Cycling Safety Vests

Outside built-up areas: what the highway code says

Since 1st October 2008, the highway code requires all cyclists riding outside built-up areas, at night or during the day when visibility is poor, to wear a certified high-visibility vest. This rule also applies to the passenger, whether they are seated in a child seat or in the cargo area of a cargo bike. Failure to comply can result in a second-class fine. In towns, there is no obligation, but the vest remains beneficial for early morning rides, in the rain, or in poorly lit streets where the cyclist can easily blend into the background.

Other protections

Protections are also available in the following forms:

• Locks.
• Full protection.
• Glasses.
• Knee pads.
• Masks.
• Accessories.

All protections are gathered on the protection page.

Wowow Roadie, Wowow reflective, R Flect: three approaches

Wowow, a Belgian company founded in 2004 specialising in visibility, designs vests for cycling and running. The Roadie combines a fluorescent yellow fabric, very visible during the day, with wide reflective strips arranged diagonally at the front and back, and closes with a zip for a snug fit over the jacket. The simpler reflective vest Wowow covers the essential chest area. The R Flect Dual Light takes another form, resembling a light harness: four white LEDs at the front and four red ones at the back, rechargeable via USB, can be set to steady or flashing.

Standard, size and maintenance of the vest

On the label, look for the CE marking and the standard reference: the recent EN 17353, which is dedicated to visibility equipment for non-professional use, or the older EN 1150 for older vests. The size should be chosen to fit over winter clothing: a vest that is too tight pulls on the shoulders, while a vest that is too loose flaps in the wind and obscures its reflective strips when bent. For maintenance, wash the vest at thirty degrees, inside out, without a tumble dryer or iron, and replace it as soon as the strips start to crack or fade.

Good deals

Good bargains can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the year-end holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and the back-to-school period.

Frequently asked questions

Does a light harness replace the mandatory vest?

Not necessarily: outside built-up areas, the law requires a certified high-visibility vest. A LED harness like the R Flect Dual Light enhances visibility; check its certification or wear it in addition to the vest.

Is a car safety vest suitable for cycling?

The motorist vest, certified high visibility, meets the requirement. However, it is loose and unadjustable: a cyclist's vest, more fitted, does not flap in the wind and is more comfortable while riding.

Can you wear a safety vest over a back pack?

Yes, just choose a size up so it can go over the back pack without obscuring the back strips. Make sure the vest does not ride up under the arms once the back pack is loaded.

Are there safety vests for children?

Yes, several manufacturers offer children's sizes. Choose a model that fits their build, which the child can wear over their coat on the way to school, and check the certification just like for an adult.

Is a vest mandatory on an electric bike?

Yes, the rule applies to all cycles, including those with electric assistance. Outside built-up areas, at night or in poor visibility, the cyclist must wear a certified vest, with reflective strips clearly visible over their jacket.