The clocks have changed and the darker nights and mornings are definitely upon us. We all know the importance of wearing reflective, high-visibility gear and using lights but it can be difficult to know what you are looking for. For the first instalment of our Running in the Dark series, we will outline headlamps and what to look for when buying a headlamp.

Headlamps are secured around the head and illuminate the path ahead by projecting light whichever way the head is facing. By being positioned just above the eyes they move with your vision to help you see in the dark. They also alert oncoming runners and traffic of your presence.

Headlamps vary dramatically in terms of price and quality so it is important to consider what you will be using it for and what your requirements are. Consider:

Light Output – often expressed in lumens, this is the amount of light a headlamp projects out. This can vary greatly from around 80 lumens in more basic headlamps to 300 lumens in higher quality headlamps. For those looking to run across unlit trails in the dark, look for a headlamp with around 200-300 lumens.

Batteries – some headlamps are rechargeable whereas others use batteries. With a rechargeable headlamp you don’t need to worry about replacing the batteries but you have to remember to charge it regularly and ensure it has adequate charge before venturing out. A headlamp that uses batteries may be more convenient but you may have to carry spare batteries with you to change them if they run out during your run (if this happens consider how easily you will be able to do this, especially if it is dark, cold and wet outside).

Burn Time – this is the amount of time before the headlamp runs out of power. This varies between headlamps but can also be impacted by temperature and function settings. Many headlamps have varying light output modes with the higher lumen modes reducing the battery life more quickly than lower output modes.

Light Colour – the standard colour of light is white LED which is adequate for most purposes but some headlamps incorporate red LED which helps with preserving your own night vision and green LED which helps with tasks like reading in the dark.

Operation – headlamps are controlled with small buttons to turn the light on/off and alter the light output mode. Consider how easily you can operate the buttons when running/moving and with cold, wet and possibly gloved hands.

Tilting Head – the headlamps can often be adjusted to direct the beam of light depending on your preferences. This is should be easily adjustable but should also be secure enough that it stays in one place when you are moving.

Headband – the headlamp is attached to a headband around your head. The band should be adjustable to allow for a secure and comfortable fit. Make sure it is secure enough to not fall off when moving.

Other Considerations – in addition to the headlamp it is also important to consider where you will be running and if there will be any available light (e.g. street lights) besides your headlamp. Consider the duration you will be out for and whether the battery life / burn time will be adequate. Also think about who you are running with and whether there may be additional lighting available from others in a running group.

At Kinisi Run Hub we stock two headlamps from Silva.

Silva Smini Fly (£39.99) – a super lightweight, water resistant headlamp featuring a minimalistic 3mm headband and weighs only 38.5g but provides up to 250 lumens of light. Here are the details:

• 3 Output Modes / Burn Times:
  • Max mode: 250 lumen / 1,5hr burn time
  • Med Mode: 100 lumen / 2,5hr burn time
  • Min Mode: 10 lumen / 20hr burn time
• Batteries:
  • Integrated USB-C rechargeable battery (Li-Po 700 mAh)
  • Charge cable included
  • 4-step battery level indicator
• Light Colour:
  • Silva Intelligent Light – combines long reach spot light and close flood light
  • Red light – preserves your night vision
• Headband:
  • Only one buckle for smooth adjustment of the headband

Silva Smini (£49.99) – another super lightweight, water resistant headlamp that features a slim 15mm headband that only weighs 53g but provides up to 250 lumens of light. Here are the details:

• 3 Output Modes / Burn Times:
  • Max mode: 250 lumen / 1,5hr burn time
  • Med Mode: 100 lumen / 2,5hr burn time
  • Min Mode: 10 lumen / 20hr burn time
• Batteries:
  • Integrated USB-C rechargeable battery (Li-Po 700 mAh)
  • Charge cable included
  • 4-step battery level indicator
• Light Colour:
  • Silva Intelligent Light – combines long reach spot light and close flood light
  • Red light – preserves your night vision
  • Rear light – offers red safety light and blink mode
• Headband:
  • Only one buckle for smooth adjustment of the headband