Milwaukee Class 2 Surveyor's High Visibility Safety Vest - 4XL/5XL

The Milwaukee Class 2 Surveyor's High Visibility Safety Vest (model 48-73-5168) is a piece of safety gear that stands out in more ways than one. After putting this vest through its paces, I feel equipped to share a comprehensive rundown of its strengths and areas for improvement.

Construction and Material

Right off the bat, the vest impresses with its robust construction. It's crafted from 600D woven material, which is known for being tear-resistant. This is particularly important for those working in rugged environments where regular wear and tear can quickly degrade lesser vests. The material feels dense and durable, giving you confidence that this vest can withstand the rigors of daily use.

One of the standout features is the combination of solid fabric and mesh. The vest is ¾ solid material with ¼ mesh, which provides a good balance between durability and breathability. The lower back area, where a lot of wear and tear can occur, is solid, while the upper back is mesh to allow for ventilation. This thoughtful design ensures you don’t overheat when you're on the job for extended periods.

Pockets and Storage

If there’s one thing this vest doesn’t lack, it's storage options. The vest boasts an impressive 27 pockets. These include everything from small pen holders to large zippered compartments. There’s even a rear tablet pocket, which is surprisingly roomy and secure. Personally, I found this rear pocket useful for storing larger items like a raincoat or even a small lunch pack. The internal waterproof pocket is another smart addition, especially for storing sensitive items that you need to keep dry.

Having so many pockets is a double-edged sword, though. While it’s fantastic to have dedicated spots for various items, it can become overwhelming. I found myself occasionally forgetting where I had placed a particular tool or piece of equipment. That said, the convenience of having everything within arm's reach far outweighs this minor inconvenience.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is an area where this vest excels. The padded collar is a thoughtful touch that really makes a difference, especially when the vest is fully loaded. The padding prevents the vest from digging into your neck and shoulders, which can be a real issue with heavier safety vests. The dual quick internal size adjustment system also adds to the comfort, allowing you to snug up the fit as needed.

The vest is designed to fit over other clothing, which is essential for those who need to wear it over a jacket or hoodie. However, the fit can be a bit oversized if you're not layering up, so the internal adjustment cords come in handy. Despite the substantial material, I didn’t find the vest overly hot, thanks to the strategic use of mesh.

Visibility and Safety

As a high-visibility vest, this Milwaukee model does its job exceptionally well. The bright orange color combined with reflective strips ensures you stand out in low-light conditions. The reflective material is particularly effective at night or in dim environments, significantly enhancing safety.

The pass-through for fall protection gear is another critical safety feature. It allows you to wear the vest over a harness, which is a must for anyone working at heights. There are also dedicated storage spots for hearing protection, adding another layer of convenience and safety.

Durability and Zipper Quality

Durability is one of the vest's strongest suits. The reinforced pockets and edges speak to its quality. I even snagged it on some metal edges, and it didn’t tear or show any signs of damage. The zippers are heavy-duty and come with pull tassels, making them easy to use even with gloves on. The main front zipper and the large rear zipper are particularly robust, which is reassuring for long-term use.

Areas for Improvement

While the vest is generally well-designed, it’s not without its flaws. The shoulders tend to stick up, giving the appearance of padded shoulders. This can be a bit off-putting and might even affect the vest's fit and comfort for some users. Additionally, the vest is somewhat heavy, especially when all the pockets are utilized. This is a trade-off for its durability and storage capacity, but it’s worth noting if you’re looking for something lightweight.

Another minor issue is the stiffness of the material, which could benefit from being a bit more flexible, particularly at the hem. A stretchy material here would allow for better movement and comfort when bending or sitting.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee Class 2 Surveyor's High Visibility Safety Vest is a high-quality, durable piece of safety gear that offers exceptional storage options and enhanced visibility. Its robust construction, combined with thoughtful features like a padded collar and heavy-duty zippers, makes it a reliable choice for anyone needing a rugged and functional safety vest.

Would I recommend this vest? Absolutely. Its durability, comfort, and plethora of storage options make it an excellent investment for professionals in various fields, from construction to disaster relief. The minor flaws are far outweighed by the vest’s numerous strengths, making it well worth considering for your safety gear arsenal.