But, there are ways to combat dark-run dangers. The latest nighttime running gear is brighter than ever, durable and will last for hours. We rounded up some flashy things that can make you more visible and light the road ahead.
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The Best and Brightest Gear to Light Up Your Nighttime Runs
Written by
Megan Harrington
For runners, the lack of daylight in the fall and winter months can prove challenging. Pre-sunrise or post-sunset runs can feel daunting—and for good reason. A study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that most pedestrian fatalities occur between dusk and dawn. If you run anywhere but a treadmill, that's a scary statistic.
But, there are ways to combat dark-run dangers. The latest nighttime running gear is brighter than ever, durable and will last for hours. We rounded up some flashy things that can make you more visible and light the road ahead.
But, there are ways to combat dark-run dangers. The latest nighttime running gear is brighter than ever, durable and will last for hours. We rounded up some flashy things that can make you more visible and light the road ahead.
Run Lights Gloves
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For when it's dark and cold, you can't beat the convenience of light-up gloves. Rechargeable LED lights are built in to the top of each of these gloves, and as your arms swing, you'll light up the ground in front of you while alerting oncoming traffic. They even feature a pocket on the palm for storing keys and cash.
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Your Next RaceNight Runner 270 Shoe Lights
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These ultra-bright lights (150 lumens!) attach to your shoelaces and will illuminate up to 30 feet in front of you. They provide 270 degrees of visibility in the front, as well as two red taillights aimed behind you. When the battery is fully charged, these 1.5-oz shoe lights provide three to five hours of illumination, which should be long enough for even the most hardcore runners. And they're water resistant, so you won't have to worry about bad weather slowing you down.
Tracer 360 Running Vest
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The adjustable Tracer 360 running vest weighs just seven ounces, so it's perfect for any temperature. And, with 360-degree visibility, drivers and other pedestrians will be able to spot you well in advance. This waterproof vest comes in six colors, and runners can choose between flashing and steady light modes. It uses AAA batteries and has a 40-hour battery life, which means it will be ready to go when you are.
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Your Next RacePetzl Actik Core Headlamp
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The Actik Core headlamp provides 350 lumens of light power, as well as a red beam that helps with night vision. Unlike other headlamps, the red light won't blind fellow runners or motorists. You can use standard batteries or juice up the included rechargeable battery via USB port, and the adjustable strap keeps bounce to a minimum.
Scosche LitFit Smartphone Armband Case
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If you're running with your phone—and you probably should do so in the darker hours—then why not use its carrier to add some extra light? This LitFit Armband case holds your phone securely in place and has a pocket for keys, holes for earbud connections and built-in LED to help you stay visible. The Neoprene body is lightweight and sweat and water resistant, and it's adjustable for most arm sizes.
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Your Next RacePhilips Wake-up Light
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If the hardest part about morning runs is getting out of bed, sleepy runners will love this high-tech alarm clock. Long gone are the days of blaring beeps; this bedside lamp will help you wake up naturally with a combination of light and sound. With a gentle wake-up, those early miles might feel a little easier!