If you’re a serious or even novice runner who plans on getting some outside night-time running into their routine, you’re going to want to get a headlamp. Headlamps aren’t just for construction workers or people who operate in mines, although they’re definitely used for those purposes. Runners use headlamps all the time to make their night-time ventures a little safer and more secure. This is especially true if you are a trail runner. The last thing you need is for a tree branch or hole in the path to appear out of nowhere. Headlamps also make you safer in secluded locations, especially at night. You’ll be able to see obstacles in front of you and also see if you’re being followed. People who run on city streets benefit from headlamps too. You’ll be more visible to cars and other moving obstacles, like bikes. You’ll also have your path illuminated so you can anticipate any potholes or obstructions in the road. It makes good sense to invest in a headlamp for running, and the good news is, you can get a great headlamp for a low cost!
What You Need To Consider Before Buying
The budget will be one of your concerns right off the bat, but remember that you don’t necessarily want to cut corners with your running headlamp. You’ll want to find one that suits your lifestyle and fits your needs. For example, if you’re a trail runner you might want a brighter light to see objects that are coming up out of the distance. Weight also matters. If you have any neck problems you might not be able to support a heavier headlamp comfortably. Fortunately, there are many options for just about everyone.
We’ve compiled a list of the best headlamps for running. These headlamps will not let you down and they will allow you to enjoy your best run while still staying safe and visible on the road.
Streamlight® Yellow HAZ-LO® Head Lamp With LED
At $55.99 this headlamp is on the pricier side, but it is absolutely one of the best running headlamps because of its unique design. The headlamp is intuitive and allows you to see clearly through all kinds of debris and problematic weather, making this headlamp a good choice for runners who live in colder climates and need to deal with flurries. Anyone who lives up north can tell you that snow significantly hinders visibility. When you’re wearing the Streamlight® Yellow HAZ-LO® Head Lamp With LED, you’ll be visible in the snow and even pouring rain, if you’re into getting in a quick run during a downpour. This headlamp also runs for a good long time, so you won’t have to worry about it cutting out on you while you’re off hitting the trails or city streets. The only real downside is that its price tag is a little high, making this headlamp a bit of an investment for most runners.
Pros: This headlamp works well in inclement weather conditions including snow and rain.
Cons: This headlamp is on the pricier side.
As far as waterproof headlamps go, the Black Diamond Spot Headlamp is one of the best products on the market. It is super bright at 300 lumens and repels water completely. In fact, you could practically be immersed totally in water and still see clearly with this headlamp. At $39.94, it’s a small investment but serious runners won’t balk at the price. The straps are durable but the plate behind the lamp is not flexible and could be a little irritating on longer runs. If you’re a distance runner with sensitive skin you could suffer from a little chafing. Overall this headlamp is a solid bet for people who want a product that’s going to illuminate the road properly, repel water and be durable.
Pros: This headlamp is very durable, bright and waterproof.
Cons: Some people could become irritated with the plate behind the lamp itself, especially on distance runs.
Zukvye Cree LED Headlamp with Red Lights
Of all of the headlamps on our list, this one will probably give you the most bang for your buck. It comes in at under $10; an impressive $6.99 so you can buy one for everyone in the family. This headlamp is totally waterproof, which is amazing considering the price, and also very lightweight. There are five different light modes so you can select and set the brightness that’s best for you. This is especially good for people who are alternating between trail and city runs because it gives you the flexibility to choose what’s best for you. The only real downside is that the strap is a little on the flimsy side. Runners might feel it sliding during their workout and it might even snap.
Pros: This headlamp packs quite the punch by being lightweight, affordable and waterproof.
Cons: The strap is a little flimsy at times so it could snap during a serious run.
TOTOBAY Brightest 4 Modes LED Headlight
The TOTOBAY Brightest 4 Modes LED Headlight does its best to be as user friendly as possible. It’s extremely comfortable to wear and the headlamp can be adjusted and turned in just about any direction, making it ideal for running on differnet trails that have hills. At $14.39 it definately will not break the bank. Although the headlight itself is very comfortable and secure when you first put it on, the strap does cover most of your head so people who feel constricted by headgear or caps might find this particular product to be a little bit too constrictive. If you don’t mind having your head cradled by your running headlamp, this product is definately a solid choice!
Pros: This headlamp has a reasonable pricetag and adjustable headlamp.
Cons: Depending on your style you might find this particular headlamp to be a little constricting.
Nightstick XPP-5456G Dual-Light Multi-Function Headlamp
The Nightstick XPP-5456G Intrinsically Safe Permissible Dual-Light Multi-Function Headlamp is the last word in durability. This headlamp could survive just about anything and is built for all types of different weather conditions. It’s also guaranteed to stay put on even your longest and most vigorous runs, making this particular headlamp a great choice for serious runners who don’t want to mess around. At $44.50, it’s a little more on the expensive side, but it’s really worth the investment. You can program the headlamp with several different modes so you can transition from city running to trail running seamlessly. It’s really an intuitive bit of equipment. The only problem with this particular model is that it can be a little bit on the heavy side, so if you suffer from neck or back problems you might want to give this one a miss. Otherwise, it’s a really great option for people who are committed to night time runs.
Pros: This headlamp is durable, intuitive and will stay put during your runs.
Cons: Some people might find this headlamp a little heavy to wear.
What’s The Final Verdict?
It comes down to what you want your headlamp to do. If you’re running in specific weather conditions like snow or rain, you’ll want to choose one that handles the weather well like the Streamlight® Yellow HAZ-LO® Head Lamp With LED or the Black Diamond Spot Headlamp. If you are concerned about the cost, there are extremely wallet-friendly options on the market like the TOTOBAY Brightest 4 Modes LED Headlight and the Zukvye Cree LED Headlamp with Red Lights, Waterproof Head Light for Running. Both of these options cost well under $20 and will give you the support you need while hitting the trails or the busy city roads at night. The Zukvye Cree LED Headlamp with Red Lights, Waterproof Head Light for Running is super lightweight too, so there are no excuses not to get one for everyone in the family. Even small children can be comfortable wearing it.
At the end of the day, there are plenty of amazing options for running headlamps. You just need to pick the one that’s right for you!
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