If you're looking for a headlamp that does everything you need and nothing you don't, the Fenix HM55R RENEGADE is built for you. It's Fenix Lighting's flagship headlamp and winner of GearJunkie’s Best Overall Headlamp Award : compact, versatile, and refined to deliver serious performance without unnecessary complexity.
But before diving into what makes the HM55R RENEGADE stand out, it helps to understand the line it comes from.
What Is the Fenix RENEGADE Line?
RENEGADE is a purpose-built performance line developed by Fenix Lighting, the official U.S. distributor of Fenix products, with the needs of U.S. customers and real-world conditions at the forefront. The line was built directly from customer feedback, stripping away features that add confusion and keeping only what users actually rely on in the field.
The philosophy behind RENEGADE is simple: every element earns its place. Controls are straightforward, modes are purposeful, and operation is consistent. The result is gear that responds the way you expect, every time you turn it on.
The current RENEGADE lineup includes the HM55R RENEGADE headlamp, the LD30 RENEGADE flashlight, and the LD31 RENEGADE flashlights with more lights in the line coming soon.
Fenix HM55R RENEGADE Overview
The HM55R RENEGADE is Fenix's flagship headlamp. It's brighter than the HM50R V2.0, significantly smaller and lighter than the HM65R-T V2.0, and available in three sought-after colors. At just 3.70oz (105g) with battery and headband, it delivers 1200 lumens and triple-LED versatility in a build that disappears on your head and performs whenever you need it.
HM55R RENEGADE Specs
- Max output: 1200 lumens
- Max beam distance: 574ft (175m)
- Weight: 3.70oz (105g) including battery and headband
- Battery: Replaceable ARB-L18-1600 1600mAh, USB-C rechargeable
- Lighting modes: 10 (4 Spotlight levels, 3 Floodlight levels, 3 Red light levels)
- IP68 waterproof and dustproof
- 2-meter impact resistance
- Max runtime: Up to 120 hours
- Colors: Black, OD green, orange topo
Key Features of the HM55R RENEGADE
Triple-LED System: Spotlight, Floodlight, and Red Light
The HM55R RENEGADE uses three independently controlled light sources, each serving a distinct purpose. The Spotlight delivers a focused beam up to 574ft (175m) for distance visibility on dark trails or job sites. The Floodlight provides wide-area coverage for tasks, camp setup, and close-range work. The Red Light, with three dedicated brightness levels reaching up to 43ft (13m), preserves night vision without forcing you to cycle through white light modes first.
Lightweight and Comfortable Build
At 3.70oz (105g) with battery and headband, the HM55R RENEGADE is light enough to wear for hours without fatigue. The wide, comfortable headband provides a secure fit during extended wear and physical activity. Tilt adjustment lets you direct the beam precisely where it's needed without moving your head.
Long Runtimes With a Replaceable Battery
The included ARB-L18-1600 1600mAh battery delivers up to 120 hours of runtime and charges via a waterproof inner USB-C port. A battery level indicator keeps you informed, so you're never caught off guard. Unlike built-in battery headlamps, the replaceable battery means you can carry a spare for extended trips.
Glove-Friendly Operation
The large single switch is easy to find and operate with gloves on, in the dark, or mid-activity. The Intelligent Downshift proximity sensor, which automatically reduces brightness when the headlamp detects a close surface, is turned off by default and can be activated as needed, keeping operation simple for most users.
IP68 Durability
The HM55R RENEGADE is waterproof up to 2 meters, dustproof, rated IP68, and impact resistant to 2 meters. It's built to handle rain, mud, job site conditions, and wet-weather outdoor use without hesitation.
HM55R RENEGADE Use Cases
Work and Trades
The glove-friendly switch, long runtimes, and IP68 durability make the HM55R RENEGADE a reliable companion through long shifts, outdoor jobsites, and hands-on work in low-light environments. The wide variety of lighting modes, including spotlight and floodlight, plus a range of lumens from 1200 down to 5, make it versatile enough for just about any task.
Camping and Hiking
At 3.70oz (105g), the HM55R RENEGADE won't weigh down your pack. The red light modes keep camp life comfortable without disrupting night vision or other campers, while the secure headband stays put on the trail.
Running
Tilt adjustment puts light where you're looking, and the lightweight build means you'll barely notice it during long runs. The wide headband stays secure through movement. The floodlight modes come in handy when exercising so you can see a wide area around you.
Hunting and Fishing
Three Red Light levels let you move through the dark without spooking wildlife or losing night vision. IP68 protection handles wet conditions at the water's edge or in the field.
DIY and Everyday Use
Accessible modes, glove-friendly controls, and comfortable extended wear make the HM55R RENEGADE just as useful in the garage or around the house as it is in the backcountry.
Compatible Accessories
AFH-04 Replacement Headband
Interchangeable headbands in multiple styles for a personalized fit.
AFH-05 SPORT Headlamp Headband
Longer SPORT headband with rotate-to-adjust tightening system, designed for a better fit over knit hats and active use.
ARB-L18-1600 Rechargeable Battery
Replacement or backup battery for extended trips.
APB-20 Headlamp Gear Bag
Purpose-built storage for the headlamp and accessories.
APB-30 Storage Bag
Larger storage option for gear and accessories.
HM55R RENEGADE Pros and Cons
Pros
- Triple-LED versatility with independent Spotlight, Floodlight, and Red light control
- Lightweight build at 3.70oz (105g), including battery and headband
- Up to 120 hours of runtime with a replaceable battery
- Large, glove-friendly switch
- IP68 waterproof, dustproof, and impact resistant to 2 meters
- Available in three exclusive colors
- Interchangeable headbands sold separately
Cons
- Spotlight and Floodlight cannot be combined by design, this keeps operation simple, but users who want combined output may prefer another model
- At 1200 lumens, it's a high-performance headlamp suited for most activities, but users who need search-and-rescue-level output may want to look at something like the HP35R for more power
What Users Are Saying
“The Headlamp is phenomenal… All different modes on the Fenix work really well, it holds the charge well, and operating the different modes is easy and intuitive.” — Felicia M. ★★★★★
“This light meets all needs I want in a hunting headlamp. Plenty bright for my needs and the controls are easy to navigate. The orange color is really cool also!“ — Mike V. ★★★★★
“First of all the wider headband is awesome! It simplifies the setup yet stays put as opposed to a more complicated setup with the over the center of the head strap. The light itself is just right in terms of size, weight, power and functionality.” — Charles R. ★★★★★
“The Fenix HM55R RENEGADE is among the top headlamps for general outdoor recreation. Comfortable, powerful, long-lasting, and fast-charging, it’s nearly ideal for most uses outside those that require extremely bright output (such as cycling or search and rescue).” — GearJunkie
The HM55R RENEGADE Does it All
The HM55R RENEGADE delivers where it counts: lightweight enough to forget you're wearing it, versatile enough to handle any activity, and purpose-built so every feature feels intentional.
Gear Junkie named it their best overall headlamp:
“While small and light enough to carry even on an ultralight mission or in a trail running vest, it packs up to 1,200 lumens for short bursts and can maintain a healthy 350 lumens for more than 8 hours.” — GearJunkie
Ready to experience it for yourself? Shop the HM55R RENEGADE and find the color that fits your setup.