Running Light Buying Guide

Light is crucial for both safety and confidence when running in the early morning or dim evening. You want enough light to see your path and surroundings, as well as enough to be seen by passing vehicles. Headlamps are the best ways to provide illumination while also keeping your hands free. These lights can be distinguished by a few primary factors, namely the amount of light they emit, their battery life, and additional features offered.

Headlamps are classified according to the total amount of visible light emitted, also referred to as lumens. The number of lumens provided by a light indicates how bright it will be and how far ahead of you the light will be cast. Most offer a button or switch to toggle between the different levels of brightness: a max output for maximum visibility and a low setting to save battery. At Running Warehouse Australia, we offer running lights up to 900 lumens.

Another key feature of headlamps is how long the battery will last. This is also known as burn time. High-end lights tend to offer longer burn times or extra features to help conserve the battery. Lights may be rechargeable, require batteries, or allow for both, as noted on our site in each light's "Product Details" section.

Each brand offers unique technology designed to aid in the performance of the light, the exact features of which will vary from model to model. Some models offer settings that regulate the amount of light so that it won't dim as the batteries drain. Others include a sensor that detects ambient light and increases or decreases brightness automatically as needed. Certain lamps feature a dimming mode, which allows the user to fine-tune their light output. To see which features a light offers, take a look at the "Product Details" section of the product page.

If you are running less than two hours in either low light or no light, any headlamp or belt light will offer you adequate battery life when fully charged. Keep in mind that the lower the battery life, the more frequently you will need to change the batteries or recharge the light.

If you are running for longer than two hours, battery life will be critical. Base your decision on the longest stretch of time you will have between battery charges. For example, if you plan on running all night, choose a headlamp that can provide at least eight hours of consistent brightness.