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Running in the dark without a light is a recipe for disaster. An affordable and effective running light is an investment that’s almost certain to pay off.
Whether you enjoy running in the early morning or are a nighttime runner in need of gear, it is essential that you wear some kind of running light or reflective running apparel. These tools can alert those around you—especially those who aren’t paying attention—of your presence, and more powerful models can light your path to keep you from tripping or falling over any obstacles. Regardless of which running light you go with, you should also pair your light with additional reflective gear and strive for visibility from any angle.
For runners who prefer the traditional running headlamp, we've included a few options in this round up, but you'll want to take a look at our deep-dive and test of the best headlamps for runners.
The first thing to consider is whether you’re looking for a light to help you see, to help others see you, or both.
If you’re primarily concerned with making sure others can see you, go with an option that can clip or secure easily to your clothing. These LED lights usually offer several different settings, like a flashing or strobe mode, and are more set-it-and-forget-it type lights. These products, however, won’t provide the illumination that more powerful headlamps and dedicated flashlights do.
If you want to make sure you have maximum control over your light, like situations where you might need to see what’s going on around you, and not just in front of you, go with a directional light like a headlamp or handheld torch. Or, if you want a front-facing beam with more of a hassle-free operation, go with a chest-mounted option, like the Zenoplige Night.
For running in rainy weather, or if you just sweat a lot, make sure the running light you're choosing is water-resistant.
Overall light output is another thing to consider. This output is measured in lumens, and indicates how bright your light will be, as well how far ahead it will be visible. If you’re primarily concerned with others easily seeing you in the darkness, we recommend going with an option that has as high a lumen count as possible. Even better, go with one that has several different lumen levels to choose from.
We’ve been running for decades, and frequently head out before the sun rises or has already set. We recognize the importance of visibility for runners, and have experience with a variety of lights and reflectors. We’ve used this insight—as well as extensive online research—to put together this list of options. You'll find options only from brands that are reliable and popular, and we also made sure to include a variety of models that are designed to provide maximum visibility for runners themselves, as well as those that are more effective at making sure you’re visible to other runners, pedestrians, or drivers.
This heavy-duty headlamp has been personally tested by the Runner’s World team, who cited its high lumen output and extra-long battery life when declaring it the best option for ultrarunners. While typical running lights wouldn’t be able to last long enough for a single ultra, this lamp can provide you with up to 175 hours of light on its low setting, or 8 hours on high, without needing a battery charge. It’s also well-suited to rugged adventures, thanks to an $11 1-year protection policy, an option not always found on running lights. It’s not the lightest model though, and the AA battery pack results in a relatively heavy 10.6 ounce weight.
This high-powered light mounts to your chest, and its secure strap system makes it appealing to those who want to avoid less comfortable head or arm mounted options. Most importantly, it also features a red warning light on the rear of the unit, so anyone behind you will be aware of your presence. The adjustable beam can be tilted up to 20 degrees, and is powerful enough to illuminate the ground up to 30 meters in front of you.
Despite all these features and components, this light weighs just 5.6 ounces, making it comfortable to wear and less likely to affect your overall running times.
Here is another headlamp recommendation from the Runner's World editors. It’s certainly not the cheapest option out there, but if you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable headlamp, this is probably your best bet. We know how frustrating bulky and heavy headlamps can be, which is why this ultra-lightweight light made our list.
It weighs just 2.8 ounces, and unlike similar models that have thick fabric headbands, uses a flexible plastic frame to give it a snug fit around your head. It also uses a single button to access all of its functions, which makes it easy to operate quickly, and without having to remember which button does what.
These clip-on lights are perfect for runners who want to stay safe at night or early morning, but who don’t want to deal with the straps and buckles of bulkier lights. You simply clip them to your armband, waistband, or pocket and you’re all set to go. They’re powered on by a single button that allows you to scroll through 3 settings, including a strobe function for extra visibility. The included batteries are good for up to 100 hours of use, and with an IPX4 rating, should stand up well to rainy or wet conditions.
Running in the dark can be dangerous, but this handheld flashlight—and integrated safety whistle—should provide a bit more security to your runs. This 120-decibel whistle is built into the handle of the light, which makes it easy to access when you need it, and the adjustable strap allows you to wear it on either hand.
Its 200-lumen output isn’t the highest, but the angled design of the light should help to effectively illuminate the path directly ahead of you. At just 4.2 ounces, it’s light enough to not affect your stride too much.
If you’re planning on running close to auto traffic, you may want to consider a light specifically designed for roadside training. This Nathan headlamp automatically senses oncoming headlights and immediately goes into strobe mode, making you extra visible to motorists. This sensor also allows for hands-free operation, and by simply waving your hand you can adjust its beam through five light modes.
The IPX4 rating means that it won’t be affected during rainy runs, and the USB charging port allows you to charge it from a range of devices. The reflective headband also helps you to be seen by cars approaching behind you as well.
These slap-style bands don’t have any straps or buckles to adjust or tighten—you just slap them on your wrist, arm, or ankle and you’re all set. They feature three light modes: full, slow flash, and fast flash, and are powered by a replaceable watch battery.
Their full-length LEDs also provide 360-degree visibility to anyone around you, unlike other types that are only visible to those in front or behind.
We weren’t able to locate any info on their water-resistance capabilities, though, so if you plan on running in the rain, you may want to consider a different option.
This LED light wraps around your waist like a belt, and thanks to a single buckle, is simple to snap on as you head out the door. We’re most impressed by the fact that its rechargeable battery is detachable, which eliminates the need to regularly purchase new disposable batteries.
Its two light modes—slow flash and steady glow—can be easily turned on with the single power button, and you can choose between five different colors. The main drawback to this light is the fact that it doesn’t offer 360 degrees of visibility, so you have to choose whether you want it facing forwards or back.
The high 180-lumen output of this clip-on light means it's useful for making you visible to others as well as illuminating what’s in front of you.
It’s small enough to easily clip onto your waistband chest strap, or back of a hat without feeling too bulky, and at just 1.8 ounces, is light enough to not weigh you down. It's also simple to charge with its included USB cable, and will hold its charge from 1.5 to 8 hours, depending on the brightness setting you choose.
Its IPX4 waterproof rating makes this a great option for using in rainy climates.