Fenix Headlamps for Running: Quality for Off-Road and City

 5.2.2025

Running in the twilight or at night certainly has its charm and from autumn to spring it is even a necessity, as we have to train before and after work in the dark. This also requires appropriate equipment including more reflective elements and especially reliable lighting that will not let us down.

Fenix headlamps are an excellent choice for runners of all levels, from recreational runners to ultramarathoners. Quality light not only ensures safety, but also enhances your running experience in challenging light conditions.

Light as a feather or strong as a lion

When choosing a headlamp for running, it's important to consider several factors. The main differences lie in weight, battery life and power. In the Fenix range we can find both ultralight headlamps, if we prefer a lighter weight, and powerful lights with more endurance. Then it is necessary to find just the right balance between sufficient battery capacity and a suitable weight of the headlamp.

Lightweight headlamps for shorter runs

If you are one of those runners who prefer shorter routes, or are looking for a headlamp for occasional night runs, the Fenix HM series ultralight headlamps with smaller battery are the ideal choice. These models are lighter in weight, which is important for running comfort, and provide enough light output to light the way. The lightest are powered by the RCR123A Li-ion battery, but disposable battery-powered headlamps also have acceptable weight. These headlamps will normally cover the needs of shorter training sessions, but as Radek Brunner proves, you can run a Spartathlon with them without any problems.

Fenix HM51R Ruby V2.0, Fenix Vitae and Fenix HM50R V2.0 are the lightest headlamps in the range. Weight is 80 grams including straps and battery. They differ mainly in the colour of the light and the range of modes. The HM51R Ruby V2.0 has been given a neutral shade of white, and the range of modes covers a wide spectrum from an economical 3 lumens to a respectable 700. Adding to its versatility are 4 red light modes - 1 and 5 lumens plus flash and SOS. It can thus also be used as a tail light when moving on the road, and of course it can also be used for other sports - cycling, hiking or cross-country skiing. Compared to the Ruby, the HM50R V2.0 lacks the single-lumen red light and SOS mode, the white light is colder (called daylight white) and starts at 30 lumens. The Fenix Vitae is a unique headlamp, based on Hynek Medřický's patents, that lights in such a way that it does not disturb our circadian rhythm or reduce melatonin production before bedtime. It has an orange-red Vitae light and a flashlight. Maximum output is 600 lumens in 1800K very warm white light mode.

Fenix HM51R Ruby V2.0

Weighing in at 86 grams, it is followed by the Fenix HM23 V2.0, which has the same design with quick-removal from the mount, and has similar lighting features to the HM50R V2.0. As it is powered by a single AA battery, it reaches a maximum output of 300 lumens, making it particularly suitable for less demanding and casual runners, or as a backup headlamp. In addition to the supplied disposable battery, it also works with a 1.5V Li-ion battery or a NiMH rechargeable battery.

Some headlamps can be simply removed from the holder.
Size comparison from left HM23 V2.0, HM51R Ruby V2.0, HM61R Amber V2.0.

The lighter models of Fenix headlamps have high durability and are perfectly balanced, so they sit comfortably on your head and don't restrict your movement in any way. They are the perfect choice for runners looking for comfort and light for urban runs or short trail runs. For longer runs, you need to consider whether the battery life is sufficient.

Fenix HM23 V2.0 has quickly become a popular running headlamp.

Fenix HL Series Running Headlamps

The Fenix HL series of headlamps is specific in that most models use a custom flat 1900 mAh battery, which can also be replaced with three AAA batteries. In an emergency you can use disposable batteries, but the headlamps can also cope with NiMH or Li-ion batteries with constant voltage of 1.5 V. In terms of performance, these headlamps are on par with the aforementioned ultralight starlamps, but thanks to the higher battery capacity, the individual modes last a lot longer, and hand in hand with this, the weight increases by about a quarter.

Fenix HL32R-T in blue.

These are two trail models. The first is the Fenix HL32R-T, where you can choose to shine a more powerful spotlight reflector with maximum output of 800 lumens, or a floodlight reflector with light diffused into the surroundings and with neutral tint. This option makes the headlamp a great all-rounder for work and all activities where you need to shine a soft even light with pleasing colour rendition at close range, in addition to its sporting use.

The second running model in this series is the Fenix HL18R-T V2.0, the first generation of which was very popular. In the second generation, it features two universally tuned reflectors that create the perfect light cone for sports activities. One shines with bright white light of up to 800 lumens and the other, designed for movement in low visibility conditions such as fog, rain, snow, has a significantly warmer 3000 K light shade with a maximum output of 500 lumens. It is also equipped with two red LEDs that allow for constant lighting and SOS flashing both at 5 lumens.

Both headlamps, including the battery, weigh just over 100 grams, and since they are trail models, the strap is tightened with a wheel, the so-called SportFit system, which in the case of the HL18R-T V2.0 also includes an integrated emergency whistle.

HL18R-T V2.0 in two colour options.

An undemanding runner can again reach for a simple headlamp on 3 pcs AAA batteries Fenix HL16, which allows for a white light up to 450 lumens and a red light of 5 lumens with the option to switch to SOS signal. The body of the headlamp is made of durable plastic.

Fenix HL16 in three colours.

In addition to the option to use commonly available AAA batteries, a nice bonus of the aforementioned HL models is the range of colours, where you'll find variants in beautiful blue and red metallic, pink and green, or a headlamp in white with black strap. A minor drawback for some may be the lower water resistance according to the IP66 standard, which means that it can withstand very heavy rain and for normal sports use this value is perfectly sufficient.

HL32R-T in red.

Performance headlamps for longer routes and challenging conditions

For runners who take on longer trails or run in more challenging terrain, the Fenix HM Series headlamps with larger 18650 type battery are designed. These models have a higher maximum brightness and longer battery life, which you'll appreciate especially on ultra-long runs, night races, or if you decide to go cross-country skiing, ski-alpine or night cycling. Of course, it is also highly water resistant according to the IP68 standard.

Fenix HM75R Topaz is a very versatile model. You can run it in the spot- or floodlight reflector mode with maximum outputs of 1600 and 1000 lumens. Both spotlights can also be used in combination mode, which is just perfect for running. Both reflectors have a very pleasing color rendition, and the wide one has a high CRI of 94.5 so it doesn't distort colors at all. There is also a red mode with up to 120 lumens output, which is not common in headlamps and increases its usability. It is powered by a 4000 mAh battery and there is an option to buy a case with an additional 5000 mAh battery and put on the back of the headstrap, making it destined to light up more demanding sports activities such as ski mountaineering, cross-country skiing or MTB.

Developed in every way - Fenix HM75R Topaz

The absolute TOP running special is the Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 headlamp, which, like the HL18R-T V2.0, features two universally tuned reflectors that create the perfect light cone for sports activities. One shines bright white light with up to 1600 lumens and the other, designed for movement in low visibility conditions such as fog, rain, snow, has a significantly warmer 3000 K light shade with a maximum output of 800 lumens. On the wide SportFit headband, which increases perfect stability, there is also an integrated whistle for crisis situations, which is often already mandatory at races. The body is made of magnesium alloy and thus maintains an acceptable weight of 140 grams. It comes in three stylish colour versions.

Fenix HM65R-T V2.0

An option to both of the above headlamps is Fenix HM65R, which, like the Topaz, offers a spot- and floodlight beam headlamp that you can also turn on at the same time, plus independently vary the output of one or the other, giving you several different light cones for a variety of situations, from wide for close-range activities to long-range 1600 lumens for challenging terrain and exploring its more remote locations. The design is close to the HM65R-T V2.0, as the numerical designation suggests, which is why we compared them in this article.

Fenix HM65R and Fenix HM65R-T V2.0

Another versatile headlamp that you can use for more than just running is the Fenix HM61R Amber V2.0. This is the bigger sister of the HM51R Ruby V2.0 and differs mainly in battery size and maximum output in both white and red light, where it reaches 1600 lumens and 10 lumens respectively. The headlamp also converts into a handheld flashlight with a single movement and is used by craftsmen, soldiers, police officers and other professions in addition to sports use. It is great for the home, garden, and DIY workshop. It is a really excellent EDC tool.

Fenix HM61R Amber V2.0

The Fenix HM60R headlamp features a single button on the side, and allows you to switch between spotlight and floodlight and red light. For runners, it features what is called a dual distance beam system, where it refracts some of the light of the spotlight beam so that instead of going up, the light goes down where we need to see. This is similar to some Fenix bike lights. In addition, in the 130 and 350 lumen modes, the headlamp offers a special feature in the spotlight reflector called 'FREQUENCY SENSING', where in these modes it detects motion and can automatically adjust the power to the selected value according to the running speed (step frequency).

Fenix HM60R

The lightest headlamp with 18650 type battery is the Fenix HM62-T weighing just 125 grams. It is made of lightweight and durable magnesium alloy. It is operated by a side button that switches between a neutral white light of up to 1200 lumens and a red light. The absence of a rechargeable connector, which is located inside on the battery itself, has also contributed to the lower weight. There is also a trail SportFit strap with an integrated whistle.

Fenix HM62-T in two colours

As you can see from the parameters of Fenix headlamps, they are not just for running. Thanks to their versatility, you can use them in a variety of activities such as:

• Skiing and skialps – Especially the larger, more powerful models provide enough light to move safely on snow and in challenging terrain.
• Night cycling – Long battery life and high performance are key to illuminating your cycling route, whether you're riding on the city road or off-road.
• Hiking – Headlamps will provide illumination for multi-hour night hikes or bivouacing.
• Ultra races – When you go on long ultra runs, you need a headlamp with long lasting power to run continuously for several hours in the dark.

No matter which headlamp you choose, all Fenix models feature:

• Resistance – Waterproof and shockproof are a given with all models, ensuring that the headlamps can handle inclement and extreme weather.
• Ergonomic design – Fenix headlamps are designed to be comfortable to wear, with adjustable straps and well-distributed weight.
• Various light modes – The ability to switch between multiple light modes and multiple reflectors with different characteristics allows you to conserve battery and adapt the light to the conditions you are moving in and the activity you are performing.
• Rechargeable batteries – Most models feature powerful rechargeable batteries to ensure long runtime and eliminate the need to constantly recharge batteries.

List of the most suitable headlamps for running in the current Fenix range:

 So which headlamp is the right one?

Whether you're a recreational runner or training for a nighttime ultra marathon, Fenix headlamps offer a solution for all levels. Lightweight models with smaller batteries are great for shorter and medium-length runs, but with replacement batteries you get a lightweight partner with incredible endurance. Powerful headlamps with larger capacity provide long lasting performance without the need to change batteries and power for those heading beyond their limits. Let Fenix headlamps light up every path you take, whether you're running through the city, enjoying a nighttime trail run or going on a skiing, biking or hiking adventure.

If you're unsure of your choice, the easiest thing you can do is contact us. We'll be happy to advise you by phone, answer email questions.

More articles on our blog:

• Comparison of HM65R-T V2.0 and HM65R headlamps
• Product of the Year - Fenix HM51R Ruby V2.0
• Running Headlamps 2023-2024
• L-design headlamps - the so-called "fajfky" headlamps
• Do we need a headlamp with red light?
• Comparison of Fenix HM50R V2.0 and HM51R V2.0 headlamps