A head torch is a running accessory you’ll always be thankful for. They never tend to be top of the list like fitness trackers, running shoes, or earbuds. But a torch is important, especially if you’re an early morning or late night runner. Not only will it allow you to see where you’re going and swerve any unexpected obstacles, but it can also help keep you safe on the road by making you more visible to passing drivers. But it’s a saturated market, so how do you know which one to buy? I’ve tested some of the best head torches available and whittled them down into a list of my favourites below, rating them on various factors so you can find the right one for you.
Those that made the final cut had to tick several boxes. Firstly: brightness. You need to be able to see clearly in the dark over a decent distance, but you don’t want to be blinding others you’re running with. Lights with less than 300 lumens are more than enough for urban areas, whereas 300-plus is more suited to countryside adventures and trails. Each head torch offers a different beam distance too – some will light your path up to 100m in front of you, which can be handy in the middle of nowhere but is likely to annoy other pavement users if you’re running in busy environments.
