Head torches

[Iestynp]

Had a lovely run in the darkness this morning, stars shining brightly in the clear sky, but I found I had to slow down where the path was tree-lined in case I ran into the river. Has anyone got any advice about running with a head torch? Should I splash out on a posh one, or is a ropey one from the supermarket going to be good enough? Can you get one with a red light on the back too?

[Flyingred Graduate10]

Get a decent one – Petzl Tikkina is a 150-lumen head torch and the company has a great rep for quality. Just over £15 online.

[AnnieW55]

Look at the lumens the light you are interested in produces - the higher the brighter.

Yes there are some versions with a red light at the back, or you can buy one and add it to the band or clothing.

Google Head torches brightest, Cotswold have a good explanation. Sorry I can’t post the link right now. Personally I prefer torches with a band over the head as well as around, I find it more comfortable and stable.

[tony_a Graduate10]

I bought a Petzl Reactic about a month ago and am pretty happy with it. Really lights up the way ahead - I’ve used it running across fields and down country roads with no problems. Bought some cheap red lights that I clip onto the head band at the back.

Quite expensive though and you can probably get something just as good for a lot less.

[misswobble Graduate10]

There’s tons of threads on this. You can search using the box at the top of the page. A good website for detailed info about lumens and what you’re likely to need is on the Silva site. If you’re running in woods for example you’ll need more lumens than if you’re running round your local streets

I got a Lenser neon but I still take a small hand torch with a wrist strap as some of my side streets are pitch black, and you can’t see your feet at all unless you keep your head down,which ain’t ideal 😃

[Sqkr]

I've asked for one for my birthday, I'm hoping for a nice Petzl with wide beam and spot light switch, and core recharge options...but who knows what I'll get! Any light is better than no light I guess, but many cheaper ones (though undoubtedly not all) are designed to make you seen by others, rather than to aid your own view. Generally higher lumens = higher price, and the amount you need will depend on secondary lighting (streetlamps etc) and terrain. There are good value deals to be had out there, but do check out reviews to make sure it's fit for your purpose.

[mountaindreamer Graduate10]

Although I’d already got a load of head torches collected over the years for hillwalking, I decided to pick up this one specifically for running when they had a recent sale. It’s not bad at £22 full price, though, and the battery pack at the back has separate red light options. It also has an overhead strap, which other runners seemed to recommend. I’ve yet to run in it, as I’m still getting out during daylight for now. It looks promising.

alpkit.com/products/gamma-3

[MutleyShuffle Graduate10 in reply to mountaindreamer]

Hi mountaindreamer, just wondered if you have tried out your headtorch? I'm a bit baffled by all the choice!😳

[mountaindreamer Graduate10 in reply to MutleyShuffle]

I’m still running in daylight at the moment, I’m afraid. ❤️

It’s comfortable to wear, though, and having the head strap, and the batteries on the back of your head, should make it more stable when bouncing up and down running. I like the feature of the red light on the battery pack at the back too. Looks good and bright, with different flashing options.

Will let you know if I can get my husband to trial it running one evening! (I’m preferring late morning autumn sunshine!)

[MutleyShuffle Graduate10 in reply to mountaindreamer]

Sounds good - I like the idea of the red light on the back. Thank you

[Iestynp Graduate10]

Many thanks, everyone!

[Iestynp Graduate10 in reply to Iestynp]

Early birthday present: a Petzl Reactik+. Tried it this morning, it was great fun. Looking forward to the next outing now.

[MutleyShuffle Graduate10 in reply to Iestynp]

Hi lestynp, how are you getting on with your Petzl Reactik? Does it feel heavy?

[Iestynp Graduate10 in reply to MutleyShuffle]

It’s not too bad. It feels heavier in your hand than when it’s strapped to your head, if that makes sense. I’ve been using it to bleed the radiators (well, to see while I bleed the radiators) at home tonight as well as for running. The adaptive lighting (which I thought was a bit of a gimmick) is actually useful, and prolongs the battery life quite a bit, by the looks of things. Really chuffed with it so far.

[MutleyShuffle Graduate10 in reply to Iestynp]

Thanks. sounds good 👍😊

[Tasha99 Graduate10]

Nope I got one for £7 off amazon. It’s so bright and usb recharge. Can’t go wrong!