Riding on the road brings its own set of challenges—reduced visibility, unpredictable drivers, and varying light conditions can all increase risk for horses and riders. That’s why wearing Hi Viz gear isn’t just a precaution - it’s essential. But it’s not just about one item; it’s about layering visibility to maximise safety from every angle.
Why Layer Multiple Hi Viz Items?
While one Hi Viz piece is better than none, layering increases your visibility to motorists from every direction. Different types of Hi Viz items catch the eye in different ways: some reflect headlights, others shine bright in daylight, and some even flash with active LED lighting. Together, they create a comprehensive safety system that helps drivers notice you sooner and from farther away.
The Essentials: What to Wear and Why
1. Woof Wear Hi Viz Hat Band
Positioned at the highest point of the rider, this band makes you visible even over hedgerows or parked vehicles. It adds movement-based visibility that grabs attention and is often the first thing a driver sees.
2. Woof Wear Hi Viz Riding Vest
This classic staple provides large, reflective surfaces and vibrant colours for daytime visibility. Whether you're hacking in bright sun or through twilight, the vest ensures you’re hard to miss. Woof Wear's Hi Viz Riding Vest in Orange and Yellow is certified to EN17353:2020, providing rider's with the most visible hi viz protection in both daylight and dark conditions.
3. Woof Wear LED Neck Band
Horses naturally have a low profile, so the LED neck band adds a powerful, active light signal right at car headlight level. It attaches securely and emits bright, pulsing light to ensure your horse is seen from front and sides.
4. Woof Wear Hi Viz Brushing Boots
Moving legs are incredibly eye-catching to drivers, especially when fitted with Hi Viz. These brushing boots protect your horse’s legs while making every step a flashing warning to oncoming traffic.
5. Woof Wear Hi Viz Fly Veil
Often overlooked, the fly veil helps increase visibility from the front and keeps your horse comfortable too. It’s designed to fit neatly under curved or traditional bridles and adds a splash of bright, reflective colour to the head area.
Coming Soon: Woof Wear’s LED Riding Vest
Launching this autumn/winter, Woof Wear’s new LED Riding Vest is a game-changer for low-light and night-time hacking. Combining the trusted fit and function of the existing vest with integrated LED lights, this innovative garment will provide 360° visibility with a built-in rechargeable power source. It’s ideal for riders who hack out during darker mornings or evenings—and a major step forward in equestrian road safety.
Supporting Road Safety: PROJECT EDWARD Ride
At Woof Wear, we don’t just talk about safety—we actively support it. That’s why we proudly sponsored the PROJECT EDWARD (Every Day Without A Road Death) awareness ride, a powerful campaign promoting road safety across the UK.
This year’s route took riders from Lambourn to Windsor, raising awareness for both equestrian and road user safety. We were proud to fully kit out the riders in:
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Woof Wear Hi Viz Riding Vests
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Reflective Club Brushing Boots
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All Season Waterproof Jackets in Hi Viz Yellow
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Hi Viz Hat Bands
By layering key Hi Viz items, the riders made a bold statement - not just visually, but in their shared commitment to safer roads for all.
The Takeaway: Be Seen, Be Safe
Layering Hi Viz items from head to hoof significantly reduces the risk of accidents. With Woof Wear’s comprehensive Hi Viz range—and the upcoming LED Riding Vest—you can ride with confidence knowing you and your horse are clearly visible from every angle.
Remember: it’s not just about being seen, it’s about being seen early. And that could make all the difference.