Lights

Sorry, but this is just bizarre. A washed hi-vis loses its reflectivity over time, and I have seen people with them on, and they hardly reflect much back at all. Also, the reflection also depends on the angle the hi-vis is at in conjunction with the car's headlight beams. I've seen cars pull suddenly to the side, away from a cyclist, because they had come up fast behind one and it was on a hill, and they didnt see the hi-vis till the last moment.

A good light with fresh batteries will be seen from at least 100 metres, and the best can be seen from nearly a mile away. The hi-vis is no comparison at all; and unless kept in an unwashed and never dirtied state, will have lost its reflectivity, so is shit. Lastly, if someone used a hi-vis, and no rear light, and had an accident, there would probably be no pay-out at all, as they had broken the law as a road user. I would respectfully suggest a re-think of that particular strategy.

i honestly thing the vest thing is as good. its brand new and all the silver strips light up like a christmas tree. and these go found the back, sides, top, and front reflecting from all angles, i do use a rear light but i've found no difference between when i use the (very small, knog) rear light, and when i use the hi vis vest, both is ideal. this isnt my strategy its just because ive had a high vis vest hanging around for years and last couple of weeks ive started using it. bear i mind if your from london, that cheltenham is alot quiter and i'd guess the traffic is alot slower and relaxed.