The best running head torches 2024: Light your route and stay visible

In our view, running gear should strip away any excess and only leave what is necessary – it appears that PETZL feels similarly, as the Bindi is all features, no frills. The head strap is an elasticated string with a single toggle for adjustment that can be used with one hand. The light has three-lumen modes – six, 100 and 200 – and a red light mode. On the lowest setting, you can get 50 hours of burn time, but 100 and 200 give two and three hours, respectively, which is plenty for those running at sunrise or sunset. The unit charges via a micro-USB connection, and it is IPX4-rated, so it holds up against showers and sweat.

Our Digital Editor, William Austin-Lobley, has one. Here's what he thinks: "I run first thing in the morning and always wear glasses and a cap. This fits perfectly on my forehead between the cap peak and the glasses frame, with a beam I can angle onto the road. The strap feels odd at first, but you soon forget about it."

"I like that it's really quick to adjust, so as the sun rises, I can slip the Bindi off without stopping, and it slips into my running jacket pocket – again, it's so lightweight that it doesn't feel uncomfortable in the pocket. I would have liked total waterproofing, but my cap keeps heavy rain off, so it's not a major flaw."

Popular with hikers, trail runners, and ultramarathoners, the Iko Core is a bit different from the more traditional 'one headband, one light' systems. It has a cage-like rigging that sits around the head and uses suspension strings to hold it in place, with a low-profile lamp on the forehead and the battery pack on the back of the head. This configuration, called 'offset', offers a balanced, secure and comfortable fit despite its heavier weight of 79g. The Iko Core is compatible with the rechargeable PETZL CORE battery (included) and three AAA batteries. So, you can carry some spares in case of emergency.

The Iko Core is excellent for trail and late-night runners away from the glow of city streets. It has three lumens modes with different burn times – six (100hrs), 100 (8hrs) and 500 (2.5hrs) – with the highest mode giving you visibility over a distance of 350m.

You can also pick between flood and mixed beams, which gives you a wide spread of light, or a wide spread of light with a slightly more focused beam focussing in the centre, helping you pick out a path without compromising your read of the surroundings.

Note: The full 500 lumens are only available with CORE battery pack. If you switch to AAA, it reduces to 350 lumens.

Possibly the best waterproof head torch for running ever designed, the Black Diamond Spot 400 is made for the serious runner set on venturing out to get their sprint on in even the most miserable of dark weather.

Packed with features, amazing battery-saving technology, and being lightweight and comfortable, the Black Diamond Spot 400 is mighty; there's no denying it. Tough as nails and brilliantly bright with up to 400 lumens of maximum brightness, this is one of the definitive camping gadgets of the year and is ideal for runners.

The Black Diamond Flare is like the PETZL Bindi but with an even starker interpretation of simplicity. A single strap holds the small (and fully waterproof) 40-lumen lamp in place, powered by two CR2032 batteries. On low, you’ll get 18 hours of light; on high, around five, there’s also a red light and SOS mode. This latter feature, and the titular use of Flare, lets you in on the best application for this headlight: as an emergency backup.

Its relatively short and non-rechargeable battery life makes it an inconvenient choice for daily use. However, for trail runners, ultra runners and walkers in the wilds, this could get you out of a scrape.

Solid and well-made, the Silva Explore 4 Headlamp is ideal for those looking for a sturdy head torch that'll endure your strict early morning running routine in its stride, and have plenty of power left over for the return journey.

Equipped with a tough elastic band that ensures the Silva Explore 4 stays on your noggin', without becoming remotely uncomfortable, the Silva Explore 4 feels quality and doesn't disappoint in its lighting capabilities either.

Beautifully weighted and incredibly powerful, the Ledlenser NEO5R is great for the morning jog thanks to its adjustable design and comfortability.

Ideal for those who'd rather not rely on batteries to light their way, the Ledlenser NEO5R has a magnetic charging design, making charging easy and less likely to become damaged after prolonged use.

If you weren't convinced of its quality already, the Ledlenser NEO5R has a whopping seven-year warranty, so whatever happens when you're running or camping, you won't be without your trusty head torch.

This headlamp dazzles with a 500-lumen dimmable spotlight, secondary flood LED, and RGB modes for enhanced night vision and map reading. Its standout 'PowerTap' feature lets users swiftly toggle to maximum brightness with a tap, ideal for running in the dark. Despite its array of functionalities, including a lock button and battery indicator, the Storm 500-R remains lightweight and comfortable, thanks to its low-profile, recycled fabric headband.

Plus, it boasts a high-capacity lithium battery with impressive longevity and rechargeable via micro-USB, though its two-button operation and fixed battery design slightly limit its adaptability compared to hybrid models.

With its peak brightness of 1500 lumens in 'Reactive' mode, which intelligently adjusts its intensity, the Petzl NAO RL shines brightly in the world of head torches. Even in standard mode, used predominantly for trail running, it impresses with a robust 900 lumens, offering around two hours of illumination.

Its versatility extends with additional, less intense settings that prolong battery life, a boon for extended outdoor activities. Plus, comfort is a standout feature; it's designed to avoid any bounce or front heaviness, ensuring ease and stability during long runs or hikes, with easy on-the-go adjustments.