Best Running Lights: Brightest Options for Safety

Whether you are trying to avoid the midday heat or simply do not have time for a run during the daytime, you will still have to run when the sun is down.

While it may be thrilling and exciting to run at night, low visibility can be quite a challenge, especially on technical trails and busy roads. You may stumble on rocks and fall or you may get into an accident because oncoming cars cannot see you.

To combat the problem of low visibility, you need to have a reliable source of light. Running lights can help illuminate your way allowing you to see your running trail and will also allow other road users to see you.

What is a Running Lights?

Running lights are devices that provide an abundance of lighting to help illuminate the way for nighttime runners and alert pedestrians and drivers to your presence. Running lights come in different designs and powerful modes, which make running in the dark easier.

These lights also come with varying brightness levels, allowing you to choose depending on the brightness level you want. Running lights also come with rechargeable batteries, and have provision for disposable batteries or both.

A publication in the Sensors Journal by Antonio Carton et al supports that road trail runners need to carry their equipment, including headlamps and spare batteries with them during the runs. While the equipment may add an extra load, the research claims that some of this equipment is for safety purposes.

How we picked

Generally, people have been running for such a long time. Some usually head out for a run before the sun rises, while others prefer going for a run in the evening when the sun goes down. We do recognize the fact that it is important for a runner to have clear visibility whenever they go out for a run. We do have experience with a wide range of running lights and we have done extensive research before picking out the best for our clients.

Before putting together our list of the best running lights, we did rigorous tests on them to check how long the lights can go on and their lifespan. We also looked at the charging speed of the lights and their durability. We have tested these lights by using them to direct our runs, using them to read books at night, and packing them for trips.

We tried as many lights as possible. Now, for the running lights that we could not test, we relied on factors like light output in terms of lumens, fit mechanisms, weight, waterproofing, and price. To get a better look at the long-term performance of these lights, we also looked at the numerous user reviews online as a cross-reference. This article clearly highlights the results of our testing procedures.

How Do Running Lights Work?

Nighttime running lights work to illuminate the path for runners so that they can see where they are going and be seen by other road users and drivers. Running lights come in different designs. Some can be worn on the head while others are fitted on hydration vests.

Some people would not want to put extra weight on their heads and would go for fitted lamps on hydration vests or waist lamps. Most manufacturers claim that waist lamps provide better illumination and a wider beam of light.

Running lights also come in different brightness levels, usually measured in lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light. Some lights will come with adjustable settings allowing you to adjust the brightness depending on your trail.

Key Things to Consider When Selecting and Deciding on the Best Running Light?

Benefits of Running Lights

They help avoid accidents

If you are running on routes that have major traffic or have many other joggers on them, having a running headlamp may be an added advantage to you. A running light helps people see you from either in front or behind. This will help avoid accidents during your runs.

Running lights use single-use or rechargeable batteries

The good thing about headlamps is that they use batteries, single either use or rechargeable AA or AAA batteries. These types of batteries have a long run time, are reliable, and you can charge them multiple times.

Rechargeable batteries are more reliable, convenient, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Some headlamps come with rechargeable batteries, but can still run on single-use batteries.

Running headlamps are easily portable

Most running headlamps are easily portable and have minimal weight, allowing you to be comfortable when wearing them. There are times that you may be going for a long run and you may need to carry a backup headlamp. Some of these headlamps can easily be carried in the hydration vests or your pockets without putting unnecessary pressure on yourself.

Running headlamps help illuminate the roadway

A running headlamp will help you see where you are going during your night runs. Some lights are bright enough with approximately 200-300 lumens to help provide proper brightness during the runs. Some headlamps come with adjustable brightness settings, which allow you to adjust brightness. This may help reduce eyestrain and blinding of other road users.

Provide hands-free lighting

Balance is important when you are walking or running. The best thing about using running headlamps is that both your hands are free to provide natural balance when running.

How Do I Use a Running Light?

The two main types of lights people wear when going for night runs are clip-on lights and head torches. Head torches are convenient when you want to illuminate the path you are running on. Many head torches use LED bulbs because they are brighter and last longer.

Head torches can either serve as spotlights or floodlights depending on what you want. On the other hand, clip-on lights can be attached to the hydration vests or your bag. They do help you see and be seen at the same time.

When going for a run, pick out a lamp that is comfortable and easy to fit. If it is a headlamp, adjust the lamp to fit your head so it won’t cause headaches after some time. Adjust the brightness of the light depending on the trail you are running on. This will prevent blinding other road users and causing eyestrain.