- Exposure Verso MK2
- Ledlenser 7299-R Rechargeable LED Head Torch
- Boruit RJ-5000 LED 6000 Lumens Head Torch
While off road running is a real thrill, it is not without its own set of dangers. If you have spent most of the year training on flat tarmac surfaces or running on laid tracks, then it is sensible to plan prior to kick starting your off-season training.
Runners who go off road running need to make sure that they have the correct gear to hand so that they are not going to be injured by the rougher terrain.
No matter how experienced a runner you are, nothing prepares your body or mind for what awaits after you step away from those smooth, tarmac-ed surfaces.
Not only do you need to invest in high-quality shoes that are designed to withstand the rigours of the trail, you also need to consider your options for a great head torch so you can see clearly and run safely.
Off Road Running Head Torch: Buying Guide
There are a lot of things to consider when shopping for a headlamp for off road running.
In addition to looking at the price, other important factors worth considering include;
- How sturdy the head torch is
- The lumens
- What type of batteries it uses
- How adjustable the light is
- If the light can be dimmed or has different operating modes.
Ideally you’ll get an off road running head torch that almost feels like it’s not there as soon as you put it on. That’s a great sign that you’re on the right track (no pun intended)
Exposure Verso MK2
This is an incredibly compact headlamp that is designed to stay in place, no matter how active the wearer is..
Other features include:
- Coupled with high light transmission rate TIR optic lens to deliver a balanced and soft beam
- Five brightness levels and SOS mode covering 1~500 lumens
- Low profile, silicone switch located on the head of the headlamp for easy location and operation
Thanks to the aluminum body, it’s a surprisingly tough option that can’t easily be damaged, even if the runner falls and the head torch is knocked against a rock or tree. The elasticated headband is comfortable and fits securely around the head so that the torch won’t move, and the light itself features angle adjustment for the best view when running.
Ledlenser 7299-R Rechargeable LED Head Torch
One thing that off road runners will really love about this headlamp is that it has a top strap to prevent the lamp from shifting position. It comes with AA batteries that can easily be replaced when needed.
Other features include:
- An incredible 1000 Lumens with a beam range of 300m.
- A clever fastening system.
- A rear safety light with red or blinking light options.
- A Low Battery Message System.
Ledlenser is one of the world leaders in LED portable lighting. Whether working on a railway line, searching for a missing person up a mountain or accompanying you on an early morning run, it’s important to have a reliable light by your side.
Since the batteries are housed in the back of the strap, helping to balance the light in the front, it’s easy to see why this is one of the top 5 options for off road running. Even some of the best LED head torches can’t compete with the 1000 lumen output of this powerful head torch.
Boruit RJ-5000 LED 6000 Lumens Head Torch
The Boruit RJ-5000 is one of the brightest LED headlamps on the market today. It comes with 6000 Lumens and improved CREE LEDs.
Asides from being one of the top rated night trail running head torches, the Boruit RJ-5000 is also an ideal headlamp to use for fishing, hiking or camping activities.
Other features include:
- IPX5 water-resistant head torch that can be used in the rain.
- Ultra-Bright Headlamp illuminating up to 6000 Lumens of white light.
- Rear safety warning light is in a great position to help alert vehicles and pedestrians to your location.
- Rechargeable 18650 batteries with long burn time. Giving between 8 -10 hours working time once fully charged.
The Boruit RJ-5000 is powered by two 18650 (3.7V 2200mAh) batteries. Improved CREE XM-L2 lamp Beads also help provide super brightness allowing you to see farther.
It has a brightness range is up to 10 meters, and the illumination distance is up to 200 meters, ideal for trail running and any night time runners.
Using a DC power source, the Boruit RJ-5000, charges to full capacity within approximately 3.5-hours. Once fully charged, it remains working for up to 10 hours. It also comes with a rear safety warning light which lights up to remind the rear vehicles and pedestrians to your presence.
Off Road Running Head Torch Placement
One of the most important things for runners to consider when they are looking for a head torch is how well the torch is going to stay in place when they are running. Running on uneven terrain emphasises the different demands it takes on your muscles and brain. Every running stride taken is different when you’re running on varied surfaces so having greater awareness of foot placement is important.
What you shouldn’t be doing while concentrating on running is thinking about your head torch as well. You shouldn’t have to be dealing with a head torch that slips down the forehead on every decline and when leaping off/over rocks.
Off road runners need to look for a head torch that will remain in place when on the move. Off road running is a very physically demanding sport, and enthusiasts need gear that can give them the power, light and protection they need.
