innofox Running Light, 2Pack Reflective Safety-Light for Runners, Rechargeable LED Light, Clip On Running Lights with Runners and Joggers for Camping, Hiking, Running, Outdoor Adventure (Cool Black)

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You may need more if you’re running when it’s super dark and not well lit, other times you may simply being trying to ensure that others can see you. There are many factors you have to consider before choosing the type of running lights you’ll use for your daily run, and we have highlighted a few below. Like I mentioned, you may find that it may take a combination of items to both light up your path and make you more visible. Please do remember though to never assume a driver can see or has seen you. Err on the side of caution, always.

This was a favorite of my Ragnar teammates. Because of the strap, they just loved the way they sat on their hands and provided light with each step. But what else can you do to increase visibility, both for you and for those who need to watch out for you? What running lights do the best job? With an IPX4 rating, these running lights were built to withstand different weather conditions like snow, rain, and ice.

This one from Amphipod is a great option and at REI you have a superior return policy if you test and decide it’s not for you. If you’re primarily concerned with making sure others can see you, select an option that can clip on or otherwise secure easily to your clothing, as these lights are most likely to stay in place and provide a better picture to other road users of where you’re standing. A reflective running vest is one of the most versatile items because you can wear it over all types of clothing and in various weather conditions. Steve Stonehouse, USATF certified running coachand director of education for STRIDE, an indoor running studio franchise These shoe running lights allow you to see the running path in front of you by just clipping them to your shoes as they light up to 33 feet from you. They are lightweight, an easy fit, and can work for you even in the worst weather conditions. With the smart motion sensor switch on this running light, you can activate the sensor mode that enables the lights to be switched off by hand motions.

Collectively, 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. Look for lights that are easy to securely attach to a body part or clothing or are comfortable to hold. A good battery life is also important because you don’t want to constantly recharge or worry about your light shutting off in the middle of a run. Ben Delaney, RRCA-certified running coach, and director of training programs and operations at New York Road Runners If you prefer to run in the early morning or late at night, an effective running light is an essential piece of gear. Not only can powerful models illuminate the path ahead to help you avoid tripping hazards, running lights also alert drivers, pedestrians, and other runners to your presence. And proper running lights sit snugly on your body or your gear as you stride. Ideally, you won’t have to fuss with them during your workout.For example, waist lights can be better for trail runners since they can provide better depth perception and make hidden debris and obstacles more visible on a road. They cast a lower beam to the ground so you can see more clearly shadows on the ground and what's in front of you meters away. "Waist lights are new, but [they're] really interesting as they offer better visibility to upcoming obstacles in the trail," says long-time runner, explorer, and podcast host of Chase the Summit, Dave Dillon. Headlamps: Headlamps are worn on the head, providing a hands-free lighting solution. They are ideal for runners who want to see the path ahead while keeping their hands free for balance or carrying items. Headlamps come in various brightness levels and beam angles, allowing you to adjust the illumination according to your needs. Staying safe while running in the dark is about two things—being able to see, and being seen,” says RRCA-certified running coach Heather Jergensen. “If we want to be seen, then the brighter, the better." This is another one I got 4 or 5 years ago that I really like. Maybe because we all hate carrying things or adding more layers, it’s easier to just having something on our shoes. Battery life is another important feature you need to consider, and you need to ensure the running lights come with lithium batteries as they are more durable than other batteries. Most running lights are rechargeable and you can charge the battery using a USB cable. But, running lights with rechargeable batteries are known to have shorter run times than battery-powered running lights so if you are running longer distances, it’s best to choose the latter.