Night Running (Read 837 times)

Hey All, I have been around for a little while, but this is my first post. Anyways I had a question about running in the dark/dusk. When I get up for work it is completely black outside and when I come home from work it is also completely black outside (you have to love winter). Anyways, I have just been running in the dark while wearing as light of clothes as possible so cars have a chance of seeing me. I live in the country so it is two miles to town where I do the majority of my running, but I still have to do the two miles where there are no lights. Anyways, I was just curious if anyone has tried or uses a head lamp, such as the following: http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47967796&parent_category_rn=4500596 I was just curious if you think it would be a good idea to purchase something like this. Right now I run on the left side of the road and when a car is coming I jump into the grass if I feel unsafe, but lately I think this "rough" pattern is affecting my legs because my legs are starting to hurt. Well, that's my story/question. Any thoughts? Thanks

I guess it depends on what you want from the light. Are you wanting to be more visable to oncoming traffic, or to see better? If visibility is the key, I would go for the reflective vest like Geoff said. If you want visibility, I actually prefer a handheld light. I use this a lot when running where there is traffic ... http://www.princetontec.com/products/index.php?id=21&type=3&use=0 This puts out a good light for seeing what is in front of you, and because it is LED, will run on one set of batteries for about 70 hours. The handheld is also good because you can flash an oncoming driver to make sure they see you. I notice a considerable difference when I have the light versus not having it (but of course, I don't have a reflective vest). Also, if you are going for being able to see what's in front of you, the handheld will give you better shadow definition of obstacles than will a headlamp (due to the angle). Good luck, Lynn B

Thanks for the input. I want the light to see and be seen so simply reflective gear is out. Since I am running on "country-ish" roads the texture of the road can change from day-to-day so I think being able to see would definately improve my run. I agree with Pron8r that I don't think I would like to carry anything in my hand while running. I cannot even stand to have gloves on unless I absolutely have to due to weather. I think I will go with the head lamp. I guess I will do a little research on weight, battery life, durability, and whatever else I can come up with. Thank for the input

Thanks for the input. I want the light to see and be seen so simply reflective gear is out. Since I am running on "country-ish" roads the texture of the road can change from day-to-day so I think being able to see would definately improve my run. I agree with Pron8r that I don't think I would like to carry anything in my hand while running. I cannot even stand to have gloves on unless I absolutely have to due to weather. I think I will go with the head lamp. I guess I will do a little research on weight, battery life, durability, and whatever else I can come up with. Thank for the input

Headlight, got it... I have this one and it gives me flexibility, my favorite headlamp... http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/gear/spot.php Good luck, Lynn B