Gear Closet: Energizer Micro-Sport Headlamp

Thanks to the long, hot Texas summers I often find myself running after dark. It's the best way to beat the heat although running in the dark isn't always the safest thing to do. Wearing a headlamp helps to not only illuminate where you're going but also make you more visible to cars and other pedestrians. Finding the right headlamp for such high intensity activities wasn't easy however, as it had to be the right combination of comfort and weight , while still providing plenty of useful light.

Considering all of the companies that make good headlamps these days, I was surprised to discover that one of the best lights was for runners was being made by Energizer. Yes, Energizer. The battery company. They make a headlamp called the Micro Sport that was specifically designed with runners and other outdoor athletes in mind.

The Micro Sport comes equipped with three LED lamps that are capable of cranking out quite a bit of illumination. The lamp has both high and low modes, both of which provide plenty of light for running. High mode is capable of shedding light up to 7 meters (23 feet) out, but at that level of intensity the batteries will only last about 3-4 hours. Dropping it to low mode will nearly triple that time using standard AA batteries.

In addition to the standard forward facing headlamp, the Micro Sport also comes with a rear-facing red flashing light as well. Think of it as a taillight for runners or cyclists as it certainly adds an extra level of safety when on the road after dark. While not particularly bright, this emergency flasher is still an attention grabber. Powered by a single lithium coin-cell, this additional light can last for 95 hours between battery changes.

Of course, plenty of headlamps provide this kind of performance but what sets this one apart, and puts the "micro" in its name, is its weight. This light clocks in at jut 2 ounces (45 grams) which means it's pretty much featherlight in your hand and on your head. That's fantastic for runners in particular who don't want a heavy lamp on their head while on the go. A thin and lightweight headband rounds out the package, adding comfort and stability to the Micro Sport.

This is a fantastic option for outdoor athletes who need a little illumination while partaking in their favorite activities. The flashing rear lamp adds an extra measure of safety and the over all quality of the light is solid on all fronts. Best of all, it won't break your pocket book either. The suggest retail on the headlamp is just $24.95, which makes it a great bargain.