Construction gear has to be tough, reliable, and built for long days in unpredictable conditions. This list highlights the top construction worker vests used on job sites across the U.S. and Canada. From ANSI-compliant vests to utility vests packed with pockets, every item here balances function with comfort. Featured brands include Carhartt, JKSafety, and KwikSafety.
Choosing the right construction vest matters more than you think
Whether you’re pouring concrete, flagging traffic, or framing up walls, visibility can mean the difference between a close call and a serious accident. Construction zones are full of moving parts and heavy machinery. Wearing an ANSI-compliant safety vest helps make workers visible from all angles, especially in low-light or high-traffic conditions.
But the benefits of a construction vest go beyond workplace safety. A well-designed safety vest can double as a tool belt, freeing up your hands and saving you trips back to the toolbox. Look for vests with multiple pockets, reinforced stitching, and breathable fabrics to help you stay organized on the job.
UTHH Top 10 construction worker vests
10. Neiko 53941A High Visibility Safety Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Affordable and lightweight – ANSI/ISEA 107-2004 compliant – Easy zip closure | – Thin polyester fabric may not hold up well long-term – Limited pocket storage |
Sometimes simple works best. This Neiko vest is extremely lightweight and folds up small—perfect for keeping in your truck or gear bag as a backup. It’s not overloaded with features, but the reflective tape is wide and clear, and it meets ANSI standards. It also comes with a zipper which is convenient for quick on-and-off use. Best for occasional wear or as a spare.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2004 compliance
- Available in fluorescent yellow with reflective stripes
- Front zip closure
- Comes in no pocket and pocket versions
9. Carhartt Men’s Hi-Vis Class 2 Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Trusted brand known for durability – Triple-stitched seams – Multiple storage options | – Price is higher than basic options – Only Class 2 rated |
The Carhartt Hi-Vis Class 2 Vest brings classic Carhartt quality to safety gear. Built with rugged materials and reinforced seams, it’s made to last on heavy-duty job sites. Reflective striping on the front and back ensures visibility, while ample pockets and mic tabs make it easy to carry gear. It’s not the flashiest construction worker vest, but it’s tough, and that counts for a lot in the field.
Key features:
- ANSI Class 2
- Durable polyester mesh with triple-stitched seams
- Left chest map pocket and two lower front pockets
- Available in the U.S. and Canada
8. JKSafety 9-Pocket Safety Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Loaded with pockets and storage – ID badge holder included – High visibility colors | – Zipper may wear with frequent use – Runs small—consider sizing up |
The JKSafety 9-Pocket Safety Vest is perfect for those who like to carry their essentials with them. With nine pockets, including one with a clear ID window and a radio/phone pocket, the JKSafety vest offers serious utility. It’s made of breathable mesh and offers ANSI compliance, making it both comfortable and compliant for fieldwork.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 2 Type R certified
- Nine multi-function pockets
- Mic tabs on both shoulders
- High visibility yellow and orange options
7. KwikSafety BIG KAHUNA Safety Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Heavy-duty construction – Designed for utility workers, surveyors, and foremen – Pockets with hook & loop closures | – Bulkier fit – Can get hot in warmer climates |
A bold name that’s backed up with bold visibility, the KwikSafety Big Kahuna safety vest comes in a bright neon color with thick orange reflective stripes. It’s a comfortable choice with breathable mesh panels that prevent overheating during long shifts. Though it leans more affordable, the stitching and material don’t feel cheap. A good pick for a construction worker vest if you need visibility and comfort without overpaying.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 Class 2 compliant
- 10 pockets including radio and tablet slots
- Reinforced zipper front
- Mic tabs and grommets for lanyards or badge clips
6. Ergodyne GloWear 8250Z
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Solid mix of mesh and solid fabric – Zipper closure and multiple pockets – Well-fitted design | – Fewer pockets than some other utility vests – Limited size availability |
Ergodyne packed a lot of storage and smart design into the Ergodyne GloWear 8240Z. It’s ANSI Class 2 compliant, with a zip-front and contrasting trim for better visibility. This one’s ideal for site leads or supervisors who need to carry pens, radios, and phones. The vest’s material is breathable, but the pockets give it a heavier overall feel. A dependable pick for those who need function over flash.
Key features:
- ANSI Class 2 Type R compliant
- Solid front with mesh back
- Dual mic tabs and radio pocket
- Reinforced webbing around edges
5. Pioneer Surveyor’s Safety Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Built for surveyors and outdoor workers – Roomy fit for over jackets – Strong zipper and reinforced pockets | – Some sizes run big – Price point is higher than basic vests |
The Pioneer Surveyor Vest is loaded with pockets and rugged features. It uses a heavier fabric than most, giving it a more jacket-like feel that’s ideal for cooler climates. The front zipper is sturdy and easy to use with gloves on. You can pack tools, notebooks, and even small tablets in the oversized compartments. It’s more of a utility construction worker vest than a basic safety one.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 Class 2 Type P & R
- Made with 100% polyester tricot
- Radiophone clip strap
- Pen, notepad, and cell phone pockets
4. Radians SV55 SV55-2ZGD-L SV55 Class 2 Heavy Woven Two-Tone Engineer Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Rugged design with tons of storage – Reinforced pockets – Comfortable padded collar | – Can feel heavy when fully loaded – Slightly pricier than competitors |
Designed with engineers and site managers in mind, the Radians SV55 Safety Vest has everything but the kitchen sink. It’s constructed from heavy-duty polyester, giving it a jacket-like feel without the weight. Reflective striping, contrasting trim, and solid front zippers offer style and utility. Inside are hidden pockets for documents, tablets, and gear you don’t want exposed. It’s a smart upgrade for workers who wear vests daily.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 2 Type R
- Solid front, mesh back
- Padded collar for comfort
- Dual mic tabs and radio pocket
3. Safety Depot ANSI Class 2 Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Simple, lightweight, and budget-friendly – Solid zipper and reflective striping – Ideal for temporary or backup use | – Not built for rugged environments – Limited pockets |
The Safety Depot Vest is best for part-time workers, job site visitors, or quick tasks. It’s breathable and bright, but not designed for long-term use or heavy-duty projects. Still, it meets ANSI standards and provides excellent visibility, which might be all you need.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 Class 2
- Lightweight mesh
- 6 pockets – 4 outside, 2 inside
- Zipper closure
- Available across the U.S.
2. Kishigo Class 2 Economy Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – High quality for the price – Comfortable fit – Breathable and lightweight | – Only basic pockets – Limited utility features |
Kishigo’s Class 2 vest is a solid, reliable option that’s ideal for hot-weather work. It’s lightweight and designed for easy layering, with simple yet functional features. While it doesn’t offer all the extras, it’s a favorite among workers who just want something that fits well, keeps them visible, and doesn’t weigh them down.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 Class 2
- Zipper front closure
- Multiple pockets inside and outside the vest
- Reflective striping with contrasting color
1. UTHH top pick: Ironwear 1280 Class 3 Heavy Duty Vest
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Excellent durability and comfort – Tons of storage, including tablet pocket – Padded neck and strong zipper | – Heavier than most vests – Slightly bulkier fit |
If you’re looking for one construction worker vest that does it all, this is it. The Ironwear 1280 is built for long days on complex job sites. It holds your gear, stands up to harsh weather, and keeps you highly visible. Workers love the padded collar, roomy storage, and rugged build. It’s been spotted on sites from road crews to framing jobs.
Key features:
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 Class 3 certified
- 8 multi-function pockets, including a large tablet pocket
- Mic tabs, reinforced edging, heavy-duty zipper
- Available in Canada and the U.S.
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