Custom hi vis shirts and other hi vis workwear can carry a logo in four main ways: screen printing, heat transfer, embroidery and reflective printing. Choose screen printing for large runs and bold logos on knit shirts; heat transfer for full-colour or small runs and for waterproof garments; embroidery for a premium look on polos, softshells and fleece; and reflective printing when you want the logo or role title to add night-time visibility. Whatever the method, keep logos off the reflective tape and check that the logo does not reduce the fluorescent area below what your class requires.
Four Logo Methods Compared
| Method | Best fabrics | Strengths | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen print | Knit shirts, vests, hoodies | Durable, economical at volume, bright colours | Setup per colour; less suited to tiny runs and fine gradients |
| Heat transfer | Polyester knits, coated and waterproof fabrics | Full colour, small runs, no needle holes | Can crack or peel if applied incorrectly |
| Embroidery | Polos, softshell, fleece, woven shirts | Premium look, very durable | Not for waterproof shells; heavy on light knits |
| Reflective print / transfer | Vests, jackets, shirts | Adds night visibility; ideal for role titles | Higher cost; limited colours |
Logos and Compliance
- Do not print over reflective tape. It reduces the reflective area and can push a garment below its class.
- Large logos on the background count against you. Non-fluorescent ink on fluorescent fabric reduces the background area. Small sizes are the most affected.
- Reflective logos help at night but are assessed separately from the standard’s tape requirements.
- FR garments need FR logos. Standard inks and vinyl can melt; use FR transfers or FR thread.
- Waterproof garments: embroidery punctures the membrane; use heat-sealed transfers.
Where to Put the Logo
| Position | Typical size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Left chest | Small | Most common; keep above the chest tape band |
| Back, between tape bands | Large | Company name or role title |
| Sleeve | Small | Flags, secondary logos; keep clear of sleeve tape |
| Thigh (trousers) | Small | Heat transfer works best |
From Our Factory Floor
Since 2004 we have added logos to hi vis garments for contractors, distributors and brands. Our standard process:
- We mock up the logo on the actual garment pattern and check its effect on background area in the smallest size.
- We confirm Pantone colours and print method with a strike-off or sample before bulk.
- For heat transfers, we test adhesion after washing on the actual fabric.
- For embroidery on light knits, we use backing to prevent puckering.
What to Send for a Quote
- Logo artwork in vector format (AI, EPS, PDF or SVG)
- Garment styles, colours and quantities by size
- Logo positions and sizes on each garment
- Required standard and class, and whether garments are FR or waterproof
FAQ
Can a logo make a hi vis shirt non-compliant?
Yes, if it covers tape or reduces fluorescent area below the class minimum. Good design avoids this.
Which method lasts longest?
Embroidery and well-cured screen printing usually last longest. Heat transfers last well when applied correctly.
Can you print role titles in reflective ink?
Yes — “SUPERVISOR”, “SECURITY” and similar titles are common reflective prints on the back.
Request a Quote
Send us your artwork, garments, positions and class, and we will propose the best method and a sample. Contact our team.
This guide is general information from a hi vis clothing manufacturer. Always confirm the standard, class and site rules that apply to your work; the published standards are the final reference.
