Why Fall Trail Running Demands the Right Headlamp

Fenix Lighting headlamps

Fall trail running is one of the best ways to enjoy the season. Cooler air, colorful landscapes, and quieter trails, but with shorter daylight hours and unpredictable conditions, visibility is crucial. A dependable trail running headlamp ensures you can run safely, see obstacles clearly, and stay focused on the trail ahead.

The Best Trail Running Headlamps Feature:

  • High brightness for spotting roots, rocks, and uneven ground.
  • Lightweight builds that won’t cause neck fatigue.
  • Comfortable, secure headbands that stay put even at high speeds.
  • Long runtimes and fast recharging so you don’t get caught in the dark.
  • Durability to withstand rain, mud, and cold-weather runs.
  • Red light modes for preserving night vision and signaling.

Fenix Lighting headlamps are designed with these features in mind. Below are four of the best models for fall trail runners.

What are the Best Trail Running Headlamps?

  • HM62-T – Best all-around balance of brightness and comfort.
  • HL18R-T V2.0 – Ultralight and secure, built specifically for runners.
  • HM55R – Rugged and bright, for demanding conditions.
  • HM65R-T V2.0 – Maximum output and comfort for endurance runs.

Every headlamp here offers power, comfort, and reliability. This way, you can focus on your stride, not your gear.

fenix hm62-t headlamp black

1. Fenix HM62-T Lightweight Headlamp – Best All-Around

The HM62-T is a versatile choice for trail runners who want reliable brightness without extra weight. Made from lightweight magnesium alloy, it’s durable yet easy to wear for long runs. A glove-friendly switch and rotary SPORT-fit headband keep operation simple and secure.

Quick Specs:

  • Max Lumens: 1200
  • Beam Distance: 492ft (150m)
  • Runtime: Up to 280 hours
  • Lighting Modes: 6 (4 white, red, red flash)
  • Weight: 4.41 oz (125g) including battery and headband
  • Battery: One 18650 Li-ion (included, USB-C rechargeable)
  • Durability: IP68 waterproof/dustproof + submersible to 2m

Customer Tested. Customer Approved.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I hate wearing anything when I am running but wanted to do the Jack and Jill Marathon trail. Part of the trail is running through a 2-mile tunnel that is super dark. This light performed above and beyond my expectations. I would highly recommend it for anyone that needs a headlamp while running!” –Nicholas S. 

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
 “Stable with riding/running. Lights up the trail. Super bright.” –Samuel F.

fenix hl18r-t v2 rechargeable headlamp

2. Fenix HL18R-T V2.0 Rechargeable Headlamp – Best for Runners

If lightweight comfort is your top priority, the HL18R-T V2.0 delivers. Weighing just 3.63 oz (103g), it’s barely noticeable on your head but still powerful enough for dark trails. It features a dual light system, white, warm white, and red modes, plus a lockout switch to prevent accidental activation. The SPORT-fit headband with rotary dial ensures a stable, bounce-free fit, even during sprints or uneven terrain.

Quick Specs:

  • Max Lumens: 800
  • Beam Distance: 410ft (125m)
  • Runtime: Up to 160 hours
  • Lighting Modes: 10 (cool, warm, red, SOS)
  • Weight: 3.63 oz (103g) including battery and headband
  • Battery: 1900mAh rechargeable pack (USB-C) or 3x AAA backup
  • Durability: Lockout switch, weather-resistant build

Customer Tested. Customer Approved.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Great head torch. Bright enough to get the job done on early or late runs,” –Matthew S.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Lives up to the specs. Great battery life and power output for the weight, by far the best in the lightweight trail category.” –Alex A.

fenix hm55r rechargeable headlamp black

3. Fenix HM55R Rechargeable Headlamp – Best for Rugged Brightness

Grab the HM55R headlamp for brightness and rugged reliability. With up to 1200 lumens and a beam distance of 574ft (175m), it offers serious output in a compact size. Runners can switch between a separate spotlight and floodlight, while the red mode helps preserve night vision. With an IP68 rating, it’s fully dust-proof and waterproof, ready to tackle rainy fall nights or muddy trails.

Quick Specs:

  • Max Lumens: 1200
  • Beam Distance: 574ft (175m)
  • Runtime: Up to 147 hours
  • Lighting Modes: 9 (spotlight, floodlight, red, red flash)
  • Weight: 3.70 oz (105g) including battery and headband
  • Battery: One included ARB-L18-1600 rechargeable battery
  • Durability: IP68 waterproof/dustproof, built for tough trails

Customer Tested. Customer Approved.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Great all around light for running at night and also for looking for gear in the dark without disturbing your buddies. The light is lightweight and performs well.” –Luis J. 

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
 “Varying brightness levels are great. Very lightweight design.” –Jeffrey

fenix hm65r-t v2 rechargeable headlamp red

4. Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 Rechargeable Headlamp – Best for Comfort & Beam Throw

Designed for endurance runners, the HM65R-T V2.0 is one of Fenix’s most advanced trail running headlamps. The new SPORT-fit headband has a rotary dial for small adjustments. It also includes a whistle for emergencies. Dual LEDs (cool white and warm white) allow you to switch depending on trail conditions, with warm light cutting through fog and mist. The design of the HM65R-T V2.0 supports long trail runs, providing 1600 lumens of output and runtimes up to 300 hours.

Quick Specs:

  • Max Lumens: 1600
  • Beam Distance: 558ft (170m)
  • Runtime: Up to 300 hours
  • Lighting Modes: 8 (cool, warm, SOS)
  • Weight: 4.94 oz (140g) including battery and headband
  • Battery: One 3400mAh 18650 Li-ion (USB-C rechargeable, included)
  • Durability: IP68 waterproof/dustproof, magnesium alloy build

Customer Tested. Customer Approved.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
 “Turns night into day! If you are doing challenging runs, skiing or mountaineering in the dark, this is the headlamp for you.” –D.K.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
 “I bought this headlamp for ultra-running, and more specifically, to pace my wife through the Cruel Jewel. The Fenix held up through the night beautifully, and with 3/4 battery left at the end of a 9-hour shift. It was also very comfortable to wear and the boa system worked perfectly with no fuss. Very happy with my purchase.” –Gregory D. 

Run Confidently into Fall Nights with Fenix Trail Running Headlamps

Fall runs are all about crisp air, quiet trails, and pushing your limits. Don’t let shorter days hold you back. With a Fenix trail running headlamp, you get lightweight designs, dependable brightness, and rugged builds that keep up with you, mile after mile.
Explore the full range of Fenix Trail Running Headlamps and find the light that fits your stride.