Hi Vis Shorts

About Hi Vis Shorts

Hi vis shorts are essential summer workwear for tradespeople and site workers who need to maintain visibility and safety standards whilst working in warm conditions. Combining fluorescent fabrics with reflective tape, these garments meet EN ISO 20471 standards to ensure wearers remain visible in all lighting conditions. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a range of hi vis shorts from Portwest, including basic poly-cotton designs and advanced models from the PW3 range with holster pockets and enhanced functionality.

Modern hi vis shorts have evolved beyond basic safety wear to become practical workwear designed for active professionals. Available in Class 1 visibility ratings, these shorts feature durable poly-cotton blends that resist wear whilst remaining breathable, multiple storage compartments, and reinforced pockets for tools. Whether you're working on construction sites, roadside maintenance, warehousing, or outdoor events, hi vis shorts provide the perfect balance between safety compliance and working comfort during summer months.

Applications

Hi vis shorts are worn by professionals working outdoors or in environments requiring enhanced visibility, particularly during warmer months:

• Construction workers and site labourers on building sites during summer
• Highway maintenance crews and road workers operating near traffic
• Landscapers and groundskeepers maintaining outdoor spaces
• Warehouse staff and logistics workers in hot storage facilities
• Event staff and security personnel managing outdoor events
• Railway maintenance workers performing trackside duties
• Delivery drivers and couriers making collections and deliveries
• Utility workers maintaining electrical, gas, and water infrastructure
• Refuse collection operatives working on waste management
• Airport ground crew and baggage handlers working on the tarmac

Choosing The Right Hi Vis Shorts

Safety Classification: Determine the visibility class required for your working environment. Class 1 hi vis shorts suit most general site work and environments with good visibility and slower-moving traffic. Check your workplace risk assessment to ensure compliance with HSE guidelines.

Material and Durability: Poly-cotton blends offer the best balance of durability, breathability, and comfort. Pure cotton provides maximum breathability but may wear faster, whilst higher polyester content improves durability and colour retention.

Pocket Configuration: Basic shorts with standard pockets suit those using toolbelts, whilst shorts with holster pockets are ideal for chippies, sparkies, and other trades needing regular access to hand tools and equipment. Look for reinforced pockets if carrying heavier items.

Fit and Comfort: Choose shorts that allow full range of movement without being restrictive. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks both regular fit options and modern, tailored cuts like the Portwest PW3 range with elasticated waist sections for enhanced comfort during active work.

Safety Information

All high visibility workwear must comply with EN ISO 20471 standards. Hi vis shorts typically achieve Class 1 certification due to their reduced surface area, making them suitable for environments where workers are clearly separated from traffic or where vehicle speeds don't exceed 30mph. High-risk environments such as motorway maintenance may require Class 2 or 3 garments, which cannot be achieved with shorts alone—in these cases, pair hi vis shorts with Class 2 or 3 upper body garments.

Wash hi vis shorts according to manufacturer instructions to preserve fluorescent properties and reflective tape effectiveness. Replace garments when faded or damaged, as worn-out hi vis clothing may not meet safety standards. When working in hot conditions, apply sun cream to exposed skin and take regular breaks to prevent heat exhaustion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear hi vis shorts on all construction sites?

This depends on specific site requirements and risk assessments. Most standard construction sites permit Class 1 hi vis shorts during warm weather, but some high-risk environments or sites near fast-moving traffic may require full-length trousers. Always check with your site supervisor before wearing shorts on site.

How do I maintain the visibility of my hi vis shorts?

Wash inside-out at 40-60°C using manufacturer-specified detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach as these damage fluorescent dyes and reflective materials. Line dry when possible and inspect regularly for fading or damage to reflective tape.

What's the difference between Class 1 and higher classification hi vis clothing?

The classification relates to the amount of fluorescent material and reflective tape present. Class 1 has minimum requirements suitable for low-risk environments with good visibility. Class 2 and 3 offer increased visibility for higher-risk situations. Hi vis shorts typically achieve Class 1 certification due to their reduced material area.