Headlamps

Across the Midwest, daylight savings time brings sunset as early as 4:30 pm. The “gets early dark” season drags on for almost 5 months. Runners, cyclists, hikers and skiers don’t let limited visibility and cold weather stop their workout plans. Training for an event, fitness or mental health, they add layers of clothing and reach for a headlamp.

In recent years, headlamp technology has advanced significantly. Improved LED lights, longer lasting battery systems and more intuitive controls have addressed nagging concerns from outdoor enthusiasts.

Outdoor brands have realized the market potential for lighting and consumers have more options than ever. Marketing pitches boast about multiple light modes, power options including traditional batteries and USB ports.

With so many options available, take time to pick a combination of features that best fit your use case. One of the most debated features is lumens. A measure of an LED’s brightness, brands push higher and higher numbers.

The number of lumens needed is influenced by the surrounding environment. A hiker in an established urban park can work with lower lumens. Trail runners and cyclists moving deeper into the woods need brighter lights. Cyclists need lights with stronger beams to identify obstacles. More lumens require more battery strength and longevity.

Headlamp beams are no longer a simple one setting only. New models offer adjustable beams offering high, low, tight focus and wide angle options. Some beams are now auto-focusing based on your movements. Some offer red light and flashing strobe modes. Multiple modes seem to offer more flexibility out of the box, but the more options the more complicated the control buttons. Do you want to take your gloves off to fumble with small control buttons to get to the right mode?

Once you’ve established the level of lumens needed, the decision process shifts to battery performance. A cross country skier or snowshoer out for a multi-hour adventure, needs batteries that deliver consistent power. Cold temperatures can significantly decrease battery life. Traditional lithium batteries add weight to the strap systems. Fast recharging rates means a headlamp is capable of operating during an evening and early morning workout.

Lumens, modes, beam size and controls are definitely important purchase criteria. Often overlooked is the way the light system attaches to your head. Adjustable straps work with or without winter headgear. Larger lenses, and larger battery cases are heavier and can bounce in more active pursuits.

With so many models available with feature sets tailored to specific outdoor activities, it’s not uncommon for consumers to own multiple headlamps. Early winter sunsets no longer restrict when you can get outside to walk, run, bike or ski. Buy a headlamp. Don’t be afraid of the dark.

Lumens Chart

100-300 Lumens

Well-suited for hiking in urban parks and neighborhoods.

300-600

Increased illumination for darker environments at slower paces

400-1000

Necessary for running, biking in uncertain terrain where visibility is required for safety.

Beam Options

Flood (or Wide):

Useful for stable winter camping tasks like organizing gear and reading. Low intensity light for close-in use.

Spot (or Focused or Narrow):

Tight beams focus light on the trail ahead, improving visibility that allows faster movement running, cycling or cross-country skiing. These models offer greater flexibility in application.

Flood/Spot

Adjustable beams offer the most flexibility but often require larger, heavier, battery systems.