Once laughed at as scaredy-crazy idiots, joggers with headlamps have long since become part of the running community. However, some still lack the right touch when buying one. Which headlamp is right for you?
First of all, I would like to say that even at the peak of my hobby running career, I never completed a single training session with a headlamp. I can’t really say why anymore. The headlamp and I – we simply didn’t want to become friends when it came to sport. I am well aware that headlamps make life much easier and, above all, safer for us runners. I’ve started thinking a little differently and have been thinking for a while about getting a lamp for jogging in the dark. But what type of headlamp are you? An overview of different models for early runners, owls and everyone else who prefers to slip into their running shoes at nightfall or even later.
1. Runner type “City outskirts lights”
By the time the clocks in Europe go back to winter time in October, it is almost impossible for most amateur runners to go for a training run after work in daylight. Those who prefer to jog on illuminated park paths or in gardens do not have to worry about wearing a headlamp even in the dark. Light headlamps such as the are completely sufficient. Because here it is less about illuminating the running path than about being seen by cyclists and drivers. A headlamp with a maximum of 100 lumens of brightness and reflectors on the running clothing are the best prerequisites for this. As an alternative to the e+ Lite, Petzl has developed the in the range. This runner’s lamp is a few grams heavier (35 grams), but can be used on the handlebars as an emergency light for the bike instead of on the head. With a maximum of 200 lumens, the wide beam of light is also a little brighter.
A model from the LED specialist Ledlenser also plays in the league of city outskirts lights. The Solingen-based company has revised its NEO series for outdoor fans and offers the a lightweight lamp for after-work runs at dusk or in the dark. At 39 grams, it is only slightly heavier than the Bindi from Petzl. In boost mode, the 1R shines with a full 250 lumens, at least for a short time. It is a solid 150 lumens in normal mode. If you just want to be seen, there is also a low-power mode with 20 lumens on board. The 1R is charged using a magnetic cable. The angle of the lamp itself can be continuously adjusted on the head. The reflective headband holds securely and if it weren’t for the cone of light in your field of vision, you could easily forget you have a headlamp with you. A transport lock that prevents accidental switching on and the three-stage battery status display are other features of the Ledlenser NEO 1R. The IP67 protection class is also impressive. This lamp should be able to handle runs in the rain reliably.
2. Runner type “All-rounder”
Parks and gardens are not your first choice for running training? All joggers who occasionally wander around unlit paths, walk around the nearby lake on the shore path or explore the city forest should upgrade their lighting. The LEDs in all-round headlamps, such as the have a luminosity of up to 200 lumens. This is enough to shine the light cone more than 50 meters ahead. Models like the are also equipped with a small red rear light. This rear light can be a life insurance, especially at dusk. Another highlight: all-round headlamps, such as the have different lighting modes so that the brightness of the LEDs can be easily adjusted when leaving the city gates.
Important: Make sure that you first illuminate the path directly in front of you to avoid falls, for example. Headlamps that are set too high will not only blind oncoming runners, but also cyclists and drivers. Lamps that are set too low can lead to neck problems in the long run.
3. Runner type “Sleepwalker”
Last but not least, there are headlamps for joggers that even outshine some construction spotlights or high beam headlights on cars. Headlamps like the into the forest. Some even reach 1500 to 2000 lumens. With models like the from Ledlenser, the adventurous joggers can easily and safely make their way through the undergrowth in total darkness. The problem: the energy for a light range of more than 100 meters has to come from somewhere. And that is important. Because both the rechargeable battery and batteries have to be carried with you. Usually on a belt or in a backpack, because both are too heavy for the headband on the headlamp.
Headlamps for joggers: What else is important
- Headlamps for jogging should at least be compatible with Protection class IPX4 certified and thus protected against splash water. Even better: IPX6 or even IPX8 (waterproof), whereby the degree of water protection is usually reflected in the price.
- Practical tip: If you walk with a headlamp in the rain, you should Don’t forget your running capThis not only prevents the water from running down your face, but also prevents you from being disturbed by the reflections of the raindrops.
- Whether you can replace the LEDs of your headlamp with a Battery or batteries is basically a matter of taste and very individual. Rechargeable batteries are lighter, but a little less powerful. Marathon runners should therefore use batteries, especially for long runs.
Lighting duration: These factors are important
The best headlamp is useless if it stops working after just a few minutes of training because the battery is running low. The outside temperature often plays a role, especially with brighter models. Many rechargeable batteries and batteries are sensitive to cold. This is a problem in winter in particular. Separate battery compartments have an advantage here. Above all because they can be carried under your jacket and therefore do not cool down as quickly. Secondly, the selected brightness level has a significant influence on the burn time. At the lowest level, headlamps can burn for up to 20 hours. For runs at dusk, this may be enough for some. If you run a lot of kilometers in poorly lit parks or even in the forest, you usually have to get the maximum brightness out of the lamp in order to spot roots or other obstacles in time. This costs energy. The burn time of headlamps can also be extended by using more powerful batteries. Be sure to take a look at the operating instructions. This way you can be sure that the lamp also works with other batteries.
More information can be found here.
Source: Stern
I am Pierce Boyd, a driven and ambitious professional working in the news industry. I have been writing for 24 Hours Worlds for over five years, specializing in sports section coverage. During my tenure at the publication, I have built an impressive portfolio of articles that has earned me a reputation as an experienced journalist and content creator.
