Bike & Scooter: How to replace your high-visibility vest without risking a fine?

Being seen from afar by motorists is essential when riding a bike or scooter. But let's be honest: nobody wants to put on a shapeless yellow vest over their coat for every trip, especially when it's raining or you're going to an appointment.

The good news is that regulations don't require the yellow vest itself, but rather certified visibility equipment. Thanks to textile innovations and the EN 17353 standard, you can now replace that impractical over-vest with an everyday garment: a warm, waterproof and breathable jacket or parka, ultra-visible on the road and discreet once you reach your destination.

What changes with the prefectural decree of August 7, 2026, in Île-de-France

In response to the massive development of soft mobility in Paris and the inner suburbs (75, 92, 93, 94), controls and safety rules are being strengthened. Since the prefectural decree of August 7, 2026, the rules governing your journeys have evolved:

• Mandatory visibility at all times for EDPMs (electric scooters, unicycles, etc.): Wearing a high-visibility garment or equipment is now mandatory day and night on public roads (€35 flat fine for non-compliance).

• Mandatory helmet for EDPMs: Wearing a helmet becomes mandatory for riding an electric scooter in these departments (€135 fine).

💡 To ride protected without sacrificing your style, discover our collection of bike and scooter helmets.

Reminder of key Highway Code rules for bikes and scooters

To ride with peace of mind:

1. Only one rider: No passengers on scooters (€135 fine).

2. No headphones: Wearing headphones or earphones while riding is strictly forbidden (€135 fine).

3. Cycle paths are priority: Use dedicated lanes whenever they exist.

4. Mandatory lighting: Front/rear lights and a horn must be in working order on your vehicle.

The Urban Circus alternative: A 2-in-1 jacket, technical and elegant

Rather than adding an uncomfortable extra layer with a yellow vest over your clothes, we chose to integrate safety directly into your coat. When the standard makes high-visibility clothing a constraint, Urban Circus turns it into an opportunity.

The flexibility of the reversible jacket

To switch from "road safety" mode to "everyday life" mode, most of our pieces have two sides:

• Road Side: Certified fluorescent and/or 360° reflective color to reflect headlight beams and attract the attention of vehicles.

• City Side: A simple and elegant side (black, khaki, navy blue...), ideal for going to work, attending meetings or going out without the fluorescent style.

Real protection against bad weather

A classic vest protects neither from rain nor wind. Our pieces are designed as true textile barriers: waterproof, breathable, and windproof. Whether it's our lightweight jackets, warm parkas, or reversible jackets and fleece softshells, you stay perfectly dry and warm.

Understanding the standards: Why the EN 17353 standard is for you?

To be fully compliant in the event of a check, your equipment must meet the European requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

                      HIGH-VISIBILITY CLOTHING
                                 │
         ┌───────────────────────┴───────────────────────┐
         ▼                                               ▼
   ISO 20471 Standard                              EN 17353 Standard
  (Professional High Visibility)               (Enhanced Visibility)
  • High risk                                 • Moderate risk
  • Use: Construction, road work, emergency services                 • Use: Urban mobility, bike commuting
  • Classes 1, 2 and 3                            • Types A, B (B1-B3), AB (AB1-AB3)

The EN 17353 standard: The benchmark for urban travel

This is the modern standard designed for everyday road users (moderate risk):

• Type A (Day): Uses fluorescent fabrics (yellow, orange, pink) to capture natural light and stand out during the day.

• Type B (Night): Incorporates reflective strips and elements that reflect headlight beams in the dark.

• Type AB (Day + Night): Combines fluorescent and reflective elements. The AB3 level guarantees maximum peripheral visibility on the torso.

Find all our reversible and compliant pieces in our collection of EN 17353 certified clothing.

In summary

Complying with the prefectural decree of August 7, 2026, and the Highway Code does not necessarily require wearing a yellow vest. With our EN 17353 certified jackets, you are in full compliance, perfectly dry, and free to switch to a discreet look as soon as you get off your bike.