Best Headlamp for Trail Running: 15 Top Picks (UK 2025)

Running after dark should feel confident, not tentative. The right headlamp lets you read texture, spot roots, and hold pace; the wrong one throws harsh shadows, wobbles on descents, or dies miles from a trailhead. Add cold-weather battery fade, rain, mist, and the sheer number of options — lumens, beam pattern, tint, burn time, weight, strap design, charging type — and choosing can be harder than the run itself. As a rule of thumb, most UK trails feel best at 300–600 lumens with a stable, mixed beam; long nights and fast technical ground often demand more, plus good weight balance and a strap that won’t give you a headache.

This guide rounds up the 15 best trail-running headlamps available in the UK for 2025 — from do‑everything daily drivers to ultra‑bright mountain lights, value picks under £50, and featherweight backups. For each model you’ll get: why we rate it, the key specs (lumens, weight, battery and IP rating), what it’s best for, the trade‑offs to know, and current UK pricing with places to buy. Whether you’re chasing winter base miles, commuting pre‑dawn, or banking an all‑night ultra, you’ll be able to pick the right lamp in minutes and head out with confidence.

1. Take a Hike UK pick: Petzl Actik Core - best overall

If you want one lamp to cover most UK trail runs, the Petzl Actik Core hits the sweet spot of brightness, comfort and value. It pairs a clean mixed beam with a practical hybrid battery system, so you can run the included Core rechargeable day‑to‑day and drop in 3×AAA cells as a backup for races or travel. It’s widely praised as a best headlamp for trail running all‑rounder rather than a niche ultralight or a heavyweight blaster.

Why we rate it

The Actik Core delivers up to 600 lumens with both spot and flood beams plus a red light for preserving night vision. Reviewers highlight the reflective, washable headband and even a built‑in whistle — small touches that matter on dark lanes and misty moorland. Weight stays reasonable, and the beam pattern feels natural underfoot on typical UK singletrack, so you can keep cadence without over‑lighting every step.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 600 lumens (multiple modes)
• Weight: 88 g (claimed)
• Battery: Petzl Core rechargeable or 3×AAA (hybrid)
• Burn time: Up to 160 hours (low mode, claimed)
• Beam: Spot + flood, plus red light
• IP rating: Not stated on our source; designed for outdoor use

Best for

• Everyday trail runs (60–180 minutes): Balanced brightness without bulk.
• Mixed road‑to‑trail commutes: Red light and reflective band boost roadside visibility.
• Travel and races with battery rules: Hybrid power means easy AAA fallbacks.

Trade-offs to know

• High mode drains quicker: The brightest setting will shorten runtime noticeably, so use it tactically on technical sections.
• Not a reactive light: If you want auto‑dimming/reactive tech, look to Petzl Swift RL or Nao RL.
• Beam throw vs. big guns: It won’t punch as far as 1,000–1,500‑lumen mountain lamps.

UK price and where to buy

Expect around £60 in the UK (pricing seen on major retailers). It’s commonly stocked by national outdoor chains and general retailers, including large marketplaces and specialist running stores. If you’re choosing between sizes or bundles, prioritise the version that includes the Core battery — it delivers the best value and flexibility long term.

2. Petzl Nao RL - best for ultrarunning and all-night efforts

When your plan includes dusk‑to‑dawn, the Petzl Nao RL is the confidence play. It pairs high output with Petzl’s Reactive Lighting so you get more light when you need it and battery savings when you don’t, plus a rear red safety light for road sections and aid‑station bustle. It’s the pick many experienced trail runners reach for when “don’t run out of light” is the brief.

Why we rate it

Reactive Lighting genuinely helps over long nights by auto‑adapting to ambient light and your focus point, stretching runtime without micromanaging modes. The beam is powerful yet usable on real trails, and one battery can see you through the night at sensible settings. The rear red light (solid or strobe) and reflective band add welcome visibility around traffic and other runners.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 1,500 lumens (Reactive and standard modes)
• Weight: 145 g (actual measured ~146 g reported)
• Battery: 3,200 mAh lithium‑ion rechargeable (USB), field‑swappable
• Beam distance: Up to 200 m (claimed)
• Rear light: Red (solid or strobe), independently controlled
• IP rating: IPX4 (weather resistant)

Best for

• All‑night ultras and winter long runs: Reliable burn times with smart auto‑dimming.
• Mountain races and technical descents: Strong throw with a stable beam pattern.
• Mixed road‑to‑trail: Built‑in rear red light improves situational safety.

Trade-offs to know

• Comfort can be finicky: Not everyone loves the fit; some runners prefer a cap or buff under it, especially with ponytails.
• Pricey and not the lightest: Heavier and costlier than daily drivers, though justified for overnight performance.
• Reactive isn’t for everyone: A few runners prefer manual control only; you can switch to standard mode if desired.

UK price and where to buy

Expect around £135 at major UK outdoor retailers (price seen at the time of writing), with broad availability across specialist stores and large online marketplaces. If you’re eyeing a best headlamp for trail running specifically for ultras, prioritise a bundle that includes the 3,200 mAh battery and consider carrying a charged spare for race peace of mind.

3. Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 - best battery life for the weight

If you want big‑night confidence without lugging a brick, the Fenix HM65R‑T V2.0 is a standout. It blends high output with excellent endurance from a 3,400 mAh 18650 cell, plus a comfy, micro‑adjust dial strap that stays put when you’re pushing the pace. For many runners this is the best headlamp for trail running when battery life is the top priority.

Why we rate it

Fenix’s latest “T” update adds a larger battery and a dial‑adjust headband that’s quick to fine‑tune mid‑run. You get both warm and white LEDs, which helps reduce eye fatigue through the small hours. Real‑world testers report it can run an entire night brightly or two nights at moderate settings, so you spend less time fiddling with battery changes and more time moving well.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 1,600 lumens (multiple modes)
• Weight: 140 g (actual)
• Battery: 3,400 mAh 18650 Li‑ion (included) or 2× CR123A (compatible)
• Light tint: Warm + white LED options
• Design: Front‑mounted light and battery; dial‑adjust headband
• IP rating: Not specified in our sources

Best for

• Overnighters and winter base miles: Outstanding run time for the mass.
• Runners sensitive to harsh light: Warm tint option is gentler on tired eyes.
• Cold conditions: CR123A compatibility is a useful fallback in low temps.

Trade-offs to know

• Front‑heavy feel: Both light and battery sit up front; a buff or beanie adds comfort on all‑nighters.
• No separate flood/spot controls: Beam options are simpler than some rivals.
• Not the cheapest: You’re paying for battery depth and output rather than ultra‑minimal weight.

UK price and where to buy

US pricing is listed at around $137 in our sources; UK pricing varies by retailer. It’s widely available from UK outdoor and lighting specialists as well as major online marketplaces. Look for the package that includes the 3,400 mAh 18650 cell; it offers the best value and the endurance this lamp is known for.

4. Black Diamond Distance 1500 - brightest with quick-swap battery

For runners who want maximum punch with minimum faff, the Black Diamond Distance 1500 combines a searing beam with a magnetic quick‑swap battery pack you can change in seconds. It’s one of the brightest options here, yet practical on real trails thanks to long‑lasting lower modes and a smart “boost” burst when you need to scan farther down the path.

Why we rate it

The Distance 1500’s party trick is its magnetic battery pack: when power dips, you snap in a fresh pack and get moving again — a huge stress reducer during night sections. Testers also praise the over‑the‑head strap for stability and the 10‑second 1,500‑lumen boost that helps identify obstacles or trail markers without running full blast all the time. In day‑to‑day use, the 300‑lumen setting delivers genuinely useful endurance for most evening runs.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 1,500 lumens with 10‑second Boost
• Common mode: 300 lumens (tested up to ~6–8 hours)
• Runtime (manufacturer): ~100 minutes on high, up to ~40 hours on low
• Weight: 212 g (with battery)
• Battery: Rechargeable, magnetic quick‑swap pack
• Harness: Over‑the‑head strap for stability
• IP rating: Not specified in our sources

Best for

• Technical night running and mountain races: Huge headroom for speed and scanning features.
• Overnighters with planned pit‑stops: Quick battery changes keep you on schedule.
• Runners who prefer steady moderate output: Strong lower modes reduce eye fatigue and extend burn time.

Trade-offs to know

• Heavier than most running headlamps: At ~212 g it’s noticeable on longer efforts.
• Some bounce vs. ultralights: The top strap helps, but fit still matters at speed.
• Premium pricing and extra battery budgeting: Brightness and swappable power come at a cost.

UK price and where to buy

Pricing varies by retailer and sits at the premium end. It’s widely available through major UK outdoor specialists and large online marketplaces. Tip: consider purchasing an additional magnetic battery pack if you’re targeting a full overnight or want redundancy for races.

5. Petzl Swift RL - most compact high-output reactive light

If you love the intelligence of Petzl’s Reactive Lighting but want a smaller, simpler package than the Nao RL, the Swift RL is the neat, fast option. It’s a true pocket rocket: plenty of punch for UK trails, a clean, usable beam, and auto‑adjusting brightness so you don’t have to micromanage modes when you’re working hard in the dark.

Why we rate it

The Swift RL pushes serious output for its size, with the latest “USBC1100” version delivering up to 1,100 lumens and convenient USB‑C charging. Reactive Lighting automatically boosts or dims according to ambient light and where you’re looking, helping preserve battery life on rolling ground and fire roads while giving you instant brightness for roots, steps and rock gardens. It’s a strong pick as a best headlamp for trail running when you want high performance without a bulky battery pack.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 1,100 lumens (current USB‑C version)
• Weight: Not specified in our sources; notably compact for its output class
• Battery: Rechargeable Petzl pack; USB‑C charging
• Beam: Reactive Lighting plus standard modes
• IP rating: Not specified in our sources (built for outdoor use)

Best for

• Fast 60–180 minute trail sessions: Big light, small package.
• Road‑to‑trail commutes: Reactive dimming reduces glare on pavements, then ramps up on paths.
• Travel and race kits: Minimal bulk in a vest or drop bag.

Trade-offs to know

• Shorter peak burn vs. larger ultras lights: The compact battery can’t match all‑night monsters at high output.
• No integrated rear red light: If you want back visibility, pair it with a clip‑on or waist light.
• Premium for the size: You’re paying for smart tech and output in a small form factor.

UK price and where to buy

Expect premium‑tier pricing that varies by retailer; look for the current “Swift RL 1100” USB‑C model. It’s widely stocked across major UK outdoor specialists and large online marketplaces. If you regularly run beyond two hours, consider carrying a lightweight backup lamp to complement the Swift on longer nights.

6. Silva Trail Runner Free 2 Hybrid - best hybrid battery headlamp

If you want the flexibility of USB recharging with the reassurance of AAAs in your drop bag, the Trail Runner Free 2 Hybrid nails the brief. It routes power through the headband for a tidy, bounce‑free fit and ships with an extension lead so you can stash the battery inside a jacket on frosty mornings. On UK trails it throws a sensible, blended beam that reads terrain cleanly without frying your retinas — exactly what most runners need from a best headlamp for trail running, not just a lumen arms race.

Why we rate it

Silva’s “Free” cabling keeps clutter off your temples, and the hybrid pack is genuinely versatile: run the rechargeable for daily miles, then switch to 3×AAA for long events or travel. Testing cited by Runner’s World notes it holds top brightness well for around two hours, and the rear red light (off/on/blink) is a smart safety touch for road links and group runs. Three simple brightness steps keep operation faff‑free when you’re working hard.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 500 lumens (three brightness settings)
• Weight: 113 g
• Battery: Rechargeable hybrid pack or 3×AAA
• Runtime (claimed): ~3 hours (rechargeable) or up to ~25 hours (AAA, low)
• Beam range: ~27–80 m
• Rear light: Red (off/on/blink) via battery‑case switch
• IP rating: Not stated in our sources

Best for

• Road‑to‑trail evenings: Rear red light plus balanced beam for pavements and paths.
• Cold‑weather runs: Extension cable lets you keep the battery warm under layers.
• Racers who want redundancy: Swap to AAAs when charging isn’t convenient.

Trade-offs to know

• No separate flood/spot control: It’s a fixed combined pattern.
• Max mode fades by hour three: Plan to step down or swap power on longer outings.
• Three modes only: Minimalists will love it; tinkerers may want finer control.

UK price and where to buy

Typical UK street pricing sits around £66 with regular promos. It’s widely available from national outdoor retailers and major online marketplaces. If you’re choosing between versions, make sure you’re getting the “Hybrid” battery pack for AAA compatibility — that’s the whole point of this model.

7. Ledlenser NEO5R - best head/chest combo for road-to-trail

If you split miles between pavements and paths, the NEO5R is a brilliant, flexible choice. Wear it on your head for everyday runs or switch to the included chest strap to reduce glare, improve depth perception on wet trails, and keep your beam lower for group etiquette. It stays light and stable, adds a rear red safety light, and keeps controls simple when you’re breathing hard.

Why we rate it

The NEO5R is genuinely adaptable: head or chest in seconds, with a balanced feel and a one‑handed top switch. Real‑world testing notes a sensible “standard” 300‑lumen mode that lasts around four hours, plus a 600‑lumen Boost for quick scans down the trail. The magnetic charging cable is fuss‑free, and the rear battery pack doubles as a red light — ideal on UK lanes.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 600 lumens (Boost), 300 lumens standard
• Runtime (claimed): ~4 h at 300 lm; ~8 h at 100 lm; ~35 h at 20 lm
• Beam range: ~100 m
• Weight: 104 g
• Battery: Rechargeable polymer pack; magnetic charge cable
• Rear light: Integrated red (on/blink)
• Mounting: Headband and included chest strap
• IP rating: IP54 (weather resistant)

Best for

• Road‑to‑trail commutes: Rear red light and chest option boost visibility.
• Group runs and urban paths: Lower chest beam avoids dazzling others.
• Fog, drizzle and wet nights: Chest mount reduces back‑glare and improves contrast.

Trade-offs to know

• Boost is momentary: Treat 600 lm as a burst, not a cruising mode.
• Not an all‑night lamp on high: Standard 300 lm lasts well, but plan power for longer efforts.
• Proprietary charge lead: Keep the magnetic cable handy; it’s not a generic plug.

UK price and where to buy

Typical UK street pricing sits around £60, with RRP and bundles sometimes higher. It’s widely available through national outdoor retailers and major online marketplaces. For the best value, choose the kit that includes the chest strap — that versatile mounting is the NEO5R’s standout advantage among the best headlamp for trail running options.

8. Nitecore UT27 - best budget trail headlamp with warm/white LEDs

The Nitecore UT27 punches well above its price, delivering two tints (warm and white) in a light, trail‑ready package that’s easy to live with. The warm beam is noticeably gentler on tired eyes and misty nights, while the white beam gives you an 800‑lumen turbo for quick scans. It also accepts either the included rechargeable pack or 3×AAA cells, making it a versatile best headlamp for trail running on a budget.

Why we rate it

It’s the rare value lamp that feels designed for runners: stable on the head, a broad field up to about 100°, quick 90° tilt, and idiot‑proof controls. Runtime is solid at realistic trail levels (e.g., 280–500 lm), the battery door glows in the dark for fuss‑free swaps, and a proper lockout stops pocket turn‑ons. The ability to choose warm or white LEDs mid‑run adds genuine comfort and visibility benefits on UK nights.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 800 lm (white turbo); 500 lm (warm/white trail modes)
• Weight: 75 g (2.6 oz)
• Battery: 1,500 mAh Li‑ion rechargeable (included) or 3×AAA
• Runtime (selected): ~3.5 h at 500 lm warm; ~6.5 h at 280 lm warm; ~2.5 h at 800 lm white; ~14.5 h at 100 lm
• Beam: Up to ~168 m on 800‑lm turbo; ~140 m at 500 lm (white)
• Extras: Red light, battery indicator, lock function, 90° tilt, glow‑in‑the‑dark battery compartment
• IP rating: Not stated in our sources

Best for

• Budget‑friendly trail performance: Real trail brightness without premium pricing.
• Cold or long events: Swap to AAA cells if charging isn’t practical.
• Fog, drizzle and eye comfort: Warm LED reduces glare and eye strain.

Trade-offs to know

• Not an all‑night lamp at mid/high: You’ll step down or swap power for full overnighters.
• Turbo is for bursts: Treat 800 lm as a momentary scan, not a cruise setting.
• IP rating unspecified: Weatherworthy in practice, but no formal rating in our sources.

UK price and where to buy

Positioned as a budget model (listed at US $60 in testing sources); UK street pricing varies by retailer and promo. It’s commonly available via major online marketplaces and specialist outdoor/running stores. For best value, choose the bundle with the 1,500 mAh pack and keep a spare set of AAAs in your vest for insurance.

9. Petzl Iko Core - most comfortable and well-balanced

If bounce or pressure points have ever spoiled a night run, the Petzl Iko Core is the antidote. Its semi‑rigid Airfit headband spreads weight around the head, the front panel feels almost weightless, and it still delivers a clean, usable trail beam. It’s the rare lamp that many testers forget they’re wearing — while keeping the hybrid battery flexibility that trail runners value.

Why we rate it

The Iko Core’s comfort is outstanding. Multiple testers highlight zero hot‑spots, minimal bounce and an easy, stable fit that doesn’t need to be cranked tight. The beam offers flood or mixed patterns with intuitive three‑step control, and the middle 100‑lumen mode proves surprisingly effective for most UK singletrack. It folds flat, and the pouch can double as a lantern in camp — a neat bonus for overnighters.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 500 lumens (flood or mixed; three levels)
• Runtime: ~2.5 hours at 500 lm; substantially longer on lower levels (reported)
• Weight: 68 g actual (reported by iRunFar); 79 g measured in UK testing
• Battery: 1,250 mAh Petzl Core rechargeable (included) or 3×AAA
• Design: Semi‑rigid Airfit headband; folds for storage; lantern pouch compatible
• IP rating: IPX4 (weather resistant)

Best for

• Comfort‑first daily trail runs (45–120 minutes): Stable, fatigue‑free fit.
• Road‑to‑trail and travel: Hybrid power (Core or AAA) keeps things simple.
• Packability: Folds flat; handy as a campsite lantern after your run.

Trade-offs to know

• Battery swaps are fiddly: Changing the Core pack mid‑run can be awkward with cold fingers.
• Shorter peak burn: 500 lm lasts about 2.5 hours; plan to run the excellent 100‑lm mode for most miles.
• No rear light and not a lumen monster: If you need an all‑night 1,000+ lm setup, look elsewhere.

UK price and where to buy

US pricing is listed around $105 in testing sources; UK street pricing varies by retailer. It’s widely stocked by national outdoor chains and major online marketplaces. For best value, choose the version that includes the Petzl Core battery — you’ll still be able to drop in AAA cells as a backup for races or travel.

10. Nitecore NU25 UL - best ultralight backup

Every runner should carry a tiny “just‑in‑case” light, and the Nitecore NU25 UL is the one you forget you’re carrying until it saves your night. Thru‑hikers championed it first; trail runners love that it disappears in a vest pocket yet throws enough light to jog home safely if your main lamp dies.

Why we rate it

For its size, the NU25 UL is a powerhouse: up to 400 lumens, a genuinely usable 200‑lumen setting for a couple of hours on easy trails, and dim modes for camp chores. It charges by USB‑C, the reflective headband boosts roadside visibility, and at just 46 g it’s the definition of low‑penalty insurance — a smart addition to any best headlamp for trail running kit list.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 400 lumens
• Weight: 46 g (1.6 oz) actual
• Battery: 650 mAh lithium‑ion rechargeable (built‑in)
• Charging: USB‑C
• Notable: Reflective headband; multiple brightness modes including low utility settings
• IP rating: Not stated in our sources

Best for

• Ultralight backup: Lives in your vest as a mandatory spare for races or long winter runs.
• Short, familiar paths: 200 lumens is fine for a couple of miles on non‑technical ground.
• Camp and car‑park faff: Low modes sip power for post‑run tasks.

Trade-offs to know

• Not a primary for technical trails: Limited runtime at higher outputs; treat it as a backup or short‑run lamp.
• Aesthetic quirks: Looks a touch “toy‑like,” though performance belies that.
• IP rating unspecified: Weatherworthy in practice, but no formal rating in our sources.

UK price and where to buy

Budget‑tier pricing (listed around US $37 in testing sources); UK street prices vary by retailer. Widely available via major online marketplaces and specialist outdoor/running stores — grab the latest NU25 UL USB‑C version for the best experience.

11. BioLite HeadLamp 325 - most comfortable for short runs and commuting

If comfort trumps all, BioLite’s HeadLamp 325 is the one you forget you’re wearing. The ultra‑low‑profile light housing sits flush against the soft band, cutting bounce and pressure points on pavements, canal paths and mellow trails. It’s bright enough for everyday miles and dog walks, and a stellar backup in any best headlamp for trail running kit.

Why we rate it

The integrated front unit virtually eliminates forehead hotspots and strap wobble, so cadence feels natural and relaxed. Testers found the “high” setting lasted about 2 hours 15 minutes in the real world — plenty for after‑work laps — while the lower modes stretch to long commutes. A broad tilt range, red mode, and quick charging add useful day‑to‑day practicality.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 325 lumens
• Weight: 50–51 g (claimed/tested)
• Battery: Built‑in rechargeable (micro‑USB)
• Runtime: Manufacturer claims ~3 h on high and up to ~40 h on low; testers measured ~2 h 15 min on high
• Beam/lighting: White and red, with dim and strobe options; wide tilt adjustment
• IP rating: IPX4 (weather resistant)

Best for

• Short runs and commutes: Comfort and stability for 30–90 minutes.
• Urban paths and park loops: Enough light without blinding oncoming runners.
• Reliable spare: Featherweight backup for longer adventures.

Trade-offs to know

• Not a mountain blaster: 325 lm isn’t for fast, technical descents.
• Micro‑USB charging: Older port; keep the cable handy.
• Durability is light‑duty: Prioritises comfort and weight over tank‑like construction.

UK price and where to buy

Expect around £45 in the UK, with broad availability through major outdoor retailers and large online marketplaces. If you regularly run longer than two hours, pair it with a higher‑output primary lamp and keep the BioLite as your ultra‑comfortable daily driver or insurance light.

12. Decathlon Evadict Ontrail 900 - best under £50 for trails

Proof you don’t need to spend big to get a solid trail light, the Evadict Ontrail 900 delivers a clean, balanced beam, simple controls and credible burn times for less than a takeaway kit order. A rear battery evens out weight, the four‑position dial is glove‑friendly, and the output steps (100/300/900 lm) cover UK paths and bridleways without fuss — a cracking budget best headlamp for trail running.

Why we rate it

The Ontrail 900 keeps things refreshingly simple: twist the dial to pick your brightness and run. Testers have logged an overnight at 100 lumens with no drama, while Decathlon cites 3.5–9 hours (the last hour stepping down to 100 lm). The chunky rear pack includes a four‑LED fuel gauge, and charging is easy via micro‑USB. For the money, the balanced fit and straightforward interface are standouts.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 900 lm (steps: 100 / 300 / 900 lm)
• Weight: 140 g
• Battery: 3,500 mAh rechargeable (micro‑USB)
• Runtime (claimed): 3.5–9 h (final hour at 100 lm)
• Pack features: 4‑LED battery indicator; rear‑mounted for balance
• IP rating: IPX4 (weather resistant)

Best for

• Value‑minded trail runners: A dependable primary light under £50.
• Mixed terrain at sensible pace: 300 lm for most miles; 900 lm for tricky sections.
• Cold, gloved starts: Big, tactile twist dial and rear fuel gauge.

Trade-offs to know

• Micro‑USB, not USB‑C: Keep the right cable in your vest.
• Battery pack is a bit chunky: Comfortable and balanced, but you’ll notice it in hand.
• Step‑down behaviour: Expect a drop to 100 lm late in the battery window.

UK price and where to buy

Typically £49.99 at Decathlon stores and online in the UK. Stock is generally good nationwide; if you train long in winter, consider grabbing a second unit or carrying a lightweight backup for belt‑and‑braces peace of mind.

13. Fenix HL18R-T V2.0 - dial-in fit with long burn times

If you want a stable, fuss‑free lamp that just keeps running, the HL18R‑T V2.0 nails it. The dial‑style (Boa‑style) headband lets you micro‑adjust fit on the move, it’s genuinely easy to swap power mid‑run, and you can choose a gentler warm tint or a brighter white beam to suit conditions. For many UK runners it’s a “set it at medium and go” best headlamp for trail running.

Why we rate it

The strap is a standout: quick to fine‑tune, comfy, and durable in testing. Practical details are spot‑on too — a real lockout, clear battery indicator, and a battery door that’s easy to manage with tired or cold fingers. Performance hits the sweet spot: up to 800 lumens when you need it, and a very useful 6.5 hours at 350 lumens (white). The warm‑light option reduces glare and eye fatigue on misty nights, while hybrid power means you can run the included rechargeable day to day and carry 3×AAA as cheap insurance for long races.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 800 lumens (white)
• Weight: 103 g (claimed)
• Battery: 1,900 mAh Li‑poly rechargeable (included) or 3×AAA
• Runtime (selected): ~6.5 h at 350 lm (white); up to ~160 h on low (claimed)
• Light options: Warm and white LEDs; multiple intensities
• Strap/controls: Dial micro‑adjust headband; lock function; battery indicator
• IP rating: Not stated in our sources

Best for

• 1–3 hour trail runs: Rock‑solid fit and long mid‑mode burn.
• Road‑to‑trail evenings: Warm tint is kinder on eyes and in drizzle.
• Events and travel: Hybrid power with easy field swaps.

Trade-offs to know

• Fit can be head‑shape dependent: Try before race night.
• High modes drain faster: Plan to cruise at 300–350 lm for longevity.
• No reactive lighting: Manual mode management only.

UK price and where to buy

Pricing varies by retailer and typically sits mid‑range. Widely available from UK outdoor and lighting specialists as well as major online marketplaces. Look for the V2.0 package with the 1,900 mAh pack, and consider a spare battery or AAA set if you’re targeting longer winter outings.

14. Silva Trail Speed 5R - premium performance for technical terrain

When pace meets steep, rocky ground, the Silva Trail Speed 5R shines. Its Intelligent Light blends long‑reach and close flood so you can read far features and foot‑level detail at the same time, while a powerful 2.0 Ah battery keeps output meaningful for serious night training. It’s a premium pick among the best headlamp for trail running options when you value beam quality and control on technical trails.

Why we rate it

The headband is wide and secure, the lamp tilts smoothly, and the big top button is easy with gloves. Crucially, the 1200‑lumen high is there when you need maximum punch, with a very usable 450‑lumen mode for most UK night miles. The battery can be routed to a pocket with the extension lead to improve comfort in cold weather, and Silva’s beam pattern feels natural at speed.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 1200 lm (modes: 80 / 450 / 1200 lm)
• Weight: 171 g (overall)
• Battery: 2.0 Ah (14.8 Wh) rechargeable; battery ~85 g
• Beam: Intelligent Light (combined spot + flood) with smooth tilt
• Controls: Large top switch, easy to operate
• IP rating: IPX5 (water resistant)

Best for

• Technical singletrack and fell descents: Strong throw plus close flood for confident footing.
• Cold winter nights: Use the extension to keep the battery warm inside a jacket.
• Race pace efforts: Stable harness and intuitive controls at high heart rates.

Trade-offs to know

• A little heavy up top: The battery weight can pull slightly; fit the cradle well or stash the pack with the extension.
• Runs hot: The lamp housing can get extremely hot in use — avoid touching it mid‑run.
• Premium price: You’re paying for beam quality and a robust setup.

UK price and where to buy

Expect around £179.99 in the UK. It’s widely available from national outdoor specialists and major online marketplaces. If you prioritise technical terrain performance and a composed, dual‑zone beam, the Trail Speed 5R is a compelling upgrade.

15. Ledlenser NEO9R - long throw and rear safety light for training nights

If you want a powerful, confidence‑boosting beam for long winter reps, the Ledlenser NEO9R delivers. It throws serious light down‑trail, builds in a rear red flasher for safety, and ships with a chest‑mount strap that helps depth perception on wet paths. It’s heavier than most, but the output and battery stamina make it a go‑to for big training nights.

Why we rate it

The NEO9R hits up to 1,200 lumens with simple steps (20/200/600/1,200 lm), and testers report the 600‑lumen mode giving an estimated 12 hours with a beam that reaches about 120 m — ideal for steady night running. The rear battery pack doubles as an always‑on blinking red light (useful on lanes and at races), charging is fuss‑free via a magnetic cable, and the included chest strap offers a quick head‑to‑chest swap when conditions call for it.

Key specs (lumens, weight, battery, IP rating)

• Max output: 1,200 lm (modes: 20 / 200 / 600 / 1,200 lm)
• Beam range: ~120 m at 600 lm (tested)
• Weight: 199 g
• Battery: Li‑ion rechargeable pack (2× 18650 3.7 V internal)
• Charging: Magnetic charge system (USB power adapter not included)
• Rear light: Integrated red, blinking (active whenever the lamp is on)
• Mounting: Headband plus included chest strap
• IP rating: IP54 (weather resistant)

Best for

• Dark, long training runs: Strong mid‑mode with excellent throw.
• Road‑to‑trail safety: Always‑on rear flasher for visibility on lanes.
• Chest‑mount fans: Better depth perception and reduced glare in rain/fog.

Trade-offs to know

• Heavier setup: Battery weight is noticeable; some bounce when chest‑mounted.
• One beam pattern: No separate flood/spot and no step between 200 and 600 lm.
• Proprietary charging: Magnetic cable; keep it handy and bring your own USB wall plug.
• Rear light is non‑adjustable: It blinks whenever the lamp is on.

UK price and where to buy

Pricing varies by retailer and typically sits above the NEO5R in Ledlenser’s range. It’s widely available from major UK outdoor specialists and large online marketplaces. If weight sensitivity is a concern, try the fit (head and chest) before race night and plan your brightness step to balance throw and stamina.

Final thoughts

The right headlamp turns night miles from guesswork into flow. For most UK trails, a stable mixed beam in the 300–600 lumen range is the sweet spot; step up to reactive or high‑capacity models for winter epics, and keep a lightweight backup in your vest for insurance. Think comfort first (fit and balance), then battery strategy (USB‑C or hybrid with spare cells), and only chase maximum lumens if your terrain and pace demand it.

Ready to kit up and get out there? Browse trusted outdoor gear and build your night‑running setup with the team at Take a Hike UK — then point your beam at the trail and run with confidence.