The 7 Types of Night Running Light & Top 3 Reasons Why You Need Them

The 7 Types of Night Running Light & Top 3 Reasons Why You Need Them

Philip
11 minute read

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Why is it important for your running light to be rechargeable?

 

The biggest role of a running lighting tool is to ensure your safety and provide you with an enhanced awareness. If you are a professional running enthusiast, you are no stranger to the term running light, which is primarily used to illuminate your surroundings – helping you to avoid dangerous situations when you exercise in the early morning darkness or at night.

 

That’s not to say however, that running lights are strictly for runner, so don’t skip this article purely because you’re not a fan of a jog. The original design of the, as we know it, “running light”, was created to be used as a convenient, portable, and large-scale lighting product. As such, it has a very wide range of applications that go far beyond what you may initially expect from such a model. Let’s dive into them, shall we?

Different types of running lights

Clip-on Running Lights

This variation of a night running light comes with a unique attachment device, one that is small enough to easily clip onto your belt, chest strap, or even the back of your hat. What’s more, it’s actually so lightweight that you won’t even notice it's there when you wear it – a characteristic that comes in handy should you wish to take your dog out for a walk, and clip it onto the back of your dog’s collar or leash for added brightness.

 

High Brightness Rechargeable Night Running Light

 

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

hands-free

normal built-in battery capacity

LED+COB brightness boost

 

super strong clamping force

 

lightweight and portable

 

pet-friendly

 

waterproof

 

 

200 Lumens Rechargeable Night Running Light

 

 

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

hands-free

normal built-in battery capacity

9 LEDs provide 200 lumens of high-brightness lighting

 

180° light range

 

built-in super-strong magnet, improved adsorption force

 

pet-friendly

 

waterproof

 

 

The biggest difference between the two running lights listed above, is the applicable entrainment types. One is a magnetic solution, while the other is a clamp force that manually attaches the night light source to the support of your choice. They can however, both be tightly attached or connected to any item of place, and the running light with the magnetic suction function can also be attached to any metal surface for fixed use – providing users with a hands-free maintenance solution.

 

The clip-on running light is suitable for both nighttime or early morning running, and home repairs or improvement work. It is also the best nightlight option for walking the dog, as the firm clipping force will stay attached to even the most lively of dogs. This, in addition to a strong brightness reach, will allow you to easily track your pooch should they wish to run off into the distance and explore. Simply follow the trail of light, and Bob’s your uncle. Another benefit of this feature when out walking your dog is that passersby and vehicles will be able to clearly see your pet, ensuring they keep their distance and keep your dog out of harm's way.

   

Head-Mounted Running Light (Headlamp)

Headlights are currently the most popular type of night light used by runners, and with good reason. High-quality headlights will provide an ultra wide-angle lighting range, allowing users to focus on the road under their feet with ease.

 

1200 Lumens 210° Wide Beam Headlamp With Motion Sensor(Rechargeable)

Advantages

Disadvantages

hands-free

no rear warning light

built-in motion infrared sensor

 

210° wide-angle illumination range

 

multiple colors to choose from

 

soft and durable silicone material

 

waterproof and impact resistant

 

 

1000 LumensRechargeable COB LED230° Wide Beam Headlamp

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

hands-free

a small number of people with a sensitive head will not adapt

230° wide-angle lighting range

 

rear with red warning light

 

waterproof and impact-resistant

 

comes with safety helmet clip

 

sweat-absorbing elastic headband is comfortable to wear

 

 

The main difference between the two headlights mentioned above is that one model is host to a hand wave sensor, while the other has a rear warning light. The first headlight is made from a comfortable-to-wear silicone material, and the hand-wave-sensor function makes it easy to switch between light modes while on the go, without having to pause your activity to adjust manually. This headlight is a great option for most, however special cases or nighttime maintenance workers (who need to be noticed by others at all times) should definitely opt for the model that offers a rear warning light function, as this is essential to ensuring safety while on the job at night. These are also very suitable for mountaineering, fishing, camping, rock climbing and going about everyday life at home when needed (during a power outage, for example).

Portable Running Light - Keychain Flashlights

Hate bulky nightlights that need to be worn or handheld? Then the EDC flashlight is for you.

 

500 LumensRechargeable LEDKeychain Flashlight

Advantages

Disadvantages

aviation grade aluminum

normal built-in battery capacity

removable multifunctional cap clip can be used as a headlight

 

high quality carabiner to secure the keychain light

 

luminous switch button(glow in the dark button)

 

small and portable

 

waterproof and impact resistant

 

 

800 LumensRechargeable COBKeychain Flashlight

 

 

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

aviation grade aluminum

normal built-in battery capacity

rotatable stand

 

high quality carabiner

 

can be used as a bottle opener

 

strong magnet

 

there is a tripod screw on the bottom to fix it on a tripod

 

waterproof and impact-resistant

 

 

The two EDC flashlights described above vary in two ways: the 500-lumen EDC flashlight can be clipped on a baseball cap and used as a headlight, while the 800-lumen flashlight can be fixed onto a tripod or fill light, and even used as a bottle opener. They both, however, have one common disadvantage – they cannot use high-power batteries, as it will cause overheating.

The EDC flashlight combines high brightness and compactness, making it suitable for everyday emergencies at home, working in the garage, or out at night on a camping trip.

Wearable Running Lights - The Chest Light

This chest flashlight, with a camisole, is designed for those who need to be seen no matter what activity they are doing, and from all angles.

 

800 LumensRechargeable LEDRunning Chest Light

 

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

hands-free

need to wear it on your body

90° adjustable beam angle

slightly higher price

centrally located lights illuminate your path

the light shakes with the body

adjustable reflective shoulder straps give you 10x better visibility

 

rear warning light increases your visibility and safety

 

only 5 ounces

 

waterproof

 

 

The chest light has been designed mostly for professional runners/maintainers. It is therefore entirely suitable for use by firefighters and during rescues within the fire industry, as well as for emergency and rescue personnel who require operation lighting (both outdoors and in applicable fields). It is also suitable for personal lighting, such as fixed-point search and accident handling in other industries, and signal indication.

 

Waist Bag Light

 

1000LumensRechargeableLED 230° Wide Beam Waist Bag Light

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

multiple colors to choose from

need to wear it on your body

230° wide-angle lighting range headlight

 

back warning light

 

provides up to 20 hours of lighting

 

removable light strip for easy cleaning

 

adjustable stretch waistband fits any waist size

 

multifunctional fanny pack with bottle cage, pocket, headphone jack

 

waterproof IP44

 

 

The waist bag light, or fanny pack light, is extremely lightweight and durable, with soft material straps and waterproof pockets that prevent friction against your clothes or skin, as well as ensuring nothing falls from the pouch during running or traveling. As such, it’s suitable for all forms of nighttime exercise – including walking, running, hiking, cycling, working out at the gym, and more.

Beanie Hat With Light

 

High Brightness Rechargeable LED Beanie Hat With Light

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

multiple colors to choose from

the hat itself is not waterproof

comfortable and warm knitted material

 

detachable light that can be worn alone as a beanie for easy cleaning

 

super elastic

 

5 hours of continuous use at high brightness

 

 

The beanie hat light can be used exclusively as a suitable running light in winter, providing stellar lighting and also bringing warmth to the user in cold conditions. It will also enhance your running experience by making you visible at night, and illuminating your path. Certified IPX44 waterproof, this light is the ideal wearable option for cold-weather runners and outdoor adventurers.

Handheld Running Light - Flashlight (Handheld Flashlight)

9000 Lumens COB Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

extremely durable

heavy in weight

easy to use

minimal functions

long-lasting power

bulky to carry when running

5 hours of continuous use at high brightness

 

 

 

The handheld flashlight is a standard, must-have option for every family, dubbed “the beginners flashlight”. Although rather bulky and not crazily impressive with unique functions, it is the most basic and efficient lighting equipment type on the market. It has a wide range of applications and a long lighting distance function, which will meet the needs of both indoor home and outdoor use. However, we don’t recommend that runners use a hand-held flashlight, as its bulky design and heavy weight can affect the runner’s balance and create an unwanted burden.

 

The 3 main uses of running lights

Running at night

It is extremely important to have a high level of awareness of your surrounding running environment at all times, especially when you are running at night and in low visibility. While night running may seem unsafe, there are many safety tips for running at night that will ensure your safety and peace of mind. One such thing is to wear safety gear in the form of night running lights, which, as we have just discussed, have been designed to enhance your visibility and make others aware of your presence – therefore limiting the chances of danger and allowing you to keep yourself safe while enjoying your twilight run.

Camping/hiking

Unlike the light-filled surrounds of cities, suburbs and small towns, isolated camping sites or hiking trails are usually immersed in complete darkness – given that they are usually in a wooded forest or high up on a mountaintop. And while the setting is undoubtedly spectacular and peaceful, and being away from the hustle and bustle of the city is always a dream, you may find yourself stressing about daily tasks a little bit more than you would if you were at home. As such, it’s vital to come prepared with all the necessary equipment you need for your outdoor excursion. That’s where the running light comes in: although not used while actually out jogging in these scenarios, the portable nature of the light makes it a wonderful option for sufficient visibility when out camping or hiking – allowing everyone to move around safely after dark.

 

Walking the dog at night

Whether you're an early bird or more of a night owl, walking your dog early in the morning or long after the sun goes down still means you’ll most likely be in poor light. You need a running light to allow others to see you from a distance, keeping not only you and your dog, but other pedestrians safe in low visibility. Do your dogs like to run around in the dark? No need to spoil their fun. You can also attach the running light on your pooch’s collar – the light will follow the dog, and you won’t have to worry about not being able to find them. With the help of a portable running light, you can stop your dog from sniffing "good food" (trash or poop) outside and wanting to feast on it. The kind of hassle no one wants before bed or first thing in the morning…

 

So, whether you’re planning a couple days away camping with the family, or hiking in the wilderness, or are simply out for a spot of exercise or walking your dog before work or hitting the hay, a night running light is the top choice for you. Portable, durable, strong visibility and easily attachable to the mount of your choice, you’ll find yourself skipping through your daily tasks with ease. 

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