. Durability ensures that the jacket maintains its protective features and appearance even after repeated use and laundering.
- Comfort & fit: Safety jackets are designed to be lightweight yet warm. They have ergonomic cuts and adjustable elements such as cuffs, hems, and waists to allow layering over uniforms and freedom of movement. Comfort features like fleece linings, vented backs, and elasticized components help ensure the jacket can be worn for long shifts without restricting mobility.
- Customization zone: Most jackets provide designated areas for company logos or identification, typically on the chest or back, without interfering with reflective tape or high-visibility zones. Customization is carefully managed to maintain compliance and visibility, with embroidery or print limited to approved sections of the garment.
- Use case popularity: These safety jackets are widely chosen across industries such as transportation, construction, logistics, utilities, and public works. Their combination of compliance, visibility, and weather protection makes them a trusted choice for teams working in environments where safety and performance are paramount.
Our 6 Most Popular Safety Jackets
In our years customizing safety gear, these six jackets have consistently earned top marks from both customers and our product specialists. Each combines proven durability with smart features that make sense on the job, whether you're managing a road crew through winter storms or keeping delivery teams visible during early morning routes.
1. CornerStone Class 3 Waterproof 3-In-1 Safety Parka (CSJ502)
Best for: All-weather versatility and maximum adaptability on high-visibility job sites
This 3-in-1 parka stands out for its ultra versatile design, allowing wearers to use the waterproof shell, the inner fleece hoodie, or both together for layered protection. The outer shell is made from durable 300-denier ripstop polyester with a water-repellent finish and fully seam-sealed construction, ensuring robust defense against rain and wind. It meets ANSI 107 Class 3 standards for high visibility, featuring 2-inch reflective tape for 360-degree visibility. Key features include a removable hood, multiple secure pockets, including a tablet pocket and retractable ID holder, vented cape back, and easy embroidery access. The inner fleece hoodie, while non-ANSI, adds warmth and can be worn separately for less hazardous environments.
This parka is ideal for workers who face rapidly changing weather conditions, such as construction supervisors, utility crews, or transportation personnel who need both visibility and adaptability. Compared to single-layer jackets, the 3-in-1 design offers unmatched flexibility, making it suitable for year-round use in cold, wet winters or milder, dry conditions. Its premium construction and compliance level make it a top choice for those who require both comfort and safety in demanding environments. Available in Safety Yellow and offered in sizes S-5XL at a moderate price point.
Tips: For customization, stick with printing methods rather than embroidery to maintain the jacket's waterproof integrity. The design offers several strategic decoration areas: a clear zone on the left chest below the reflective stripe, ample space on the center back, and the option for smaller prints on the bicep area of either sleeve. These print locations ensure your branding remains visible while preserving the jacket's critical safety features and weather protection.
2. CornerStone Class 3 Economy Waterproof Safety Jacket (CSJ500)
Best for: Budget-friendly, insulated protection for cold and wet job sites
The Economy Waterproof Safety Jacket offers reliable waterproofing and insulation at a moderate price point, making it a popular choice for cost-conscious teams. Constructed with a 300-denier Oxford polyester shell and 5.2-ounce polyfill insulation, it provides warmth and weather resistance for outdoor work. The jacket meets ANSI 107 Class 3 standards, ensuring high visibility with 2-inch reflective tape and a choice of safety yellow or orange. Additional features include a removable hood, multiple pockets for storage, and black accents to mask dirt.
This jacket is best suited for road crews, warehouse workers, or delivery drivers who need dependable cold-weather protection and visibility without extra bulk or premium features. It's a practical alternative to heavier parkas or bombers, offering a balance between warmth, compliance, and affordability. Compared to more advanced models, it's streamlined for essential protection, making it ideal for outfitting larger teams or temporary staff. Available in Safety Orange and Safety Yellow, with sizes ranging from S-5XL.
Tips: When customizing this jacket, printing methods work best to maintain waterproof integrity. Several strategic decoration areas allow for effective branding: a compact print zone on the pocket, room for small logos on the sleeve bicep, and space on the center back (avoiding reflective stripes). The area below the reflective stripe works particularly well for horizontal text like team roles or department names, creating a professional look while maintaining safety compliance.
3. CornerStone Class 3 Safety Windbreaker (CSJ25)
Best for: Lightweight, water-resistant protection for mild and rainy conditions
The Safety Windbreaker is designed for those who need high visibility and weather resistance without the bulk of insulation. Made from 100% polyester with a PU-coated shell, it boasts an impressive 8000 mm waterproof rating, making it highly effective against rain and wind. The jacket meets ANSI 107 Class 3 standards with 2-inch reflective tape for full visibility, and features include a removable hood, adjustable cuffs, zippered pockets, and a drawcord hem for a custom fit.
This windbreaker is ideal for landscapers, event staff, or delivery personnel working in warmer climates or during rainy spring and summer days. It's a great alternative to heavier jackets, providing essential protection and compliance without overheating the wearer. Compared to insulated or multi-layer options, it excels in breathability and comfort for active jobs that require frequent movement. Available in Safety Yellow only, with sizes from S-4XL at a moderate price point.
Tips: For decoration, there are generous print areas on the left chest, sleeve, and center back. When customizing safety yellow jackets, black ink is the best option for achieving proper contrast and visibility (white or other colors won't provide the necessary definition). Keep designs clean and simple, focusing on bold, easy-to-read elements that maintain their impact at a distance. This approach ensures your branding remains clear while preserving the jacket's essential safety features.
4. Port Authority Enhanced Visibility Safety Jacket (SRJ754)
Best for: Enhanced visibility in low-light, non-ANSI settings with moderate weather protection
This jacket offers a blend of warmth, comfort, and enhanced visibility. It features a water-resistant polyester shell and a soft fleece lining. While it does not meet ANSI standards, it incorporates 2-inch reflective taping on the front, back, and sleeves to improve visibility in low-light environments. The rib knit cuffs and waistband ensure a snug fit, and multiple zippered pockets provide secure storage options.
Best suited for warehouse staff, parking attendants, or school crossing guards who need to be seen but are not required to meet ANSI compliance. It's also a good choice for company branding or teamwear in logistics and delivery services. Compared to ANSI-rated jackets, it's less suited for high-risk roadwork but offers comfort and visibility for less hazardous, controlled environments. Available in Safety Yellow and Safety Orange, with an extensive size range from XS-6XL at a moderate price point.
Tips: This jacket offers several strategic decoration areas despite the reflective striping. The upper back collar area provides a clean spot for branding, while the traditional left chest position remains a reliable choice. The bicep area offers additional space for smaller logos or text. When working with the Safety Orange version, white ink can create effective contrast, expanding design options beyond basic black.
5. Carhartt Class 3 Waterproof Heavyweight Insulated Jacket (CT106694)
Best for: Extreme cold, wet, and hazardous conditions requiring maximum durability and visibility
Carhartt's heavyweight insulated jacket is engineered for the harshest environments, with a rugged polyester shell, waterproof membrane, and Rain Defender® technology. It meets ANSI 107 Class 3, Type R standards, featuring segmented reflective material for breathability and fully-taped seams for complete waterproofing. The quilted, brushed polyester lining delivers exceptional warmth, while ergonomic sleeve hems and storm cuffs provide a secure, weatherproof fit. Utility bands, multiple pockets, and a snap-on, quilt-lined hood add to its functionality.
This jacket is ideal for utility workers, road construction crews, or anyone exposed to extreme cold, wind, and precipitation. It's especially valuable for night shifts or winter operations where both warmth and visibility are critical. Compared to other jackets in this lineup, it offers the highest level of insulation and ruggedness, making it the go-to for the most demanding job sites. Available in Safety Yellow only, with sizes ranging from S-4XL at a premium price point.
Tips: The jacket's technical construction limits customization options: the front area isn't recommended for decoration due to its complex design features. While the back offers some space between reflective stripes, be mindful of the center seam which divides the decoration area. For most applications, the upper sleeve near the shoulder provides the most practical location for your logo or design, ensuring visibility while maintaining the jacket's technical integrity and protective features.
6. CornerStone Class 3 Waterproof Bomber Safety Jacket (CSJ501)
Best for: Everyday job site use with a balance of warmth, waterproofing, and mobility
The Bomber Safety Jacket combines a weather-fighting, waterproof shell with moderate insulation, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of outdoor work. It features a 300-denier ripstop shell, microfleece lining, quilted polyfill insulation, and a removable, insulated hood. Meeting ANSI 107 Class 3 standards, it provides 360-degree visibility with 2-inch reflective tape, and includes practical touches like mic clips, a tablet pocket, and easy embroidery access.
This jacket is well-suited for construction workers, public works crews, or utility staff who need reliable protection and visibility in cool to moderately cold conditions. It offers more warmth than a windbreaker but is less bulky than a parka or heavyweight insulated jacket, making it ideal for active jobs that require frequent movement and tool access. Its bomber style also appeals to teams looking for a professional, streamlined look without sacrificing safety. Available in Safety Yellow only, with sizes from S-5XL at a moderate price point.
Tips: This jacket offers multiple decoration zones to suit different branding. The front left pocket provides space for a compact logo, while the back offers two distinct areas: a clean zone above the reflective stripe for standard logos and a wider area below the stripe that can accommodate larger designs. The sleeve bicep area gives you an additional option for smaller branding elements.
How to Choose the Right Safety Jacket for Your Team
Finding the right safety jacket means balancing protection requirements with practical job needs. Here's what to consider when outfitting your team with high-visibility protection.
Class Compliance - A Quick Explainer
ANSI/ISEA 107 standards categorize safety jackets into three main classes based on the level of risk and visibility required for different work environments. Class 1 jackets are designed for low-risk settings with minimal traffic (under 25 mph), such as warehouses or sidewalk repair, and feature the least amount of high-visibility material and reflective striping. Class 2 jackets provide increased visibility for moderate-risk environments with traffic speeds up to 50 mph, such as construction zones or public safety roles; these jackets have more background and reflective material than Class 1. Class 3 jackets offer the highest level of visibility, required for high-risk environments like highway construction or night work where traffic exceeds 50 mph or conditions are especially hazardous; these jackets have the most extensive coverage of high-visibility fabric and reflective tape, often including sleeves for maximum conspicuity.
Weather Conditions: Match Insulation to Climate (Thermal vs. Shell vs. Breathable)
Selecting the right insulation level is critical to keeping your team comfortable and safe throughout the workday. Insulated jackets are best for cold climates and low-activity roles, offering warmth with synthetic or down fill, while shell jackets provide lightweight, wind- and water-resistant protection without internal warmth-ideal for layering and high-activity jobs. For variable conditions, look for jackets with removable liners or 3-in-1 systems that allow workers to adapt to changing temperatures. Breathable materials and ventilation features are important for active roles or milder climates, as they help prevent overheating and moisture buildup inside the jacket.
Job Role Consideration
The specific tasks and hazards associated with each job role should guide your jacket selection. For example, traffic control, highway construction, and emergency response require Class 3 jackets due to the high risk and need for maximum visibility-especially at night or in poor weather. Warehouse workers, delivery drivers, or parking attendants may only need Class 1 or 2 jackets, depending on their proximity to moving vehicles and the complexity of their work environment. Always assess the typical job site, traffic speeds, background complexity, and regulatory requirements before choosing a jacket, as providing the correct compliance level is both a legal and safety necessity.
Safety Colors
Safety jackets come in high-visibility colors (aka fluorescent) approved by ANSI: yellow (often called "safety yellow" or "safety green"), orange ("safety orange"), and red. These colors are chosen for their ability to stand out against most backgrounds and in various lighting conditions. Orange is widely used in road construction and survey work for its association with caution, while yellow is favored in environments where maximum visibility is needed in both daylight and low-light situations. Both orange and yellow meet regulatory standards and provide excellent visibility; the choice often depends on industry norms, site conditions, and personal or organizational preference.
Customization Options
Adding your company logo or text to safety jackets requires careful consideration of decoration methods that won't compromise safety features. Most jackets offer designated print areas on the chest or back, avoiding interference with reflective elements. Small embroidered chest logos work well on some materials, while screen printing and heat transfer vinyl are preferred for larger designs, particularly with solid black lettering for optimal contrast on hi-vis backgrounds. Rubber patches offer another durable solution, especially for waterproof jackets. These heat-transferred patches provide permanent branding that withstands harsh conditions while maintaining the jacket's protective properties.
Custom Safety Jackets from RushOrderTees
At RushOrderTees, we've mastered the art of decorating technical and reflective materials through years of experience with safety wear. Our in-house production team uses specialized heat transfer and embroidery techniques that maintain jacket integrity while ensuring your logos meet visibility standards. Whether you need a small chest logo or full back design, we'll help position your branding to complement safety features, not compromise them.
Beyond jackets, we offer complete high-visibility solutions including safety vests, shirts, hats and beanies – all customizable to create cohesive team gear. Our product specialists can guide you through compliance requirements, decoration options, and bulk ordering, with rush delivery available when you need gear quickly. Learn more about safety apparel and options with our complete hi-vis clothing guide.
Keep Your Team Safe—and Represented
Choosing the right safety jacket goes beyond meeting basic visibility requirements; it's about providing your team with gear they can rely on through long shifts and tough conditions. These six jackets have earned their reputation through real-world performance, protecting workers across construction sites, highways, and industrial environments while presenting a professional, branded appearance.
Ready to gear up your crew? Explore our full line of branded safety jackets and start customizing today. Our team will help you select the perfect combination of protection, comfort, and customization to keep your workers both safe and professionally represented on any job site.