Although they are prescribed by the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), only very few bikers carry the full range of required reflectors on their bikes. Strictly speaking, this is "only" an offence, but it is particularly critical in autumn and winter. After all, visibility in the dark means safety - and not just for mountain bikers.
The Albedo100 reflector sprays from Swedish manufacturer Trackinvent aim to remedy this situation. The three different reflectors in the tin can be used to add a light-reflecting layer to jackets, trousers, shoes, rucksacks, bicycles, pushchairs, dog leads or even your pet's fur.
It is very easy to use: spray on the desired area and you're done. An impregnation against being overlooked, so to speak. According to the manufacturer, the textile and animal fur sprays are harmless, virtually invisible during the day, last for around a week and can be easily washed out again with soap or shampoo. The permanently adhesive spray for surfaces and objects of various kinds is a grey paint that is gentle enough to spray on your helmet without impairing its protective effect.
The Albedo100 Relfective Spays are an interesting way to easily increase your own visibility or that of things that need to be seen better in the dark. In Sweden, even reindeer herds are sprayed with them to prevent accidents - no joke! This is not only intended to reduce the number of dead animals. When a reindeer weighing up to 300 kg shoots through the windscreen, it is also very bad for the vehicle occupants.
So the matter is serious. Which is why the traditionally safety-conscious car manufacturer Volvo is also involved in selling the spray under the "Lifespray" label. However, only a practical test can show how many sprays it takes to make people light up like in the video here.
Here are the manufacturer's specifications for the three Albedo100 reflector spays:
INVISIBLE BRIGHT™ for textiles
For anyone who wants to be seen in the dark even without high-visibility clothing: INVISIBLE BRIGHT™ is a semi-transparent spray for application to textiles. Invisible Bright™ is invisible on most textiles in daylight, but reflects when exposed to light. Sprayed onto jackets, trousers or shoes, it offers increased safety when walking, jogging or cycling at dusk and in the dark. Invisible Bright™ does not affect the colour or surface of the fabric. The spray works best on natural materials such as wool or cotton and on textures such as fleece. The reflective effect lasts for up to a week or until the next wash. The ingredients are skin-friendly and an adhesive is used that is also used in a similar form for medical procedures. A 100 ml can costs €17.95 and lasts for up to 50 sprays.
PERMANENT METALLIC™
Permanent Metallic™ is a grey, permanent spray for a wide range of applications, as it is suitable for application to metal and wood as well as concrete, plastic and many other surfaces. It also withstands harsh weather conditions and does not wash off in the rain or with soap. This makes it perfect for bicycles and helmets, prams, skateboards, city scooters and kayaks. Objects and obstacles that pose a potential danger in the dark can also be easily marked: The spray can be applied to gates, letterboxes, rubbish bins or tools. The Permanent Metallic™ also adheres well to textiles made of polyamide or nylon. One can contains 200 ml, lasts for up to 100 sprays and is available for 24.95 euros.
HORSE AND PETS™ for animal fur
The semi-transparent spray for application to animal fur reflects light and increases safety when walking your dog or riding in low light conditions. This not only makes your four-legged friend more visible to drivers and cyclists, but also makes it easier to find him if he escapes. The best visibility is achieved when the legs or tail are marked, as these are constantly in motion. HORSE AND PETS™ does not affect the coat and can be easily washed out with water, soap or shampoo. In most cases, HORSE AND PETS™ appears colourless or invisible in daylight. Depending on the coat colour, texture and intensity of application, the spray may be perceived as slightly grey. The spray must not be sprayed on open wounds and should not be used on animals that are sensitive to shampoo or similar products. The 200 ml can lasts for up to 100 sprays and costs 24.95 euros.
Sebastian Brust
Editor
