Night Time Running

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When running from dusk to night time it's a good idea to make sure that you are easily seen by motorists and pedestrians alike by wearing some Hi Viz clothing which is reflective as well as a bright colour if possible, so that cars headlights can see you from a distance. There are lots of different types available from waistcoats to jackets etc. A vast range are found at lots of running shops.

Running Vest

Vest with wrist straps

Running jacket

The example here is from Proviz, which can be expensive, but they often sell seconds at a reasonable price. Or you can find alternatives that are cheaper.

Some form of torch is also important. Generally, some are made to be seen, i.e. they won’t necessarily light up the path for you but for you to be visible, such as body torches. Others will be to light up the path for you in areas where there is limited lighting and to ensure that you don’t trip on uneven surfaces, i.e. head torches. Chest torches can include a reflective Hi Viz element too, saving buying the torch & reflective element separately.

With both types, you are looking for rechargeable batteries and the brightness of the torch element.

• Brightness of torch - you need to get one that is around 200 lumens, but for trails around 300 lumens is good. Some come with different settings to make it gradually brighter and some will also have a red reflector light on the back.
• Range – lots of the head torches have the ability to adapt the range of the light. It is best to either ask others what they would recommend and/or try before you buy. Only you will determine whether you want the range to be further up the path or nearer to you, e.g. highlighting where your next footfall is. Torches will often have the ability to move the angle of the beam to suit.
• Comfort – head torches come in different weights & fits. Another reason to try before you buy as they can be uncomfortable when running if too heavy/not a good fit.
• Battery life – whilst some use AA/AAA batteries, there are more cost-effective ones that use USB connections. Obviously the brighter you use the torch, the quicker the battery will drain.
• Sample brands of head torches include Petzl, Aplkit and Black Diamond