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Media Coverage from Live for the Outdoors: Best running head torches of 2024: light up the trail
One piece of kit you really can't do without when running in low visibility is a good-quality running head torch. Not just any running headtorch will do, you need one with a strong enough beam, that's wide enough to light up the trail ahead and around you, and can cope with an extended period on the go.
You might think you're an ace at a technical decent, but throw in low visibility conditions and you'll be glad you invested in a headtorch to light your way safely. Running in the winter is not always the most pleasant affair, especially when the days are short and you must rely on your torch to guide you home. A running headtorch is a vital bit of safety kit, giving you visibility and making you more visible to others on the road/trail and in case of emergency.
Don't forget to always charge your head torch to the max when venturing out on a run, and make sure it's fully functional. If you're heading out for an extended period of time or in an isolated area, it's worth taking a spare battery just in case yours fails. Jump to the bottom of this article for the key features to look out for in a running headlamp.
What are the best running head torches of 2024?
Best in Test: Petzl NAO RL – View on Cotswold Outdoor
Best Value: Ledlenser NEO5R – View on Amazon
Best for Sustainability: Silva Terra Scout H – View on Sportsshoes
Best for comfort: Silva Trail Runner Free H – View on Sportsshoes
Possibly the most stylish headlamp of the lot, the Silva Terra Scout H is made of hemp and 100% recycled plastics and designed for ‘everyday outdoor adventures’.
With a max lumen output of 350 for a claimed three hours, this little lamp packs a decent punch in the visibility department, especially for such an affordable price-point. The minimum 50lm mode is good for being seen on the trail, but we'd only use the brighter 350lm for running in low light conditions and not technical trail, there's also a red light mode available.
The slim rechargeable battery can also be switched out for your standard AAAs, which is a great option for race-settings where you have to take spares. In terms of functionality, the Terra Scout H is simple and easy to use, with the large on/off button located at the top and a tilt mechanism allowing you to change the angle of the beam.
Review by Kate Milsom
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to use and comfy
- Sustainable materials
- Affordable price
Cons
- Not as bright as others
- Less beam options than others
The Silva Runner Free H is a good-looking running headtorch with some interesting features to make it stand out from the crowd. The elasticated headband is nice and wide, and once adjusted, won’t go anywhere as you run.
The integrated power cable from the battery pack to the torch is contained within the headband and lies nice and flat. That’s a really good bit of ergonomic design and a big tick from me.
Another bit of creativity is the option to remove the 55g battery (half the overall weight) from the headband, with an optional extension cable thus allowing for it to be placed in a bag or coat pocket if you prefer. I also liked the light’s ability to rotate around 100 degrees, which allows for a wide range of vision and is highly practical.
The battery pack itself comes with the option to switch out with another brand or to regular batteries, should you need. Within the battery itself is a switch for the rear light, which offers solid or flash settings. You do need to take the torch off to switch on this function, but it only takes several seconds.
The light itself is 400 lumens on maximum setting, which lasts for two hours, as well as 200lm on medium and 50lm for the lowest setting, extending the usage time. The two bulbs spread the light via a flood beam and a spotlight beam, which works well in practice, I also found the light on max power fine for running trail, but the lower settings don’t really cut it.
Overall, I think this the Silver Trail Runner Free H is a great looking torch and I like that Silva are pushing on with new advances, but the price per Lumen is a little disappointing. I would expect 600lm or more for the RRP of £99.
Review by Graham Sleightholme
Pros
- Adaptive
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
Cons
- High price for the lumens
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