Glossary

Buddy Glow Glossary (Dog Safety & Visibility Terms)

Understanding visibility and safety gear can make a big difference during walks—especially in low light. Here’s a simple guide to the most common terms you’ll see on Buddy Glow products and dog safety gear.

Reflective

Reflective material shines bright when light hits it (like car headlights or flashlights). It helps drivers and cyclists notice your dog faster during night walks.

Retroreflective

A type of reflective material that sends light back toward its source (for example, back toward a car’s headlights). This creates a strong “glow” effect at night.

High Visibility (Hi-Vis)

Hi-Vis means bright, easy-to-spot colors designed for safety. Common hi-vis colors include blaze orange and high-visibility yellow.

Reflective vs Fluorescent

  • Reflective works best when light hits it (night, headlights).

  • Fluorescent stands out during the day (daylight visibility).

For best safety, many products combine both.

Low-Light Conditions

Low light includes early morning, evening, dusk, dawn, cloudy weather, fog, and shaded trails—times when visibility drops even if it’s not fully dark.

Night Visibility

Night visibility is how easily your dog can be seen after dark. Reflective gear improves visibility when exposed to headlights or a flashlight.

Coverage (Visibility Coverage)

Coverage refers to how much of your dog’s body is visible. Bigger reflective areas (like a vest) can improve safety compared to small items like collars alone.

360° Visibility

Visibility from multiple angles—front, sides, and back—so your dog can be noticed whether a car is approaching from behind, beside, or ahead.

Reflective Trim

Reflective strips sewn around the edges of the vest for extra visibility from different angles.

Adjustable Fit

Adjustable straps help you get a snug and comfortable fit for your dog. This can also help reduce shifting or sliding during walks.

Breathable

Breathable gear allows airflow to help keep your dog cooler, especially during active walks, warmer seasons, or high-energy dogs.

Mesh Fabric

Mesh is a lightweight fabric with tiny holes that improves ventilation. It’s commonly used in breathable dog vests.

Water Resistant

Water resistant fabric helps repel light rain and splashes. It’s great for damp weather, but it may not be fully waterproof in heavy rain.

Waterproof

Waterproof means water does not pass through easily, even in heavy rain. Waterproof gear usually has sealed layers and stronger coatings.

Quick On / Easy Wear

Products designed to be simple to put on and remove—helpful for daily routines, busy mornings, or dogs that dislike complicated harnesses.

Comfort Fit

Comfort fit means the vest is designed to feel light and flexible, without restricting your dog’s movement during walking or running.

Leash Compatibility

Many dogs already wear collars or harnesses. Leash compatibility means the vest can be worn comfortably with your existing setup.

Sizing

Sizing helps ensure the vest fits properly. Always measure your dog before choosing a size for the best comfort and safety.

LED vs Reflective Gear

  • LED lights actively glow but can run out of battery.

  • Reflective gear doesn’t need batteries and becomes very visible when hit by headlights.

Many pet owners use both together, but reflective coverage is usually the best “foundation” for safety.

Best Use Cases

Buddy Glow reflective dog vests are great for:

  • Night walks

  • Early morning walks

  • Winter evenings

  • Hiking and outdoor adventures

  • Parks, trails, and roadside areas

  • Low-light safety year-round

Still have questions?

We’re happy to help you pick the right vest for your dog.
Contact us anytime via our Contact page or email at info@buddyglow.com