Hi-viz horse riding equipment

Whether you’re hacking down country lanes, riding along busy roads or crossing junctions, being seen by other road users is one of the most important considerations when out on your horse.

With more vehicles on the roads than ever, it’s vital horse riders take steps to stay safe. According to the British Horse Society’s latest road safety data, in 2025, 86 riders were injured, and 59 horses died in road accidents – 83% of which were caused by a driver going too fast.

High-visibility clothing and accessories can help make both horse and rider stand out, giving drivers more time to recognise what they’re seeing and react appropriately. Dawn and dusk are especially risky, but visibility isn’t just an issue when the light is dim. Bright sunlight, low winter sun, shadows and changing light conditions can all make it harder for drivers to spot horses.

Hi-vis is recommended for off-road riding too, helping dog walkers, runners, cyclists and even low-flying aircraft spot you more easily. It can also be invaluable in an emergency, making you easier to locate if you have a fall.

Here’s everything you need to know about choosing and using hi-vis horse-riding equipment.

What is hi-vis?

High-visibility (hi-vis) clothing is designed to make the wearer easier to see.

Most hi-vis combines fluorescent materials with reflective strips. Fluorescent colours stand out during daylight hours by converting ultraviolet light into visible light, making colours appear brighter. Reflective materials reflect light back towards its source, making the wearer more visible when illuminated by vehicle headlights.

For horse riders, combining fluorescent and reflective materials improves visibility across a range of lighting and weather conditions.

British Horse Society and Highway Code guidance

The British Horse Society strongly encourages riders to wear high-visibility clothing whenever riding on or near roads.

The Highway Code also includes specific guidance for drivers around horses. Rule 215 advises drivers to pass horses at no more than 10mph, leaving at least two metres of space where it is safe to do so. Drivers should also avoid sounding their horn or revving the engine, and wait patiently if it is not safe to overtake.

By making yourself as visible as possible, you can help other road users recognise that they are approaching a horse and rider and respond appropriately. Horse riders may also signal drivers to slow down if they feel it is necessary for safety.

Why is hi-vis important for horse riders?

Horses are among the most vulnerable road users. Unlike cyclists or pedestrians, horses can react unpredictably when startled, making it especially important for drivers to identify them as early as possible.

The sooner a driver sees a horse and rider, the more time they have to slow down, leave enough space and pass safely.

Hi-vis equipment also helps distinguish horse riders from the surrounding environment, especially against hedgerows, woodland, fields and other natural backgrounds.

Which colour hi-vis is best for horse riding?

Common fluorescent colours include yellow, orange, pink and lime green. Each colour can work well when used appropriately. The key is contrast.

For example:

• Fluorescent yellow and lime green are the brightest options and are best at dawn or dusk, although they may be less noticeable against dry grass or autumn foliage.
• Orange can provide a strong contrast against both green vegetation and autumn landscapes.
• Pink stands out well in bright sunshine and rural landscapes, especially against rapeseed fields in the summer.

It’s a good idea to wear multiple colours to maximise visibility in a wider range of environments and weather conditions. Low sun, dappled shade, fog, rain and bright glare can all make it harder for drivers to identify horses on the road.

Hi-vis for horse and rider

For maximum effectiveness, both horse and rider should wear visible equipment. The more visible surface area you create, the easier it is for drivers to recognise a horse and rider from multiple directions.

Rider equipment

Popular options include:

• Hi-vis jackets
• Waistcoats
• Waterproof riding coats
• Hat bands and covers
• Gloves
• Leg bands

Horse equipment

Hi-vis items specifically designed for horses include:

• Exercise sheets
• Quarter sheets
• Breastplates
• Leg wraps
• Tail guards
• Tail bands
• Bridle attachments
• Fly veils or ear bonnets

Additional visibility aids

Alongside traditional hi-vis clothing, riders may choose to use additional visibility products. These include:

Lights: Battery-powered lights or flashing LED strips can improve visibility in low-light conditions and may be particularly useful during winter months.

Reflective accessories: Reflective tape and reflective trims can be added to existing equipment to improve visibility.

VisiWhips: VisiWhip offers a range of brightly coloured flags that attach to the end of a schooling whip to maximise visibility. Their movement helps attract attention from a greater distance. The flag can also be held out to encourage other road users to give you more space when passing, or to increase your visibility when approaching a blind corner.

What should you look for when buying hi-vis equipment?

Many hi-vis products are manufactured to BSI safety standards. EN 17353:2020 is aimed at leisure users, while EN ISO 20471 is for professional use. Although not legally required, these standards can help you identify products that meet recognised visibility requirements. Here’s what to consider when choosing hi-vis riding equipment.

Fit

Equipment should fit comfortably without restricting movement or interfering with riding aids.

Visibility from all angles

Look for products that provide visibility from the front, sides and rear.

Reflective elements

Fluorescent materials are most effective during daylight hours, while reflective strips are more effective in low-light conditions.

Durability

Choose products that can withstand regular use, washing and exposure to the weather.

Comfort

Breathable materials can improve comfort in warmer months, while waterproof options may be useful in winter.

Other ways to stay safe on the road

While hi-vis clothing is an important safety measure, it should form part of a wider approach to road safety.

• Plan hacking routes carefully, avoiding busy roads where possible
• Don’t ride at night or in poor visibility
• Always take a phone and ride with a companion when appropriate
• Ensure tack is well fitted and in good condition
• Teach your horse road confidence gradually
• Keep up to date with Highway Code guidance
• Use hand signals to thank drivers that pass wide and slow; it's good practice and encourages positive driver behaviour

FAQs

What is hi-vis for riders?

Clothing designed to make horse riders more visible using fluorescent and reflective materials.

Why is hi-vis important?

Hi-vis helps drivers spot horse and rider earlier, allowing more time to slow down and pass safely.

Which colour hi-vis is best for horse riding?

Yellow and lime green are the most visible, while orange and pink are also effective depending on surroundings.

What hi-vis should riders use?

A mix of rider and horse gear, such as waistcoats, exercise sheets and reflective accessories, for maximum visibility.

Do I need insurance to ride on the road?

Public liability insurance is essential to cover you if your horse causes damage, injury or has an accident on the road.