Section 14 - Reflective Markings
Using NFPA performance as a baseline, there are two principle materials available for certified fire helmets; Scotchlite and Reflexite. Both companies offer good performance that meets NFPA requirements. Both products have good and bad points that should be considered for purchase.
Scotchlite is a reflective material with a glass bead base. This construction makes for a great heat resistant material that can really take a beating. Three areas that might be perceived as negative for this material are: diminished reflective properties when wet, still performs, just diminished from dry conditions; reflects only in white, no color; glass bead design permits dirt and soot to engrain in surface which can diminish reflective properties.
Reflexite is a vinyl-based material that uses a "prism" effect to return light reflection. Being vinyl based permits easy cleaning of the surface exposed to dirt and soot. Reflexite design permits the light to be reflected in the color of the material unlike Scotchlite. Water also does not inhibit the reflective quality of the material. The negative issues concerning this product revolve around a very important condition, heat. Being vinyl based, this product easily blisters, melts, and deforms under heat exposure that will quickly eliminate any reflective capabilities. This lack of durability under heat has led most fire clothing to adopt the more durable Scotchlite material.