Milwaukee Class 2 Surveyor's High Visibility Safety Vest - 2XL/3XL

Safety vests are a staple for anyone working in hazardous environments, and Milwaukee's Class 2 Surveyor's High Visibility Safety Vest stands out as a robust option designed for those who need both visibility and utility. As someone who has spent considerable time in various work settings, I found this vest to be a blend of durability, practicality, and comfort, albeit with a few quirks.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions of the Milwaukee safety vest are overwhelmingly positive. The vest is constructed from 600D woven material, which is both tear-resistant and rugged enough to withstand the rigors of daily use. The fabric feels substantial, and the reinforced stitching around high-stress areas like pockets and zippers adds to its overall durability. This is not your average mesh vest; it’s built to last, and you can feel the quality as soon as you put it on.

The vest boasts an impressive 27 pockets, each thoughtfully designed to hold various tools and accessories. From small pen holders to larger zippered compartments, the range of pocket sizes and types is genuinely remarkable. There’s even a rear tablet pocket and a clear ID holder, which are particularly useful for those who need quick access to their devices or identification.

Functionality and Comfort

One of the standout features of this vest is the moisture-wicking and anti-microbial fabric. Working long hours in different weather conditions, I found that the vest remained relatively comfortable, even during hot days. The mesh sections, particularly on the back, provide decent ventilation, preventing excessive heat buildup.

The padded collar is another thoughtful addition. When the vest is loaded with tools, the weight can become noticeable, but the padded collar helps distribute this weight more evenly, reducing strain on the neck and shoulders. The dual quick internal size adjustment feature ensures a good fit, whether you’re wearing a t-shirt or a bulkier jacket underneath.

Storage and Accessibility

The sheer number of pockets might seem overwhelming at first, but each pocket serves a specific purpose. The large rear pocket, which can accommodate a tablet or even a small raincoat, is a game-changer. It’s zippered, ensuring that your items stay secure. The two water bottle holders with elastic drawstrings are also a nice touch, making hydration easy without needing to carry an additional bag.

The front pockets are particularly well-designed. They are large enough to hold smartphones, and the zippers or Velcro closures keep everything secure. The clear ID holder pocket and the mic cord holders are practical additions that enhance the vest’s functionality. I found it convenient to have my ID visible at all times without having to dig through other pockets.

Visibility and Safety

Visibility is a critical aspect of any safety vest, and this one doesn’t disappoint. The reflective strips are strategically placed to ensure maximum visibility from all angles. The bright yellow color is eye-catching, and the reflective material is effective even in low light conditions. I felt confident wearing this vest in various environments, knowing that I was easily visible to others.

Drawbacks

While the Milwaukee safety vest excels in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. One noticeable issue is that the shoulders tend to stick up, giving the appearance of padded shoulders. This can be a bit distracting and might not appeal to everyone. Despite various attempts to flatten them, they remained somewhat protruded.

Another minor issue is the stiffness of the bottom hem. If you have larger hips, the vest might ride up when you sit down, which can be uncomfortable. A more flexible material for the hem would have been a better choice.

Durability Concerns

While the overall build quality is impressive, there have been instances where the vest showed signs of wear sooner than expected. For example, some pockets started to rip after just a few weeks of use. This is disappointing given the high-quality materials used elsewhere in the vest. However, these issues might be isolated incidents and not indicative of the product’s overall durability.

Final Thoughts

Despite a few quirks, the Milwaukee Class 2 Surveyor’s High Visibility Safety Vest is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and functional safety vest. The combination of durable materials, thoughtful design, and practical features makes it a valuable addition to any work wardrobe. The 27 pockets provide ample storage for all your tools and accessories, and the high visibility ensures that you remain safe in various environments.

Would I recommend this vest? Absolutely. Its benefits far outweigh the minor drawbacks, and the overall quality and functionality make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a construction worker, surveyor, or even a cyclist looking for added visibility, this vest is designed to meet your needs. Just be prepared for a bit of stiffness and the occasional quirky shoulder.