LED Running Lights Buyer's Guide
Vests, armbands, and clip-on lights compared
Types of LED Running Lights
LED running lights come in several forms: vests with integrated LED strips, armbands with wraparound lighting, chest straps, clip-on lights, and shoe lights. Vests provide 360° visibility and are visible from 500+ meters. Armbands and clip-ons offer portability but limited coverage.
Key Considerations:
- Vests: Maximum visibility, 360° coverage
- Armbands: Portable, easy to wear
- Clip-ons: Versatile attachment options
- Battery life: 4-20 hours depending on mode
- Weather resistance: IPX4 minimum recommended
LED Vests
LED vests like the noxgear Tracer2 offer the best visibility with 360° illumination. They're adjustable, weatherproof, and visible from over 500 meters. The downside is bulk—you'll need to wear them over your jacket. Battery life typically ranges from 6-10 hours.
Armbands and Clip-Ons
Armbands are lightweight and easy to pack but only illuminate a small area. Clip-on lights can attach to jackets, backpacks, or belts, offering flexibility. These work well as supplementary lighting but aren't sufficient as your only visibility source.
Battery and Weather Considerations
Look for rechargeable USB models with at least 6 hours of runtime. Check the IP rating—IPX4 handles splashes while IPX5+ withstands rain. For year-round running, prioritize weather resistance and battery life over extra features like Bluetooth connectivity.