Best Hiking Headlamps of 2022

Updated on March 24, 2021

Don’t get caught in the dark without the best hiking headlamp by your side. Whether you plan to be out on the trail well after dark or not, a hiking headlamp is a must for every hiker. The problem is, how do you find the best headlamp? That’s where we come in. We’ll navigate you through the process of buying a hiking headlamp as well as shine a light on the best hiking headlamps so you can get back to the trail in no time!

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Quick Answer – The Best Hiking Headlamps

Black Diamond Spot 350View at REIPetzl TikkinaView at REIPetzl BindiView at AmazonBioLite Headlamp 330View at REIFenix HL60RView at AmazonPetzl Actik CoreView at REIFenix HM50RView at REIPetzl Nao+View at REIBlack Diamond IconView at REIBlack Diamond Spot Lite 160View at Backcountry

 

Comparison Table – Best Hiking Headlamp

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Name	Weight	Run Time	Output Capacity	Beam Distance	Price	Rating	Review
Black Diamond Spot 350	3.9 oz. (with batteries)	3hrs. 45 mins/200hrs. (High/Low)	350 lumens	85 meters	$	4.7	Read Review
Petzl Tikkina	3 oz. (with batteries)	2 hrs./120 hrs. (High/Low)	250 lumens	60 meters	$	4.6	Read Review
Petzl Bindi	1.2 oz	2 hrs/50hrs. (High/Low)	200 lumens	36 meters	$$	4.4	Read Review
BioLite Headlamp 330	2.43 oz. (with batteries)	3.5 hrs./40 hrs. (High/Low)	330 lumens	74 meters	$$	4.7	Read Review
Fenix HL60R	4.2 oz	48 mins/100 hrs (High/Low)	950 Lumens	116 meters	$$$	4.3	Read Review
Petzl Actik Core	2.8 oz. (with batteries)	2 hrs./130hrs. (High/Low)	450 lumens	90 meters	$$	4.3	Read Review
Fenix HM50R	2.2 oz. (with batteries)	2 hrs./128 hrs. (High/Low)	500 lumens	80 meters	$$	4.8	Read Review
Petzl Nao+	6.5 oz	1.5hrs/12hrs. (High/Low)	750 lumens	140 meters	$$$	3.7	Read Review
Black Diamond Icon	8.1 oz.	50hrs./250hrs. (High/Low)	500 lumens	110 meters	$$$	3.8	Read Review
Black Diamond Spot Lite 160	1.9 oz. (with batteries)	28hrs./60hrs. (High/Low)	160 lumens	60 meters	$	4.4	Read Review
Name	Weight	Run Time	Output Capacity	Beam Distance	Price	Rating	Review

Want to learn more about a technical term? Check out our Features Explained section below.

Need buying advice? Take a look at these Things to Consider.

Reviews – The Best Headlamps for Hiking

Black Diamond Spot 350

Specs

Battery Life: High – 25 hr, Low – 180 hrBeam Distance: 85 metersWeight: 3.9 oz. (with batteries) Lumens: 300Output Capacity: 350 lumensRun Time: 3hrs. 45 mins/200hrs. (High/Low)IPX Rating: IPX8

Features

WaterproofBrightness Memory For On/Off At Chosen BrightnessRed-Night Vision

BEST FOR: BACKPACKING

When it comes to weight and performance, the Black Diamond Spot 325 outshines the competition in its price range. Weighing in at 3-ounces, this hiking headlamp has all the features you need for a backpacking trip. 

To start, the Black Diamond Spot 325 can shed light on 80 meters worth of trail, which is plenty of light to guide your way. At the click of a button, you can go from high to dimming mode or shift over to one of the other modes like the red light to preserve your night vision. Either way, you can still return to your previous mode of choice after you turn the headlamp off. Waterproof and compact, this headlamp is built for adding up overnight miles on the trail.

View at REIView at Backcountry

Petzl Tikkina

Specs

Battery Life: High – 60 hr, Low – 220 hrBeam Distance: 60 metersWeight: 3 oz. (with batteries)Lumens: 150Output Capacity: 250 lumensRun Time: 2 hrs./120 hrs. (High/Low)IPX Rating: IPX4

Features

Easy To UseWater-ResistantAffordable

BEST FOR: BUDGET

Petzl has been in the headlamp business for over 30 years. Featuring everything from classic to specialized, there’s something in their headlamp product line for everyone. For the budget hiker, we recommend their Petzel Tikkina. 

The Petzl Tikkina offers three lighting modes at the push of a button. With 250 lumens worth of light, it’s bright enough to light the trail and set up camp at night. Although this model doesn’t come rechargeable, it is compatible with Petzl’s proprietary rechargeable battery so you can swap that out if you’d like. Easy to adjust and water-resistant, this headlamp is a viable option for the headlamp user looking for an affordable price.

View at REIView at Backcountry

Petzl Bindi

Specs

Beam Distance: 36 metersWeight: 1.2 ozLumens: 100 – 200 Output Capacity: 200 lumensRun Time: 2 hrs/50hrs. (High/Low)IPX Rating: IPX4

Features

Cord headband lets you wear it on head or around neckCan be tilted upwardsTwo Lock functions to avoid it accidentally turning on in pack

BEST FOR: ULTRALIGHT HIKERS

If you’re looking for a high performance headlamp that fits in the palm of your hand and weighs only 35 grams, the Bindi sure fits the bill. Petzl designed the Bindi to be lightweight above all else, but the brand didn’t skimp on the important features, either. The Bindi features three different lighting modes — proximity, distance, and movement.

What we love most about the Bindi — other than its size — is that it can be tilted upwards and includes two locking features.

View at Amazon

BioLite Headlamp 330

Specs

Beam Distance: 74 metersWeight: 2.43 oz. (with batteries)Output Capacity: 330 lumensRun Time: 3.5 hrs./40 hrs. (High/Low)

Features

Multiple ModesSlimMoisture-Wicking HeadbandBounce-Free Design For Secure Fit

BEST FOR: SECURE FIT

The slim design of the BioLite 330 has an attractive look about it that stands out among the competition. The product of a Kickstarter campaign, the lightweight BioLite 330 fits flush to your forehand to optimize comfort and light direction. This way you can focus on the trail in front of you rather than an annoying bouncing headlamp. 

Featuring five modes, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when encountering varying terrain. Charge up the battery and get ready to tackle the trail. You’ll have up to 40 hours worth of running time which is more than you’ll need to hike at night.

View at REIView at Backcountry

Fenix HL60R

Specs

Beam Distance: 116 metersWeight: 4.2 ozLumens: 950Output Capacity: 950 LumensRun Time: 48 mins/100 hrs (High/Low)IPX Rating: IPX8

Features

Rechargeable battery includedSuper BrightHigh-grade aluminum

BEST HIGH PERFORMANCE HEADLAMP

If you’re looking to have the combined option of one of the brightest lights and longest beam distances available on the market, the Fenix HL60R has you covered. This Fenix headlamp features an impressively durable construction and an over-the-top of-the head strap for extra security. It’s ideal for use in rescue scenarios, night biking, night hiking, spelunking, and any other activities that call for serious illumination needs. The HL60R includes five adjustable brightness levels, a red-light mode, and a USB-rechargeable battery.

What we like most about the Fenix HL60R is its turbo mode, which provides for a 950 max lumen output and 116 meter beam distance. On this setting, you’d be hard pressed to pick out something around camp that you can’t see clearly.

View at Amazon

Petzl Actik Core

Specs

Battery Life: High – 2.5 hr, Low – 15 hrBeam Distance: 90 metersWeight: 2.8 oz. (with batteries)Lumens: 300Output Capacity: 450 lumensRun Time: 2 hrs./130hrs. (High/Low)IPX Rating: IPX4

Features

Rechargeable BatteriesDetachable Reflective HeadbandWater-Resistant

BEST FOR: BATTERY HYBRID

The Petzl Actik Core delivers solid performance at a reasonable price. Packing 450 lumens worth of radiant light into 2.8-ounces, this headlamp is efficient yet lightweight. 

The flood and mixed beam pattern come in several brightness levels along with red light mode. This allows you to adjust between a flat or concentrated light source as well as light strength so you choose your visibility. When you’re not lighting your path, plug the headlamp into a USB port and charge the core battery in as little as 3-hours. No USB access? This headlamp is also AAA battery compatible.

View at REIView at Backcountry

Fenix HM50R

Specs

Beam Distance: 80 metersWeight: 2.2 oz. (with batteries)Output Capacity: 500 lumensRun Time: 2 hrs./128 hrs. (High/Low)

Features

RechargeableWaterproofDust-Proof

BEST FOR: SHORT FORESTED HIKES

Equipped with 500 lumens worth of light, the Fenix HM50R can go from dim to blaring when you need it most. Turn it on turbo mode and use the super bright light to gather your trail bearings. Then, when you’re ready to hike, you can utilize the high or medium mode while low gives you ample light to rummage through a pack. 

Easy to use and adjustable, you can simply tilt the headlamp to get the perfect angle of light. While the rugged and waterproof body is built to handle trail conditions, this headlamp comes with a few spare parts just in case so you never have to worry about going without a light.

View at REI

Petzl Nao+

Specs

Battery Life: High – 1 hr 30 min, Low – 15 hrBeam Distance: 140 metersWeight: 6.5 ozLumens: 750Output Capacity: 750 lumensRun Time: 1.5hrs/12hrs. (High/Low)Waterproof Type: IPX4IPX Rating: IPX4

Features

Bluetooth CompatibleExtremely BrightRechargeableLock Mode To Save Battery

BEST FOR: TECH SAVVY HIKERS

Don’t let poor visibility slow you down. The technologically advanced Petzl NAO+ emits a powerful light that adjusts to your surroundings. 

Whether you’re examining the trail or searching through your pack, this headlamp will automatically adjust the brightness and beam pattern according to your focal point. This means you can operate hands-free while saving battery life. The Petzl NAO+ also features Bluetooth so you can use a phone app to customize your headlamp settings.

View at REIView at Backcountry

Black Diamond Icon

Specs

Beam Distance: 110 metersWeight: 8.1 oz.Output Capacity: 500 lumensRun Time: 50hrs./250hrs. (High/Low)

Features

Removable Battery PackDustproof And WaterproofRed/Green/Blue Night Vision Modes

BEST FOR: HARSH WEATHER

Black Diamond features some of the highest-rated headlamps on the market. For the hiker in need of some serious performance, consider the Black Diamond Icon. Waterproof, dustproof, and powerful, the Black Diamond Icon is designed to handle harsh trail conditions. 

This headlamp features one of the highest headlamp beam distances at 110 meters with a strong 500 lumens worth of light. It also offers red, green, and blue night-vision along with 2 strobes and multiple distance modes. When not in use, stash the removable battery pack in your pocket to preserve battery life by keeping it warm.

View at REIView at Moosejaw

Black Diamond Spot Lite 160

Specs

Beam Distance: 60 metersWeight: 1.9 oz. (with batteries)Output Capacity: 160 lumensRun Time: 28hrs./60hrs. (High/Low)

Features

LightweightEasy To AdjustWaterproof

BEST FOR: MINIMALIST HIKERS

If you’re the type to ditch all the fancy features for a streamlined design, you’ll appreciate the Black Diamond Spot Lite 160. This super lightweight headlamp skips the bulk and narrows down your light beam options to concentrate all the power on a single LED light. 

With the activation of a single button you can find which mode suits you best between the high, dimming, strobe, and red-night vision mode. With a long running time, you’ll find the light output at 60 meters is plenty for a late or early morning hike.

View at Backcountry

 

 

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A HIKING HEADLAMP

COST

When you’re determining how to choose a headlamp, there are a plethora of features you’ll encounter. As these features add up, so does the cost.

If you plan on using your hiking headlamp for a short amount of time during dawn or dusk, you may find the less expensive options suit you just fine. On the other hand, if you’re a long-distance backpacker who plans on doing a lot of night hiking, you’ll probably benefit from a more expensive headlamp.

 

WEIGHT

A few ounces may not seem to make a difference, that is until you’re carrying it on your head. How light or heavy your headlamp will be is all a matter of use and preference. If you’re looking to hike fast and light, a lighter option will be in your favor. For casual use, you’re likely to be wearing your headlamp less, so a heavier option that shines more brightly or lasts longer may be right for you.

 

AVERAGE RUNNING TIME

Do you plan on hiking at night for long distances? Or would you rather be back at the trailhead by dusk? Your hiking headlamp will be the light that guides you, so you’ll want to ensure you have ample light for the trek. The average running time of your light should be long enough to last you the length of your hike before needing to recharge.

 

BEAM DISTANCE

Beam distance is relative to the use of your headlamp. A far beam distance can be useful in backcountry navigation. You can use it to scan your surroundings and find things off in the distance like trailheads. A short beam distance is more useful for rummaging through your pack or shining light on objects in your immediate area. A combination of both works best. However, keep in mind the further your beam goes, the faster it depletes the battery in max mode.

 

BRIGHTNESS

Most hiking headlamps come with a variety of modes that alter how bright your headlamp gets. This typically ranges from a high to dim setting. The maximum brightness you need your headlamp to be will vary according to use.

For instance, if you plan on using your headlamp at dusk, you won’t need an incredibly bright light compared to hiking in pitch black. However, it’s good practice to plan ahead in case of an emergency. In this case, we recommend a hiking headlamp bright enough to handle the dark once the sun has gone down.

 

FIT

Nothing is more annoying than a hiking headlamp that needs constant readjustment. Before deciding on a hiking headlamp, make sure it fits comfortably and securely enough for the activity for which you’ll be using it.

 

FEATURES EXPLAINED

LUMENS

Unit of measurement representing the brightness of light omitted. This will tell you how bright a hiking headlamp is.

FLOODLIGHT

Wide light that does not go a very long distance.

SPOTLIGHT

Focused light that can be used for long distances or rummaging through your pack.

RED NIGHT VISION

This is the best color to preserve our eyes at night because our eyes are less sensitive to red light. Red light also minimizes the attraction of pesky insects to your headlamp (and thus your head).

BLUE NIGHT VISION

Blue light helps see through fog as well as read maps at night while preserving vision.

GREEN NIGHT VISION

This is a popular light used in hunting because it doesn’t disturb wild animals and helps to preserve vision.

 

READ MORE

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