With winter coming I'm thining of getting a headlamp just in case I stay on the trail a hair longer than planned during an eve run. I know dh isn't going to be keen on me getting a $$$ headlamp. I need suggestions for good headlamps that won't cost too much, something under $50 preferably.

I'm quite happy with my Petzls.

 

Tikka Plus 2

Tikka XP 2

 

My Plus 2 is still running on the original batteries (from last Fall) - has gotten me through a bunch of winter mornings, night runs, and several odd hours during ultras.

I use the XP 2 for long nights at ultras.

 

Running Warehouse, with the CP15 15% discount & free shipping makes for some pretty attractive pricing.

 

BTW - this is going to sound wrong, but I wear my headlamp (and headlights ) around my chest. I don't like stuff on my head and don't want headlamp hair. Also, wearing the light a bit lower provides a bit more shadow contrast so tripping obstacles are a bit easier to distinguish.

 That is a great tip about wearing it on your chest! (it's not like there is much occupying that space anyway) I like to wear my visor or hat even when it isn't sunny so that would fix that issue.

 

BTW - this is going to sound wrong, but I wear my headlamp (and headlights ) around my chest. I don't like stuff on my head and don't want headlamp hair. Also, wearing the light a bit lower provides a bit more shadow contrast so tripping obstacles are a bit easier to distinguish.

I usually go with the headlamp on the head w/o much trouble, but when it's foggy that just blinds you, and in snow or rain it sometimes doesn't provide enough contrast.

In those cases, I'll go with one on the head and one on the waist. (I haven't got a convenient place to rest the headlamp on my chest without it sliding down.)