High vis is essential for safe hacking, and there’s many products on the market to help you be as visible as possible.
For the past four months, our testers have been putting different items of high-vis gear to the test. They have assessed each item for fit, effectiveness and value for money.
We also carried out testing from the driver’s point of view. All the items were worn as an outfit by the horse and rider, and viewed from the driver’s seat of a car to give an overall verdict. This testing was carried out on a private road and the horse and rider were approached from in front and behind. The driver commented on what was noticeable to them from their perspective behind the wheel.
Each item of high vis for horse and rider is given a mark out of five for fit, effectiveness and value for money. This gives an overall score out of 15.
Hy Equestrian Silva Flash Waterproof Exercise Sheet
RRP £49.99
Colour: ‘Reflective silva’
Sizes: 4ft 6in, 4ft 9in, 5ft
Fit: This exercise sheet fits nicely; it wraps neatly around your saddle and fastens securely over the wither. It’s a good length and depth too. 5 stars
Effectiveness: The reflective material glows white when light hits it and it seems to be effective on bright sunny days too. It also keeps your horse warm and dry, so is a good addition to your horse’s wardrobe. 4.5 stars
Value for money: Good value as it does a great job. I would recommend it. 5 stars
Total score: 14.5
Hy Equestrian Reflector Gilet – Pass Wide and Slow
RRP £44.99
Colours: Yellow, pink
Sizes: XS – XL
Fit: A great fitting gilet that you can wear comfortably over a long-sleeved top or t-shirt. The material is stretchy so it’s not restrictive when you’re riding. The length in the body is good — it’s a nicely cut gilet that looks good when you’re wearing it. 5 stars
Effectiveness: The combination of fluorescent fabric and reflective strips works well and makes you clearly visible to other road users. The addition of ‘Please Pass Wide and Slow’ printed on the back of the gilet appears to have the desired effect. The gilet has two zip pockets, which are useful for your mobile phone and other bits. 4.5 stars
Value for money: A good price for a practical and effective gilet for use on warmer days. 4.5 stars
Total score: 14
Overall verdict
The yellow of the waistcoat was clearly visible when driving towards the horse and rider or approaching from behind. The exercise rug wasn’t that visible on the day of testing, although when the sun came out the reflective material did glow, which made it more noticeable.
