If you are looking to do some night or early morning running, you will want to do so with the help of a running torch. They provide a personal light source that is bright enough that you can run in any level of light or darkness.
All of this feeds into that central question of whether head torches or chest torches are better for night-time running. While it is a matter of comfort, it is important to consider how the two types of torches fare in terms of luminosity, battery life and size. That will vary from model to model, so reviewing them individually and checking the expected features below will make the choice easier.
This guide can help you navigate the basic questions surrounding running torches and what you should look for when purchasing one.
How Bright Should a Running Head Torch be?
The brightness levels for head and chest torches are measured in terms of lumens. The lowest running torches on the market put out lumens in the 80s or 90s, but these can still be a bit dim.
You ideally should not settle for anything less than a light which gives out 100 lumens, with the outside limit being around 500. As long as you are comfortable with the level of light being emitted, the brighter, the better.
What Should I Look for In a Head Torch and Chest Torch?
One of the most important things to look for in a lightweight running head torch or chest torch is comfortability. If your running head torch isn’t comfortable and constantly distracts you while running, it won’t matter how bright it is, you won’t want to wear it. Comfort is obviously a personal matter, and which style is more comfortable will differ from person to person. As such, the answer here is highly subjective.
What is constant, however, is the need for a torch with good battery life. You don’t want to go running at night and suddenly find yourself in the dark due to your battery going out. That said, you don’t want to have a huge hot battery pressed against your head or chest, either.
The best torches for night running thus feature good battery life paired with a lightweight unit and long burn rate. Petzl brand of head torches are well known for their durability, lightweight-ness and comfort.
You’ll also want to do your due diligence and research into the various brands of other head torches available if possible. There is something to be said for going with a brand that has been well-reviewed and has earned a quality reputation for itself. For example, Pretzl, Silva Trail Runner, and LED Lenser are three brands which have been well-reviewed online.
What kind of Weather will you be Running in?
Last but not least, you’ll want to consider the weather in which you’ll be running. A running head torch to be often used in the winter climate, for example, should be especially adapted to insulate it from the cold.
In the same vein, running head torches or chest torches made for running in the rain should be waterproof. Whether you’re looking for a summer or winter running light in a head torch or chest light model, it should be sturdy, practical and of good value.
And yes! You guessed it. If you are running in the summer, with the sun setting on your way out and you know it will be dark on the way back – your priorities change. A lightweight, easy to wear torch with breathable bands will be ideal choice for a summer run.
With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find the right running head torch or chest torch to make your nighttime runs that much more enjoyable.
