We rounded up the best reflective running gear because in some ways this is the perfect time of year to run outside—it's no longer sweltering, but the cold hasn't truly set in yet. On the other hand, the sun is setting before your last Zoom in much of the county. It can be challenging to muster up the excitement to do something active once the work day is done when it's 3 a.m. dark out, right?
The right gear can help with those problems. Who isn't above tapping into the new stuff morale boost if beefing up your low-light gear collection is what gets you out the door? More importantly, picking up some smart reflective options can truly make dark runs a bit safer—you want to be sure you really show up to any cars you encounter.
While there's a certain utilitarian charm in just slapping on a high-viz safety vest, these days the best reflective running gear doesn't even have to look like safety gear. From shirts and jackets to hats and backpacks, our favorite brands have mastered the subtle details that become suddenly very un-subtle in the headlights of a RAV4.
The Best Reflective Running Shorts
Satisfy Running
Satisfy was inspired by the chalk bags used by rock climbers, and these shorts have got two decent-sized side pockets that zipper shut, plus one more larger pocket on the back side big enough to store your iPhone. Two huge reflective panels on the side will get you seen.
The Best Reflective Running Cap
Adidas
A lightweight tech cap will singlehandedly take a rainy run from unbearable to totally doable, and this Adidas cap is ideal for blocking out water from the face. (It even has hidden padded sweatband to keep sweat out of your eyes.) You wouldn't know it at first glance, but it's covered in reflective trim.
The Best Reflective Running Backpack
Tracksmith
With a space for your laptop, spare clothes, and whatever else you may want to bring with you from point A to point B, this backpack is carefully designed for runners—it rests flat on your back, zero bounce to complain about. It’s also weatherproof and comes with a 18 liter hydration reservoir, and, of course, a gigantic reflective stripe.
The Best Reflective Running Jacket
Asics
Whether you're looking for a top layer for when temperatures truly drop or the perfect warm-up wear jogging in the dark to and from your track workouts, this sleek layer will keep you warm and visible.
The Best Reflective Running Shirt
Nike
Nike's breathable knit fabric will wick sweat and the carefully-placed bars of reflective material on the shoulders will keep you safer.
The Best Reflective Running Pants
Hill City
These pants are made with versatility and comfort in mind, but they also include careful reflective detailing. In other words, they're as at home on a cold twilight 12-miler as they are catching up on The Mandalorian.
Read MoreHow To Run Your Way Into Better ShapeOur fitness and wellness columnist makes the case for running—and why you should (finally) sign up for that 5K.
By Joe Holder