As it is getting darker earlier, I am in need of a headlamp so I can continue to run outdoors.
Any suggestions?
I have looked at the Petzl Tikka Plus.
Any other suggestions?
The Tikka Plus is great for dimly lit streets or even terrain. But it is definitely not adequate if you run in areas that have NO external lighting or have rough terrain. In that case, go with an HID lamp. Petzl is definitely the way to go, though…
Petzel Zipka or whatever they call it. Same as the Tikka with the AA triple LED light, but a Zip cord to put it around your hat - much lighter, same light and a little less “dorky”. Easy to keep around, glovebox, etc. as it is so small
Not sure about lamps but I think I saw an add in this months Triathlete for some new nite time running safety vest etc. buy Fuel Belt.
Rappstar is correct. It depends on were you’re going to run. On city streets the Petzl Tikka Plus is fine.
I got a Black Diamond Soliras Hybrid last year for night xc skiing. It lights up like Yankee Stadium. A little heavy and pricey. But, I’ve found it great for night trail running as well.
Sorry Rod, the Zipka is WAAAAY more dorky than the Tikka. Coming from climbing (rock, ice) where that thing was developed, no self-respecting climber would be caught dead w/ a Zipka, those are for SUV driving yuppie soccer moms.
Not that there’s anything wrong with SUV driving yuppie soccer moms (or Dads) 
Now listen … my kids don’t play soccer!
:0
Where do you ice climb? I’m in the Boston area and often head up to NH but anticipate being out in NY (Syracuse area) for part of this upcoming winter. Climbing steep stuff is great as are long aerobic gully climbs… If you’re ever in need of a climbing partner…
(Aplogies to everyone else for the non-tri post.)
Easy to keep around, glovebox, etc. as it is so small
Easy to lose, also. I’m on my third one. I’m blaming my kids, of course. I’m sure I’ll find one wrapped around the head of a Rescue Hero sooner or later.
i’ve got the petzl, and like it.
helps some for seeing the ground you’re stepping on.
but really fantastic for seeing the general terrain up ahead - you get a decent sense of what, 300 yards or somethign? way far away. and no car will not see you.
the one i have fits 3 aaa batteries. i’d rather have on that only takes 1 or 2, and replace them more often, because it bounces around too much on your forehead.
but i’m overall very pleased with it.
-charles
I like the Tikka XP better than the Plus. It’s a lot brighter.
I’ve got the Petzl Plus. It’s great for my purposes. Night runs in the city/burbs/visibility. I don’t think it would be enough for deep woods/rough trail running though… although I haven’t tried it…
Silva 478 is the best if you run in the woods at night! Used for night orienteering. Two settings for power conservation.
http://www.outdoorgb.com/p/silva_478_lightweight_headlamp/
Pricy but when has that ever been an issue at ST?
Sindre
Petzl Myo XP.
I’ve had Tikkas and Zipkas. The Myo XP is a little heavier than either, but WAY brighter.
Fairly lightweight and it also has an over-the-head strap, if you want to use that, as well.
Oh, and don’t bother ordering the super-cheap junk off eBay. The build quality is terrible. Thin, brittle plastic, headbands that are too small to comfortably fit - go for an established brand, in this regard.
The Tikka Plus is great for dimly lit streets or even terrain. But it is definitely not adequate if you run in areas that have NO external lighting or have rough terrain. In that case, go with an HID lamp. Petzl is definitely the way to go, though…
I agree, love my HID “Light and Motion” on the MTB. (Tikka and others don’t work on the trail) I would love to use it for trailrunning but really don’t want to be a dork and run with a helmet. (battery could go in the Camelback). Any idea how to wear or carry it while running? Who makes an HID light for running?
Thx, Axel
Princeton Tec Eos - very bright LED in a fairly small front housing with three AAA batteries. Tends to have more of spot light beam than the flood that Petzl lights make so the light pool on the ground is smaller and brighter compared to the Petzl. It is more than adequate for technical trails and I’ve even used it mountain biking on trails at night.
Well, the time change does make it brighter in the morning - and we can finally see the sunrise again.