Proviz Reflect360 waterproof running jacket | Tested and reviewed

Proviz has built a reputation as the go-to brand for reflective jackets, with its motto, “Be safe, be seen,” encapsulating its purpose. The company specialises in affordable, highly visible outerwear, frequently discounted especially during Black Friday, make them an appealing choice year-round.

These jackets are designed primarily for night-time use but also provide some wind and light water resistance. Running coach Lily Canter tested the Proviz REFLECT360 running jacket during her evening run club sessions, allowing her athletes to spot her easily in the dark.

Design and Features

The standout feature of the REFLECT360 jacket lies in its innovative "game-changing material," which is embedded with reflective glass beads. This material ensures 360-degree visibility, making wearers highly visible to cars, cyclists, and other runners. When exposed to a headlight or a torch, the jacket illuminates brilliantly, resembling an over-enthusiastic Christmas tree.

The sheer brightness of the reflection is impressive, often leaving others momentarily blinded—a testament to its effectiveness. Weighing just 170g, the jacket is pretty lightweight, adding to its appeal for runners who prioritise minimal bulk.

It also features strategically placed rear, side, and underarm mesh panels that enhance breathability. These meshes allow heat to escape, preventing overheating during activity – and they really do work a treat.

Additionally, the jacket includes two generously sized side pockets for storing essentials like keys, a phone, or a snack bar, making it practical for both short and long runs. The elasticated cuffs and waist ensure a snug fit, keeping out cold winds while maintaining comfort.

Performance

When it comes to visibility, the REFLECT360 is unparalleled. This jacket is a game-changer for anyone running in low-light conditions. It has quickly become a go-to piece of kit for all my night and early morning runs. The reflectivity is so effective that fellow runners frequently berate me on its brightness when they run towards me wearing a headtorch.

There's no doubt that you'll be seen from all angles in this jacket, significantly enhancing safety whether you’re pounding the pavements or out on the trails. The mesh panels work well keeping you warm enough but allowing heat to escape. It is a much better design than the Proviz hooded jacket which my athletes tell me are incredibly sweaty since they have no meshes.

This isn’t a problem on the REFLECT360 with its breathable design striking a balance between retaining enough warmth on chilly evenings and allowing heat to escape during intense runs. The downside is that while it can handle light rain for short periods, it isn’t built for heavy downpours. I experienced this firsthand during a Welsh parkrun in Dolgellau during a biblical storm.

I was drenched to the bone within minutes of running. This limitation makes the REFLECT360 best suited for dry or lightly drizzly conditions rather than extended exposure to wet weather. Although the reflective sections have solid waterproofing the multiple meshes give limited protection from the wet and this is where the rain will quickly seep in.

Fit and Comfort

The fitted design of the REFLECT360 offers a balance between style and practicality. Its tailored fit helps block out the wind while maintaining a sleek and streamlined appearance. Despite the snug fit, there’s enough stretch and room to accommodate layers underneath, making it versatile for use in different seasons.

One minor drawback is the rustling noise the jacket produces while running, which may bother some users. However, this is a small inconvenience worth tolerating given the exceptional visibility it provides.

The material is also slightly less soft than that of competing jackets, such as the Compressport Hurricane, but it remains comfortable enough when worn over a t-shirt or base layer. During summer, wearing the jacket over a vest can feel slightly sticky, but this is a trade-off for the outstanding safety features it offers.

Sustainability and Price

Proviz has made commendable efforts to incorporate sustainability into its products. The inner linings of most of its jackets are made from REPREVE® recycled polyester, a fabric created from recycled plastic bottles. The company also offsets its carbon footprint and audits its overseas manufacturing facilities to ensure fair pay and safe working conditions.

Proviz has ambitious sustainability goals, such as recycling 10 million bottles by 2026 through its use of RPET fabric. The durability of the REFLECT360 further enhances both its sustainability and value for money. It takes several years for the reflective beading to begin to crack and flake, unlike other jackets I have worn which have started disintegrating within 12 months. I think this is one of the best value for money visibility jackets out there and I wouldn’t be without mine.

Verdict

The Proviz REFLECT360 is an essential jacket for runners prioritising safety in low-light conditions. Its reflective material ensures unparalleled visibility, making it an excellent choice for evening and early-morning runs. The lightweight design and mesh panels enhance breathability, while the fitted style offers both wind protection and a sleek look.

Although it’s not ideal for heavy rain, its performance in light rain and dry conditions is spot on. The sustainability credentials and durable construction further add to its appeal, making it a worthwhile purchase for runners who value visibility, comfort, and eco-consciousness.

About the author

Lily Canter is a freelance journalist and running coach (among a myriad of other jobs, including competitive ultra running) who contributes to LFTO with expert coaching advice and granularly detailed gear reviews. She also founded women’s running club Great Bowden Runners. As a qualified England Athletics running coach, Lily loves nothing more than seeing women achieving their running goals.

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