Anyone have a suggestion for a good headlamp? I’m mostly interested in using it for running but in the fall it’s not uncommon to find myself finishing a late day ride in the dusk. It doesn’t have to be the brightest lamp available but small size and light weight are important. I’d prefer an internal rechargable battery to keep weight down but I’m looking at the Petzl E99 PG Tikka XP 2. They have a new unit - Petzl Tikka XP2 Core with internal battery but it’s $110.
I went through the research last fall & ended up with a Black Diamond Spot.
Most lumens in that range, full dimming of both flood & spot, flashing option, red night-reading option.
I ran in it maybe 6h/week, and I got through fall & winter with only one change of the 3 AAAs.
No issues with bouncing on head, and I only wore a skull cap with it. Lens tilts down to light either ground or upcoming area.
I liked it better than most in the price range, and it was at the low end of the comparable prices as well. I’d buy it again.
I wanted it for dark paths & icy trails in Chicago, nothing too technical for me. If you are running in pitch black, animal infested woods, you might want something brighter, but it’s a slippery slope once you get into higher lumens & regulated systems. Look at some of the stuff Jordan reviewed, alot of those brands make head lamps too, but prices get into the hundreds easy.
It depends on what you’re doing. If you’re on narrow trails with trees on either side, it helps to condense the light and you won’t need as bright a light. If you’re on wide open roads, then you’ll want something stronger to see more.
Don’t over think it though. I’ve found 45-50 lumens is all I’ve ever needed for either of those scenarios.
Go to candlepowerforums and do a search for “headlamp running” and you will tons of info. Most people will probably recommend a Zebralight there.
Currently have a BD Spot, before that a Petzl Tikka plus (still just leave that one in the car as an all-purpose backup). Plenty of light for running/hiking speeds (not biking) in urban-ish settings, battery life is good and replacement AAAs are cheap & easy. Light & adjustable so it stays where you want it. No need to spend more than $40 for this application, unless you expect to be navigating elk trails in the woods.