The Best Reflective Bands for Safer Nighttime Runs
Get noticed on the road and keep yourself safe with these smart accessories.
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Whether you're assembling some new gear to prep yourself for runs in the winter or are rising before the sun this summer to beat the heat, there is one thing that you should always have when running in the dark or in other low-visibility conditions: reflective gear. While there are many types of reflective accessories on the market, from hats to vests to stickers you can add to your outfit, one of the most popular—and easiest to add to your usual running gear arsenal—are reflective bands.
Reflective bands can be worn on your arms, wrists, legs, and ankles, and some are specifically designed for your head and body. From lightweight wrist and ankle bands to reflective headlamps, there are great options out there for everyone, no matter your running location, time, or aesthetic preferences. To help you choose the reflective bands that are right for you, we've gathered our favorites below.
The Best Reflective Bands
How We Selected
To find the best reflective bands on the market, we researched the most popular models available and considered their materials, design, visibility, comfort, and price. We then looked at both expert reviews and customer ratings, written by people who’ve bought these reflective bands on sites like Amazon, to settle on the products you'll find below, all of which have average user ratings of four out of five stars or higher.
Check out some more great gear to help you stay safe when running at night.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lots of options for wear
Cons
- No reflective options for your torso
Key Specs
- Visibility Features: Reflective tape
- Light Included: No
These bands are great for wearing anywhere on your limbs, from your ankles to your upper arms. Each band has a highly reflective strip in the middle and they are fully adjustable so they fit snugly wherever you put them. They also come in a snap-band style, which are super easy to slap on before you leave the house.
Pros
- Holds phones of all sizes
- Won't chafe
Cons
- Not the most reflective option
Key Specs
- Visibility Features: Reflective tape
- Lamp Included: No
This reflective band has a dual purpose—not only does it have a wide reflective surface sure to get you seen in low light conditions, but it's a phone holder, as well.
This armband is designed to hold all phones—even max sizes, and has a clear, touchscreen friendly TPU covering. It is also water resistant so it keeps your phone safe from sweat, rain, and humidity.
Pros
- Light and reflection for great visibility
- Adjustable for all sizes
Cons
- May shift around a bit
Key Specs
- Visibility Features: Light and reflective tape
- Lamp Included: No
This sash is lightweight, comfortable, and super visible. It not only has a reflective stripe, but includes a rechargeable LED light, as well. The light can be set to stay on or flash, depending on your preference. It is visible up to 350 yards away its one-size-fits-all design is adjustable.
Pros
- Bounce-free design
- Bright light for running in the dark
Cons
- A bit bulky
Key Specs
- Visibility Features: Reflective tape
- Lamp Included: Yes
When it is truly pitch dark outside, a lamp like this one can be a game-changer in terms of your safety. This model sits comfortably around your waist with an additional strap that attaches over one shoulder to keep it from bouncing or falling down.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easily adjustable
Cons
- Not a ton of reflective surface
Key Specs
- Visibility Features: Reflective tape
- Lamp Included: No
These bands are not only super reflective, but fully adjustable. They use a loop and Velcro closure, allowing you to make them as large or small as you need, and they won't slide around while you move. They can be worn on your arms, wrists, legs, or ankles, and can even hooked onto a vest or bike.
Pros
- Visible from any angle
- Headlamp helps you see in the dark
Cons
- Some may find the plastic uncomfortable
Key Specs
- Visibility Features: Light and reflective tape
- Lamp Included: Yes
This headlamp helps you see and be seen when you're running at night or in other low-visibility conditions. It fits snugly on your head and sits flush against your forehead, ensuring its comfort and keeping it from bouncing around. It has a COB light in the front, which helps keep you visible, as well as a side LED light that can help you see when it's truly dark out. It also has a reflective elastic band for visibility from the back.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
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