PETZL IKO CORE REVIEW | Is this the best new running headlamp?

[@TheGingerRunner]

The new Petzl IKO Core is an awesome bit of lighting kit ready for your next running adventure. It's super lightweight, has a proper 500lumen capability and a comfortable adaptive fit. Curious to know if the 2.5 hour burntime (at max lumens) will be enough for most people? Let me know your thoughts on the IKO Core below! You can also support the channel by getting your IKO Core here: www.runningwarehouse.com/Petzl_IKO_Core_Headlamp/descpage-PIKOCOR.html?from=ginger

[@savethisforlater]

7 5/8 hat size?

[@benarlett4767]

Seems like an odd choice of settings with 6, 100 and 500lumens. The lower two settings are basically emergency only. Why not have a ~250 lumen setting which is actually usable and would have a much more useful ~5hr burntime with the same hardware.

[@ragewiththemachine1188]

I've been running with it now for a month. I run at night often. Less people, more nature. The highest setting isn't that bright. I could use more power. I do love the form factor. You don't know it's there after a few minutes of running with it. I put it on over my hat, I honestly can't feel it.

[@Showmetheevidence-]

Day to day it’s ok… but for when you really need it (I.e. long ultras) it’s way too little

[@Wigglythegreat2]

@@benarlett4767 I agree.

[@maermann]

I won’t call 6 lumen “unusable”. I view it as a safety mode. I run often in the early morning and in the rain where I don’t need a light to see where I’m going but that little light will definitely make me much more visible to oncoming road traffic.

[@Linkswolfform]

Having tried the Iko and Iko Core, my main criticism was the light modes. Having a another level at 350 lumens would make this headlamp so much better.. But for most uses 100 l is too low and 500 l is overkill, especially if it only lasts 2.5 hours.

[@TheSauer67]

I agree, 5-6 hours with around 300 lumens would be perfect :) either longer runs or less charging in between ..

[@popcopone5172]

@@TheSauer67 it will be more like 4 - 4.5 hours for 300

[@briannalia6440]

Combine the Petzl NAO + lumen and battery life with that weight and harness!! I'd never run in the daylight!!!

[@misterbeane]

Watching this in 2023, and now the new price on Amazon is only $60. For my needs right now, just getting started with early morning running, the 500 lumens at 2.5 hrs covers me completely, and then if/when I get into running multiple hours in the dark that this doesn't cover, I'll either get another battery or go with the Nitecore HC68 or the Fenix HM65R-T. Either way, getting this thing for $60 is an insanely good deal, IMO.

[@regismartin5199]

First time I got to disagree: SOLID BUY??? this is not a light for ultra and won’t « take you through the night ». I am French and love Petzl but weight and design alone can’t make up for poor lighting performance for a headlight! Forgetting about reactive technology too... The Iko gives 100lm for 9h but this isn’t bright enough for trail runs (just good enough to be seen). The Petzl Swift RL in comparison provides 200lm for 5h in standard mode or a « spot on » 300lm for 5-40h in reactive mode! For city runs or race settings with other sources of light 300lm reactive is just perfect. You can use reactive mode at 900lm for 2-30h but I think in a race this would probably be unnecessary unless you need to check in the distance for directions and again 900lm beats the Iko’s 500 max.

[@MrNikMic]

Agreed, At the start of the video he says that lights tend to fit in just two of the 3 categories of light/bright/long and even though he alludes to the fact that this lamp falls into all three categories, it defeinitely does not. Sure, it's light but you have to decide between bright and long. Sure, a better battery would increase the battery life, but it would significantly increase the weight. The best setup is still a relatively light (not not bright) headlamp and a more bright but heavier chest or belt light.

[@bonefishboards]

Well, since my early morning 5k takes me less than 2.5 hours, I'm in business :) Good review.

[@iberiksoderblom]

Spot on. Its a neat little lamp, but burntime is much to low. But its so cute and innovative.

[@alasdairstuart3394]

I need a head torch that will get me through the night for 100 mile trail runs and it seems this is not the right product for that - which is a shame because it clearly has a lot of great features. Particularly like the small torch at the front / battery at the back. Would be great if they could take the concept and find a way of providing up to 10 hrs burn time with 500 lumens (and if you live in the Southern Hemisphere then the nights are getting shorter !).

[@PikeSlayer69]

You can get 6-8 hours with the second highest setting, which isnt that much dimmer than the highest setting (350 lumens vs 500 lumens), also the rechargable battery packs are 40 CAD so you could switch the battery out. Also takes AAA batterys too

[@runnerwatch2280]

Ledlenser MH10 has been my go to brand, 600lm for 10 hours, generic rechargeable battery that performs well at -20C.

[@levigodro9827]

That’s all I use. I’m an electrician and spend a lot of time In dark spots. They last about 8-9 hours on high power

[@panarass17]

If you are a "running" trail runner you need 150+ lumens and battery that last 5-6 hours... We don't need i nice looking 500 lumens fishing headlamp with 2 extra batteries that weighs 200-300 gr total for an Ultra trail race...

[@mrkringlan]

You need to check out the Lumonite Compass R. Bright and really great burn time. Probably the most popular head lamp amongst Swedish ultra-runners. We have tough conditions and looong nights up here. Thanks for a nice review!

[@lkjohansson]

Used that for years and haven’t found anything that competes. It’s also easy to change the battery in the dark when your running 100 miles in November in Sweden. The batteries don’t cost an arm and and a leg like for Nao.

[@onkeltorNOR]

I've had mine for 3 years now. Second to none. Build quality, lumens, simplicity, capacity, weight. It ticks ALL the boxes, and it does it with zero compromises. Never going back to plastic-crap again.

[@user-hs2hd7wp9g]

It doesn't really compare, sure, it outputs 1000+ lumens but it's also twice as heavy and it lasts less than 2H at that output. The headband isn't revolutionary either and you'll definitely notice it on your head.

[@OutdoorsIQ]

It’s a shame there’s no 200lm mode, I’d consider this a good running brightness to balance battery life and usability

[@merkin22]

Best intro hijinks, ever! LOL

[@lylejustinegay7810]

I liked the video for the intro alone

[@chadadams1127]

$89 for a headlamp that lasts 2 1/2 hrs??? Come on man...🤔🤬

[@mezmerya5130]

i've yet to see anyone real to consider other options but nu25 for outdoor activities.

[@allwaysinquire6212]

And it's a crappy Petzl no thanks

[@McStoolio]

That's at 500 lumens.100 lumens is 9 hrs, that's all ya need.

[@chadadams1127]

@@McStoolio And my Fenix HM50R will last 14hrs at130 lumens and cost me $45...

[@McStoolio]

@@chadadams1127 night doesn’t last 14 hours where I’m from 😜 It’s still worth a look, if the comfort and build quality are as he said. I’ve just ordered one, hope I’m not disappointed👍

[@MattSwain1]

It seems they missed a trick by not having a mode around 300 lumens that might be both usable and just about get you through the night. Batteries only degrade over time so if 2.5 hours is enough for you now it might not be in 6 months time if you use this thing a lot. Looks a cool product but with a few minor tweaks (slightly larger battery and more useful modes) it could have been great

[@schmeebs]

When did Conan start hosting the show? Love the channel!!!

[@itsruf1]

"burn time too low . . " who cares - it goes in my glovebox, Few people run Leadville.

[@Abes523]

Seems perfect for a "to be seen" metro running light!

[@tbheady73]

My favorite quote: "That is the ultimate downside of having a small package" lololol

[@krismadaus4305]

Super useful review! I was really interested in this one, but it seems like the dislikes are pretty significant. I think I'll stick with my Petzl Reactik+.

[@regismartin5199]

I am shocked by the solid buy rating! This not a design contest we are going to use it aren’t we?

[@krismadaus4305]

@@regismartin5199 To be clear, I meant that the dislikes are pretty significant given the running that *I* do. The battery life is the biggest problem for me because I'm frequently out there for more than 2.5 hours. But most people are not. I don't like the fact that the light might change angles while running, but I think Ethan would have emphasized that if it were a persistent issue. Don't be super shocked. The design is pretty awesome. But a review is an opinion and subjective. It might not make sense for you personally just like it doesn't make sense for me, but I think Ethan's opinions are pretty well-informed for the average runner.

[@jmears1]

Have been using this headlamp for three years now. Awesome. One of my favorite features is lack of elastic band that doesn't get soggy and wet. Doesn't lose elasticity. Easy to carry extra battery for more life. Excellent brightness.

[@slapfan1]

My night trail runs take about an hour, at most. This lamp seems to be what I been looking for, a minimalist and lightweight design.

[@PikeSlayer69]

facts

[@Frip36]

This guy is honest. Appreciate his reviews. He's also very smooth.

[@Tasz_]

When talking about rechargeable batteries you should clarify what that actually means, I am looking into buying a headlamp but find it very hard to find information on what batteries and charging options are used. Does the lamp use micro usb charging? usb c charging? or a propritary charger? This makes a huge difference to buying decisions.

[@finsaether]

Hei Ginger Runner -, you can lock the light mode, by holding the power button down for 4 seconds. Then you need to hold power button for 2 seconds to activate it again. It should make it quite hard that it is activated by itself in the bag. For info :)

[@runslowtorunfast6528]

Bummer - was really excited about this until you got to battery life. Need a headlamp for a hundo miler 😞

[@michaelmckay2964]

Check out the Kogalla RA Adventure light. It's not a head lamp but is way better on technical trails.

[@chambers792]

Your dislikes are actually major factors. I will wait for PETZLE to address your dislikes before I buy. Thanks for your review. I will buy a biolight 750.

[@amills429]

Thanks for your input and reviews. Have you been able to compare it to the Swift RL yet?

[@sandk75]

Awesome review...I was thinking "I wonder how it would fit with my hat..." and then you went over that on your dislike. Nicely done! I will hold off for the 2nd revision, hoping there will be a revision, and get in on that if they fix the fit with hats!

[@MrHepcat34]

I have been contemplating the NAO. Thoughts?

[@rockinginafreeworld3256]

NAO + is a outstanding light. Not the lightest but once on the head you forget it.

[@marlinweekley51]

Night running hacks: run with someone with a headlamp and turn yours off. You and your pacer dont both need to have a lamp on all the time. Learn to run faster so youll spend less time in the dark. 😂 and always always always keep a backup and and backup of the backup - learned that trick by running by the light of my cell phone until it died then in the dark for 9 miles until another runner came along 😱.

[@ncandrew9159]

I actually was dreading something light related in October...so thanks for holding off on that for 2020. The Ginger has our backs this year!😁

[@cliftonmadden1992]

Nathan, I have not been on your channel for a while. Great review! Love the Flock of Seagulls hair. Thanks!

[@mlegrand]

Nice review. It's getting awfully dark here in Washington. A good headlamp is highly underrated. Looks seriously light and wearable. Thanks for making the video!

[@TheGingerRunner]

yeah, the number of local runners we see WITHOUT lighting is crazy! This is an amazingly comfy option, suited for road or trail. It's awesome.

[@mlegrand]

@@TheGingerRunner - Wifey also runs early mornings. Thanks for the holiday gift idea. Wait. . . as long as she doesn't read this thread. . .

[@artemikurski939]

A lot of articles seem to recommend headlamps by BioLite - they too have a battery in the back but have an elastic band. I’d love to see you review them.

[@ma3ek]

Please, try Petzl Swift RL. IKO does not work during trail running. It is designed for climbers, backpackers and hikers. Really, try Swift RL. 100g, 300lm@5h with reactic mode on, very comfortable, small footprint. Light distribution (pattern) is better than NAO. Try and I'm sure You will love it 🙂

[@ma3ek]

Oh, I forgot. If You have battery at the back it will last shorter during winter cold runs than battery on the front, like Swift

[@TheGingerRunner]

I agree the swift is a great lamp, but to say this doesn’t work for trail running is false. I’ve used it a ton and it works VERY well. The swift is brighter, but man, all that 100g right up front sucks on my head. As for cold batteries, I find that ALL batteries suck in cold weather and their location on the head makes zero difference.

[@RichyWilson78]

I've had the IKO Core a while now and think it's a great, innovative headlight, but my main gripe is that you can't customise the lumen output options. Considering Petzl is known for having app-based configurability on other models it's a shame you can't customise it to have a different lumen range (I would choose 150, 250 & 500 for example)! I also wouldn't personally bother with this for ultras, but for average length runs where you don't need a ton of lumens this is a great, lightweight option! Still love my Bindi for night road running though!

[@TheGingerRunner]

I also agree that app integration would be excellent for customization. Even if they charged a few extra bucks for it. But I find anything below 300 to just lack the light I need, which would still eat into this battery. Can’t wait to see when they get that lightweight/long burn combo dialed!

[@COYSMike]

This looks great, thanks once again for bringing something amazing to my attention. It's a definite buy for me!

[@inkjob12]

My only problem is with this lamp....it does not get portable enough when folding up. Love the review.....looking for a nice headlamp now and this one looks like a winner.

[@TheGingerRunner]

Hmm, I ended up finding it to be pretty dang portable! Folding flat feels great on my back in my hydration pack.

[@difflocktwo]

Three triple As, three AAA cells, is the biggest scam ever; three reasons: One AA has more energy than three AAAs. Who sells a three pack of AAA cells? They come in packs of 2 or 4. They couldn't develop a proper buck/boost circuit that would be compatible with both NiMh and Lion cells.

[@kynasf]

The thing that bugs me with my Petzl, and I think it might be the same here, is if you have it on a low setting and press the button to change it to a brighter one, it switches off first. Silva lamps cycle through the brightness settings continuously

[@TheGingerRunner]

That IS the case here and can be frustrating, I agree!

[@garysailors]

What is your “current setup”?

[@bstoran198]

What’s with the hair??

[@ragewiththemachine1188]

I've been running with it now for a month. I run at night often. Less people, more nature. The highest setting isn't that bright. I could use more power. I do love the form factor. You don't know it's there after a few minutes of running with it. I put it on over my hat, I honestly can't feel it.

[@elliotendures]

I know this is two years old at this point... still like this one?

[@katythompson3428]

Is this adjustable to fit over a winter beanie hat?

[@merkin22]

Scare the hell out of me aside, the "October" review converted me forever to a waist mounted lamp for running in the dark AND camping. No going back for me.

[@marlinweekley51]

merkin22 agree - waist lights are the best. Summer night running keeps the bugs out of your face too. 😆🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️

[@pezdacandyboi]

@@marlinweekley51 what are the top 3 waist lights?

[@pezdacandyboi]

what are the top 3 waist lights?

[@marlinweekley51]

pezdacandyboi mine is an Ultraspire

[@merkin22]

Ditto, mine too, Ultraspire. FWIW, fpr running I clip high lumen flashing red (bike) lites to the belt at the back in a mostly successful attempt to have cars spot me.

[@McStoolio]

A black band would be so much better.

[@exploretopher]

What kind of hat is that you are wearing?

[@B1gC4st]

Except for us bald people that wear hats. However, this seems way cooler than my old Petzl taktika.

[@stevejodoin9937]

2.5 hours... no thank you. Pass.

[@greenskynz]

thanks for the review. how would you compare to a simplistic , light (maybe not super light) Petzl Bindi Ultra-Compact Headlamp?

[@Some-Guy-]

Did you try it while running with a cap like a running hat or trucker hat? That burn time is a real bummer. I decided to sacrifice weight for lumens and burn time: I got a Fenix HM65R. ROCK solid, super bright, crazy long burn time, works in the rain,

[@joshchavers7053]

I’m going back to jogging 13.6 miles everyday and I almost always average about 1hr54 to 57 min who’s running more than 2.5 hours a day you’re my kind of peoples ❤️I don’t need the light for the push ups squats and sit-ups so 2.5 is fine for me

[@FilbyTBOB]

Excellent review, shame about the battery life, it looks like a great bit of kit. As someone who also runs in a cap, what head lamp would you recommend?

[@TheGingerRunner]

The NAO lifts the light higher and more forward so I end up losing less spread that way. But inevitably, if I’m night running, I end up ditching the hat in favor of a headwrap. Also, waist light!

[@rnutter6889]

I also am looking for a bill mount for hats. The old petzl e+light has a great bill mount set up and good for urban areas but not trail running. No other hat options?

[@olafsturmer3468]

battery life is insufficient as you mentioned. One needs at least 200 lumens for trail running. 2.5 hours won't get me anywhere. A harness which needs constant adjustment? The alignment of the light needs constant adjustment? battery difficult to change? how can that be a 'buy'. you get aforementioned quality starting from 10 dollars...

[@THEONEANDONLYBLACKLEGO]

I just came to talk shit about his hair.

[@martingk2523]

Thanks for the review, Italia looks nice, but like almost running headlights they don’t come with a red backlight. Im looking for One with light in the front (750 lumen or more ) and backlight (red or white) thanks 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@alifasraf2468]

Can u review fenix HM65r-T

[@CallumDoyleDarling]

I've read anecdotally that Peztl's heaplamp circuit boards are coated with a very durable layer or silicone that's generally of a much higher standard than most other brands out there, further testament to the quality of their products, I know my 18 year old (unknown model) headlamp still works perfectly having incurred quite a lot of abuse over its lifetime, as does my dads very much vintage Peztl model from the early 90s :)

[@TrailrunnerTroy]

Fenix costs $85 on Amazon and lasts up to 4 hours at 1400 lumens. Sorry, Petzl.

[@tbaylo4034]

I loved that October 2019 video. Still. Racks me up. I just watched it again about a month ago.

[@MrDetloebskeliv]

love it, you can get cheap, rechargeable battery blocks for it - 9 hours on 100 lumen (which is great for almost all types of running) ... light, comfort, great light cone - now my favourite headlamp for running, fastpacking, UL hiking ...

[@Allride_]

I looked it up and there's is like a basic iko model with 350 lumens and batteries for 45€ instead of 80€ for the iko core. Just in case you don't need the highest end model. You could put in your own rechargable batteries even though it's not as convenient

[@no_handle_required]

Looks like the crown of Isis from the tv show in the 70's. Also doesn't throw light well, more of an area light. Not horrible, not super interesting either.

[@ThatRunningGuy]

...Christmas is coming 🎁

[@sambrown1779]

Thank you for your review. Purchased from Running warehouse here in Western Australia. Cheers

[@juanmespinoza65]

Thank you!!! Once again helped me make better choices. I returned the petzl 900, it was knocking me out from the wieght and switching to this little bad boy. See you on patreon ...

[@Juan_More_Mile]

Do you think it can fit on top of a cycling helmet?

[@TheGingerRunner]

Doubt that it’d stay up there. It MIGHT fit under though. Probably better to get a helmet specific lamp that mounts to the top.

[@mikekiss648]

3 hours is ridiculously short for an overnight run unless you have a light handy to replace your batteries ... eye roll

[@runnerwatch2280]

Purchased this one after this review. I ended up returning it my Ledlenser MH10 destroys this thing!

[@andycapybara]

Shame it has no red light!

[@anilbeharry]

Thank you for the review. What is your impression of it to be able to illuminate a pitch black hiking trail, with lots of overhead canopy? Also, what is the beam spread angle? thank you.

[@martinwolczyk891]

Hmm, this could be very useful for bouldering at night rather than bulky headlamps!

[@johnmcmahon8434]

Your reviews always think of everything from a customer perspective. You thoughts things that I wouldn't foresee, and for that I thank you.

[@tynityres3705]

6 lumens is just right for seeing your bike computer when road cycling.

[@krisc6]

Got to try this after your review. I've owned and used the NAO+ for years but I have had issues with headaches as you mentioned and the weight is noticeable at times. For nightly training runs and as a backup headtorch in longer night runs/ ultras this seems absolutely perfect and the price is unbelievable too. You can never have too many lighting options!

[@ma3ek]

Try Petzl Swift RL. Same price, better in every aspect. Really.

[@TheGingerRunner]

Marek is right by recommending the Swift RL, but it still carries a majority of its weight right up front with its fabric elastic band. It’s 20% heavier, but also WAY brighter w/ 900lumens. Also more expensive.

[@jp05598]

No red taillight is a bit of a bummer. Also 500 lumens for 2.5 hours isn’t great

[@clairewakesa]

Great review, thanks! Extra upvote for the TeamRivs hat :-)

[@tazpengra]

Oddly, the list of "related videos" for me on the Right contain several featuring mullets...

[@Frip36]

I'm not a salesman. But aspiring salesmen should watch and learn how to set-up and soften the price blow. Wonderfully conversational example of the, I Expected / But I Was Surprised axis. 6:30

[@troopsmarching]

Where can I buy the hat? Does anybody know the brand name please?

[@rokforstneric4445]

I also have it for testing right now. First thing I noticed that separates it from the rest, it's very comfortable and so easy to adjust. Probably the best feature is adjustability. I run with a beanie through the cold months or in the mountains even in the summer, if I get hot and take it off, it's a no brainer to adjust again. Much nicer light tone, more sunny. It's great for activities when you have it on for extended periods of time, especially in an ultra, because of the weight distribution throughout. The lantern feature is great for backpackers, camping. But for both of these activities, It kinda takes up a lot of space in the pack, due to the different build. And it's too limited to rotate down. I had a bit of a problem with that while running downhill. The biggest problem with Petzl is still the burn time. I would use it on the highest setting, but that burns out too fast. Although I have an extra Core battery, which is at a normal price, so I never had too much of a problem with my Actik Core for 100k ultras, multi-day trails and mostly mountaineering, using it on the mid setting for most of the time and on the highest when I need it most. Still would be so much better to use it on the highest brightness more often. Iko core is brighter, lighter and lasts a bit longer than their other lamps with a Hybrid Core technology (like the Actik). Iko core is a great lamp all things considered and a bit specific. Wouldn't use it for mountaineering most probably, but great for running.

[@Hinchy1a]

You say you wear it over the top of your beanie?

[@caseydierck2743]

I would love to see the Nao battery rigged up to this new model, would definitely be worth the buy. I ‘ll be rocking the Nao for a while, headaches be damned, 200$ plus an extra batt. Gotta get the use outta that thing.

[@mervinw]

Amazing product and a great review. And should be compatible with my Petzl helmet, super! This is my next lamp.

[@MrShoresChannel]

Where can I get that headband you are sporting under the Petzl?

[@kgenest100]

I just finished my first 2 runs using this headlamp. I am SO grateful I discovered this amazing product in this video 2 months ago. I can confirm that you FORGET about this headlamp when it sits on your head. It is SO LIGHT! The 500 lumens don’t seem to be much brighter than the 300 lumens from my Nathan Nebula Fire, but it’s plenty bright. The key thing is to position the lamp well on your head. The battery has to be sitting fairly high, because otherwise the lighting section will be pointing too high. Excellent product that packs small!

[@David_Ely]

The US affiliate link doesn't work.

[@MichaelHilliard]

Aaaaaaaaaand now I want one.

[@roybodin7301]

Hair game wack yo

[@ianhobbs6326]

Anyone else glad there is no POP out scenes in this light review?

[@Staniii2360]

Thank you for not dropping the review in October when I needed to buy one. 😉 I went for the Petzl Swift RL because it lasts much longer and it’s easier to store in your pocket.

[@josechan261]

Do you consider making the upgrade to this one if I have a Petzel Nao?

[@readyme]

This is an interesting light for backpackers. The 6 lumens is great for camp chores. A nice option for running and hiking.

[@julianmoriati4682]

Cool! I was looking for lamps these days. This head lamp is on my winter necessities list.

[@vince15male]

Just bought it 2 days ago and still waiting for the delivery. Now Im even more excited. Thx for the review dude

[@petercole6698]

What about the lock function on the on/off button?

[@temujin0911]

questio, where is petzl made?

[@bikesandstufff]

Can you use it with a bicycle helmet?