The advantages of wearing a head torch whilst running are obvious.
In the depths of winter, when we’re all shrouded in darkness as early as 4pm, running in the evenings after work can be a daunting experience. Not only are you battling with potential sub-zero temperatures, gale-force winds, and ice underfoot, but, with limited visibility, all of these possibilities become even more concerning.
A quick and easy solution is to invest in a head torch. Whether you live somewhere that’s not blessed with streetlights or you like to run in the park after dark, a powerful torch will deliver all of the light you need, allowing you to focus on the run at hand rather than fretting over whether you’re about to fall into a ditch or splash through a puddle with every stride you take.
Your ability to see isn’t the only concern - you also need to be visible to any approaching vehicles or walkers to keep both parties safe. As much as reflective details on running tops, shorts, or trainers help, nothing can compare with the beam shining from a torch.
When choosing the device for you, it’s important to consider the burn time, the length of time it takes until it runs out of battery, the range, how far ahead the torch can be seen, and the lumens, the measure of output in terms of brightness, as well as the all-important comfort rating.
With prices as little as £16.99, it’s a small price to pay when considering the safety and visibility benefits it will deliver. The best part? If you’re into hiking, camping, festivals or your house is prone to power cuts, your torch will come in handy for a range of eventualities and doesn’t solely need to be reserved for running.
So, we’ve researched the best on the market so every type of running and budget is covered.
Best head torches for running at a glance
- Best for a good all-rounder: Proviz LED360 Antares Headlamp 500 Lumens - £35.99, Proviz
- Best for an automatically adjusting beam: Petzl Swift RL Headlamp - £94, Blacks
- Best for ultra trail runners: Evadict Ontrail 900 Lumens Trail Running Frontal Lamp - £49.99, Decathlon
- Best for shorter city runs: Forclaz Rechargable Head Torch - £16.99, Decathlon
- Best for standard trail runs: Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp Outdoor Head Torch - £60, Snow + Rock
- Best for camping trips: Fenix HL16 450 Lumen AAA powered Trail Running Headlamp - £34.95, Decathlon
Proviz LED360 Antares Headlamp 500 Lumens
Best for: a good all-rounder
Lumens: 500
Maximum range: 100 metres
Maximum burn time: 73 hours
With two colour lighting options, an adjustable angle, a powerful beam, and the ability to alter the fit for ultimate comfort, Proviz’s headlamp boasts a great range of features considering its £39.99 price point. Completely waterproof, you’ll be ready for anything your route throws in your way.
Buy now £35.99, Proviz
Petzl Swift RL Headlamp
Best for: an automatically adjusting beam
Lumens: 900
Maximum range: 150 metres
Maximum burn time: 50 hours
This headlight boasts a unique dimming function. Petzl’s design can adjust the brightness automatically based on the ambient light so it’s always at the perfect level. Considering it only weighs 100 grams, it packs a powerful punch, and the two-part construction makes it super comfortable. A rechargeable option, you can save money on batteries too.
Buy now £94.00, Blacks
Evadict Ontrail 900 Lumens Trail Running Frontal Lamp
Best for: ultra trail runners
Lumens: 900
Maximum range: 150 metres
Maximum burn time per battery: 9 hours
Designed to last all night, Evadict’s weather-resistant headlamp is ideal for those partial to a longer trail run. With a detachable and rechargeable battery, you can add on the mileage as long as your heart desires, while it illuminates your path. With the weight evenly distributed between the front and back of the head, and a comfortable, adjustable strap, you’ll barely know it’s there.
Buy now £49.99, Decathlon
Forclaz Rechargable Head Torch
Best for: shorter city runs
Lumens: 500
Maximum range: 25 metres
Maximum burn time: 11 hours
This ultra-compact design by Forclaz is perfect for shorter, city runs. Splash-proof, super lightweight at 45 grams, and dimmable, it covers all the basics at a wallet-friendly £16.99 price point. Another rechargeable option, it’ll be back to full power in as little as two hours.
Buy now £16.99, Decathlon
Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp Outdoor Head Torch
Best for: standard trail runs
Lumens: 400
Maximum range: 100 metres
Maximum burn time: 200 hours
A powerful torch that would fit easily in your pocket, Black Diamond’s Spot 400 features a range of settings and a powerful beam, and will even work underwater for up to 30 minutes. It’s a rechargeable option and will let you know the percentage of power remaining so you’re never left in the lurch.
Buy now £60.00, Snow + Rock
Fenix HL16 450 Lumen AAA powered Trail Running Headlamp
Best for: camping trips
Lumens: 450
Maximum range: 104 metres
Maximum burn time: 200 hours
Granted, head torches aren’t the most stylish of accessories, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be eye-catching. Fenix’s pretty pink head torch doesn’t just look the part, but it serves as a functional piece of equipment for weekend camping trips. The nifty tool is light, making it ideal for outdoor activities spanning running, climbing, trekking and more.
Plus, it’s super easy to use. Thanks to the convenient dual switches, you can flick between four brightness levels and two red light functions during your run.
Buy now £34.95, Amazon
