{"id":199770,"date":"2025-10-09T07:04:03","date_gmt":"2025-10-09T07:04:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/199770\/"},"modified":"2025-10-09T07:04:03","modified_gmt":"2025-10-09T07:04:03","slug":"review-proviz-apex-mens-100-reflective-cycling-jacket","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/199770\/","title":{"rendered":"Review: Proviz Apex Men’s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Proviz\u00a0Apex Men’s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket is a super-visible waterproof top that makes other road users far more aware of your presence\u00a0in low light conditions \u2013 and even more so when picked out by a vehicle’s headlights. It is primarily a commuter jacket and is better suited to the cooler half of the year, or for shorter journeys, as it could be a bit more breathable. But it’s reasonably\u00a0priced and comes in a huge range of men’s and women’s sizes.<\/p>\n

>\u00a0Buy now:\u00a0Proviz\u00a0Apex\u00a0Men’s 100%\u00a0Reflective\u00a0Cycling Jacket for \u00a399.99 from\u00a0Proviz<\/a><\/p>\n

I was very impressed with how visible this jacket was, especially with indirect light. The cut favours a more upright riding position, which also offers more reflective material for you to be seen by.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – rear reflective.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

It is waterproof and breathable and, although there was some ingress of water when ridden in a truly torrential downpour, in more normal conditions the waterproofing worked well. When not worn it needs to be stowed in a backpack or bike luggage as it is too bulky to fit in a rear jersey pocket \u2013 measuring about 20cm long and 10cm in diameter.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex jkt end roll v std tin.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex jkt side roll v std tin.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

Reflectivity<\/p>\n

I asked a friend to wear it one evening while I rode with them, so I could check its reflectivity from various distances \u2013 and it was truly excellent. It doesn’t even need a light shining directly at it for it to work, either.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – front reflective.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

When you’re riding on drops the lower back and the arms of the jacket stand out and are extremely visible. And when riding on a Brompton in a more upright position, much more of your back is visible and reflective to road users following you, and\u00a0even effective when picked out by a car’s side lights.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – hem.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

Proviz says the jacket has a 15,000gm\/24hr breathability rating, which is high, and there are under-arm and shoulder vents too. This arrived during summer and on an evening ride when it measured 18\u00b0C I was a little warm after five miles of riding.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – chest.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

I actually thought the breathability would feel a little better than this, and even on morning commutes around 12\u00b0C I felt it was on the warmer side, though the full-length zip obviously helps in regulating your temperature.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – seams.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

This summer has been mainly hot and dry though I was able to test it in a very heavy downpour \u2013 one I’d normally catch the train to avoid \u2013 and got in a few miles on the Brompton. After the sort of two-mile commute that the folder might be used for, the jacket had received a thorough soaking \u2013 and kept out most of the weather.<\/p>\n

I say ‘most’, as there were a couple of damp areas. The cuffs of my long-sleeve T-shirt and the backs of my shoulders were wet, and a little water had made its way through the chest and lower front pocket.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex – baselayer.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

But I should emphasise this was a deliberately extreme scenario that I had decided to ride in.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Jacket wet areas.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

I think that during the sort of rain we’re most likely to encounter there’d be no issues, and Matt had a broadly similar experience testing the 2023 version<\/a> of this jacket.<\/p>\n

The cut<\/p>\n

Riding a road bike with a drop bar I found that the arms were a fraction shorter than ideal, though still okay. The body, while cut more generously, didn’t rub or touch the tops of my legs while I was riding.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – rear.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

The sleeve length proved better when I was riding in a more upright position. Even carrying a phone in the chest pocket and keys in the lower front pocket, there were no issues.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – side pocket.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

I found the rear pocket handy too.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – rear pocket.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

I usually wear a medium and the Proviz medium proved a good fit, with a looser cut that left room for layers underneath. And it’s good to see a large range of sizes too, covering S to 4XL in men’s and 8 to 20 in women’s sizes.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – tail.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

Though the fabric felt slightly stiff and noise when wearing it off the bike \u2013 presumably the result of its reflective glass beads \u2013 I didn’t find it noticeably noisy when riding.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – drawstring.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

You can cinch the cuffs up tight, though I’d have liked to be able to loosen them beyond their ‘loosest’ setting.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – cuff.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

I liked the fit of the fleece-lined collar when the jacket was done up, cosy but not too tight and with room for a snood underneath.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – collar.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

Overall, the jacket feels well made and robust, with nothing to suggest any problems with durability. The shoulders are reinforced with a mesh-overlay to add extra protection, which will be particularly useful to prevent rubbing from a backpack’s straps.<\/p>\n

\"20252025 Proviz Apex Men\u2019s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket – shoulders.jpg (credit: road.cc)<\/p>\n

Value<\/p>\n

The Altura\u00a0Nightvision Electron<\/a> is a much more expensive option at \u00a3190. Its fabric is softer and quieter and it looks more ‘normal’ in everyday use, but wearing it at night, I’d never known drivers to be so considerate around me, particularly on country lanes.<\/p>\n

The same company’s Storm Waterproof Jacket<\/a> costs just \u00a380 and its strategically placed reflective dots are effective, though like the Proviz breathability is an issue.<\/p>\n

The \u00a385\u00a0ETC\u00a0Arid Verso Rain Jacket<\/a> is reversible between hi-vis yellow and reflective, and while Stu found it a decent performer, its availability is limited.<\/p>\n

The Rapha Commuter Lightweight Jacket<\/a> is light and breathable and while \u00a380 when we tested it, it’s still worth considering at its present \u00a3100, though it won’t be quite as waterproof as others.<\/p>\n

Check out our best hi-vis cycling jackets<\/a> and best cycling jackets<\/a>\u00a0buyer’s guides for more options.<\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/p>\n

The Proviz\u00a0Apex Men’s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket is superbly visible and well suited to winter outings and rides in low-light conditions. It’s not as breathable as I’d like and too bulky for a jersey pocket \u2013 an issue for me but it may not be for you \u2013 but it’s on a par size- and weight-wise with most of the competition. Proviz has created a super-reflective top that appears to be rugged, and if being seen is your top priority, it’s worth checking out.<\/p>\n

>\u00a0Buy now:\u00a0Proviz\u00a0Apex\u00a0Men’s 100%\u00a0Reflective\u00a0Cycling Jacket for \u00a399.99 from\u00a0Proviz<\/a><\/p>\n

Verdict<\/p>\n

Superbly visible option for winter and decently waterproof, though I’d have liked it to be more breathable<\/p>\n

Make and model: Proviz Apex Men’s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket<\/p>\n

Tell us what the jacket is for and who it’s aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it? <\/p>\n

This is a commuter jacket aimed at riders who want to be seen \u2013\u00a0and then some.<\/p>\n

Proviz says: “The innovative material used for the men’s REFLECT360+ Apex Cycling Jacket is made of millions of tiny, highly reflective glass beads. It is highly breathable (15,000gm\/24hr) and exceptionally waterproof (15,000mm). The inner seams of the jacket are also taped to prevent water from getting in at the sewing lines.”<\/p>\n

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the jacket? <\/p>\n

From Proviz:<\/p>\n

FEATURES:<\/p>\n

Our most technically advanced cycling jacket to date.<\/p>\n

360-degree reflective fabric for enhanced safety, ensuring you’re visible from all angles during your cycles.<\/p>\n

CE EN 20471 certified, guaranteeing the jacket meets rigorous testing and stringent quality standards for high visibility.<\/p>\n

Fabric combined with PU waterproofing and Tricot 4-way stretch offers enhanced durability and comfort, cutting the need for a bulky inner mesh lining.<\/p>\n

Enhanced Tricot lining material compared to its predecessor, offering a softer touch, improved stretch, and a more tailored fit for increased comfort and breathability.<\/p>\n

15k\/15k waterproofing and breathability rating provides superior protection from rain while allowing moisture to escape, an upgrade from the earlier 10k\/10k rating.<\/p>\n

Redesigned underarm vents we’ve removed the zips for simpler, more effective airflow, improving arm movement and overall comfort.<\/p>\n

Upgraded waterproof zips provide increased durability and strength, offering better performance compared to earlier models.<\/p>\n

Reinforced shoulders with a mesh-overlay add extra protection and durability, particularly against backpack strap rub, extending the jacket’s lifespan.<\/p>\n

Three pockets: one front, one rear, and one side pocket for convenient storage, allowing easy access to essentials while on the go.<\/p>\n

Back pleat design adds flexibility to the jacket’s fit, particularly useful for keeping comfort and movement while cycling.<\/p>\n

Fleece-lined collar offers warmth and comfort during colder weather, ensuring a cosy fit on chilly rides.<\/p>\n

Seam-sealed construction enhances strength, durability, and waterproofing, preventing water from seeping through the jacket.<\/p>\n

Ultra-light at only 537g, providing a lightweight feel without compromising on protection or durability.<\/p>\n

Elasticated and adjustable waistband allows for a more flexible fit, ensuring comfort and a snug fit tailored to your shape.<\/p>\n

Stronger and more durable Velcro cuffs ensure a secure fit around your wrists, providing added comfort and keeping out cold air.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for quality of construction: <\/p>\n

7\/10<\/p>\n

It feels well made, with most of the seams taped for extra waterproofness.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for performance: <\/p>\n

7\/10<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for durability: <\/p>\n

8\/10<\/p>\n

The material feels durable. No issues during the testing period.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for waterproofing based on the manufacturer’s rating: <\/p>\n

6\/10<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for breathability based on the manufacturer’s rating: <\/p>\n

5\/10<\/p>\n

Its breathability was okay, but not great.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for fit: <\/p>\n

8\/10<\/p>\n

The medium \u2013 my go-to size \u2013 was a good fit.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for sizing: <\/p>\n

8\/10<\/p>\n

I tested a medium, which is what I would normally choose.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for weight: <\/p>\n

5\/10<\/p>\n

At 543g it’s on a par with similar commuter jackets. It rolls up to a package about 20cm long with a diameter of 10cm, which makes it too bulky for a rear pocket, but it’ll be fine for a pannier, backpack and some saddle bags and bar bags.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for comfort: <\/p>\n

7\/10<\/p>\n

I liked the fit of the collar when fully zipped up, along with its fleece collar lining. Slightly looser cuffs would make it easier to get the jacket on and off.<\/p>\n

Rate the jacket for value: <\/p>\n

5\/10<\/p>\n

There are two competitors main competitors when it comes to waterproof high-visibility jackets: the Altura Nightvision Storm jacket and the ETC Arid Verso Rain.<\/p>\n

The Altura is \u00a380 with the ETC a fiver more expensive at \u00a385, though availability of the ETC is now limited.<\/p>\n

And while the Proviz definitely outscores those two in the visibility stakes, I’m not sure that’s quite enough to justify the price difference.<\/p>\n

Tell us how the jacket performed overall when used for its designed purpose <\/p>\n

It worked well as a waterproof layer in normal levels of rain, though it did struggle to keep me totally dry in a torrential downpour. And while it’s not as as breathable as I’d have liked, especially given its 15,000gm\/24hr breathability rating, this will be fine for commuting and more casual riding \u2013 its intended purposes \u2013 if not harder, sweat-inducing training efforts.<\/p>\n

Tell us what you particularly liked about the jacket <\/p>\n

The be-seen-from-outer-space visibility it offers you on the road at night.<\/p>\n

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the jacket <\/p>\n

The fabric is a bit stiff and noisy when wearing as an off-the-bike jacket.<\/p>\n

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market including ones recently tested on road.cc? <\/p>\n

At \u00a3124.99 the price is a bit higher than a few other commuter jackets that we’ve reviewed\u00a0The Altura Nightvision Storm jacket and the ETC Arid Verso Rain jacket are priced at \u00a380 and \u00a385 respectively and have similar features.<\/p>\n

Did you enjoy using the jacket? Yes \u2013 for shorter journeys.<\/p>\n

Would you consider buying the jacket? No \u2013 I rate breathabilty and pack size more highly.<\/p>\n

Would you recommend the jacket to a friend? Yes \u2013 if they’re looking for maximum night-time visibility.<\/p>\n

Use this box to explain your overall score <\/p>\n

A good jacket overall that is well suited to the environment it is designed for. It has every appearance of being a robust and long-lived garment, and I\u00a0was impressed with how visible it was in low and very low light levels.<\/p>\n

Age: 56\u00a0\u00a0Height: 180cm\u00a0\u00a0Weight: 66kg<\/p>\n

I usually ride: Condor Fratello 55cm\u00a0\u00a0My best bike is: Gios Evolution 55cm<\/p>\n

I’ve been riding for: Over 20 years\u00a0\u00a0I ride: Every week\u00a0\u00a0I would class myself as: Expert<\/p>\n

I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, touring, general fitness riding, fixed\/singlespeed, mtb, General road riding is most common<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The Proviz\u00a0Apex Men’s 100% Reflective Cycling Jacket is a super-visible waterproof top that makes other road users far…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":199771,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[569],"tags":[64,63,784,85],"class_list":{"0":"post-199770","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-cycling","8":"tag-au","9":"tag-australia","10":"tag-cycling","11":"tag-sports"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/199770","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=199770"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/199770\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/199771"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=199770"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=199770"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=199770"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}