Hunting is an activity as old as time itself. Today, hunting is viewed more as a sport and an activity than anything else. Avid hunters explore public land, the backcountry, and reserves alike in search of their favorite large and small game.
One of the most important factors emphasized in hunting is safety. Whenever weapons are involved, safety is essential.
Blaze orange hunting vests are a critical component of hunter safety. If you’re looking for the best one on the market, you’ve come to the right place. We have fully reviewed some of the best blaze orange hunting vests for you.
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Comparison of the Best Blaze Orange Hunting Vests
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What is Blaze Orange and What is it Used For?
Simply put, blaze orange is a very bright and vibrant shade of orange. It’s often used in hunter safety equipment and apparel to increase visibility when hunting. The quickest reason behind this is simple: safety.
Bright, blaze orange vests help mitigate the risk of misfires. It poses a stark contrast to the camouflage without ruining the impact the camo has on animals. The vest is an innovative solution that makes hunters visible to one another, but not to their prey.
When and Where is Wearing a Blaze Orange Hunting Vest Required?
Wearing a blaze orange vest is required by law in most states in the U.S. Hunters must follow regulations, many of which are designed to protect land, hunters, and animal populations. These vests fall within these laws.
Various Hunting Seasons
There are many different hunter seasons over the course of a year, and each one has its own rules and regulations in order to maintain safety and coordination.
Rifle season always requires a blaze orange vest, whereas bow hunting season does not. Most hunting that uses a gun of any kind will require you to wear your orange vest for safety purposes.
Various States Have Different Rules
Although generally speaking, it’s best to wear your blaze orange hunting vest at all times in every hunting situation, it’s not always an official requirement according to your state.
For example, Alabama requires 144 square inches of visibly orange or a hat but does not require orange camouflage. Alternatively, Alaska doesn’t have rules concerning square inches or hats, but they do require a See3D suit. Other states, like Arkansas, Colorado, and Illinois require both specific inches of blaze orange plus a hat.
Public Land
Many states require that all people hunting on public lands, which include state land, national forests, and grasslands, must wear blaze orange materials during daylight hours while hunting with firearms.
There are exceptions to this rule. For example, if you’re hunting turkeys, migratory birds, alligators, or bighorn sheep, you do not have to follow this requirement.
You also don’t have to wear a blaze orange vest if you are on a designated campground, a parking area, or an enclosed passenger portion of a vehicle.
Reviews of the Best Blaze Orange Hunting Vests
It’s one thing to know what kind of equipment you need; it’s another to have the best equipment available. Below we have reviewed five of our favorite blaze orange hunting vests on the market today.
Best Overall:Allen Company Blaze Orange Hunting Vest
[amazon fields=”B001SH7VEW” image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]
PROS
- Quiet material
- Easy to put on and take off
- Comfortable to wear over clothing
- Wide sizing range with adjustable straps
- A fast, affordable way to ensure visibility
CONS
- No storage pockets – no frills
- Not durable like other materials
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers can all agree that this is a hassle-free solution to the blaze orange requirement. While it’s not reported to be super heavy-duty or fancy, it does its job by passively sitting over your hunting clothes. Everyone knows that you can’t beat this price, and the sturdy material is perfect in a pinch.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The hook and loop closure makes it super easy to put on and take off without any hassle. Simply throw it on over your clothing. The acrylic material isn’t one of our top recommendations, but it does leave you with the same minimal level of sound that you want.
The vest is high visibility, keeping you safe during your hunts. It has a wide size range, from youth to an extra-large adult. The closure mechanisms are adjustable, so you can get an ideal fit over both summer and winter hunting gear.
Bottom Line
The bottom line here is that the Allen Company vest is simple, basic, and affordable. It will get the job done, keeping you safe from other hunters while serving as an easy solution to federal regulations. You can’t go wrong if you’re not interested in frills and extras.
Product Specs
Material:
100% Polyester
Number of Pockets:
0
Runner-up:Outdoor Cap BLZCPV Vest and Cap Combo
[amazon fields=”B005KW8226″ image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]
PROS
- Simple design is easy to use
- Snap closure is secure and reliable
- Adjustable hat fits most comfortably
- Polyester material is quiet and durable
- The elastic sides make for a comfortable fit
CONS
- Too large for children
- Does not offer full coverage with open sides
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers state that this vest is a good choice for anyone who’s working within a budget. While you may not get all the fancy features of a more expensive vest, the bright orange color does the job. Plus, buyers love that it comes with a hat as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The main attraction of this product is the dual hat-vest combo that you get for a low price. Some states require both a blaze orange hat along a matching vest, so this is a convenient option for anyone who needs – or wants – both.
We also love the price. You can’t beat an affordable product that also works exactly how it should.
The one size fits most aspect of it makes it a comfortable fit for most people, and the elastic straps give you a nice fit. With polyester fabric, the vest will stay quiet, and last you for a while.
Bottom Line
The bottom line for this product is that it’s affordable and it gets the job done. There aren’t many fancy features on this vest, but the bright orange fits the law, and you get a pretty high-quality hat to go along with it.
Product Specs
Material:
Polyester
Number of Pockets:
0
Best for the Money:Mossy Oak Blaze Safety Vest
[amazon fields=”B00MS20ZU8″ image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]
PROS
- Zips in the front to stay closed
- 100% polyester fabric is quiet in the woods
- Elastic side bands allow for a snug, comfortable fit
- The hook and loop closure is secure and adjustable
- Features a license loop on the back to hold your tags
CONS
- Lacks pockets for storage
- Poor stitching leads to tears and holes easily
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers seem to understand that you get what you pay for, and this product is no exception. While it’s nice to stay within an affordable budget, that does mean receiving a lower-quality product, in most cases. The color and design are overall nice, but some buyers noticed this vest probably won’t make it to a second hunting season.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What stands out most to us is the eye-catching camo design that pairs perfectly with the orange color. Some hunters hate that they have to disrupt their camouflage outfit with orange, so this vest is a nice compromise.
We also like the elastic bands around that side that truly make this vest a one size fits all piece. It helps keep the vest snug to your body so you’re not getting caught on branches or constantly adjusting the clothing.
Bottom Line
Buyers beware: you get what you pay for. Serious hunters might not find this to be the most lucrative piece of equipment for their long hunts, but amateurs, beginners, or even just casual hunters can’t go wrong. It’s not a waste of money if it’s well under your budget.
Product Specs
Material:
100% Polyester Oxford
Number of Pockets:
0
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Best Blaze Orange Camo Hunting Vest:Mountain Pass Extreme Big Game Blaze Camo
[amazon fields=”B00V6ZF8TG” image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]
PROS
- Stylish look
- Very well-constructed and durable
- Lots of pockets and large storage areas
- Features a hand warmer pocket for cold days
- Water bottle pockets make it easy to carry bottles
CONS
- No waterproofing
- Side entry pocket is a bit difficult to maneuver
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyer rave about the innovative design of this vest because it comes with all the pockets and storage you could need. They love that there’s a place for everything – even your cold hands.
However, buyers of this product have also come to realize that with extra features comes extra weight.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Because of the pullover/side entry design, this manufacturer was able to implement a kangaroo style pocket for extra large storage. It’s perfect for hold tags, ammo, cellphone, and anything else you might need on hand.
On the back of the vest, users will find a large cargo pouch that’s perfect for carrying small game, extra clothing, and more. There’s a slot for a safety strap, as well as a fabric license holder.
Two rear water bottle slots let you hold standard sized water bottles.
Bottom Line
Of course, in terms of blaze orange vests, the solid orange and orange camo are going to be your best bets here. The Mountain Pass Extreme hunting vest is actually a pullover/side entry vest that has a quarter zip at the top for easy on and off, and the hand warming pocket is a solid amenity.
Product Specs
Material:
Heavy-duty HunterHide Windproof Fabric
Number of Pockets:
4
Best Women’s Blaze Orange Hunting Vest:DSG Outerwear Blaze Hunting Vest
[amazon fields=”B07MK5J573″ image=”1″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_link=”none”]
PROS
- Made from high-quality, durable fabric
- Designed to fit over thicker clothing or a jacket
- Two pockets on the front offer additional storage
- Vest is available in both blaze orange and blaze pink
- The vest is slightly fitted and made for a woman’s body
CONS
- Sizing runs large
- There’s no pocket in the bag for tags
What Recent Buyers Report
There seems to be a unanimous opinion that although this vest is made specifically for women, by women (as the company claims), the sizing runs much larger than typical women’s clothing, making it hard to get the right size.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We do appreciate a company that tries to cater to women in a stereotypical men’s sport. One of our favorite things about this vest is the availability of storage. Unlike many of our other options on this list, this vest comes equipped with pockets.
The zipper in the front is also a nice addition and a welcomed change from the elastic sides. Because it zips up, the side panels are completely closed off. This offers more protection from the elements and is a good improvement.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a woman’s fit, this is a good place to start. This vest is affordable and apparently made by women – we just recommend you size down or at least read through some previous buyers’ comments on sizing.
Product Specs
Material:
100% Polyester
Number of Pockets:
2
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What to Look for When Buying a Blaze Orange Vest
When it comes to blaze orange hunting vests, it sometimes seems that they are all exactly the same. Check out these features to differentiate your options.
Lightweight
Anyone who has ever been on any kind of hunt knows that it takes time, patience, and a little bit of resilience. Depending on what kind of game you’re looking for, you could be sitting in the same spot for hours on end or hiking up mountains.
Either way, your vest mustn’t weigh you down. Along with weight comes flexibility. You need to be able to move freely in your vest. It shouldn’t be restrictive, especially around your arms, and it needs to move with you rather than holding you back.
Materials
The two most common materials used to make blaze orange vests are polyester and cotton. Either one will work just fine, but there are a few differences worth noting.
For one, polyester is more affordable. So, if you’re working with a strict budget, this is an easy way to save a little cash.
However, polyester is known for being more uncomfortable than anything else. Plus, it’s not a breathable material.
Cotton is going to cost you a little more money, but it’s more comfortable, and it’s highly breathable.
Overall Design
Allen Company Blaze Orange Hunting Vest
Every vest is going to come with its own unique design, from pockets and zippers to straps and weight distribution. Much of the overall design is strictly preferential, but it’s nice to know what’s available to you on the market.
If you’re someone who likes to carry a lot of accessories and gear with you, then a vest that has several pockets in various sizes is probably a good call.
The design of your vest will also impact how it fits you. Some vests come with multiple adjustable straps so you can get a secure, snug fit.
Blaze Pink vs Blaze Orange – Comparison Overview
Some hunters prefer to wear blaze pink over blaze orange. In some states, this is perfectly acceptable. However, not many make this exception as of now.
While blaze pink sounds like a fun way to switch things up for those who prefer the color, there are some issues with this alternative.
The standards on blaze pink seem to be a bit hazy. While blaze orange is a pretty uniform color across all products and brands, blaze pink tends to come in various shades. This minimizes the impact of the bright color it should be.
Blaze pink might not have the same impact due to the pure fact of known standards. By this point, hunters are well aware that bright orange signifies a human being and means “don’t shoot.” Blaze pink simply isn’t as widely used or known.
Benefits of Wearing a Blaze Orange Vest
While wearing a blaze orange vest is usually something that is required by law, there are some immediate benefits that you can take away from this necessity.
Safety
The overall purpose and therefore main benefit to wearing a blaze orange vest is a significant increase in your safety, along with the safety and awareness of other hunters. Because hunters often wear camouflage or try to hide themselves among bushes, trees, etc. from animals, the risk of other hunters not seeing them and misfiring skyrockets.
Statistics
Parks and wildlife organizations also use blaze orange vests to gather data for important hunting statistics and information. By wearing an orange vest on public land or in national parks, professionals such as ranger can easily and quickly identify you.
Convenience
As you can see from our reviews above, some blaze orange hunting vests are more than just a solid piece of orange fabric. Many of them come with extra features that are incredibly useful, and just by wearing one you can increase your storage and comfort.
Conclusion
As you can see, when it comes to buying a blaze orange hunting vest, you can take the cheap route and get what is essentially an orange t-shirt with no sleeves, or you can spend a little more for all the pockets, zippers, hand warmers, and style you want.
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People Also Ask
If you have a question about hunting, the best thing you can do is ask and research. But, we’ve made things a little easier for you by gathering some FAQs below.
Do You Need to Wear Orange When Hunting?
Generally speaking, it’s always good to wear blaze orange when hunting to improve safety levels. However, every state has different regulations. There are also different rules for different types of hunting. So, it’s best to check your local regulations.
Can Deer See Blaze Orange?
No. Deer and other large game actually cannot distinguish between the camouflage and the color of the orange vest. So, the vest won’t disrupt your hunting hiding spot.
Do You Have to Wear Blaze Orange When Hunting in Ohio?
During hunting seasons that involve firearms, hunters in Ohio must wear blaze orange in the form of either a vest, coat, jacket, or overalls. You can wear both solid or camo orange, with the only exception being waterfowl hunting.
Can Coyotes See Blaze Orange?
Coyotes cannot see orange; their eyes perceive it as a light gray color. However, if the sun is on you, it can cause the vest to glow, which a coyote might notice.
Do You Have to Wear Orange on Your Own Property?
No. However, many landowners give permission to others to hunt on their property. If this is the case, you should wear orange for safety purposes.
Should Hunting Dogs Wear Blaze Orange Vests?
Hunting dogs should wear blaze orange vests for the same reasons as humans. The bright orange color helps them stand out to other hunters and minimizes the risk of another hunter mistaking them for the game.