Features of a good head torch
The appeal of the head torch is certainly not to look cool. You won’t see top models sporting the newest craze in head torches down the runway. But, when you’re camping, who’s interested in style? A head torch is exceptionally handy – your hands a free and the beam is directed exactly where you are looking.
A good head torch will have multiple LED and different brightness settings, and an easy to access switch to select between the different settings. A flashing mode is also a very useful feature, especially if you are trying to signal help. A good battery life is important so as not to catch you out and also having it run off easy to come by batteries such as AA or AAA. Some brands offer a feature where the torch detects low battery and disables the main beam to conserve power.
A waterproof head torch is much more beneficial than you think. Although you’re not about to dive into a lake with it, imagine you’re pitching your tent in the dark, it’s pouring with rain and all you want to do is get tent erected so that you can crawl into a warm dry place. With the rain teaming down on you, your torch light begins to wane, and then you are plummeted into darkness. In a camping experience, you will often come across rain so you will need your head torch to be waterproof.
The weight of the head torch is also important as if it is too heavy it will become uncomfortable after time. Make sure it is lightweight but is also made of durable good quality materials. To be sure that the weight is sufficient, try it on in the store before buying.
Nigel Williams is a climbing and mountaineering expert who is currently researching head torch.