Best Headlamps for Trail Running | Night Run and Ultramarathon Ready

Last updated on February 2nd, 2023 at 11:19 am

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If you’re a trail runner it is likely you will find yourself running on a poorly-lit trail either early in the morning or late at night. You may even find yourself running through the entire night if you are an established or aspiring ultramarathoner. For safety reasons, a quality headlamp is of the utmost importance. In this post, we compare the best headlamps for trail running in order to help guide you safely during night runs or ultramarathons.

What Makes a Headlamp Ideal for Trail Running?

While every runner is different, and we all eventually develop our own preferences, there are a few main things you should look for in a effective trail running headlamp:

Adjustable: Being able to angle a headlamp down to see rocks and roots is helpful.
Comfortable: If you are running long distances in the dark you will want a headlamp you don’t notice.
Lightweight: If a headlamp pushes out major lumens, but hurts your neck, it isn’t worth it.
Powerful Light: You will need a headlamp with a light powerful enough to keep you from rolling your ankle… that is the main goal. It doesn’t need to be crazy, but you will want a headlamp with at least 180 lumens.
Battery Specs: You don’t want your battery to die in an hour of operation, but you also want as many lumens as possible. The best trail running headlamps will find a good compromise of light and battery life.

The Best Headlamps for Trail Running Are...

After comparing weight, battery life, comfort, and more we narrowed the options down to those we thought deserving of this post. Of all those we compared, we feel the ones mentioned below offer the most benefit to trail runners:

Best overall headlamp for trail running: Petzl NAO+

Our Second Favorite: Fenix HL60 R

**Best for Training (The One I Own): BioLite 200

Best Budget: Black Diamond Storm

We hope you have time to read through our detailed analysis for our top picks (and check out our comparison table). If not, you will be happy with any of the options we outline above.

Comparison Table of the Best Trail Running Headlamps

Below we provide a clear side-by-side comparison of all the headlamps we researched. The table focuses on comparing price, maximum light output, and water resistance rating (see below the chart for information on the water resistance rating system).

Name / Link	Price Rating	Max. Lumens	Water Resistance
Petzl NAO+	$$$	750	IPX4
Fenix HL60R	$+	950	IPX8
BioLite 200	$	200	IPX4
Petzl Tikka	$	200	IPX4
Black Diamond Spot	$	300	IPX8
Petzl Reactik+	$$	300	IPX4
Black Diamond Storm	$	350	IP67

More Details on Water Resistance Ratings Above

IPX4: Can handle splashing water from any direction; can handle rain. Essentially, the equipment is water-resistant while not being completely waterproof.
IPX8: Can handle being submerged in water up to 3 ft. and it will continue to operate. In other words, this means essentially waterproof.
IPX67: Can be submerged in a body of water for up to 30 minutes, and continue to function.

1. Best Overall Headlamp for Trail Running: Petzl NAO+ Headlamp

The Petzl NAO+ Headlamp provides powerful light at 750 maximum lumens, and powers it all sustainably via a lightweight rechargeable battery. With functionality like that it is no wonder the Petzl NAO+ Headlamp is respected by ultramarathoners, and pre-dawn hobby joggers alike.

The Petzl NAO+ Headlamp provides more lumen output, more headband options, and a more sustainable rechargeable battery than the rest. While the price point is a little higher than others on the list we feel that this headlamp is the best overall headlamp for trail running on the market.

Max Lumens: 750
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Weight: 6.5 oz
Low Beam: 210 ft. visibility
High Beam: 460 ft. visibility

If you aren’t an ultramarathoner competing in the Western States 100 there are still reasons to love this headlamp. Primarily, the free MyPetzl Light App, which allows for light output adjustments without removing the headlamp. With this app, you can control the number of lumens your headlamp puts out all from the convenience of your phone.

Battery power with the NAO+ is substantial enough to get you through a night of running. 15 hours of operation is possible during the 320 lumens, Reactive Lighting Setting (we cover this more below). If you need more than 15 hours or are participating in multi-day intermittent trail runs while backpacking, just pick up an extra rechargeable battery.

There are various light modes with the Petzl NAO+ Headlamp, and two main function settings that will determine the maximum battery life at any given lumen setting. these are referred to as Reactive and Constant. Here is a brief rundown on what these light settings refer to:

Reactive Light Technology: The headlamp assesses existing light of the environment and adjusts automatically to conserve battery power.

Constant Light Technology: The headlamp puts out the amount of light you tell it to, and it continues at that setting until adjusted.

For either technology setting listed above, Petzl refers to the lowest lumen output as Maximum Autonomy and the highest lumen output as Maximum Power. Below we provide a detailed chart comparing the various settings and stats for burn time.

Petzl NAO+ Light Output and Battery Life Table

Lighting Technology	Light Mode	Lumens	Battery Life
Reactive	Max. Autonomy	320 Lumens	15 Hours
Reactive	Max. Power	750 Lumens	6.5 Hours
Constant	Max. Autonomy	120 Lumens	8 Hours
Constant	Max. Power	530 Lumens	1.5 Hours

Petzl NAO+ Headlamp PROS

Powerful beam strength
USB rechargeable battery
Has the ability to receive over the head band

Petzl NAO+ Headlamp Cons

A little heavier than other options
At maximum light setting the battery lasts 6 hours

Video Covering Basic Petzl NAO+ Operation and Specs

If you’re on the fence about which headlamp to purchase, the Petzl NAO+ Headlamp should be on your short list.

Trusted by professional trail runners on the most difficult terrains in the world Petzl has provided marathoners and trail enthusiasts with a valuable tool for their arsenal.

Above all else, this headlamp comes with an exceptional high and low beam distance, powerful lumen output, and an incredible phone control interface. You are more likely to see every rock and root with the Petzl NAO+ Headlamp, which will keep you from rolling an ankle or taking a tumble. Check out more pictures, pricing, and specs on Amazon here: Petzl NAO+ Headlamp.

2. The Fenix HL60R

The Fenix HL60R is a loved headlamp by those that can find a balance between the light intensity required for a given run, and the need for a long battery life. The capacity for 950 lumens of output on the highest setting, and potential battery life of 100 hours in its lowest setting, make the Fenix HL60R a headlamp night runners and ultramarathoners need to consider.

Max Lumens: 950
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Weight: 4.3 oz (w/o batteries)
Low Beam: 89 ft. visibility
High Beam: 381 ft. visibility

While this headlamp is one of the brightest on the market for those running in the dark, it should also be noted that there are other settings available that make it easy to conserve battery. We go over these a bit more below.

Fenix HL60R Light Intensity Settings

While the Fenix HL60R has the capacity to push out 950 lumens, this mega-output experienced in its’ highest setting can’t be sustained forever. For this reason, the Fenix HL60R headlamp comes with a variety of light intensity options that allow you to conserve battery or opt to light up everything in sight.

Below is more detail on the light settings and how they affect lumen output and battery life:

Setting	Lumen Output	Distance	Battery Life
Red Light	1 Lumen	N/A	100 Hours
Eco	5 Lumens	26 ft.	100 Hours
Low	50 Lumens	89 ft.	29 Hours
Medium	150 Lumens	151 ft.	10 Hours
High	400 Lumens	249 ft.	3 Hours
Turbo	950 Lumens	381 ft.	48 Minutes

Every runner is different in the amount of light they need to see the trail, and with this many different settings, the Fenix HL60R might just be the most versatile of the headlamps we researched.

The Fenix HL60R Battery

The Fenix HL60R uses a single 18650 Lithium Ion battery for its operation. While this type of battery is not chargeable via a direct USB type of plugin, it certainly is rechargeable via standard compatible battery chargers. The one we like to use is the 6 Bay Lithium Ion Intelligent Battery Charger primarily because it makes charging multiple batteries easy so a fresh one can simply pop right into the headlamp when needed.

How Comfortable is the Fenix HL60R

The Fenix HL60R is relatively lightweight, but also has a flatter profile that remains closer to your head. The flatter profile reduces bouncing and improves the comfort profile of this headlamp.

In addition to the flatter profile this headlamp provides, the over-the-top strap will further reduce bouncing and prevents the headlamp from slowly sliding down on your forehead.

Video Covering Basic Fenix HL60R Operation and Specs

Who Will Love the Fenix HL60R Headlamp

This headlamp is for those wanting maximum Lumen output, but also the potential for extremely long battery life. While it may be unreasonable to assume you could light a trail enough on this headlamps lowest setting, it can still last up to 29 hours when lighting up to 89 ft. in front of you. That is functional power.

Outside of its ability to provide major light and battery power, the light itself can be rotated and locked in at the perfect angle for your specific gait.

When coupling the adjustability of the light with this headlamps’ flat profile and over-the-top head strap you will find yourself running in an extremely comfortable headlamp with a light profile perfectly tailored to your needs. If this sounds like a good match for you, check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: Fenix HL60R Headlamp

3. The BioLite 200

Max Lumens: 200
Rechargeable Battery: Yes
Weight: 1.75 oz
Flood Light: 24 ft.
High Beam: 150 ft
Battery on Low: 40 hour
Battery on High: 3 hour

The BioLite 200 is a SUPER lightweight headlamp option for minimalist trail runners.

If you don’t want to the weight and technical confusion that might come with some of the more advanced headlamps, the simplistic BioLite 200 might be right for you.

Easily Adjusts to Various Angles

While there are plenty of headlamps that push out more lumens than the BioLite 200, there are other benefits of this headlamp that make me like it.

Angle A | Completely Flat Against Head

The default position of the BioLite 200 is flat against your head. This works well if you’re running on relatively consistent ground.

Angle B | About a 30 Degree Angle

Being able to EASILY adjust the downward angle of the headlamp is a huge benefit. This angle gives enough illumination of further distances, but shines a little light closer to your feet.

Angle C | About a 90 Degree Angle

Pitch black, highly technical trails will have you wishing there was a light that could shine directly in front of you. With the BioLite 200, you can more safely avoid rocks, roots, and other obstacles. I find this angle SUPER helpful.

BioLite 200 Pros and Cons

BioLite 200 PROS

Simple Design
VERY Lightweight
Rechargeable Built in Battery
Minimalist Design

BioLite 200 CONS

Wish it pushed out more lumens
Battery power on high could be a little better

Who (and for What) is the BioLite 200 Perfect For

At 1.75 ounces, and with a comfortable / non-intrusive head strap, I would definitely encourage anyone to give the unit a try.

Since it is an extremely easy headlamp to wear for many miles, but lacks super long battery life, I think this headlamp would be best as a training headlamp. What the BioLite 200 lacks in battery life it makes up for in comfort and simplicity.

After all, why train with a super heavy headlamp that is relatively cumbersome?

The BioLite 200 is able to provide a sleek design, adjustable strap, and pushes out enough lumens (and at an an appropriate angle) to make it a win.

If you are looking for a super sleek headlamp and don’t see yourself running an ultramarathon you can check out more specs, pictures, and current prices on Amazon here: BioLite 200

4. Black Diamond Spot Headlamp

The Black Diamond Spot is a great headlamp for trail runners on a budget. The capabilities of the headlamp are great, but what really sets the Black Diamond Spot apart from the rest is its affordability.

Max Lumens: 300
Rechargeable Battery: *Yes*
Weight: 3.52 oz
Low Beam: 52 ft.
High Beam: 260 ft

*Batteries are 3 AAA; you would need a battery charger to re-use the batteries. Here is a low-cost battery charger on Amazon that provides 8 additional batteries: Charger.

While this headlamp lacks some of the cool features present in other headlamp models (which we cover below) it still meets enough of our criteria to make it onto our list.

Black Diamond Spot PROS

Affordable
Simple Design
Lightweight
Battery power is dominant for price

Black Diamond Spot Cons

No over-the-head strap
Lacks 300 ft. + range

At a low price point, the Black Diamond Spot still provides a long battery life, which varies depending on which setting your light is at. At its lowest setting, you can expect to get 180 hours of light, and at its highest setting 25 hours of light. That is massive for such a low-cost headlamp!

Video Covering Basic Operation of the Black Diamond Spot Headlamp

At nearly 1/3 to 1/2 the price of some other competing headlamp models, the Black Diamond Spot can’t be ignored. While there are other headlamps with more light output there is no question this headlamp will be a great fit for a majority of trail runners out there looking for a lower-cost option. Take a look at more pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon here: Black Diamond Spot.

5. Petzl Tikka Headlamp

The Petzl Tikka Headlamp provides the core headlamp needs for any trail runner, but in a streamlined design and at an affordable price. The simplicity and battery versatility of this headlamp lands it on our list of best headlamps for trail runners.

Max Lumens: 200
Rechargeable Battery: *Yes*
Weight: 2.9 oz
Low Beam: 32 ft.
High Beam: 213 ft.

While the Petzl Tikka Headlamp works with rechargeable AAA batteries, it is a hybrid model that also works with the Petzl Core Rechargeable Battery (view specs and pics on Amazon).

While having a consistent battery source is good for the most part there are benefits to using a battery that recharges via a USB plug. Namely, the battery can be charged without an additional device to set the battery into. In addition to being compact and easily rechargeable, the Petzl Core Rechargeable Battery is guaranteed to last 300 charging cycles.

With the versatility of a USB rechargeable battery the Petzl Tikka Headlamp is worth looking into for your trail running efforts. Since this is an economy headlamp there are some cons worth mentioning along with the pros. We cover those more here:

Petzl Tikka Headlamp PROS

Affordable
Lightweight
At minimum light setting the battery power lasts up to 120 hours

Petzl Tikka Headlamp Cons

Low maximum lumens
Lacks 300 ft. + range
At maximum light setting the batteries last only 2 hours

This headlamp provides a simple design, and massive battery life (120 hours) when operating at the lowest lumen setting. This may be enough for many trail runners, but it needs to be noted its maximum lumen setting provides just 2 hours of battery life.

While you likely won’t need have the power of your headlamp set continually to high, imagine a scenario where you accidentally left the headlamp at the maximum setting…in 2 hours you are going to be in the dark. This low battery life at its maximum setting is what we perceive as this headlamps biggest negative.

Despite the low battery power at maximum lumens, we do feel this headlamp has enough positive features to make it one of the best. The flexible battery options, affordability, and its extreme lightweight make this a great headlamp. If you are looking for an option under $40, this headlamp might just be perfect for your trail runs. You can check out more pictures, specs, and pricing on Amazon here: Petzl Tikka Headlamp.

6. Petzl Reactik+

Petzl is a brand we feature prominently in this post because they design awesome headlamps. The Petzl Reactik+ is an option for those trail runners wanting the quality of the Petzl brand at a slightly lower price point than their other headlamps.

Max Lumens: 300
Rechargeable Battery: *Yes*
Weight: 4.1 oz
Low Beam: 114 ft. visibility
High Beam: 360 ft. visibility

*Batteries are 3 AAA; you would need a battery charger to re-use the batteries. Here is a low-cost battery charger on Amazon that provides 8 additional batteries: Charger.

With a maximum 300 lumen output capacity this headlamp obviously doesn’t push out the same light that the NAO+ Headlamp pushes out (700 lumens). That said, the Reactik+ can last longer; on its lowest setting the Reactik+ can keep lighting the path for 15 hours.

Petzl Reactik+ PROS

Lightweight
Surpasses 300 ft. + range

Petzl Reactik+ Cons

No over-the-head strap
Triple AAA batteries only

With 15 hours of potential light, a lightweight design, and blue tooth connectivity to the MyPetzl Light App this headlamp provides a reasonably priced high-quality light for marathoners and hobbyists alike. Check out more pictures, pricing, and specs on Amazon here: Petzl Reactik+

7. Black Diamond Storm Headlamp

The Black Diamond Storm Headlamp is one of those headlamps that professional trail runners and novice runners love. With a simple design, long-lasting battery, and affordable price this headlamp should be on the shortlist for any trail runner shopping for the best quality headlamp on a budget.

Max Lumens: 350
Rechargeable Battery: *Yes*
Weight: 3.88 oz
Low Beam: 26 ft. visibility
High Beam: 279 ft. visibility

*Batteries are 4 AAA; you would need a battery charger to re-use the batteries. Here is a low-cost battery charger on Amazon that provides 8 additional batteries: Charger.

The Storm is a bit more costly than the Black Diamond Spot, but it also beats it out on a couple of stats that may be important to some trail runners willing to spend a couple of bucks more. Primarily with regards to this headlamp having the ability to push out 50 more lumens than the Black Diamond Spot when on its highest setting.

With four AAA batteries powering the Black Diamond Storm Headlamp, the lowest light settings can stay powered for up to 120 hours while its maximum light settings can stay powered for 40 hours. This is some major battery power.

Black Diamond Storm PROS

Lightweight
40 hours life at maximum lumens
Affordable

Black Diamond Storm Cons

Requires 4 AAA batteries
Maximum light setting doesn’t extend further than 300 ft.

If you don’t want to spend more than $100 on a headlamp, and you want one that has some heavy-duty battery capacity, this is the headlamp for you. Check out more pictures, specs, and current pricing at Amazon here: Black Diamond Storm.

How We Compared Headlamps

Headlamps used on the trails are more than an accessory, they can be your most important safety tool. For this reason, there were certain criteria a headlamp had to meet in order to make it on our list.

Whether you’re using a headlamp for training, or to take on an ultramarathon, there are specific traits you definitely need to make sure your headlamp has. Here are the five traits all great headlamps share:

1. Long Battery Life

Headlamps each typically have various light intensity settings, which result in different battery life expectancy. A good headlamp will have enough battery power to at least get you through a full night. If battery life is your main interest you may want to consider reading our post on headlamps with the best battery life.

2. Rechargeable Batteries

Some headlamps have their own USB rechargeable batteries, while some rely on rechargeable standard AAA batteries (or similar). Because AAA battery chargers are so inexpensive nowadays it made sense to include some headlamps on our list that rely on AAA or similar batteries. With this being said, we only feel these are practical if a battery charger is used.

3. Powerful Light Capabilities

If you are trail running in the dark you will sometimes find your run requires more or less headlamp light. The amount of ambient moonlight, cloud cover, rain, and more all impact how many lumens you need to push out to safely light your way. For these reasons, you will want to have a headlamp that can provide a lot of light.

4. Comfortable On Your Head

Believe it or not, your comfort matters. A good headlamp will be a headlamp you forget about. You don’t want to be thinking about how itchy your forehead is, or how tight a band is. Instead, you want to be focusing on your race, your footing, and your speed.

5. Lightweight

If you are wearing a headlamp for 7 hours straight while bounding up and down mountains it better be lightweight. A great trail running headlamp won’t cause neck pain. You should never compromise on this point; we assure you there is a headlamp light enough for you.

Selecting A Headlamp for Trail Running

If you are a trail runner looking for a headlamp there are obviously a ton of options out there for you. One way to narrow down your search is to ask yourself a number of questions about what features are most important to you:

Do you value heavy lumen output, or do you value battery power most?
Are headlamps that require AAA batteries a no-go?
Do you really want a headlamp that can connect to an app?

If you can walk through some of the questions above and answer them candidly you will likely find one or two headlamps that meet your criteria.

It is important to remember that selecting the best headlamp for trail running isn’t just about selecting a cool toy it is about selecting a safety tool that can keep you healthy through the duration of your dark hour runs.

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Image Credit: Joe Loong |(https://www.flickr.com/photos/joelogon/) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size and cropped