reflective

Respro’s High Viz Super Waistcoat has all the practicality of the normal day-glow variety but with greater style. The black background and warm orange base are supported by large sections of uncluttered Scotchlite and the Sam Browne belt really commands driver attention.

The original Night Vision was an instant commuter favourite, combining massive reflectivity with Altura's proven ability to knock out good quality kit at sensible prices. This latest version turns the knob up to 11, this is one seriously bright jacket with more reflective surfaces than a glitter ball.

I’m not overly keen on sticker sets and costing close to a tenner, Respro’s Urban range seem extravagant. However, these Scotchlite decals provide welcome additional security on flat surfaces like wide section mudguards, rack-platforms and hard shell panniers. They’re also a very clever way of getting round the perception amongst teenage and younger riders that safety isn’t cool but I’d fight shy of applying them to helmets given there’s no way of knowing which adhesives affect a helmet shell’s integrity.

Hardly a new concept but the best I’ve come across to date, Indicator cliplets are so versatile and priced so reasonably that every outdoor enthusiast should have a pair.

Cinelli make some of the best bar tape around, I've been using their superb Gel tape for years, so perhaps they can be forgiven for this novelty glow in the dark tape.

The reflective Buff is a new development from the Spanish manufacturer of unique and versatile sports headwear. The one we tested, with a wave motif, is a flexible solution to all manner of cold weather problems that strike cyclists and runners.

The Claq is a versatile magnetic reflective tab that'll gain you a bit more visibility on the roads. It doesn't work in every application, but it's useful enough to be a worthy addition to your night armoury.

High visibility vests might not be the last word in cycling chic, especially when compared to modern cycling jackets like the Altura Night Vision and the Endura Luminite which manage to be highly reflective and stylish too. However, they can be a real boon when commuting in civvies or in really gloomy conditions.