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When it comes to working in hazardous environments or unpredictable weather, visibility and protection are non-negotiable. Whether you’re a construction worker, traffic controller, or utility technician, your safety gear should offer full visibility and maximum waterproof performance. If you’re looking for the BEST hi vis raincoat for work, the Portwest H445 Waterproof ANSI Class 3 Safety Jacket is a game-changer you shouldn’t overlook.

In this review, we’ll break down why this long rain jacket with hood is the best investment for professionals who demand the highest standards in safety, durability, and comfort.

✅ Why High Visibility Clothing is Critical in Work Environments

Every year, countless workplace injuries occur simply because workers weren’t seen. According to research published in the International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, high-visibility (hi-vis) clothing has a proven impact on reducing accidents in construction and roadwork environments, especially in low-light or poor-weather conditions (Wogalter & Mayhorn, 2005).

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) developed Class 3 requirements specifically for professionals exposed to the highest levels of risk, including traffic that exceeds 50 mph or complex backgrounds. The Portwest H445 exceeds expectations by meeting ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Class 3 compliance, ensuring you’re visible from all angles, day or night.


🔍 Product Overview: What is the Portwest H445?

The Portwest H445 Waterproof Hi Vis Raincoat is a lightweight, breathable, and fully waterproof long rain jacket, designed for men who need safety without sacrificing comfort. Engineered to stand up to harsh weather while remaining highly visible, this raincoat is part of Portwest’s professional-grade safety workwear line.

Key Specifications:

  • Material: 100% Polyester with PVC coating

  • Compliance: ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Class 3

  • Features: Waterproof seams, pack-away hood, front snap closure, reflective tape

  • Color: High-visibility yellow

  • Available Size: X-Large (also offered in various sizes)


🔑 Key Features and Benefits

1. Unbeatable Waterproof Protection

Whether you’re out in a thunderstorm or navigating wet job sites, staying dry is crucial. The Portwest H445 features a durable polyester fabric coated with PVC, which repels water instantly while allowing vapor to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable from the inside out.

Taped seams prevent water penetration
Storm flap and snap-button closure provide extra rain resistance

2. ANSI Class 3 Visibility

What sets the H445 apart is its 360-degree reflective coverage. Featuring dual bands of retroreflective tape on the torso and arms, and a bright fluorescent yellow color, the jacket makes you highly visible from every angle—even in complete darkness.

ANSI Class 3 compliance ensures maximum visibility
Ideal for roadwork, construction, utilities, and emergency response

3. Lightweight Yet Durable Design

This jacket may be long and waterproof, but it’s surprisingly lightweight, making it ideal for long shifts. Unlike bulky rain gear that restricts movement, the H445 offers full range of motion while protecting from wind and water.

Doesn’t weigh you down, even during long hours
Perfect for layering over other workwear

4. Functional Hood with Pack-Away Design

The attached hood is adjustable and can be folded away into the collar when not needed. This feature ensures versatility for changing weather conditions.

Added convenience without sacrificing space
Great for on-the-go professionals and field technicians

5. Extended Length for Better Coverage

The longer design ensures that more of your body stays dry—even during heavy downpours. This makes it ideal for outdoor labor-intensive jobs where you can’t avoid the rain.

Keeps pants and upper thighs dry as well
Minimizes water dripping down into work boots


📊 How It Compares to Other Hi Vis Raincoats

When compared to brands like Carhartt, Ergodyne, or Viking, the Portwest H445 delivers a better balance between functionality, affordability, and safety compliance. Many competitors only meet Class 2 standards or sacrifice breathability for waterproofing.

FeaturePortwest H445Competitor ACompetitor B
ANSI Class 3 Compliance✅ Yes❌ Class 2 Only✅ Yes
Waterproof Material✅ PVC Coated✅ PVC✅ Polyurethane
Reflective Tape Coverage✅ Full 360°❌ Partial✅ Full
Breathability✅ Moderate❌ Poor❌ Poor
Price Range💲💲 Affordable💲💲💲 Premium💲💲💲 Premium

👷‍♂️ Who Should Wear the Portwest H445?

This hi-vis raincoat is ideal for professionals who work outdoors in dangerous or wet conditions, such as:

  • Construction and Roadwork Crews

  • Logistics and Delivery Drivers

  • Airport Ground Staff

  • Utility and Electrical Workers

  • Emergency Response Teams

  • Warehouse Operators


🧠 Science-Backed Insights on Hi Vis Workwear

A study in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene confirmed that workers wearing ANSI-compliant reflective gear had significantly reduced risk of being struck by vehicles or equipment (Turner et al., 2009). This reinforces the life-saving importance of products like the Portwest H445.

Another study from Safety Science journal emphasized how visibility and protective features increase worker confidence and productivity. Workers feel more secure and are less likely to rush through tasks when they feel properly equipped.


💬 What Customers Are Saying

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for my night shift road crew. I stay dry, visible, and comfortable even in heavy rain.” – Verified Buyer

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Lightweight and roomy enough for layering. I’ve worn it through storms, and it keeps me bone dry.” – Construction Foreman

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This raincoat saved me during a downpour. Great price for a true ANSI Class 3 jacket!” – Utility Technician

Common praises:

  • Excellent visibility

  • True waterproofing

  • Lightweight comfort

  • Affordable compared to similar Class 3 jackets


💡 Pro Buying Tips

  • Go one size up if you plan on layering over thick winter gear

  • Pair with ANSI Class E rain pants for full Class 3 ensemble

  • Store it in your vehicle or job site locker for unpredictable weather


🎯 Final Verdict: Why the Portwest H445 Is the BEST Hi Vis Raincoat for Work

When safety and comfort collide, the Portwest H445 Waterproof Hi Vis Raincoat comes out on top. With its ANSI Class 3 compliance, full-length waterproof protection, and visibility-focused design, it offers the best value for workers who refuse to compromise.

This isn’t just a raincoat—it’s a shield against the elements and a commitment to workplace safety. Whether you’re braving the storm or simply meeting job-site safety regulations, the Portwest H445 ensures you’re covered—literally and legally.

Disclaimer: This blog article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

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