Winter is here, and that means a lot of running in the dark. Make sure that the dark isn’t an excuse by getting your best running head torch and light up your runs.
Use a running head torch to illuminate your path when you are running in the dark, or when you simply need a little more light when you are running on a shadowy trail. The best running head torch allows you to see or be seen as you head out.
Running head torches come in all shapes and sizes. The way a best running head torch is evaluated is by Lumens and burn time. Lumens is how bright the light is. The higher the lumens, the brighter it is. Burn time is how long the head torch will shine between battery charges.
Reviews: The best running head torch
1. Silva Trail Runner 4 Headlamp trail running head torch
Guide yourself on any trail with the Silva trail running head torch. The Trail Runner 4 has an impressive maximum power of 350 Lumens. The Silva trail running head torch has three modes max mode, med mode, and min mode, and it will last for upwards of 10 hours on a single set of batteries depending on the mode you use and the outside temperature.
The Silva trail running head torch uses Intelligent Light Technology to light your path as you run. This technology provides a long reach spotlight and close range flood light to ensure that you can run naturally without worrying about missing your footing in the dark.
This lightweight trail running head torch is weatherproof and comfortable with a wide band which can be adjusted to fit your head properly.
This Silva Trail Runner 4 Headlamp uses 3 AAA batteries, making it easy to carry spares and change them on the go. A battery indicator helps you keep track of how much charge you have remaining, so that you don’t get caught out.
Strap on your running head torch, and hit those trails now!
- Power – 350 Lumens
- Burn time – > 10 hours on max mode
- Weight – 257g with batteries
- Requires 3AAA batteries
2. BioLite HeadLamp 330 running head torch
This ultrathin and super lightweight headlamp is a great choice for your best running head torch. The 3D SlimFit headband sits flat on your forehead – no bounce and no slip, and the torch itself is integrated into the headband for a seamless fit.
Choose from two power modes. The BioLite Headlamp 330 is a rechargeable running head torch with 40 hours of battery on low, and 3.5 hours on high power. This running head torch recharges via USB, so you can even charge it from a power bank while on the move.
This running head torch offers different light options for your needs. Spot and flood settings allow you to choose the distance and area you wish to light up, dimmability lets you choose the power, and red night vision makes for comfortable lighting in the dark.
The headband is made from moisture wicking fabric to keep you cool and dry and stop the sweat running into your eyes. It is also easy to adjust for a comfortable fit.
- Power – 330 Lumens
- Burn time – 3.5 – 40 hours
- Weight – 69 grams
- Rechargeable headlamp
- Sweat-proof headband
3. Petzl Bindi running head torch
The super light Petzl Bindi is the best head torch for running in urban areas. The floodlight beam has three lighting modes, proximity, movement, and distance, allowing you to see and be seen as you run on the roads. The rechargeable running head torch will last for two hours at maximum power (200 lm), or 3 hours at standard power (100 lm).
This Petzl running head torch is compact and small enough to sit in the palm of your hand, and has a thin, easily adjustable headband, which sits flush on your forehead. If you want variety, the headband is also big enough and light enough to wear round your neck. The headband is made from reflective thread which adds to your visibility in the dark.
The rechargeable running head torch is recharged by a USB cable, so it can be charged from a power bank on the go.
Light up your city runs with the Petzl Bindi running head torch.
- Power – 200 Lumens
- Burn time – Upwards of 2 hours
- Weight – 35g
- USB rechargeable battery
- IPX 4 water resistant
4. ActivRunner rechargeable running head torch
The ActivRunner rechargeable running head torch is a great multi-use running torch. The 200 lumens power gives you 100m visibility ahead, allowing you to run in the dark with confidence.
This running head torch is lightweight, flexible, and adjustable, and excellent value, making it a great choice for all your running needs. The headlamp tilts up to 60 degrees allowing you to focus the light where you need it. The comfortable headband is easy to adjust to your head size, and it can be washed.
A useful motion sensor enables you to turn the light on or off simply by waving your hand in front of it – perfect for not blinding someone coming in the other direction!
- Power – 200 Lumens
- Burn time – Up to 6 hours
- USB rechargeable battery
- IPX5 waterproof
5. Led Lenser NEO6R running head torch
Get out there and run in the dark with the Led Lenser NEO6R running head torch. This running head torch has a swivel head to perfectly light your way. The NEO6R is the middle of the range of running head torches from Led Lenser.
Choose from high power for extra light on your run, or low power for long battery life. The headlight beam will light 30m at maximum power, or 10m at minimum power. The constant current will illuminate your path for your entire run. The stable headband will keep it in place as you run, and won’t make you feel off balance.
The Led Lenser NEO6R has a rechargeable battery which connects to a USB, so you can charge it up from a battery pack wherever you are.
Join the club of night runners now.
- Power – 240 Lumens
- Burn time – Up to 40 hours
- Weight – 95g
- USB rechargeable
- Swivel mounted headlamp
6. Black Diamond Storm 375 running head torch
Set off on epic adventures with the Black Diamond Storm 375. This sturdy running head torch is designed to stay with you for hours as you run through trails.
The Black Diamond Storm 375 is powered by 4 AAA batteries, and will run at maximum (375 Lumens) for five hours. Conserve battery in better lighting by using the medium setting of 160 Lumens. Switch easily between power modes by tapping the torch.
Choose from different functions according to your needs: full power which offers both high beam and close range options, dimming function, flashing mode, night vision (red, green, or blue light), and lock mode.
Finally the Black Diamond Storm 375 rounds off its tough guy image by being fully waterproof. It is able to withstand submersion of up to 1m for 30 minutes.
Shine the light on your trails and see the world around you as you run, whatever the light quality.
- Power – 375 Lumens
- Burn time – 5 – 10 hours
- Weight – 100g
- 4 x AAA batteries
- Water resistant
7. Petzl Actik running head torch
This Petzl running head torch is designed for active people. With its strong torch, reflective headband, and multiple lighting options, the Petzl Actik will accompany you all day long whether you are running on the roads or the trails.
The 300 Lumens maximum power will light up the darkest of conditions, and you can adjust the power according to the light conditions. Choose from flood light or mixed beam, and several levels of brightness. Switch to red light for night vision. Change mode with a tap of the button. Adjust the level of brightness to conserve battery. The Petzl Actik will last for 2 hours at maximum power, or 12 hours at lower power.
It is also water resistant at IPX4 level, so you don’t need to stop when it rains. Keep on being active with the Petzl Actik!
- Power – 300 Lumens
- Burn time –
- Weight – 86g
- Uses 3 AAA batteries
- Water resistant
What to look for in the best running head torch
- Brightness – Measured in Lumens. If you are running in the dark in the city, and just want a little extra visibility, then 50 to 100 Lumens will be enough. If you are running in a place with no additional lighting, or on a trail with poor visibility, the best running head torch for you will be one that has at least 150 Lumens. The best running head torches have multiple power modes allowing you to adjust the light to your surroundings.
- Comfort – Choose a running head torch with a headband that is comfortable, sweat wicking, and light. Many running head torches come with a light or reflective panel at the back to balance it out (and perhaps more importantly – allow other people to see you from behind).
- Burn time – This is how long the running head torch will run on a single set of batteries or between charges. If you need it for short, sharp runs in the city, burn time will be less important. However if you are looking for a trail running head torch that will stick with you for a long day out, look for a longer burn time.
- Simplicity – The more extra features, the heavier the running head torch will be. In reality, all you need your running head torch to do is light your path, so look for one that does just what you need, and no more.
Best running head torch – our choices
Best running head torch for city running: Pretzel Bindi
The super lightweight Petzl Bindi is the best running head torch if you only ever run in urban areas. At 35g, it is one of the lightest running head torches available, and it provides excellent light for when you need a little extra help to see the path ahead. The trade off for the light weight is a shorter burn time, which is one of the reasons it is best for an urban area where you will only run for a shorter time.
Best running head torch for runners on a budget: Omeril LED running head torch
This rechargeable running head torch provides great value for money. The five lighting options, adjustable beam, and 200 Lumens power will give you the power and confidence to get out there in the dark, whether you are in the city or outside it. This torch is also waterproof, making it suitable for running in all weathers.
Best running head torch for trail running: Silva Trail Runner 4 Headlamp
The Silva trail running head torch is great for when you are spending a day out on the trails. The impressive maximum power of 350 Lumens allows you to see and be seen in the trickiest of light, and 10 hours of burn time will give you the freedom to roam the trails without worry. The Silva Trail Runner 4 uses regular AAA batteries, which means that you can slip some spares into your pack, and simply replace them if needed.
Looking for more running gear reviews? Check out our full running section here.
References:
https://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=5908722
https://www.trailrunningmag.co.uk/news/articles/how-to-choose-the-right-head-torch
https://innes.medium.com/head-torches-for-use-when-running-73543ed28e46
Last update on 2024-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
