How to Choose a Headlamp for Trail Running

An overview of the features I personally look for in a headlamp for trail running, to help you choose the right headlamp for you. Plus a Petzl Swift RL and Fenix HM65R-T review.
PRODUCTS FEATURED:
Petzl Nao+: geni.us/Pa0id
Petzl Swift RL: geni.us/ffIk
Fenix HM65R-T: geni.us/1PR5A2y
MY CAMERA EQUIPMENT: bit.ly/3oanbYd
0:00 - Intro
0:45 - Brightness
2:20 - Battery Life
2:52 - Battery Type
4:00 - Size & Weight
5:00 - Waterproofing
5:21 - Other Features
8:34 - Petzl Nao+ Review
9:03 - Petzl Reactik+ Review
9:26 - Petzl Swift RL Review
9:52 - Fenix HM65R-T Review
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Disclosure: Some links in the description are affiliate links from which I'll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
#trailrunning #trailrunninggear

[@JeffPelletier]

You can compare prices for any of headlamps I recommend in the video at the links below. Petzl Nao+: geni.us/Pa0id Petzl Swift RL: geni.us/ffIk Fenix HM65R-T: geni.us/1PR5A2y

[@Simco_]

Picked up that Fenix because of the video.

[@JeffPelletier]

Nice! Let me know how you like it.

[@FenixLightOfficial]

@@Simco_ We have distributors in Canada.

[@bilaltahir9978]

@@Simco_ How are you finding your new Fenix?

[@Simco_]

@@bilaltahir9978 Hasn't shown up yet! 22nd was last tracking update.

[@ruleroftheundersky570]

As of yesterday I bought the Fenix HM65R-T only for camping, and hiking around in the dark while camping; I get explorative when doing such activities. It's battery life, and light options make it the best one on the market that I have personally found. I will be purchasing 2 of the USB rechargeable batteries for backups after I get the headlamp, and test it.

[@user-uq7bl3lq5g]

I've been in the market for a headlamp for ~3months, but it's a jungle, so I really appreciate these kind of reviews. I starting off looking at milwaukee, makita, nitecore and silva. In the end I chose Fenix hm65r (superraptor v2 for the overhead strap), and combined this with xtar pb2s charger AND powerbank and 2x 18650 3500mah batteries, so they're all usb-c compatible and using the same 18650 protected batteries (will try both fenix and xtar 18650's because they have to be cross-compatible) I'm abroad now but have great anticipation for checking out the products when I return home in a few days.

[@gluonpa6878]

I had no experience at all in hl and bought the Actik Core because of it's brightness and hybrid energy mode. I am very happy about it, it bring almost daylight in the darkest forest and that's quite amazing. Reserve mode is a nice to have since it means you'll basically never totally run out or light (unless you are very imprudent).

[@stevejodoin9937]

Good video. Great info. Can’t wait to get back on the trails!!!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Steve!

[@iamamish]

I just started hiking in the woods at night, this resource is amazing. I definitely would have wasted money and not gotten the features I needed had I not watched this video. I also appreciate that you get straight to the point - nice job.

[@user-ef6gv4wv1l]

miss u amish

[@iamamish]

@@user-ef6gv4wv1l It's funny running into people all over the internet

[@Zudy]

Super helpful video. Made me realize my existing headlamp was not powerful enough.

[@Tylerhas_theruns]

Such a well thought out video! Thanks!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Tyler, appreciate that!

[@nolannatashaTV]

this was so comprehensive. thanks

[@MountainADEW]

I was intrigued by the Petzl IKO and have been pretty stoked thus far. The fitting is a little odd, but once you get it dialed in, it's a dream. Great video!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks! I’ve been curious about that one myself, mostly because of how light it is. I’d imagine it wouldn’t work for skiing but looks to be a great option for trail running for sure.

[@mortonmedia]

Just purchased the HM65R-T after watching this. If you want a powerful/comfortable light I highly recommend. Thanks Jeff, quality content as always, legend.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Eddie!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Nice one Jeff! I've been really digging the BioLite 750 myself!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks! You’re the second one to recommend that, I’ll have to check it out!

[@bilaltahir9978]

I was considering purchasing the Biolite 750 based on your video but it appears that, with the exception of the rear red light LED, the new Fenix outperforms it in every way. Do you have any thoughts on the new Fenix and are you planning to review it? Maybe a head to head comparison with the Biolite 750 would be called for?

[@mikekiss648]

another great vid by Jeff

[@DaanVerhaar]

A great review, again. Note that the Fenix HM65R-T has a lock option, just hold the flood and spot buttons together for a couple of seconds, the light flashes a couple of times and it is (un)locked. So no need to put the battery in backwards. Love to see your experience in the wild with the Fenix.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks! Yes, I should have actually clarified that in the video. I’d demonstrated putting the battery backwards just as an example, but it does have a lock as you say.

[@lh3540]

ooo, I like the red light. I'm getting into packable stargazing photography, the red light is a plus. thanks!

[@CJ-nf5jd]

Excellent video. Very informative. They are all very nice headlamps. I'm a believer of the K.I.S.S. principle, easy to use and less things to fail. I do like the Fenix at the end of the video

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks, and that’s actually what appeals to me about the Fenix as well - very simple to operate, very clear burn times, etc.

[@wplate]

Great video. I run with a few-years-old Petzl MYO XP, but I also pair with a waist light to make the ground, rocks, roots, etc easier to see. I look forward to a video about waist lights! :)

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Wes, I’ve often considered testing out a waist light. Might be time I do so!

[@jtk534]

please everyone remember not only water resistance but also COLD RESISTANCE when selecting a headlamp. being lost in the dark and cold is no bueno. and that’s why I use fenix headlamps!

[@G7cobra]

Good helpful video thank you

[@rokforstneric4445]

I also have several headlamps, but for running, my Ledlenser MH10 600 lumens doesn't let me down, 10 hours on the highest brightness, it's not the most compact for mountaineering and storing, but still very comfortable and when I need it, I am glad to have it. A dream for ultra running. The Petzl Swift RL is bright and compact, but the battery doesn't last, except if you have it on the first setting, but then it is kind of pointless.

[@brianreiter5572]

The Ledlenser NEO10r is the same lamp and battery system with a different headband and a chest-mount webbing option. Also extremely reliable and no nonsense.

[@nickjarvis3614]

Another solid video, Jeff! The Nao+ has been good for me but battery life has been a tad disappointing. That Fenix headlamp looks super legit, especially at that price point. Great stuff as always. Keep the gear reviews coming.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Nick! Yea, this Fenix one is no joke.

[@alpinewander]

Great review, Jeff. I've used the Fenix HL60R for many years, and it's been the best headlamp I've ever used. I'm just looking for a new headlamp for my girlfriend, and was considering another HL60R for her, but I'm really impressed with both the HM65R and HM60R. The red light in the latter might sway me in that direction, but I'm still doing a bit more research. Either way, after owning dozens of headlamps since my first Petzl Zoom back in the 80s, I've never found build quality and features better than on Fenix products.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Jason! I’m new to Fenix headlamps, but I’ve been quite impressed with the quality myself. For your use case, a model with a red light might be best I’d imagine.

Thanks Jeff for the recap! I wasnt aware of tech such as reactive headlamps and was wondering about those headlamps with battery on the back. I've only used Black Diamond headlamps so far and I love my Storm 400, but I might try something like the Fenix one in the future. Red-Light is also a must have if you are doing overnight adventure and want to look at the stars! Having a easy lock is also incredibly important... I think anybody who did the mistake of having his headlamp dying in their backpack and only realising it when you needed it most would agree! I have less experience with trail running but I found it could be tricky to keep the headlamp beam stable while running, it quickly end up nauseous if it's not tighten properly. Finally having easy modes/buttons are a must when you are wearing heavy winter gloves and removing them is not an option.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Bruno, all great points, particularly about having easy buttons. The design of the Fenix is great in this respect with the independently operated lamps. I find the operation of the Petzl headlamps a little annoying sometimes trying to remember which combination of buttons does what, and the lock on the Reactik can be difficult to operate. PS thanks for the continued support as a channel member!

@@JeffPelletier My pleasure! I'm more than happy to support local creators! It's great to have access to quality content when we are stuck at home! :) Cheers

[@Foxr6]

Reactive tec is cool! I like rocking a lamp with an 18650 battery because I can swap it with my bike light and flash light. Stellar video brother 🙌

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks! Reactive is a neat technology for sure.

[@steveoconnor7069]

Now I find this video after going to REI and buying a headlamp already. :)

[@juananparraga]

Good headlamps for a night run! One more to consider for short trails and city runs could be Petzl Actik Core 450 lm. Good value for a bunch of features in a 75 grams lamp such as battery compatibility (either rechargable or AAA batteries), 2 beam patterns, red light, lock function, low battery gauge, reflective headband and it's also IPX4!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Juan, great suggestion!

[@justrione]

Using my Petzel RL tomorrow in the Angeles forest

[@eSKAone-]

Excellent thanks 🌌💟☮️

[@john.maynard]

Thanks for the great, straightforward info. I’ve been running my generic headlamp for years now (it gets the job done). But will definitely need to upgrade for an upcoming 100. You bring up a lot of good points to consider. 👍🏻

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks John, yea many 100’s also require that you carry a spare headlamp which your existing one could still be used as, but you’ll need something reliable to get you thru the night.

[@john.maynard]

@@JeffPelletier I will for sure invest in a good one to get me through the night (and keep my current as back-up).

[@beeclimbing9954]

Go Fenix, you won't regret it ;-)

[@michaelm9871]

Zebralight H600Fw can do ~200 lumens for 12.5 hours. It's probably the most efficient headlamp in these middle modes. At least in 18650 format lights.

[@HenkieHeadache]

I'm running with an UltrAspire 400z (belt). When it's 'locked' on your waist, it's great. However I can't lock it as I would like to, due to wearing slippery clothing. Since then I'm holding it in my hand while running. It took a while to get use to, but I like it now. I've tried the Fenix HM-65R, but found it too heavy (and a bit bumpy) on my forehead.

[@Theninjaonthemountains]

great video!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks! Glad it was helpful.

[@benjaminthancock]

Been rocking a Petzl Tikka for about 6 years.

[@mrkringlan]

Sometimes it feels like the only headlamp used by ultrarunners in Sweden is the Lumonite Compass R. I swear by mine. Great burn time, wonderfully bright and what I really enjoy: ease of use. Only one button. Three regular light modes and "moon light" (5 lumen), max mode (1200 lumen) and lockable. Built to last with no moving part except the screw on cap to remove the battery. I have yet to see somebody outside of Scandinavia use one though, you should try one!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks, that sounds like a great option! It’s funny how regional some of this stuff is. Here in Canada and in a lot of USA, it feels like you mostly just see Petzl headlamps.

[@DeanPattrick]

Hi Jeff great video but I feel you have missed possibly one of the best head torches on the market > Biolite 750. This is what I use, it has spot and floodlight, waterproof, light at the front and battery on the back, battery reserve and also a neat “pass thru” function so you can power the light from an external battery bank. Oh and also has a red light on the back which is a really useful feature. Finally is soooo comfortable to wear.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Dean, I hadn’t heard of that one but I love the sound of the red light on the back and it appears to put the battery on the rear which is a great design.

[@DeanPattrick]

@@JeffPelletier Hi Jeff, yeah this Biolite is just amazing, has so many neat features.

[@56932982]

An other thing to consider is light color temperature and CRI (Color Rendering Index). Many head lamps use cold white i.e. blueish LEDs. These LEDs give more lumens in a lab test. But in reality they give bad contrast due to low CRI. The human eye is much more sensitive to contrast, i.e. differences in brightens and color (CRI), then to absolute brightens (lumens). Bluish light with low CRI gives low, flat contrast on red / brown colors like brown soil / dirt. This light renders dirt to a flat, dull, grayish tone. With this light small obstacles on a dirt trail become hard to spot. Where I live we have red to brown soil / dirt / sand. I tried a lamp with cold white LED, but the subjective illumination was bad. It was bright, but it was hard to see the structure or texture of a trail. I went on and bought a lamp with a explicitly neutral white, high CRI LED. This gave me much better contrast in dirt and thus made running in the dark easier.

[@JeffPelletier]

Great information, thanks Jochen. I’ve noticed that the contrast is quite poor from my Petzl Nao, and I suspect this is why. I’ll have to do more research and testing myself in this area.

[@donaldstrader7241]

Jochen, I could not agree more. Lumen levels and run times are generally good, but many manufacturers seem to forget the excellent point you make about higher CRI LEDs and perception.

[@th3kr3w100]

Love Fenix! I personally use the HL60R version. I believe they were originally marketed for cave divers, which as you can imagine, relies on good lighting! As for the video, great job on covering all the ins-and-outs!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks John! I’m loving Fenix more and more by the day. I recently got another model that I’m testing out as well.

[@greg6162]

What about a good lamp to use in winter while delivering for *Amazon as a driver?* I have a cheap one from Walmart for like $10 but it takes 2-AA batteries and I need something that’s rechargeable and can be used in cold wet conditions. Also… I need something with a bigger easy access button that can easily be used with gloves. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated

[@beeclimbing9954]

I gave up on Petzl and moved to Fenix and will stay with them, the luminosity is far superior.

[@Kazuko-rq4qd]

I bought a headlamp for night hikes, now I can scare off the ghosts AND see where I'm going! 🌌🔦

[@madmanbehindye]

Can you recommend a head unit with a good flood light please. .

[@billcuster]

Jeff, Thanks for the great review. Lots of good tips and facts. What I've had a hard time finding is a headlamp with a LOW (firefly) mode. I need it for use in the cockpit of an aircraft and just want something bright enough to look over a chart or some paperwork. Of course, having the bright modes too is great for other situations. Know if any low-lumen, less than 50 lumens, options?

[@JeffPelletier]

Hm, that’s an interesting use case. Some lamps are actually dimmable - not just in 3 or 4 steps but the full range, by holding down the button. Alternatively, perhaps the red light mode could work? It can cause problems in trying to read maps though.

[@ryandhaley2]

I’d try the Nitecore NU25

[@osemarvin2847]

I think the Fenix HM65R-T (which was in this review) is perfect for you: It has Floodlight: Low, 5 lumens, 300hours runtime.

[@billcuster]

@@ryandhaley2 I bought the NU25 not long after you recommended it. I've been using it for over 6 months and couldn't be happier. It is so light and compact I can keep it with my headset, and the 1 lumen mode is great for what I need. Still a little brighter than ideal but it works fine. I think the NU20 might have even been enough. Thanks for the recommendation Ryan!

[@JMLS20]

What's the best headlamp for night walks around the neighborhood

[@DustinHallUltraRunner]

Great Video, I have been getting into longer trail races, and have been looking to get a high quality main lamp, been stuck between the Nao+ and the Fenix 65R-T

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks Dustin. They’re both great headlamps. I tend to reach for my Fenix over my Nao+ more often than not lately though..

[@thepatternforms859]

@@JeffPelletier why

[@JeffPelletier]

I find the Fenix to be easier to use, much more durable, and longer lasting.

[@thepatternforms859]

@@JeffPelletier nao+ has been redesigned to the new NAO RL have you seen it yet? Not on the website yet though…

[@thepatternforms859]

@@JeffPelletier thanks! Just ordered the Fenix 65R-T plus an extra battery! I hope I like it for trail/ultra runs…. Apparently it’s the best there is?

[@johntpedersen5689]

Thanks fopr a nice video! Looking to buy new headlamps, and one of my main demands is that it needs to have USB-C, so that i finally can throw away my old mikro-usb-loader. What's the deal with most headlamps using the old standard - did all the companies buy up all the mikro-usb-ports when mobilephones stopped using this? :-) I definitelly will look closer to the last lamp you talk about.

[@JeffPelletier]

Strange, isn't it? I suspect it's a cost thing.

[@nkeenan05]

I’ve had the swift rl for a year now, I’ve had trouble since day one adjusting from low to medium during a run - it basically kills the battery instantly and forces me on low. If I start on medium, I’m fine for the full time. I’m curious about the Felix, looks like a ton of lumens for a decent price and weight. Have you tried a waist-light? Just curious

[@JeffPelletier]

Hey Nick, I’ve never personally used a waist light, but I know some people who do and they are very effective at cutting the shadows caused by headlamps. Lights like the Petzl Nao I’ve found are particularly bad at flattening everything, maybe because of the colour of the light. So I definitely plan on trying it one day. Too bad about your experience with the Swift RL. I really liked the Petzl Reactik, shame that they appear to have discontinued it.

[@cliftonmadden1992]

I use the Petzl NAO+ as my primary with spare battery. The Black Diamond Spot (300 Lumens), also with spare batteries, is my backup. I'm curious: how hot does the Fenix get at full power? Often, the high output models seem to get very hot presenting a burn or fire risk.

[@JeffPelletier]

Hey Clifton, that’s a great question - it’s been pretty cold here which could be skewing things, but I haven’t noticed a heat problem with the Fenix at all. But I also haven’t been it using at full power for extended periods, as I find the 400 lumens on medium mode to be plenty!

[@Pedersons1]

Hey Jeff, Thanks for the video. I'm curious, are there any manufacturers using Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries? I'm running in Alaska and I've found that type of battery to be the most cold resistant. Since we're coming up on winter, I'd like to get a headlamp that will be capable of thriving in the cold.

[@JeffPelletier]

I don’t think you’ll find a headlamp that uses LiPo, no. I’d recommend one that uses a separate lithium-ion battery pack but with an extension cable so you can keep the battery warm in your jacket, like the older style Petzl Nao.

[@markbrosinsky5230]

Ya I don't know I have been using the Costco ones 3 for $22. They are 500 lumens. 3 AAA batteries last for 4ish hours on high. I've used on all sorts of races, 100 miles included. Works great for me.

[@JeffPelletier]

Is that the Duracell brand ones? Can’t beat that price!

[@markbrosinsky5230]

Yep those are the ones. Love em. Not fancy for sure but they work for me.

[@ARCSTREAMS]

too many bells n whistles for something intended to be simple,, now the usb charged ones all have some kind of batteries inside right? would you say these batts last longer per every charge than disposables? would Li last longer or perform better for high drain be they disposable or rechargeable? would rechargeable in conventional manner last less than usb rechargeable packs? and how many times can these usb rechargeable last before you need new ones?

[@martinrnning7260]

The rating for waterproofing is also for dust/debris. Really it’s just about how well sealed a product is. It’s called IP-rating where IP is followed by two numbers. IPX4 in this case means the seal for dust is not documented and 4 in waterproofing. An Iphone 12 is for example IP68.

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks for clarifying that!

[@DIYTechRepairs]

Pesonally 350lumen is way to little on complex terrain and trail. Atleast 500 but preferable 700+. But yes it lowers battery life. My primary lamp have either 550 or 150 so its quite a big span . On full it have 1.5-2h of battery life but it have 8h on medium instead. And you can swap the battery, charge it while running or hook in battery bank. I like it alot but yes for long runs its not good enough :D

[@JeffPelletier]

I’m curious, what model is your primary headlamp?

[@DIYTechRepairs]

@@JeffPelletier olight h17r. As of today but i also like the lumonite compass r that is even more powerfull and uses swapable 18650 cells.

[@mdjak3686]

The fenix reviews on Amazon say the head strap is too small. True? Great job here. Ty.

[@JeffPelletier]

I think I read that the first batch was too tight, but they fixed it on the next iteration. I don’t find mine too small at all and I’ve got a pretty big head.

[@curtisgmchale]

Also, know if your headlamp has a lock. I know someone who thought their headlamp was dead for 3 different early runs until I showed them the lock and that it was just locked and worked fine.

[@JeffPelletier]

Hah, helps to read the manual, I suppose! 😉

[@curtisgmchale]

@@JeffPelletier It does, but I can't suggest that because my couch isn't that comfortable and I may have to sleep there if I suggested it.

[@therealtashiro]

It seems that many headlamp manufacturers exaggerate their battery lumen run time and the super bright lumen turbo modes start to dim down after 30 sec - 1 minute. Did you find these scenarios during your tests?

[@JeffPelletier]

Hey Sean, that true - most lamps start to self-regulate. I’d like to run a test one of these days on a few lamps. I ran with my Fenix HMR65-T this weekend for a 100 miler and it performed really well, exactly as expected through a night and a half.

[@ofalfl5976]

try Nicron H25

[@scottmcintyre571]

Hey Jeff, I've been using the Swift RL lately, I like the headlamp, but I'm disappointed with the battery life so far. From my experience, it seems less than what they publish, and that's at mostly medium power. The Fenix looks interesting. What about waist lamps, I know some runners who love them?

[@JeffPelletier]

Hey Scott, that’s too bad to hear about the Swift RL - that reactive technology can really be unpredictable which is what makes me nervous. I’ve always liked the idea of using a waist headlamp or, alternatively, a second light held in the hand to help cut down on shadows. But I’ve never actually tried one around my waist..

[@pacnwrunner5212]

I have been using the Kogalla waist light for a few years and have not gone back. The perspective that a waist light provides is better than a headlight in my opinion especially on technical terrain. The Kogalla works off a usb battery bank which allows you to choose the size of battery pack for your particular needs. On long adventure runs the battery pack can also be used to charge a phone, camera batteries, or watch. The biggest downside of the Kogalla is the weight and figuring out the best way to wear it. There are other waist lights available now that are lighter and less fiddly, but light and versatility of the Kogalla continues to make it my daily driver.

[@JeffPelletier]

Do you use the Kogalla along with a regular headlamp, or on its own?

[@pacnwrunner5212]

@@JeffPelletier For my daily runs I just use the Kogalla on its own. For longer adventure runs where I will be out through the night and will need to do things such as filter water or get things out of my pack a headlamp is helpful. I use an old petzel e+light for that and just turn it on when I need it. The only time I do not use the Kogalla is on multi day adventures where I plan to sleep or move slowly in the night. Here the weight penalty is too much and I opt for a lighter headlamp and an extra battery pack that I can charge with a power bank.

[@JeffPelletier]

Great strategy, thanks!

[@thedjshawk]

I went down a rabbit hole last summer searching for the perfect torch for trail running. My needs more or less exactly match what you said so it was interesting to hear your thoughts. In the UK most stores push Petzl but I’ve never been impressed with their burn times or overpriced proprietary batteries. For years I’ve used a Fenix and it has done me proud but their recent torches all seem to feature technology that dims output after certain times which is how they get away with quoting long run times on bright settings - for me it’s dishonest and has turned me off them. The winner of my search was the UT32 from a brand called Nitecore. I was a bit sceptical as I’d never heard of them but they have a decent history of tactical style torches and people seemed happy. The torch is a single 18650 like the Fenix so spare batteries are cheap and generic. It has a two bulbs: a cool white floodlight and a warm white spotlight. Output is regulated so consistent for the whole burn time, and they have 3 output levels which are really quite nicely set for running, approx 150 on low, 400 on medium and some ridiculous number on high. More importantly I think the runtime at 400 is the magic 8 hours (possibly it’s 6 and I’ve misremembered). In the end I decided to get 2 of these. This would allow me to full charge 2 torches and swap them in the headband if doing overnighters when nights are long. The added benefit, which for me was considerable, is that as a backup you still have an excellent light. I would hate to actually need my backup and be stuck with a tiny e-lite or similar. The only negative I have at the moment is there is no very low setting. I think Nitecore are happy to send out review models so with your reach on KZbin I’m sure they would sort you out. Love your videos, am signed up to Swisspeaks because of you!

[@JeffPelletier]

Thanks so much for the thoughtful comment! I have to look into that one. I like the sound of a warmer light too as that should provide a bit more contrast. 400 lumens on medium really is the sweet spot - that’s what appealed to me about the Fenix. Good luck with your training for SwissPeaks! You’ll love the event.

[@thedjshawk]

@@JeffPelletier Thanks Jeff. I just re-checked the specs and seems I was a little off... the 400 setting is a little under 4hrs. For 8hrs you need to step down to around 200 lumens and I missed out a low level around 60 lumen. Not quite so spectacular, but 200 switching up to 400 when you need it should get you through a summer night on most trails, and spare batteries are very simple to change.

[@NoxiousNoodles]

Worth noting that if you use a red light to read a map, it can render contours on some maps invisible. Not ideal.

[@JeffPelletier]

Ah, thanks for the tip!

[@lookinfriday5885]

2 years later but I’ve heard green is a good option

[@iphone3920]

interesting why do you have a map of Valais, Switzerland standing behind you? Greetings from Valais

[@JeffPelletier]

Good eye! That’s a print-out of my route from the SwissPeaks 360k in 2019. Beautiful area you live in, can’t wait to go back.

[@jackbiernacki8603]

Petzl Nao+. At continuous 750 lm the unit overheats and stops working correctly. You can't change the mode, turn it off or pair with your phone. If you plan to use this lamp at lower setting, then you will be fine.

[@JeffPelletier]

That's interesting (and disappointing) to hear! Thanks Jack.

[@jackbiernacki8603]

@@JeffPelletier I am not saying all of the Petzl Nao+ will have this problem. But there is definitely a bad batch of these torches out there. It sounds like there could be a compromised component in the unit. The good people of the KZbin should be aware of a potential problem with the lamp and maybe test it at 750 after the purchase. Me? Petzl Nao+ got returned and got FENIX HM65R instead.😄

[@tiagoleal6156]

Petzl Nao RL - simple

[@zen_scott]

Ease of removing and washing the headband is super important to me. Bought the Petzl Swift RL and really bummed because it seems it can't be removed. Still not sure how to wash it. Also, no response from their customer service.

[@JeffPelletier]

Hm, you’re right. Just took a look at mine and I don’t see any easy way to remove it. Perhaps you’ll need to hand wash it with the strap still on.

[@zen_scott]

@@JeffPelletier Thank you Jeff!

[@zen_scott]

@@JeffPelletier Took 8 days, but I received a reply from Petzl customer service. Here's their instructions for cleaning the headband... "When it comes to the SWIFT Headlamp, the headband is not removable but the headlamp is. 1. Turn your headlamp 180 degrees 2. Remove the battery 3. Bend the battery clips inward while pressing the headlamp downward and the plugs will unclip from the mounting plate. Do this on both sides and the headlamp will detach. 4. Clean the headband with soap and water by hand only. Do NOT machine wash or use any other detergents that could damage the plastic. 5. Click the lamp back by doing the same procedure in reverse, you need to apply some force when pressing the headlamp in, making the plugs "click" into place." They sent some pics too, so if you're interested, let me know and I can e-mail them to you.

[@JeffPelletier]

Ah that makes sense. So the plastic mount for the headlamp stays attached to the strap. Thanks!

[@zen_scott]

@@JeffPelletier Yes, exactly. Steps 3 & 5 above aren't easy, but with a bit of force and practice, it works.

[@JuanaVallSerra]

Is it possible to have a spare Petzl Accu Swift RL battery shipped to Colombia? Any ideas?

[@JeffPelletier]

Hm, that I don’t know.

[@JuanaVallSerra]

Likely, I'll have to wait for someone to travel and bring it with them, minding restrictions for such 'dangerous goods'.

[@gargos669]

I bought and RETURNED Petzl Swift RL for several reasons... 1-It does not have a potent light... Compared to a 160lm from decathlon, they were almost the same AND 30 after using it fully charged, the cheap 160lm did more light. 2-It's not steady, it moves, it hurts to my forehead. 3-ABYSMAL issue here..I go running at NIGHT, ok...when its COLD...ok..When I exhale my breath infront of the beam lights up, and the reactive technology detects light lowering the intensity...So I can breath or see, not both.

[@bilaltahir9978]

The new Fenix doesn't have a rear red light which is required for many races and for safety purposes. How would you deal with this issue? It seems that the Fenix is the best headlamp on the market at present if it wasn't for that one disadvantage.

[@JeffPelletier]

I’ve actually never encountered a race that requires a rear red light, to be honest. Is it a specific region where this is required?

[@bilaltahir9978]

@@JeffPelletier That's probably in the UK then. But they generally recommend the rear red light for safety. You don't think it is needed for visibility?

[@ThatFlowState]

I've seen the rear red light requirement crop up in a few EU races as well. Still a minority but wouldn't surprise me to see it become more common.

[@donaldstrader7241]

I don't run, but enjoy a good headlamp for projects, power outages, and outdoor work at night, walking, etc. I think it was a UK based video that reviewed and compared the PETZL - NAO which had the rear red light and the Fenix HM65R-T which did not. He mentioned he solved the problem by using common red clip-ons such as a Ronhill. Olight sells a red rear bicycle light which they co-brand with Magicshine which would work if one could figure out how to adapt it to mount on a strap rather than a bicycle tube. I know I have a couple red flashing lights laying around. Speaking of Olight, I'm not saying they are suitable, but I'm surprised no one reviewed it or mentioned their running headlamp, now named/reincarnated as the Array, whether it was liked or not. The reincarnated version now has a circle of red LEDs in the back that light up in sequence. A lightweight dual spot and flood LED in the front run off a rear battery pack. Perhaps the runtimes with its fixed battery pack, its CW (cool or crappy white) beam, or the IPX4 rating are not sufficient. It can run off a powerbank. It goes to 400 lumens. At 200 lumens it has a runtime of 4h30m.

[@arnopr]

Not clear how rechargable AAA/AA batteries fit into this picture (performance). Do people not use rechargeable A-format batteries? Good way to have less environmental impact by use across devices

[@JeffPelletier]

Many headlamps that use lithium battery packs are also compatible with AAA batteries as a backup. I've used rechargeable AA and AA batteries quite a bit in video production though for things like microphones, and in my experience you need to buy professional grade rechargeables, not simply the 'off the shelf' ones, if you expect long-term performance. I think at that point, you're better off simply using a lithium battery pack. Lithium doesn't perform as well though in my experience in the cold.

[@arnopr]

@@JeffPelletier interesting, thank you!

[@Iveive321]

Ledlenser??????

[@maxwaters1461]

8 hour run, holey cow that's two marathons back to back

[@peakbagger2014]

Petzl bindi, weighs 1 oz, usb rechargeable for ultralight backpacking and trail running. It has a 180 degree flood. Swift RL for mountaineering Trying out the new petzel IKO core. Seems dope!

[@JeffPelletier]

The Petzl IKO Core looks great! Particularly the design of the headband, not to mention the weight. I'd be a little concerned with the battery life of the included 1250 mAh battery, but for shorter runs I'd say it's one of the best new options available.

[@user-ws9zi6jt7u]

Q: Does Petzl anyone shine so bad? They position themselves as "sports" lanterns, including for trailrunning, too. I thought that if you so clearly define the use of product, then at least you need to cope with the stated task. A: Petzl are different. "Coping with the task" is the same relative concept. If there were no Zebra, Spark, Phoenix, Knightcore, Eisbim, Skilhant, Bright Ray and a dozen more modern lantern offices in the world, we would all go with petzels and say that they are "coping." The lantern world has been very actively developing over the past 10-15 years, with the improvement of both the quality and amount of light, the principles of controlling this light, water protection, the capacity of power elements, etc. Petzl psychologically remained in the same "~ 15 years ago," they certainly improve something sometimes... but so pleased with the firmly occupied sports and tourism niche (since in most tourist and sports stores it is still the most recommended) that there is little interest in development.. Q: It is known that many serious athletes (climbers, etc.) use headbands on 3 * AAA. They have enough. A: Even a serious athlete may find himself in a situation where he did not eat anything sweeter than a guy's turnip (s). Food 3 * AAA unequivocally hints that a person does not understand the lights, or he simply does not need it by type of activity.

[@Tasz_]

5:48 Putting the battery backwards is straight up a terrible idea as it can cause damage.

[@JeffPelletier]

Most headlamps have voltage protection that allow you to do this. But yes, it can be a bad idea on some headlamps.

[@yeyuan6273]

What does Bluetooth doing with headlamp??????????

[@JeffPelletier]

It’s so you can connect to your phone to customize the features with the headlamp’s app. You can change things like the brightness and level of reactivity.

[@casperblakskjr2638]

And then there me, running around wit a 6000 lumen headlamp for orienteering😂

[@JeffPelletier]

6000 lumens?! Wow, what model is that? I suppose for orienteering that the distance of the spot beam is important as well.

[@Simco_]

Watching this just reminds me how much I dislike the new Cascade Crest logo.

[@JeffPelletier]

😂

[@slaphappy7559]

While magnesium alloy is light, its also prone to corrosion, I would not buy an item intended for emergency use made of this material.

[@JeffPelletier]

I appreciate the feedback! I've never experienced corrosion on a headlamp myself, have you personally? (or is that more theoretical?)

[@slaphappy7559]

@@JeffPelletier I have had bike forks made of it, chunks fell off after 4 years, a white power developed in paint scratches, that could be wiped away only to reappear later, soon after they started to fall apart, Shimano cheap forks

[@JeffPelletier]

Ah, thanks for clarifying. I’d argue it’s not really comparable in this case though since a headlamp isn’t going to be exposed to the elements for long periods of time (just hours, not days or weeks).

[@gammaraygem]

None of these are any good. Their headbands fail after a couple of weeks of wearing. No mattetr what brand. So I looked up the Fenix weebsite. You can scroll there for hours and not find a price for any product. That kind of company.

[@JeffPelletier]

Many headlamp companies, Fenix and Petzl included, sell through national distributors and independent retailers instead of ‘direct-to-consumer’. That’s why you’re not seeing pricing there.

[@jameskolar9655]

Sorry, but you lost me on the Fenix advert.

[@randomescu]

Im not an environement activist but i would not dispose aa or aaa in nature. The remaining solution being to caryy the depleated with me, a much better solution would be to equip ni-mh with a much longer life. And i would not throw those anyway.