The 11 Best Running Lights, from Headlamps to Clip-Ons

A standout for all-around safety, the Tracer 2 uses broad, wrap-around LED strips (16 modes) and a highly reflective waistband to make you visible from every angle. It secures well, provides clear battery info, and stays comfortable over layers. Full charging takes about 2.5 hours, but the multi-color options and sturdy build help justify the time investment.

The Avanto Pro uses a dual-light system—bright up front, red flashing safety light in the rear—mounted on a broad, stable chest harness. Power modes cycle easily, and the design offers security and mass-centered balance perfect for road runners who find headbands uncomfortable. Some may find the harness a bit bulky, but it excels in steady illumination and attention-getting.

For hands-free lighting and extra kit storage, UltrAspire’s Lumen 600 wraps a powerful beam into a minimal waist pack. The ergonomic belt reduces chafing, while variable brightness and focus settings help you adapt to any conditions. Beyond brightness, battery life is strong (6 hours on max), and extra features like battery indicators and zip storage add everyday utility. It’s more expensive but delivers premium quality.

Light up slap bracelets for running are reusable, LED-equipped accessories designed to boost safety and visibility during nighttime or low-light jogging sessions. These bracelets offer easy, slap-on convenience for the wrist, arm, or ankle, and come with bright, rechargeable LEDs and simple modes like constant glow or flashing. They are lightweight, durable, and decently water resistant. Plus, can we get a minute for how fun they are? The slap is so satisfying. Every millennial should be buying these just because. Heck, they're so affordable, they'd even be a great party favor for a XC team party.

The Polaris redefines classic flashlights with a modern, ergonomic design. It attaches securely to a padded hand harness, providing powerful 400-lumen beams for over seven hours at maximum output without causing hand fatigue. Its angled design precisely directs light where needed, ensuring optimal visibility during runs. The comfortable harness is ideal for long distances, although it lacks a storage spot for hands-free segments. This makes the Polaris a robust and reliable choice for runners prioritizing illumination and comfort.

Tiny but mighty, this clip-on packs enough punch for a backup or secondary beacon. It’s rain- and snow-resistant, switches easily between steady and strobe, and clamps just about anywhere with its featherweight clip. The only downside: it relies on disposable batteries. Still, the portability makes it a go-to for visibility in dark city environments.

These versatile lights clip easily to pockets, vests, bags, or any gear straps, adapting to your running needs. If your clothes can’t comfortably support them, the EverLightFX includes adjustable hook-and-loop straps for secure attachment to arms or legs. They come in several colors, allowing you to use different hues for front and back lights or to match your apparel, blending functionality with style for personalized visibility and safety during runs.

Let your stride light the way. These lightweight, secure clip-on LEDs attach to your laces and keep the path ahead bright. They excel at ankle-level illumination, warning you of obstacles directly in your footpath. They’re not always consistent at full speed, so best used as a supplement rather than sole light source.

This low-profile headlamp is surprisingly robust for its size—perfect for runners who don’t want to mess with bulky headbands but still value power. The buttonless brightness adjustment is intuitive (it works with gloves), though the max-bright beam dims after a few minutes. The medium setting provides hours of steady, sufficient light. However, the high beam, it should be noted, doesn't hold as long as the diffuse lower beam. It's annoying if you like that big, bright light.

A surprise contender from the hardware aisle, the Energizer Vision Ultra HD boasts up to 400 lumens and several lighting modes, including spot and flood. It covers both long-range and close-quarters needs, and the price makes it hard to beat for entry-level runners. The only gap: no battery level indicator, so bring backup for long runs.

Petzl’s ultralight IKO Core blends a snug, rigid headband with flexible fit, making it comfortable for extended use without the bulk of thick fabric. It’s easy to control (single-button operation) and stands alone as an emergency camp light. You can use either a rechargeable battery or AAA batteries, making it travel-friendly and practical.