Run Safe At Night With Reflective Gear

A recent article I happened to read about two women runners who were struck by a car in South Carolina reminded me how incredibly important it is to do everything you can to make sure you are visible to vehicles.

Darker mornings and shorter days are coming and that means 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.

 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:

NIghtLife Reflective Vest - $19.00
Lightweight adjustable vest provides a unique, recognizably human silhouette. Fits over any top.

Specs/Features:
• Low-cost protective solution
• Hook & Loop side stretch straps
• Lightweight, breathable, 100& poly mesh

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

Brooks Nightlife Essential Run Women’s Vest - $55.00
Relaxed fit, light weight and breathable, this vest combines reflective visibility from all angles with water and wind resistance. (Also comes in a full jacket model at $70.00)

• Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating
• Front/back 3M Scotchlite retro-reflectivity
• Full front zip with inner storm guard and zipper garage
• Adjustable drawstring waist
• Back vent for added breathability
• Internal moisture-proof media pocket
• Two side-zip pockets
• 100% polyester

Saucony Heiress Soft-Shell Jacket - $150.00
The ultimate soft shell reflective jacket Comes in a bright high-visibility color with reflective extras. Front zip.

Specs/Features:
• ViperLite softshell is waterproof/breathable with a wicking liner
• USB LED light and slot pocket on right sleeve for max visibility
• Reflective piping on front and along zipper
• Cuff gaiters provide extra warmth and protection
• Die-cut reflective welded storage pocket at back right
• Front storage pockets with mesh lining
• Reflective logo for added nighttime visibility

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

Image: Saucony Heiress Soft Shell Jacket

• Currently 3.0/5 Stars.