Darker mornings and shorter days mean more and more of us are going to be running the roads in low visibility conditions. While it is true that more runners perish from cardio-vascular than from vehicular incidents; it is extremely important to take every available precaution when running the roads- particularly in low-light, foggy or other poor weather conditions. 

In addition to a good pair of running shoes, every woman runner should consider reflective clothing to be an essential element in running safely and remaining injury free.

Many years ago I bought one of those funky, “crossing guard” reflective orange and mesh vests that I still wear today. Luckily, reflective technology and the number of choices have vastly improved over the last 15 years.
 

Image: NightLife Women's Vest

For runners, safely gear has got to be both lightweight, quiet and performance neutral. Night Gear is a company that specifically specializes in reflective clothing for people (and their pets) who “play in the dark.” Here are some selections to check out:

Visi-bib Reflective Vest - $17.00
Lightweight adjustable vest provides a unique, recognizably human silhouette.
Specs/Features:
• Low-cost protective solution
• Easy on/off Velcro closures at the hip
• Lightweight, breathable

 Streak Reflective Vest - $25.00
Ultra-lightweight and incredibly comfortable, this vest is designed to allow full range of motion and is guaranteed to stay put.
Specs/Features:
• 1200 foot visibility
• 360 degree visibility with 400 candlepower reflectivity
• Large reflective patches
• reflective strips on shoulders
• Unique shape for a full range of motion
• Soft, lightweight, breathable mesh
• Adjustable fit

Nightlife Women’s Vest - $80.00
Relaxed fit, light weight and breathable, this vest combines reflective visibility from all angles with water and wind resistance.
Specs/Features:
• 360 degrees of 3M Scotchlite reflective detail dramatically enhance visibility
• Water and wind-resistant
• 100% microfiber with a Teflon water repellant finish
• Zippered pocket for key, I.D., or essentials
• Soft, brushed inner collar

Aspira Soft-Shell Jacket - $100.00
Quiet, lightweight, fitted jacket offering profile reflectivity and wind and rain resistance. Named "Best Jacket" for its comfort, style and functionality by Health Magazine. Front zip.
Specs/Features:
• Full length zipper and wind flap
• 4 way stretch windGARD fabric
• Elasticated cuffs
• Weather resistant coil zipper
• illumiNITE reflectivity

Remember – even the best reflective clothing can’t protect you if you are not alert and following proper safety procedures. Here’s some tips:

ALWAYS run towards traffic, not with it
ALWAYS wear reflective clothing
When running with a group, run single file on the roads
Watch for uneven roads, cracks and branches
ALWAYS assume that drivers do not see you

Run Safe!
 

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Tags: night training, running at night, safety, safety clothing, reflective clothing, vests, jackets, gear

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2 friends?! Geez. Sounds more dangerous than any other sport. I know I have had some near escapes before, but never really lost anyone. SOrry to here it and thanks so much for always looking out for our gear needs! Posted by: Sarah on Sep 22, 2008 at 04:40 PM

Yes,absolutely essential. It only takes one misstep to end in disaster. I have lost two running friends to car accidents. We have to take thiss eriously. Posted by: bmoore on Sep 21, 2008 at 01:28 PM

I was just thinking about this early early this morning!! In fact, I stopped abruptly to let a mini-van back out of her drive way...she did not see me until she was almost all the way out of the drive! I just don't think people are ever expecting to see someone running down the sidewalk at 5:30am. The last two mornings I have been the only one out! Great idea B. You know, you could have a lot of fun with reflector tape, but that could end up being a little uncomfortable. :) Posted by: Betty on Sep 19, 2008 at 03:34 PM