Let there be light!

[Seadragon25]

Hi does anyone run with a head torch ? Does it stay on? Where to buy? Any other suggestions?

I really need to run tonight and it will be dark around 7.00.

Thanks running buddies!

[Millsie-J Graduate]

Hello. I use a chest torch, same as the link below, but it probably depends where you want to run.

decathlon.co.uk/run-light-2...

[Seadragon25 in reply to Millsie-J]

Thanks! Interesting torch!

[Titch121]

Oh this is a question I was going to ask too. Whats peoples preference re head torch or chest torch and any recommendations for either of them. So many to chose from I have no idea where to start.

[ju-ju- Graduate in reply to Titch121]

Head.

[Millsie-J Graduate in reply to Titch121]

See above for chest torch. Its my preference as I dont like anything on my head. This has front torch and back red light. Three settings, rechargable.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Titch121]

My first head torch was mighty powerful and could light up the other side of the valley, but it did project too far in front and tended to wobble disconcertingly. Get one that fits close to the head, preferably with a red rear light.

A head torch is preferable to a chest torch, in my opinion, simply because it puts light where you are looking, which on rough ground is crucial.

My current one was a free gift from Toolstation, but you can get them from any sports or hardware shop or even your local petrol station. Waterproof is a good idea.

[Seadragon25 in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks sounds effective, safe and on my budget!

[ju-ju- Graduate]

Yes- its great to be able to see where I am heading!!! I have a super expensive lupine but there are other good ones that you can get cheaply. Try Alpkit.

[Titch121]

Does the head torch bounce around when you are running. Im assuming the chest one you can tighten easily so that doesnt bounce so much. Just wondering how cumbersome they are.

[Titch121]

I can see I am going to be doing so much dilly and dallying that the clocks will change before I make my decision and it will be light again in the evenings.

[Millsie-J Graduate in reply to Titch121]

Where will you run at night? Is it fields, trails, woods? Or is it road running?

[Titch121 in reply to Millsie-J]

Road running mainly. I do tend to stick to main roads that are well lit but I feel I could do with a little extra light so I don’t have to worry about uneven payments, stones, fallen apples, dog poo etc

[Millsie-J Graduate in reply to Titch121]

And you need to be seen. I think you could probably go for either then. The chest torch lights the path a few feet ahead of you but if you were trail/ field/ wood running you might find a head torch helps you pick your way on uneven ground better, its directed where you are looking.

Decisions, decisions runner!

[Titch121 in reply to Millsie-J]

Argh still none the wiser. I guess a head torch would help to flatten my hair which does go wild when I run. Actually it is wild even when I am standing still

Maybe I should go to a sports shop and try both on and get a feel for them.

[Millsie-J Graduate in reply to Titch121]

Good plan!

[Seadragon25 in reply to Millsie-J]

I live near a park but don't feel safe enough there. Will run on cycle path where occasional lights and wear something reflective!

[London1970]

I got a head torch from Decathlon sports shop it was £3 (2 weeks ago) thought I would never use it but it’s great. Don’t feel like you’re wearing it and works perfect in the unlit Park I run in. For that price you can’t really go wrong I feel. Also got a £7 fleece which is fab for running. Don’t work there usually live SpirtsDirect but so much easier to find things in Decathlon I’m a convert now

[AnnieW55]

I run with both and would say make sure whichever one you get gives a good light which may seem obvious but there are some weak beams out there.

If you go for a head torch I would suggest looking for one with a strap going over the top of your head and not just round it. A strap over stops it sliding down or needing to wear it over a hat. Also with an over the top strap don't need to have it quite so tight round the head.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Yep.. and yep My current one is a cheapy... but is just fine

[Seadragon25]

Thanks all for shedding light on this subject! Ooh I hear you all groan!