Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark
reflective running clothing and running gear for running in the dark
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Updated September 22, 2024
Whether by choice or circumstance, night (and early morning) running can be relaxing and enjoyable — as long as we stay safe. While running has its risks regardless of the time of day we do it, running at night without visibility gear adds an extra layer of potential danger. This necessary safety precaution is why we’ve put together a reflective running gear guide to run in the dark more safely.
As a long-time runner and coach, I’m no stranger to running in the dark. In college, I often ran solo workouts before my early morning internship, and as a teacher, I found the time to squeeze in workouts either well before daybreak or after a long day of teaching and coaching when the sun had already set. Sometimes I preferred the quiet solitude of a pre-dawn tour through the neighborhood.
In any case, I’ve learned over the years which reflective running gear staples can keep runners visible to oncoming traffic while still performing as quality and useful running gear year-round.
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Reflective Running Gear Checklist
| GEAR ITEM | PRODUCTS WE LIKE |
|---|---|
| Reflective Running Vest | Nathan Streak Reflective Vest |
| Running Headlamp | BioLite 800 Pro |
| Reflective Running Hat | ProViz Reflect360 Running Cap |
| Reflective Running Jacket | Oiselle Reflective Vim (women's) |
| Brooks Run Visible Jacket 2.0 (men's) |
The Best Reflective Running Gear
As intimated above, there’s no need to go out and buy everything on this list of reflective running gear. This “checklist” is a guide to help you choose what will work best for you based on the best reflective running gear we've tested.
Reflective running vest
WHY YOU NEED IT:
A reflective vest is one of the easiest reflective items to add to your running wardrobe. You’ll find a wide variety-light vests with reflective material, light-up straps, etc.-all in different designs. This item would be my recommendation if you buy just one reflective item; it’s easy to throw over whatever you usually wear while running.
OUR CHOICE: NATHAN STREAK REFLECTIVE VEST
What we liked: lightweight and super reflective
What we didn't like: velcro could catch on other gear
The Nathan Streak Reflective Vest is a lightweight and high-visibility option for runners. It’s a light extra layer that can be adjusted with velcro straps to fit over however many layers you need to wear.
We also appreciate how the vest utilizes both hi-vis pigmented materials as well as reflective elements. We think it's the best investment for reflective clothing.
The BioLite 800 Pro headlamp has a light in the front and back for extra visibility.
Running headlamp
WHY YOU NEED IT:
A good headlamp is another staple for running in the dark, as it keeps you visible and helps you see. I never ran in running headlamps until I started doing overnight relays, and now I can’t imagine running in the dark without one.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
When choosing a running headlamp, you’ll want something lightweight and comfortable. Many headlamps are designed for lower-output activities like hiking. Instead, as a runner, opt for a headlamp with a reflective strap over the top of the head to minimize bouncing. Another running-specific headlamp feature we like is a backlight (so cars can see you from behind). Check out our Best (and Brightest) Headlamps review for more suggestions.
Related: Read our favorite running-specific lights for running in the dark for more suggestions!
OUR CHOICE: BIOLITE HEADLAMP 800 PRO
What we liked: long-lasting light with adjustable brightness and taillight
What we didn't like: a little on the bulkier side if you aren’t used to running in headlamps
One standout headlamp we particularly enjoy is the BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro. This long-lasting headlamp offers six modes for the front light: red vision, white spot, white flood, white combo, strobe, burst mode, and a red vision rear LED light with solid and strobe modes.
While designed with mountaineering, skiing, mountain biking, and climbing in mind, I had no issues trail running with this headlamp once I found the right strap adjustment for me. The LED light lasts about an average of seven hours on high visibility and 150 hours on low, and goes into a reserve power mode when the battery (which is rechargeable) is low. It is ideal for running because of reduced bounce that will stay on your head during runs.
A good reflective hat has reflective and hi-vis elements so you can wear it day and night.
Reflective running hat
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Visibility at the head level is a good idea for dark road runs, as that is the level at which cars may be more likely to see you. Like headlamps, reflective hats help achieve this increased visibility and are recommended additions to your reflective running wardrobe. Running hats should feel lightweight and snug-but not too tight-on the head (also similar to headlamps).
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
While most people associate hats with daytime running, as the bill keeps the sun off the face, hats at night can help trap in some heat (or if you’re running with a headlamp and prefer the light to sit on the bill). Another fun quality some running hats have now are small pockets perfectly sized for a house key (you can never have too many pockets, I always say).
OUR CHOICE: PROVIZ RUNNING CAP
What we liked: high visibility and functional
What we didn't like: not as adjustable as other hats, probably wouldn’t wear during the day
The ProViz Running Cap is entirely reflective, making your head glow like a beacon. A nighttime driver would have to work really hard not to see you in this hat.
We like the simple design and high visibility this hat provides, though it’s not likely one this author would likely wear during the day for fashion’s sake. Nevertheless, this is one of the best investments for safe running in the dark and is a good option for hat-wearers.
A good reflective running jacket is first and foremost a good running jacket. Second, it should have good reflective elements. If you don’t want to wear a jacket, it doesn’t matter how good the reflective material is. We think the Oiselle Reflective Vim is not only a great reflective jacket but a great jacket, period.
Reflective running jacket
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
As the temperatures cool and the daylight hours shorten, a reflective jacket is a great staple, and there are many excellent options out there. Although many running jackets have reflective detail in their logos, a reflective stripe on the sleeve, or some other small reflective design — that alone isn’t enough to stay safe in low-light conditions. So if you’re looking for a nice running jacket to wear in the dark, we recommend a jacket with reflective material along the sleeves, chest, and back.
What we liked: comfortable, lightweight, weather-resistant, and high vis
What we didn't like: not fully waterproof for rainy runs
A couple of our favorites include the Brooks Run Visible Convertible Jacket and the Oiselle Reflective Vim Jacket. Both are made with breathable, weather-resistant material which means they protect against mild wind and rain while wicking sweat. The Oiselle Reflective Vim Jacket sports plenty of reflective features, and the Brooks Run Visible Convertible Jacket features both reflective elements and hi-vis green material.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE OISELLE REFLECTIVE VIM JACKET AND BROOKS RUN VISIBLE 2.0 JACKET
WOMEN'S
MEN'S
Reflective running tights
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Running tights with reflective materials are an excellent way to add safety to your chillier, dark runs. Since they tend to cover a lot of the body, high-visibility tights are a good option for added safety. The Janji tights are not only reflective but also functional — and fantastic additions to your running wardrobe.
OUR CHOICE: JANJI GROUNDWORK (WOMEN'S) AND JANJI TRAIL TIGHTS (MEN'S)
What we liked: functional, comfortable, and great reflective coverage
What we didn't like: not the warmest tights
The Janji Tights were our overall winner for the Best Men’s Running Tights. As Treeline writer Trey French noted the Janji “incorporates a reflective tape integrated into the side leg stitching; the tape is subtle in daylight but keeps visibility high during road running.”
We also loved the tights' functional pockets and double-lined fabric, which make them a smart purchase for safety and general quality. They're also available in high-visibility colors (more on that below) for more safety while road running.
On the women’s side, we reviewed the Janji Groundwork in our Best Overall Women’s Running Tights and featured significant reflective coverage.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE JANJI TIGHTS
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The Brooks Run Visible shirt has reflective elements in the front and back for extra visibility. The hi-Swiftwick socks also add an element of visibility.
Reflective running shirt
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Fully reflective running shirts are less common than vests, jackets, and headgear, but they exist and can be another layer of safety while running in the dark. Like other running clothes, many shirts will boast “reflective features,” which typically means the logo is reflective or there may be a reflective band or markings.
This feature is nice, but as mentioned in the Best Women’s Running Shirts gear review, that is not enough for safety. However, our running shirt guide can help you decide if a reflective shirt has the other qualities you should be investing in, like moisture-wicking fabric or flatlock seams.
What we liked: breathable, stretchy, and high visibility
What we didn't like: a little tight near the armpits
The Brooks Run Visible 2.0 Short Sleeve is made from breathable, sweat-wicking fabric and features both neon and plenty of reflective elements to keep you visible in the dark. We appreciate how comfortable and functional this shirt is, knowing we would wear this any time of day.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BROOKS RUN VISIBLE 2.0 SHORT SLEEVE
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Reflective running shorts
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Reflective running shorts are not quite as high on the priority list, especially if you’re just beginning to add to your reflective gear collection, but they can be a nice option if you need new running shorts anyway and know you’ll be running in the dark. While most brands stick to reflective jackets, vest, shirts, and reflective accessories, a few have some really nice hi-vis and reflective shorts you could wear any time of day.
What we liked: comfortable fit, functional pockets, high visibility
What we didn't like: fewer choices for men’s fit reflective running shorts out there
The Brooks Run Visible 2.0 reflective line also has reflective shorts options for both men and women. While there are not as many reflective shorts designed for men on the market, many shorts have reflective features that can help you stay visible.
Treeline writer Trey French’s guide to the Best Men’s Running Shorts includes shorts with reflective logos or small features. And while that isn’t enough alone to keep you safe, it doesn’t hurt to have small reflective elements on the shorts while wearing other reflective running gear.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BROOKS RUN VISIBLE 2-IN-1 SHORTS 2.0
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The Brooks Run Visible Ghost 14 are an all-around great performing running shoe that just happens to also come woven with reflective elements for extra visibility in low light conditions.
Reflective running shoes
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Most running shoes have some reflective features, but some have more than others. A single reflective strip on a running shoe is not enough to keep you visible (though, while driving early one morning recently I noticed a runner in the dark from the reflective elements on her shoes, so they certainly don’t hurt).
In any case, I wouldn’t say you need fully reflective shoes, or to make your shoe-buying decision based on reflective features alone. Recently, most road running shoes have some reflective features, so I recommend sticking with the shoe you love.
Trail shoes are not as likely to have reflective features, as there is generally less of a need to be reflective off the roads. If you’re running on the trails and want to be visible, I recommend not worrying about reflective shoes and instead wear a reflective vest, hat/headband, tights, or anything else reflective that is comfortable to you.
What we liked: dependable neutral shoe with plenty of reflective features
What we didn't like: may not fit comfortably for all strides
If you’re looking for a nice neutral shoe, the Brooks Ghost 16 is a dependable, comfortable option. The Run Visible 2.0 reflective line sports a reflective version of the Ghost 16, making it a good choice for road runners who run in the dark often and wear a cushioned, neutral shoe (i.e., shoes without additional support on the outside or inside of the sole).
It's also available in a waterproof version, the Brooks Ghost 16 GTX, which may be useful if you're also running in wet or cold weather.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BROOKS RUN VISIBLE 2.0 GHOST 16
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
NATHAN HYPERNIGHT REFLECTIVE CONVERTIBLE MITT
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
While reflective/hi vis running gloves alone aren’t enough to keep you safely visible in the dark, if you plan to wear gloves anyway, gloves are another item you can choose with reflective elements. Find a glove that you already like and then see if it is available in reflective or high-vis versions.
OUR CHOICE: NATHAN HYPERNIGHT REFLECTIVE CONVERTIBLE MITT
What we liked: convertible for temperature management, fits well, high vis and reflective elements
What we didn’t like: Not warm enough for extreme cold
The Nathan HyperNight Reflective Convertible Mitt is a running glove with an attached mitten covering you can flip over your fingers for added warmth and protection. The gloves come in Black or Hi Vis Yellow, both with plenty of reflective material as well.
While reflective/hi vis running gloves alone aren’t enough to keep you safely visible in the dark, these gloves are high quality and great in their own right without the reflective elements.
We’d recommend them regardless, and in fact we do. The Nathan HyperNight Reflective Convertible Mitt won Best Running Gloves in our Best Winter Gloves guide.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE NATHAN HYPERNIGHT MITTS
Other reflective running accessories
Reflective hydration vest: Nathan HyperNight QuickStart 2.0 4-Liter Hydration Pack
Reflective running headband: Nathan HyperNight Headband
Arm sleeves: FlipBelt Running Sleeves
Reflective running belt: FlipBelt Classic Reflective Belt
Reflective running socks: Swiftwick ASPIRE Four - Lightweight Quarter Crew Socks
Rear light: Nathan HyperBrite Orb Strobe
We tested reflective running gear on low-light runs in the morning and evening, running on road and on trail.
How we tested
Naturally, we tested our reflective running gear in the dark hours on both early morning runs and after-work runs in the evening.
But beyond simply testing for visibility, we also wanted to ensure the products were comfortable and functional. It’s great to be visible, but if the reflective running gear you purchase isn’t comfortable or of good quality, you likely either won’t want to wear it, or it won’t last long enough to be worth the cost.
The gear items on our list are the best running gear that also just happen to have excellent reflective capability. You certainly don’t need to cover your entire body in reflective gear to be visible; this list is a guide to quality running gear that also adds to your safety as you venture out in dark hours.
The writer is wearing the Brooks reflective running shirt that has most hi-vis and reflective elements. The Nathan headband and FlipBelt arm sleeves have reflective elements.
FAQ
What is the difference between reflective and hi-vis?
When shopping for the best reflective running gear options for your safety, you’ll likely come across the term “hi-vis” (or “high visibility”).
Hi-vis clothing refers to clothing made from fluorescent materials made to improve visible light (think neon clothing). Hi-vis clothing may be better for road running in the day compared to low light conditions. Reflective clothing uses materials that reflect light directly back toward the source making it good for daytime and in the best choice for running in the dark.
For example, the Nathan Hypernight QuickStart 2.0 4 Liter Hydration Pack and the Oiselle Firecracker shorts feature reflective material that is mostly only noticeable when light is shining on them in the dark. On the other hand, the Nathan Streak Vest and the Brooks Run Visible Convertible jacket contain both reflective elements as well as that neon-green hi-vis color.
Is it safe to run at night?
This question is asked often, and my instinct is always to answer immediately, “of course, it’s safe to run at night!” But I know this comes from a defensive place, where I feel the need to counter the rhetoric that people — particularly women or folks who are perceived as women/girls — shouldn’t run at night (or alone, or in sports bras, or whatever). The reality is there is always a danger associated with running, regardless of age, gender, attire, whether one is alone, or what time of day it is.
There was a time in my life when I was (understandably) scared to run in the dark. I was also scared to be visible running in the dark (what if a creepy man saw me?). But ultimately, if you are running in the dark anywhere where cars are present, being visible is vital to your safety and that of others.
I’m not here to tell anyone when they should or shouldn’t run, but I will give you the lowdown on reflective gear to help you stay visible and safe in the dark.
Note that running in the rain AND at night makes it even more challenging for drivers to see you. I highly recommend ensuring you’re properly equipped for running in the rain — along with all of the reflective gear mentioned here.
Does running at night make it hard to sleep?
This factor depends on the person and how close to their bedtime they run, but most science supports nighttime running as improving sleep (provided you don’t work out vigorously within an hour of your bedtime). If late-night running isn’t your thing, many folks wake up in the pre-dawn hours to run before work or school. Those dark hours also require reflective gear, of course, so don’t forget your hi-vis gear in the early hours too!
What if my gear already has reflective features? How much reflective material is enough?
As fun as it might be to completely cover yourself head-to-toe in reflective running gear, you certainly don’t need to go that far for most places where runners are running. I recommend having enough reflective gear on so a vehicle could see you from the front, back, or side. A reflective vest, like the Nathan Streak Reflective Vest, is great for all-around visibility and is easy enough to throw over your regular running clothes.
A reflective hat or headband with reflective shorts could be another good combo. As long as you aren’t relying entirely on clothes with reflective logos-often too small for nighttime drivers to really notice-you are helping yourself and everyone else around you at night. Our list of the best reflective running gear gives you options to choose from should you find you need to replace reflective clothing or running gear you already own and want to opt for something with more reflective material.
Should I eat after running at night?
One rule I swear by as a runner and a coach is to eat something within 20 minutes of a run. This habit helps the body recover and prevents the sudden, sometimes crippling, pang of hunger later. I’m not a dietician or a medical professional, so follow the advice of someone with appropriate experience and knowledge. But I’ve been a runner and a coach long enough to know that for most people, at least a small snack after a night run often helps the body recover and feel its best the following day.
Running at Night Pros and Cons
Pros
Often less traffic, more peaceful
Cooler (in the hot months)
A way to relax before bed (for some) or gear up for a big day (early morning runs)
Cons
Less visibility
Fewer people out (for those who feel unsafe running alone)
Can be colder (in the cold months)
This story is not necessarily an advertisement for or a warning against nighttime running. The goal here is to help those who run in the dark do so safely. So if you run in the dark, by choice or by necessity, hopefully this guide can help you find the best reflective gear to suit your needs and make you feel a little safer.
Becca Downs is a running coach and former competitive runner who has logged many miles over many years running in the dark and low-light conditions.
About the author / Why you should trust us
Becca Downs ran D1 cross country and track for Indiana University-Purdue University of Indianapolis (IUPUI) and continued racing everything from elite miles to an ultramarathon in her post-collegiate years.
She earned a USATF Level 1 certification and coached boys and girls high school cross country and track in Indianapolis for four years. Becca then joined the IUPUI women’s distance coaching staff as a volunteer assistant coach in 2020-2021.
She geeks out on trail running, track and field, and cries every time she watches a marathon (they’re just so beautiful!). After notching a few small FKTs under her belt in 2020, she was diagnosed with hip arthritis and now channels her passion for running into coaching, writing, creating training plans for her friends, hiking, and running when her hip allows it.
You can read more of Becca's work at her blog or on her author page.
