Last updated on February 1st, 2023 at 04:40 pm
Spending time with Mother Nature after dark can be an excellent way to spend your evening hours when camping. Whether you’re hiking, running the trails, stargazing, or watching wildlife, a hands-free lighting device is a must-have. We’ve tested several for their efficiency and have discovered the best 7 headlamps perfect for hiking in the dark.
Our Favorite Headlamps for Hikers Are...
Good headlamps for hiking possess distinct features necessary to light the trails. In fact, the best one will illuminate your area well enough to avoid injury, but not too much that it blinds those around you. Given the lights we experimented with, these four deserve special commendation:
Best Overall: Black Diamond Spot 350
Best with Rechargeable Battery: NITECORE Nu25
Our favorite Budget Headlamp: PETZL Tikkina
Best for Kids: Black Diamond WIZ
Additionally, we’ll explain why these headlamps are best for nighttime hiking and give you a detailed review of the top three below.
Comparison Table of Headlamps
First, we’ve placed all of our top 7 headlamps perfect for hiking in the dark here in this table for quick reference.
| Picture | Lumens | Max Burn Time | Rechargeable Y/N | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Deeper Trails' Top Pick
 
Black Diamond Spot 350
|
350 | 200 hours | N | $$ |
Best Rechargeable Headlamp
 
NITECORE Nu25
|
360 | 160 hours | Y | $$ |
Best Budget Headlamp
 
PETZL Tikkina
|
250 | 120 hours | N | $ |
Best for Kids
 
Black Diamond WIZ for kids
|
30 | 60 hours | N | $ |
Petzl ACTIK CORE
|
350 | 120 hours | Y | $$$ |
Biolite Headlamp 200
|
200 | 40 hours | Y | $$ |
 
Gearlight LED Headlamp
|
200 | 10+ hours | N | $ |
As you can see, there are a lot of similarities in looks while there are plenty of staggering differences in performance and price. We feel that the above information is enough to make an informed decision for your next hike. However, we go into further details below.
1. Black Diamond Spot 350
First, our favorite overall pick is the Black Diamond Spot 350 for its comfort and efficiency.
The Spot 350 is the perfect hiking headlamp for just about all of your lighting needs.
Hikers love that it gives you up to 200 hours of light.
Plus, its compact body displays a low profile making it almost unnoticeable.
However, at 3.9 ounces, it’s a little heavier than some, but we feel it’s worth the trade-off. In fact, we’ve found that it’s useful for any activity other than running.
If you’re looking for an all-around useful and reliable headlamp, the Spot 350 is an outstanding choice.
Long Distance Lighting
Moreover, with 350 lumens, the Spot 350 gives you almost 300 feet of sight to light the darkest of trails.
But it isn’t a huge blinding light, which is a superb feature. It’s just enough to light your path so you can see well.
Plus, with the PowerTap Technology, you can switch between the six different modes instantly.
This makes it exceptionally convenient and one of the key features we appreciate the most.
For instance, when you’re staring into pitch blackness, there’s nothing worse than trying to fumble with a light.
And, with the PowerTap technology, you don’t have to.
In addition, with its Brightness Memory, the Spot 350 actually allows you to save your settings for future use.
To illustrate, when you turn the light off, then back on again, you won’t have to cycle through all the options. Your settings will remain in effect just as they were before you turned the light off.
So, if you’re traversing rugged trails and require sufficient light to illuminate the way, this light is perfect for you.
IPX8 Waterproof Housing
Additionally, we love this headlamp’s waterproofing.
In fact, the Spot 350 can withstand getting submerged in water for up to thirty minutes.
This is great news if you find yourself stuck in the rain. You won’t have to worry about your headlamp being damaged.
Impressively enough, if water enters the battery compartment, your headlamp is still safe and fully functional.
Of course, you’ll need to dry it out completely before using it again.
In addition, if you’re headed toward a canyoneering or river adventure, the Spot 350 is completely safe out of you drysack.
Digital Lock Mode
Finally, the Black Diamond Spot 350 features a digital lock mode.
As a result, this prevents your light from accidentally turning on while it’s packed away.
And, all too often, the gear inside our packs gets displaced for one reason or another. So, it’s not terribly uncommon for a headlamp to accidentally get switched on.
However, by initiating the digital lock mode, you can prevent this from happening so you’re not needlessly wasting burn time.
Pros and Cons of the Black Diamond Spot 350
Black Diamond Spot 350 PROS
- 350 lumens
- 200 hours max burn time
- Dimmer peripheral lighting for close-up activities
- Waterproof
- Brightness memory
- PowerTap Technology
- Variety of settings
- Comfortable
- Digital lock mode
- Affordable
Black Diamond Spot 350 CONS
- Red light night vision is a little on the weak side
- A bit heavy at 3.9 ounces
Who is The Spot 350 Perfect For?
The Spot 350 Headlamp is perfect for anyone that enjoys the outdoors beyond the daylight hours on multiple day trips. Hikers, backpackers, and climbers will love the PowerTap Technology that allows you to adjust your beam easily and conveniently. Canyoneers will appreciate its reliable waterproofing.
2. NITECORE Nu25
Next, our favorite rechargeable option is the NITECORE Nu25. It, too, features ample light and and great battery life.
However, instead of heavy batteries, the Nitecore utilizes a built-in micro-USB rechargeable battery.
Additionally, with three separate light sources, four brightness levels, and three modes, this headlamp is amazing.
For instance, you’ll get up to 360 lumens of white light, 20 lumens of CRI LED light, or 13 lumens of red light.
Furthermore, it even features a battery power indicator that lets you know exactly how much juice you have left. And, 160 hours of burn time is nothing short of perfect for a rechargeable option.
Lightweight And Super Functional
Additionally, this lamp’s weight is virtually unnoticeable.
The Nu25 is feather-light at just at 1.9 ounces.
In fact, you’ll almost forget you’re even wearing it.
Plus, its lighting is super efficient and boasts three different lighting sources.
Unlike many other headlamps, the red light features on the Nu25 is rather impressive and plenty bright.
Remarkably, the Nu25 has an 88-yard throw with four adjustable settings including a 30-minute turbo feature.
Additionally, it sports an impressive 13-lumen red LED light.
Moreover, if you enjoy stargazing or nighttime photography, the red LED does a fantastic job at preserving your night vision.
Furthermore, with a quick flip of the switch, it offers a red blinking mode for emergency situations.
Even better, the Nu25 offers a 20-lumen CRI LED auxiliary white light.
For example, if you’re following trail blazes, climbing a wall with colored pitons or coiling colorful rope, this color rendering index helps you see truer colors in the dark.
Long Battery Life
In addition, hikers love the Nu25 for its long battery life.
Whether you’re hiking for 4 hours or 4 nights, the battery life is more than sufficient enough.
In fact, at its maximum brightness, the Nu25 has a burn time of 160 hours.
Additionally, its USB compatibility allows you to charge it on the go if you need to. And, this is rather quick and easy to do; just plug it into your power bank.
You can even continue using the Nu25 while it’s charging.
Additionally, your purchase comes with a USB Cable and a LumenTac adapter, so you just have to provide the USB power source.
Plus, you also get the lock-out function with the Nu25, so you don’t waste all that battery life on accident.
However, the one shortcoming for the Nu25 is its Turbo brightness mode only has a lifespan of 30 minutes. So, it should be reserved for only the most dire situations.
IP66 Waterproof Rating
Finally, the Nu25 can withstand some pretty rugged adventures with its IP66 rating.
First, it provides the highest level of protection against dust and debris.
In addition, you also get great protection against rain or snow.
However, it’s not designed or protected from submersion.
Pros and Cons of the NITECORE Nu25
NITECORE Nu25 PROS
- Rechargeable
- 160 hours burn time
- Lightweight at 1.9 ounces
- Comfortable
- Strong LED red light feature
- 3 separate outputs
- Dual switch controls
- Lockout function
NITECORE Nu25 CONS
- Turbo mode only lasts 30 minutes
- Buttons are extremely small
- Beam too wide for some
Who Will Love The Nu25?
Hikers, backpackers, and campers love the Nitecore Nu25 headlamp because of its functionality and efficiency. Not to mention its feather-light weight will be perfect for runners or fastpackers. In fact, with the Nitecore Nu25, you can pretty much check all the boxes. It has a long burn time, it’s rechargeable, and its functionality is superb.
3. PETZL Tikkina
Next on the list, the PETZL Tikkina is our favorite budget lamp. Unlike most headlamps, the PETZL features a unique hybrid model where you can utilize with alkaline batteries or recharge its internal lithium battery.
In fact, you can start your adventure with rechargeable batteries and keep some alkaline batteries in your pack as a backup.
However, the Tikkina is a little heavier than some of our other models at 3.03 ounces but still comfortable. When you factor in the brightness-to-burn time ratio and excellent light dispersion, it’s just a great little light. At a very affordable price!
50:50 Brightness-To-Burn Time Ratio
Contrary to most headlamps, the PETZL maintains 50% of its brightness halfway through its burn time. Whereas, most headlamps only utilize 20-30% of their brightness. This results in a brighter, much more efficient, and reliable performance.
Simple And User Friendly
The PETZL operates with a single button. It’s so simple anyone can use it. With that being said, it doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles.
For example, it doesn’t have a strobe light or red light. Nor does it have a locking feature. It’s just a plain, ole, easy-to-use headlamp, and that’s why we like it.
Additionally, it provides three distinct light levels: proximity, distance, and movement. Simply cycle through your options until you find the one you want.
Fortunately, the first option is the lowest setting and you can work up from there. Whereas most headlamps start in high mode, which can destroy your night vision out of the gate.
Also, it shuts off with a press-and-hold method. So, you don’t have to cycle through all the modes to get to the off position. This is a convenient mechanism that helps preserve your low-light optics.
Great Light Dispersion
Finally, we like the PETZL’s phenomenal light dispersion. It’s brightest in the center and fades around the edges.
Conversely, most headlamps feature an even light dispersion, which can destroy the scotopic vision of those around you. This is secondary to the brighter perimeter lighting. The PETZL alleviates this issue by fading its dispersion.
Pros and Cons of the PETZL Tikkina
PETZL Tikkina PROS
- Budget-friendly
- Hybrid power options
- Great power management
- Rechargeable
- Simple single-button control
- Washable headband
PETZL Tikkina CONS
- No charging port
- No strobe or red light modes
- No locking feature
- A bit heavy at 3.03 oz
Who Will Love The Tikkina ?
Some people just like simple, and this is the best headlamp for those kinds of people. But mostly, we like the PETZL Tikkina for its budget-friendly price. This is a fantastic little headlamp that’s great for the money.
What Makes a Great Headlamp for Hiking?
A great headlamp is one that’s simple to use. When you need to light up the dark, you usually need it now. The last thing you want is to be fidgeting with your headlamp when you can’t see. Equally important, these features are also noteworthy when shopping for headlamps:
- Burn Time: This is a measure of a headlamp’s battery life. A typical headlamp should get you through a few hikes-worth of end-of-day hiking. And it’s super convenient to be able to estimate your needs, based on a headlamp having 125 hours burn time for example. However, if you’re backpacking or night hiking, the longest battery life will be best.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Obviously, you don’t want a giant flashlight hefted upon your forehead. Fortunately, almost all options on the market are extremely lightweight and unnoticeable. Additionally, some lamps are slightly contoured to better fit against your head.
- Rechargeable: If you’re like us, you want to make the smallest footprint. And, rechargeable tech does just that. However, rechargeable headlamps have the added benefit of being able to recharge on a portable charger, whereas rechargeable AAA batteries, for instance, need a wall outlet. Plus, they’re usually lighter weight.
- Functionality: Most headlamps will come with several light settings. So, it’s important to choose one with the functions you’ll desire. For example, low-light setting to conserve battery, blinking option, or a red light to help you navigate by the stars.
- Washable: Yes, some headlamps feature a removeable strap that allows you to machine wash away dirt and sweat after a hard hike.
Regardless of the model you choose, please remember to tell someone where you’re headed if you know you’ll be hiking alone in the dark. And, make sure to have fun!
Journey into the Unknown
Headlamps are an essential tool for any hiker’s journey and should always be on your pack list regardless. Whether intentionally or accidentally, when darkness starts creeping in on the trail, seeing your trail ahead is paramount. Every outdoor adventurer could use a reliable headlamp. But, if you know you’ll encounter darkness or you’re night hiking, you want one with great comfort and helpful features. So, remember to choose a headlamp that meets all the criteria we mentioned above.
However, not all headlamps are created equal. If you’re looking to experience the thrill of hiking in the dark, a quality headlamp is a must-have. From simple to red light savvy or CRI capable, we’ve given you the best of the best. Try one on your next night-friendly excursion and see what a difference a quality headlamp can make.
Title Image Credit, 7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark: Andrew Otto | (source) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0) –reduced file size
Image Credit 1, 7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark: Abir Anwar | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size
Image Credit 2, 7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark: stillwellmike | (source) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0) –reduced file size
Image Credit 3, 7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark: Pierce Martin| (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size
7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark, Image Credit 4: Bureau of Land Management | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size
7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark, Image Credit 5: Oskar Karlin | (source) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0) –reduced file size
Image Credit 6, 7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark: Zach Dischner | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size
Image Credit 7, 7 Headlamps Perfect for Hiking in the Dark: anjanettew | (source) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0) –reduced file size