How to Stay Visible at Night: Essential Gear for Runners, Walkers & Dog Owners

Staying active and getting from point A to point B shouldn’t come with safety risks, but low-light conditions make visibility a challenge for pedestrians, especially for runners, walkers, and dog owners. 76% of pedestrian fatalities occur in low-light conditions due to poor visibility, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Whether you’re out for an evening jog, taking your dog for a walk, or biking home after work, having the right nighttime safety gear is essential to stay seen and protected. Here’s a breakdown of must-have items to enhance your visibility and security after dark. 

1. Reflective Clothing & Accessories

One of the simplest ways to stay visible is by incorporating reflective gear into your outfit. Look for:

• Reflective vests – Lightweight and easy to wear over any clothing
• Reflective scrunchies – Functional and stylish, these illuminate you from 6 times further in car headlights and you can easily wear them on your wrist or in your hair. 
• Jackets, leggings, and shoes with built-in reflective details

Our founder wearing a large rainbow reflective scrunchie and large honeycomb reflective scrunchie 

2. Clip-On Lights

Wearable LED clip-on light not only ensures you see the road ahead but also alerts drivers and cyclists to your presence. Choose a rechargeable option with multiple brightness settings for the best experience.

3. Bright-Colored Clothing

Dark colors blend into the night, making it harder for drivers and cyclists to see you. Opt for neon or brightly colored clothing in addition to reflective elements to stand out.

6. Phone or Smartwatch

Keep your phone accessible in case of an emergency by using a phone holder or smartwatch. This allows you to quickly call for help or navigate without fumbling through pockets or bags. Additionally, a phone's flashlight feature can provide extra illumination. 

7. Plan Your Route & Stay Aware

Avoid poorly lit areas and stick to familiar routes with sidewalks and designated pedestrian paths. Always stay aware of your surroundings by keeping music volume low and watching for traffic.

Final Thoughts

Nighttime activities can be both enjoyable and safe with the right precautions. By incorporating reflective gear like our Selene scrunchies along with other protective measures, you can confidently enjoy your evening runs, walks, or commutes while ensuring visibility and security.

Looking for stylish yet functional reflective gear? Check out our glow-in-the-dark scrunchies designed to keep you seen and safe in low-light conditions!