When you’re logging miles after dusk, your headlamp is quite literally the difference between a safe run and a stumble in the dark. The best running headlamps combine lightweight comfort, stable fit, long runtimes and enough output to illuminate the trail without weighing you down. We’ve put three top models for 2025 through their paces—each excels in its own way, from versatile power options to adaptive lighting and rugged durability.
1. Klarus HM5: Ultra-Light Triple-Fuel Flexibility
The Klarus HM5 is built for ultra-light runners who refuse to compromise on runtime. At just 90 g (including battery), its split-type design balances front and rear modules to virtually eliminate bounce—perfect for fast-paced trail runs. Switch seamlessly between spot, flood and red-light modes using independent dual switches, and choose from three power sources: the internal 1,200 mAh rechargeable cell, three AAA batteries or any USB power bank.
Key Specs:
- Max Output: 800 lm (combined Flood + Spot)
- Beam Distance: 99 m
- Weight: 90 g (incl. battery)
- Runtime: 80 h (Li-ion), 78 h (AAA), > 600 h (power bank)
- Ingress Protection: IPX6; 1 m impact resistance
- Features: Memory function, lockout, battery-level indicator, 45° adjustable angle, skin-friendly headband
2. Fenix HM62-T: High-Output Magnesium-Alloy Trail Lamp
Engineered for rugged trails, the Fenix HM62-T delivers up to 1,200 lm and throws a 150 m beam from its Luminus SST40 LED. The robust magnesium-alloy body is IP68-rated (submersible to 2 m) and survives 2 m drops, while the SPORT Headband Fit System locks the lamp solidly in place. Power comes from the included 3,400 mAh USB-C rechargeable battery (or two CR123A cells), offering up to 280 h at 5 lm or 12 h at 400 lm.
Key Specs:
- Max Output: 1,200 lm
- Beam Distance: 150 m
- Weight: 125 g (incl. battery)
- Runtime: 280 h (5 lm low), 12 h (400 lm high)
- Material & Durability: Magnesium alloy, IP68 (2 m), 2 m impact resistance
- Features: Battery level indicator, electronic lockout, integrated safety whistle, six light modes (white + red)
3. Fenix HL32R-T: Adaptive Stride-Sensing & Dual Beams
For ultra-distance runners and night-time racers, the Fenix HL32R-T’s Stride Frequency Sensor adjusts brightness in real time—brightening as you pick up pace and dimming when you slow down to conserve power. Its dual-switch control separates spotlight (800 lm, 132 m throw) and floodlight (200 lm) functions, and you can power it via the onboard ARB-LP1900 battery pack or three AAA cells. With up to 150 h in low flood mode and 20 h in low spotlight, it’s built for multi-day events.
Key Specs:
- Max Output: 800 lm (spotlight)
- Beam Distance: 132 m
- Weight: 107 g (incl. battery)
- Runtime: 150 h (5 lm flood low), 20 h (70 lm spotlight low), 3 h (800 lm spotlight high)
- Ingress Protection: IP66; 2 m impact resistance
- Features: Stride Frequency Sensor, dual independent switches, USB-C rapid charging, SPORT Headband Fit, reverse-polarity protection
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Model | Weight | Peak Output | Beam Distance | Power Source | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klarus HM5 | 90 g | 800 lm | 99 m | Li-ion / AAA / USB power bank | Ultra-light & max runtime |
| Fenix HM62-T | 125 g | 1,200 lm | 150 m | USB-C rechargeable 18650 / CR123A | High-output & all-weather toughness |
| Fenix HL32R-T | 107 g | 800 lm | 132 m | USB-C rechargeable pack / AAA | Adaptive lighting & endurance |
Conclusion
For night runners looking for a new running headlamp in 2025, pick the Klarus HM5 if you crave featherlight, triple-fuel flexibility; choose the Fenix HM62-T for raw output and rock-solid durability; or go with the Fenix HL32R-T to harness adaptive lighting that conserves battery on ultra-long journeys.