Some of the best headlamps on the market these days are so versatile and practical that they have become an essential part of certain recreational activities and sports.
From camping and cycling, to hiking and hunting, headlamps offer compact, hands-free illumination.
So, if you’re looking to step-up your lighting game, you might want to consider one of these 3 top sport headlamps!
What Makes a Great Headlamp?
Simplistically, a headlamp is an ultra-portable source of light that is positioned around the head to illuminate the space directly in front of you.
For many active people, a headlamp is a useful tool that can be used to elevate outdoor experiences at night.
However, not all headlamps are created equal. Cost and performance can differ widely between models.
So, if you’re looking for a great headlamp, there are a few key aspects that you should consider. Let’s discuss each below.
Brightness (Lumens)
The brightness for a light source is measured in lumens. The higher the lumens the higher the brightness.
When selecting a headlamp, look for ones that have the ability to vary the brightness (high and low light settings) and have a high ultimate lumen rating (200+).
Additionally, some headlamps have the option to switch between a focused or diffused beam of light. This can help illuminate a larger area or zero-in on a small area to be illuminated.
Rechargeability
The debate between rechargeable headlamps versus disposable batter powered headlamps is simple.
Rechargeable headlamps are fantastic options for use close to home or for short, local trips and activities. Headlamps usually connect via USB cable to a wall outlet, power bank or solar charger and recharge like any other electronic device.
However, for extend or international trips where access to power might be hit or miss, standard disposable batteries (AA or AAA) are a much better option. You also won’t have to worry about bringing power adapters saving you additional weight and space in your pack.
You can walk into any convenience store and find batteries. And, as a worst case, you can bring extra batteries with you.
Waterproof
Because most headlamps are used outdoors, they obviously need to be rated for wet weather.
High quality headlamps are designed and built with a rubber gasket-sealed compartment for the battery and electronics to keep them from getting water-damaged and corroding.
Functionality (Red Light & Strobe Light)
Some headlamps have a built-in red light function. Red or “infrared” light maintains your night-vision. It’s super handy when you don’t want to disturb your sleeping campers or wildlife with white-light pollution.
Most headlamps now come with the option to turn on a “strobe” function. Activating the strobe function causes the light to blink at a constant interval. This makes it very useful for biking on busy streets or getting someone’s attention from far away.
Adjustability and Comfort
One of the more overlooked aspects of a great headlamp is comfort and adjustability.
Headlamps can be worn for extended periods, perhaps even hours. So, it’s best to find one that is a comfortable to wear with a wide but adjustable strap.
It’s also important that the light illumination angle can be widely adjusted. Usually, this means the headlamp can rotate to varying degrees and point straight ahead to a few feet in front of you.
Different Ways to Use a Headlamp
Whether you need it for navigating the trail after dark, prepping your campsite before bed or using camera gear for night photography, a good headlamp can be used for a variety of purposes.
The most popular activities that use headlamps included camping, hiking and caving. However, headlamps can also be used for so many more activities which include:
- Running
- Cycling
- Ski & snowboarding
- Boating
- Fishing & hunting
- Home and auto repairs
- Emergency power outages
So, instead of using your cellphone’s “flashlight” function, get a good headlamp to make your life and all those activities easier.
Top 3 Headlamps on the Market
Choosing the right headlamp for your needs primarily boils down to two factors – cost and performance.
But, there are countless headlamps on the market that span the full spectrum of cost and performance.
So, which ones are the best!?!
Well, here are 3 of the best headlamps for those looking for budget-friendly, versatile and high performance options currently available.
Best Budget Headlamp
Petzl Tactikka
Setting up camp in the dark, trail hiking at night or even when spelunking, this headlamp by Petzl is great to light up your way.
The adjustable, wide strap makes wearing it super comfortable. It has adjustable brightness and red light function.
If you go camping or even hiking, and it might get late, keep this headlamp in your pack so you don’t have to worry about finding your way in the darkness!
Best Rechargeable Headlamp
Petzl Swift RL
Not only is this headlamp rechargeable via USB, it also has a “reactive lighting” that automatically adjusts the brightness setting to optimize battery usage.
It’s also super powerful, with an illumination capacity of 900 lumens and a battery life of 150 hours!
The two-part headband provides excellent stability for dynamic and intense activities including trail running, skiing or biking!
Best Battery Life Headlamp
Princeton Tec Apex
For those long duration activities where you need a headlamp with lots of power and longevity, this headlamp by Princeton is a great option.
The battery pack can be carried on your waist or in your pack which reduces the weight and bulk of the headlamp around your head.
And, it’s great for low temperature activities like ice climbing, mountaineering, or skiing!
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