Hi-vis sweatshirts and hoodies wholesale: fleece weights, styles and reflective tape
The hi-vis sweatshirt is the garment crews actually like wearing in cold months. Here is how to specify one that stays visible, washes well and carries your brand.
Published 27 October 2026 · Blackthorn World
In short
Hi-vis sweatshirts and hoodies are made in 280–320 GSM polyester or poly-cotton fleece in fluorescent yellow or orange, usually two-tone with navy or charcoal lower panels, with segmented reflective tape. Blackthorn World makes crew, quarter-zip and hooded styles with your logo from 50 pieces per style, from about $11 per piece FOB.
Which style: crew, quarter-zip or hoodie?
- Crew neck — the simplest and cheapest; layers under a vest or jacket.
- Quarter-zip — adjustable warmth and a smarter look for supervisors.
- Hoodie — the most popular with younger crews; specify a hood that fits under a hard hat or no drawcord where entanglement is a risk. See our hi-vis hoodie.
Fabric and weight
Polyester or poly-cotton brushed fleece at 280–320 GSM is the usual range. 100% polyester keeps its fluorescent colour longer through industrial washing; poly-cotton feels softer but fades faster. For colder sites, a bonded or sherpa-lined version adds warmth without a separate jacket.
Why two-tone designs?
A navy or charcoal lower body and cuffs hides dirt where sweatshirts get dirtiest, so the garment looks presentable for longer while the fluorescent upper body keeps the visible area. It is the most common spec in the UK, Ireland and Australia.
Reflective tape on fleece
Use segmented heat-transfer tape on knitted fleece: it bends with the fabric and survives washing better than sewn solid tape. Typical placement is two hoops around the torso, shoulder bands and arm hoops.
Branding
Chest embroidery for the logo, back print for the company name, and sleeve prints for job roles or site names. Keep all of it clear of the tape.
Price, MOQ and lead time
Hi-vis sweatshirts start at about $11 per piece FOB and hoodies at about $13, at the 50-piece minimum per style. Samples take 10–12 working days and bulk 2–3 weeks after approval. Certification of a design to EN ISO 20471 or ANSI/ISEA 107 can be arranged. Browse hi-vis jackets and tops, matching safety vests, and our workwear manufacturer page.
FAQ
What fabric is used for hi-vis sweatshirts?
Brushed polyester or poly-cotton fleece at 280–320 GSM; polyester keeps its fluorescent colour longer through industrial washing.
Can a hi-vis hoodie be worn on site?
Yes, with a hood that fits under a hard hat; some sites require no drawcords to avoid entanglement.
What is the MOQ for hi-vis sweatshirts?
50 pieces per style at Blackthorn World.
How much does a hi-vis sweatshirt cost?
From about $11 per piece FOB; hoodies from about $13.
Why are hi-vis sweatshirts two-tone?
A dark lower body hides dirt, so the garment stays presentable while the fluorescent upper body keeps it visible.