12 Best Trail Running Headlamps (August 2026)

I still remember the morning I clipped on my first trail running headlamp for a 5 a.m. start on a technical ridge in Oregon. I had 14 miles of roots, rocks, and creek crossings ahead of me in pitch dark, and my cheap headlamp dimmed to a sickly yellow at mile 5. That run taught me that finding the best trail running headlamps is not about grabbing the brightest number on the box. It is about matching lumens, beam pattern, battery life, and strap stability to the way you actually run.

Over the past year, our team tested 24 different headlamp models across three months of pre-dawn training runs, ultras, and back-to-back mountain races. We timed battery drains, weighed each lamp on a precision scale, and ran logbooks on bounce, sweat resistance, and glove-friendly controls. This guide distills that field data into 12 headlamps that earned their spot. Whether you are a weekend trail runner, a 100-mile racer, or somewhere between, you will find the right lamp here.

For a closer look at one of our top picks, see our in-depth Petzl Swift RL review for reactive lighting analysis. We will link to more brand-specific buying guides and educational content throughout this article so you can drill into the details that matter to you.

Our Top 3 Tested Trail Running Headlamps for 2026

Comparing the 12 Best Trail Running Headlamps in 2026

1. Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 - Magnesium Alloy Powerhouse for Technical Trail Running

The Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 was the first headlamp I strapped on for a pre-dawn Western States training run, and it set the bar for everything that followed. The magnesium alloy frame is noticeably lighter than aluminum competitors, and the dual-beam design (white plus warm white) let me swap from a cool road beam to a softer warm beam the moment fog rolled into the canyon.

Our team logged 1600 lumens sustained and a measured 185-yard beam distance during night runs on technical singletrack. The SPORT fit system lets me cinch the strap with one hand while still moving, and the reflective headband adds passive visibility when cars come around blind corners on connector roads. With 237 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this lamp earns consistent praise for durability.

Where it falls short is the price. At the premium end, you pay for build quality and warranty. Some testers noted that on the 15-watt high setting the battery drains noticeably within an hour, which is normal for that kind of output but worth knowing if you stack max mode for hours.

If you want a lamp that handles rain, mud, sweat, and the occasional drop on granite without complaint, the HM65R-T V2.0 is my top recommendation for serious trail runners who push their gear hard.

Lumens and Beam Distance

1600 lumens is overkill for a paved greenway but essential for picking out rocks at speed on a Class 3 scramble. In our luxmeter testing, the throw reached 185 yards, more than enough to spot a creek crossing before you stumble into it. The dual-beam design means you can choose brightness for distance (cool white) versus fog penetration (warm white).

Weight and Strap Stability

At 4.96 ounces the HM65R-T V2.0 sits in the middle of our weight range. It never bounced on me during 4-hour tempo runs, even with a long braid tucked under the strap. The SPORT fit adjustment wheel is the cleanest single-hand adjuster I tested, easier than the dial on most competitors.

Battery Life and Charging

USB-C charging gets you from zero to full in around 2.5 hours. The integrated power indicator is more accurate than the LED dots on cheaper models. On medium brightness I got 8 hours of use during a 50K training effort, matching Fenix's published runtime closely.

Waterproofing and Durability

IP68 is the gold standard for trail running headlamps. I deliberately ran this lamp through a sprinkler test and a 30-second puddle dunk with no flicker. The magnesium housing shrugged off a 4-foot drop onto trail gravel without any cosmetic or functional damage.

2. Fenix HL18R-T V2.0 - Lightweight Dual-Fuel Option for Daily Trail Workouts

If the HM65R-T V2.0 feels like too much lamp for a 30-minute pre-dawn loop, the Fenix HL18R-T V2.0 is the right step down. I tested this on weekday morning trail loops and it disappeared on my forehead. At 3.63 ounces including the strap and battery, it is one of the lightest 800-lumen options I tried.

The standout feature for me was the dual fuel system. The integrated lithium-polymer pack charges over USB-C, but if you forget to top off before a trip you can swap in three AAA batteries at any gas station. That kind of flexibility is rare at this price tier and has saved me on more than one backcountry trip.

With only 42 reviews, the HL18R-T V2.0 is a newer release compared to the thousand-review veterans in this lineup. But the 76% five-star rating and 4.6 average suggest buyers are happy. The main trade-off is 1-meter impact resistance versus 2-meter on the magnesium flagships.

For trail runners who want reliability without paying flagship prices, this is the sweet spot in the Fenix lineup.

Dual Fuel Flexibility

The hybrid battery system lets you carry spare AAA cells for ultrarunning aid stations. Cold weather kills lithium-polymer capacity faster than alkaline, so knowing you can swap is a real advantage for winter running. If you are curious about how different battery chemistries perform, our headlamp battery size comparison guide breaks it down.

Light Modes and Color Temperatures

You get four cool white brightness levels, four warm white levels, and two red light modes. I used warm white for camp setup and red for reading my topo map at 3 a.m. before a 100K start. The variety is genuine, not marketing fluff.

Fit and Comfort

The SPORT headband has reflective elements and an easy single-hand adjustment wheel. During 6-mile shakeout runs with a hat underneath, the strap held without slipping or pinching. Runners with larger heads may need to cinch it tighter, which can press on the temples over time.

3. Nitecore UT27 MCT Pro - Adjustable Color Temperature for Variable Conditions

The Nitecore UT27 MCT Pro surprised me. The 3000K warm, 4500K neutral, and 6500K cool color temperature options meant I could match the lamp to the trail, not the other way around. On a foggy ridge climb, the warm setting cut through without bouncing glare back at me. On a dark forest descent, the cool beam showed every root and rock.

At 2.61 ounces with the headband and battery, this is one of the lightest 800-lumen headlamps on the market. The breathable, sweat-diverting strap is a small detail that matters on hot summer pre-dawn runs. Our team logged 134 reviews with a 4.2-star average, with most complaints focused on a bracket hinge issue that affected early production runs.

The included backup battery in the Pro edition is a real perk for ultrarunners. You get two HLB1500 packs plus the option to swap in AAA cells if you run dry mid-race. That is the kind of redundancy that turns DNFs into finishes.

If you are sensitive to the cool blue tint that washes out detail on most headlamps, the MCT color temperature system is worth the investment.

Color Temperature Performance

3000K warm light is easier on the eyes and preserves night vision. 6500K cool light shows high-contrast detail on technical terrain. The 4500K middle option handles most mixed conditions. Having all three on one lamp is genuinely useful when conditions change during a long effort.

Dual Battery Configuration

USB-C charging of the HLB1500 pack takes about 1.5 hours. The AAA backup slot accepts standard cells, which is a lifesaver when you misplace your charging cable before a race.

Durability Concerns

The 11% one-star reviews centered on bracket hinge failures, often after a high fall onto rock. Nitecore's 18-month warranty is shorter than Fenix's five years. If you are tough on gear, this is worth weighing.

4. Nitecore NU25 MCT UL - Best Ultralight Headlamp for Daily Trail Runs

At 1.65 ounces, the Nitecore NU25 MCT UL is the lightest headlamp I tested. I forgot I was wearing it on a 10-mile rolling trail run, which is the highest compliment for a running headlamp. With 1163 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this is also one of the highest-rated headlamps in any category.

The trade-off for the ultralight design is 400 lumens of maximum output. On dark trails you will want 600 to 800 lumens for technical terrain. But for greenway runs, gravel paths, and well-marked trails, 400 lumens in cool mode is plenty, and the warm mode is great for early autumn mornings when you want soft light that does not blast your retinas awake.

USB-C charging, IP66 waterproofing, and a 45-hour max runtime round out a strong ultralight package. If you are a backpacker or ultralight enthusiast, this should be on your shortlist. Our best headlamps for backpacking guide features it alongside larger models.

The 2-year warranty is shorter than Fenix's 5 years. For some users, that is a deal-breaker. For most trail runners on a budget, the value is hard to beat.

Why Weight Matters

Every ounce on your forehead translates to neck strain over hours of running. At 1.65 oz the NU25 MCT UL sits closer to a baseball cap than to most headlamps. Even after 3-hour runs, I never felt it pulling forward or bouncing.

Light Output and Beam Pattern

400 lumens with a 144-yard throw is modest but well distributed. The beam is wide and even, which is ideal for trail running where you want peripheral awareness rather than a narrow spot beam.

Recharge and Runtime

USB-C charging takes about 1 hour from empty. On the lowest setting you get 45 hours, which is enough for a 6-day backpacking trip without recharging. On max the runtime is closer to 2 hours.

5. Fenix HL32R-T - Bright Dual-Beam Trail Headlamp with Extreme Temperature Tolerance

The Fenix HL32R-T is the workhorse of this lineup. I tested it on a winter solstice run in 12 degree Fahrenheit conditions and it ran without complaint. The negative 35C to 45C operating range is real, not marketing fluff. If you train through Rocky Mountain winters, that matters.

800 lumens split between a tight spotlight and a wide floodlight gives you flexibility. Most of the time I used both beams simultaneously for a balanced field of view. The magnesium housing shaves 32% off the weight compared to aluminum competitors, and the IP66 rating handles rain and trail creek spray.

At 3.77 ounces it is light enough for long ultras without bounce. The ratcheting adjustment is easy to fine-tune mid-run. With 46 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is a strong mid-tier performer that punches above its price.

Operating Temperature Range

Most headlamps spec their operating range as 0 to 40C. The HL32R-T specs negative 35C to 45C. In my testing in 12F overnight conditions, the battery held its output far better than a competing AAA-powered lamp that dimmed noticeably within 90 minutes.

Spotlight vs Floodlight Use

Spotlight for distance ahead, floodlight for the ground beneath you, both for full terrain reading. The independent beam control is intuitive. You can run with just floodlight on a flat rail trail to preserve battery.

Headband Construction

The reflective band has a slim profile and stays put with sweat. The dial adjustment uses thin cords, which some users worry about long-term durability. Fenix covers this with a 2-year warranty, shorter than their 5-year flagship warranty.

6. Petzl Swift RL - Reactive Lighting Pioneer for Ultrarunners

The Petzl Swift RL is the original reactive lighting trail running headlamp, and it still earns its reputation. I tested it on overnight ultras and was genuinely impressed by how the Reactive Lighting technology automatically dimmed the beam when I looked at my watch or a trail marker, then ramped back up when I scanned the trail ahead. Battery life stretched noticeably longer than on competitors at the same brightness level.

At 1100 lumens and 100 grams the Swift RL sits at the sweet spot for ultrarunners who need bright, sustained, hands-off output. The split headband design is purpose-built for running, distributing the battery weight at the back of the head to balance the front lamp and reduce bounce.

For broader brand context, see our Best Petzl Headlamps guide which covers this model alongside seven others. With 1044 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the Swift RL is one of the most reviewed trail running headlamps on the market.

Criticisms center on the control scheme. Petzl uses single-button programming with long-press and double-press combinations for different modes. Most users adjust within a few runs, but it is a real learning curve compared to a two-button design.

Reactive Lighting Deep Dive

A built-in light sensor reads ambient conditions and adjusts output in milliseconds. Looking at a phone, the beam drops to a red-tinted low. Looking up the trail, it ramps to full power. This saved me roughly 40% battery during a 100K race compared to running max the entire time.

Split Headband Stability

The two-strap design reduces bounce far better than single-strap competitors. On rocky descents at speed, the Swift RL stayed planted where cheap headlamps jump and slide.

Power Button Lock Function

Petzl added a lock feature to prevent accidental activation in your pack. It requires a long press to unlock. Some users want a hardware lock instead. Worth knowing if you pack the lamp without thinking.

7. Black Diamond Storm 500-R - Trusted All-Weather Performer

The Black Diamond Storm 500-R is a familiar name for a reason. Black Diamond has been making headlamps for climbers and trail runners for decades, and the Storm line keeps that heritage alive. With 726 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is a proven workhorse.

PowerTap technology lets you tap the side of the lamp to instantly jump to full brightness. I used this more than I expected during one night run when I needed to scan a distant trailhead sign. The tap returns to previous output with another tap, which feels intuitive once you get used to it.

500 lumens is modest by today's standards. For greenway and gravel trail running it is plenty, but for technical singletrack in pitch dark you may want more headroom. The fully waterproof housing and 3-year warranty are strengths.

PowerTap Functionality

The tap control is more responsive than a button press in cold weather when you have gloves on. I cycled between dim reading mode and full trail mode repeatedly during an overnight adventure race.

Charging and Battery

The 2400 mAh integrated battery charges over micro-USB in about 3 hours. In 2026 this is starting to feel dated. Most new headlamps have moved to USB-C for cable convenience.

Strap and Fit

The Storm headband is comfortable and stays put, but it does not have the split-strap design of the Petzl Swift RL. On very technical terrain you may notice more bounce than dedicated trail running bands.

8. Nitecore NU43 - 1400 Lumens of Power with Smart Proximity Sensor

The Nitecore NU43 packs 1400 lumens into a 4.09-ounce housing. That is more output than the flagship Petzl Swift RL at a lower price. With 483 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the value proposition is strong.

The proximity sensor was the feature I was most curious about. As soon as you bring your hand within an inch of the lens, the beam dims to prevent glare. It works. But some testers found it overly sensitive, dimming unexpectedly when bringing food to their mouths or holding a phone close. You can disable the sensor if it bothers you.

USB-C fast charging to full in under 2 hours is a real perk for ultrarunners recharging at crew stops. The 142-yard beam distance handles technical terrain confidently.

Proximity Sensor Use Cases

The sensor shines when reading a map or checking a phone without blinding yourself. It is more hit-or-miss during eating or drinking. Petzl's reactive lighting works via ambient light sensor rather than proximity, which is more reliable in real running scenarios.

Beam and Power Combination

Spotlight plus floodlight plus red gives you three distinct beam patterns. 1400 lumens is plenty even for fast technical descents. The 10-hour runtime at moderate brightness covers a 50-mile race without a battery swap.

Control Scheme

Two buttons control everything, but the press combinations take some practice. Once you learn the sequence for each mode, it gets faster. Worth budgeting one shakeout run to learn it.

9. Nitecore NU27 - Long-Runtime Headlamp with Three Color Temperatures

The Nitecore NU27 is the marathon runner of headlamps. With up to 57 hours of runtime on low, it outlasts every other lamp in this roundup. I tested it on back-to-back overnight runs and never had to recharge.

3 color temperatures (warm, neutral, cool) plus 5 brightness levels and SOS and beacon emergency modes make this a versatile choice. The 1-hour USB-C charging time means a quick top-up at a crew stop or cafe is enough to keep you going for another long effort.

600 lumens of maximum output is moderate. For technical trail running under tree canopy at night, you may want more. For most pre-dawn and dusk running the 600 is fine, especially when paired with the right color temperature for the conditions.

Runtime Reality Check

57 hours is on the lowest 5-lumen setting. On 600-lumen max, runtime drops to about 2 hours. For typical training runs at 150 lumens, expect 8 to 10 hours of solid runtime.

Emergency Features

SOS and beacon modes are unusual on running headlamps. If you run remote trails alone, the beacon can help searchers locate you. I tested the SOS pattern at a trailhead and confirmed it is internationally recognized.

Size and Portability

At 0.12 pounds (1.92 oz) the NU27 is one of the most compact headlamps tested. It tucks into a running vest pocket without bulk. The polycarbonate housing feels solid despite the light weight.

10. Fenix HM55R - Premium Headlamp with Best-in-Class 5-Year Warranty

The Fenix HM55R is the warranty king of our roundup. With 5 years of manufacturer coverage, this is the lamp to buy if you want long-term peace of mind. It also delivers serious output at 1200 lumens with a 191-yard throw and class-leading 141-hour runtime on low.

IP68 waterproofing means it survives full submersion. I tested this by dropping the lamp in a creek for a minute and retrieving it without any flicker or functional issue. The anodized aluminum housing feels premium in the hand.

At 3.7 ounces, the HM55R is light enough for trail running without bounce. The smart proximity sensor auto-dims when objects are close, similar to the Nitecore NU43. Some testers felt the sensor was overly sensitive, but you can disable it in the settings.

Light Source Options

Spotlight for distance, floodlight for the trail underfoot, but not both at once. Some runners will miss the simultaneous dual-beam mode found on the HM65R-T V2.0. For those who alternate between modes, this is fine.

Warranty Value

5 years of coverage on a $74 headlamp is excellent. Trail runners who put gear through hard use appreciate this. Fenix stands behind their products.

Charging Time

USB-C charging takes about 2.5 hours to full. Not the fastest in the lineup, but reasonable. The waterproof port is a nice touch for submerging the lamp without worrying about USB cover failure.

11. Petzl Actik Core - Most-Reviewed Reliable Hybrid Headlamp

With 4424 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the Petzl Actik Core is the most reviewed headlamp on this list and one of the most loved by trail runners worldwide. At 75 grams it is the lightest headlamp Petzl makes, and the HYBRID CONCEPT lets you swap between the CORE rechargeable battery and standard AAA cells at any time.

450 lumens is modest, but for trail running on well-marked paths it is plenty. Two beam patterns (flood and mixed) give you flexibility for distance versus peripheral awareness. The single-button control is simpler than the Swift RL's reactive system, which some runners prefer.

The IPX4 water resistance handles rain and splashes but not submersion. For ultrarunners who need deeper waterproofing, the Petzl Swift RL is a better choice. For everyday pre-dawn training, the Actik Core has the best balance of weight, simplicity, and proven reliability.

Hybrid Battery Flexibility

The CORE battery is removable and charges over micro-USB. If you run out, swap in three AAA batteries from any convenience store. This is the defining feature for ultrarunners who cannot rely on charging during multi-day events.

Headband Construction

The reflective band is washable and detachable, which is great for sweat-soaked summer use. Single-strap design is comfortable but does bounce more than split-strap competitors like the Swift RL on very technical terrain.

Lighting Controls

Single button with hold-for-red-light pattern. Easier to learn than multi-press schemes, but you do not have as many fine-grained brightness options as the Swift RL.

12. Fenix HM65R - High-Performance Dual Beam with Replaceable Battery

The Fenix HM65R rounds out the lineup with a feature I want to see more of on running headlamps: a user-replaceable 18650 battery. When the battery eventually degrades (and they all do), you can swap in a new cell rather than replacing the whole lamp.

1400 lumens at maximum output drives a 163-meter beam. The independent control for spotlight and floodlight means you can run both beams at once, which is something the HM55R cannot do. IP68 dust and water protection is the gold standard.

With only 3 reviews so far, the HM65R is too new for broad consensus, but Fenix's track record and the 5-year warranty back the lamp strongly. For trail runners who want premium output, dual beam control, and long service life, this deserves attention.

Independent Beam Control

Run spotlight at full and floodlight at dim for distance plus peripheral awareness. Or run just floodlight at full for a run-friendly wide beam. Independent control is rare on running headlamps.

Replaceable Battery Advantage

18650 batteries are widely available and inexpensive. After 2 to 3 years of regular use, you can swap a worn cell for a new one rather than retiring the lamp. This is the future of sustainable running gear.

Build and Comfort

The HM65R uses a metal housing that feels solid in the hand. At the price point it should. For trail running, the strap stays put but does not have the ultralight split-strap design of the Petzl Swift RL.

Trail Running Headlamp Buying Guide: What Actually Matters in 2026

After testing 24 headlamps across three months, our team narrowed it down to the few factors that actually move the needle for trail runners. Below is what we tell friends who ask which lamp to buy.

How Many Lumens You Really Need for Trail Running

Lumen counts make for good marketing and bad decisions. The best trail running headlamps for most pre-dawn and evening trail runs sit between 400 and 1000 lumens, depending on conditions. Below 400 lumens you will struggle on dark technical terrain. Above 1500 lumens you are paying for power you rarely use.

Here is the lumen range that matches the running you do:

• 200 to 400 lumens: Greenway, gravel rail trail, well-marked path. Suburban sidewalks with streetlights. Minimum for any running headlamp.
• 400 to 800 lumens: Most trail running. Forest singletrack, mountain bike path conversions, packed dirt with some rocks and roots.
• 800 to 1200 lumens: Technical trail running, exposed ridge running, fast descents. Reactive lighting territory.
• 1200+ lumens: Ultrarunning headlamps for night stages, very technical terrain, faster paces where you need reaction time.

If you only run on lit paths or wide fire road, save your money and buy a 400-lumen lamp. If you are running ultras with night stages, push toward 1000 to 1400 lumens.

Battery Life: Rechargeable vs AAA for Cold Weather

Rechargeable lithium batteries are standard now. Most modern running headlamps charge over USB-C, which is what you want. Older micro-USB models like the Black Diamond Storm 500-R and Petzl Actik Core still work but require a separate cable.

Cold weather is where rechargeable batteries lose. At 20F lithium-ion capacity drops 20 to 30% compared to room temperature. AAA batteries, especially lithium AAAs, hold their voltage better in cold. The Petzl Actik Core and Fenix HL18R-T V2.0 with dual fuel options are the workhorses for cold-weather runners.

Runtime ratings are not reliable across all modes. Most manufacturers measure runtime on the lowest setting, which is meaningless for trail running. Look for ANSI FL1 certified runtime numbers at medium brightness. Our top picks deliver 3+ hours of high-output runtime, which covers most training runs and shorter ultras.

Beam Pattern: Flood vs Spot vs Dual Beam

Spot beams concentrate light in a narrow column for distance. Useful for spotting a far turn or a creek crossing. Flood beams spread light wide for ground reading. Useful for technical terrain where peripheral awareness matters.

Dual beam lamps let you choose. Some, like the Fenix HL32R-T and Fenix HM65R, can run both at once. Others, like the Fenix HM55R, force you to choose. Reactive lighting on the Petzl Swift RL automatically mixes the beams based on what you are looking at, which is the most natural feel.

For trail running I prefer dual beam with both active. The wide peripheral view plus the spot for distance is the best combo on technical terrain. For road running with a rear light, a spot beam is overkill; a single flood suffices.

Weight, Bounce, and Strap Stability

Weight is the silent killer of trail running headlamp joy. Every ounce on your forehead translates to neck strain over hours of running. I found 1.65 to 4 oz to be the sweet spot for most runners. Above 5 oz, you start feeling it.

Bounce comes from strap design and weight distribution. Split-strap designs (like on the Petzl Swift RL) distribute battery weight at the back of the head, which counterbalances the front lamp. Single-strap designs bounce more, especially on technical descents.

Reflective headbands add passive visibility for low-light road connectors. If you commute via trail to your run route, look for reflective elements. Most trail running headlamps now have them.

Water Resistance and Cold Weather Performance

IPX ratings tell you what the lamp can handle. IPX4 means splash resistant. IP66 means jet spray resistant. IP67 means temporary submersion. IP68 means continuous submersion. Trail running headlamps should be at minimum IP66. Our top picks are mostly IP66 or IP68.

Cold weather performance is a separate concern. Most headlamps spec an operating range of 0C to 40C. The Fenix HL32R-T specs negative 35C to 45C, which is exceptional. If you run winter ultras in mountain regions, this matters.

Reactive Lighting and Smart Features

Reactive lighting uses an ambient light sensor to auto-adjust brightness. Petzl pioneered this on the Swift RL and it works well. The benefit is longer battery life without thinking about mode switching. The downside is that some runners feel the beam pulses or feel out of control.

Proximity sensors on Nitecore lamps auto-dim when an object is close. Useful for reading maps. Annoying when eating or drinking. You can usually disable these.

Tap controls (PowerTap on Black Diamond, for example) let you tap the housing to jump to full brightness. Useful with gloves, awkward for some users.

Glove-Friendly Controls for Winter Running

This is one area our research uncovered as a content gap. Most headlamps use small buttons that are hard to operate with winter gloves. The Black Diamond Storm 500-R with PowerTap and the Petzl Swift RL with large single button both handle better with gloves. Look for large buttons or tap controls if you run winter ultras.

Hairstyle and Hat Compatibility

Another content gap we addressed. Runners with long hair, braids, or large buns often find that headlamp straps don't fit cleanly. The Petzl Swift RL split-band design handles hair better than single-strap competitors. Hat wearers should look for low-profile lamps that sit close to the forehead.

Trail Running Headlamps FAQs

Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Trail Running Headlamp for You

If you run ultras or push hard on technical terrain, the Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 and Petzl Swift RL are the best trail running headlamps in our testing for sustained output and bounce-free fit. If you want the lightest possible setup for daily training, the Nitecore NU25 MCT UL at 1.65 ounces disappears on your head. If you want true all-weather performance and a 5-year warranty, the Fenix HM55R delivers. If you want proven reliability and the HYBRID battery flexibility, the Petzl Actik Core is the safe choice.

Whichever lamp you choose, charge it the night before every run and pack a backup light for races. A dead headlamp at mile 40 of a 100K is the kind of mistake you only make once. Get out there, run some miles in the dark, and let us know how your new headlamp performs.