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During the winter months, those of us who work in the daytime have to exercise in the dark, when we might not be able to see obstacles and drivers and cyclists might not see us. That’s why it’s important to wear the best head torch you can afford. Head torches can help keep you and those around you safe as you run or hike in low light conditions. But, from Petzl to Ledlenser, from battery-powered to rechargeable, the choices can seem baffling for the consumer.
I’ve been an ardent runner for over 20 years, taking part in three marathons, many dozens of half marathons and over 100 parkruns. I’ve also explored the risks of running in my books Running: Cheaper Than Therapy and The Runner’s Code. Having face-planted many a time, I know the dangers of a dash in the dark.
So these past few months, I’ve been putting the most popular head torches through their paces. You can read my full reviews further down this article, along with my answers to frequently-asked questions about the width and strength of head torch beams, how long the batteries last and what they weigh. If you’re in a rush, here’s a quick look at my top five:
Which are the best head torches in 2024? At a glance
What to look for in a head torch
As with the best bike lights, the key things to look out for are the brightness (measured in lumens – 300 should be good enough for all but the most adventurous of activities), beam distance (ideally adjustable), a long battery life (essential), weight (the lighter the better), and ease of use (not too fiddly, especially when its cold).
Extra features such as red light night vision (less likely to scare off wildlife, or blind other members of your group), a dimmer function, a smart memory, a secure fit, and a tilt function for flexible beam focus are also worth considering.
And then there’s the weather-proofing. Head torches are given ratings depending on their ability to withstand water, so IPX4 means splashproof (should be fine for walking or running), IPX6 means it can take a blast of water (should be fine for paddleboarding) and IPX8 can be submerged (should be fine for paddleboarding that goes wrong).
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