Choosing the right headlamp for ultra-running is crucial for safety and performance. This head-to-head comparison pits two popular contenders against each other: the Petzl Nao+ and the Fenix HM65R-T. Both offer impressive features, but cater to different needs and preferences. This review delves into a detailed analysis of their strengths and weaknesses, considering factors such as brightness, battery life, weight, water resistance, and additional features. We'll explore which headlamp reigns supreme for long-distance runners, weighing the benefits of advanced technology against the advantages of simplicity and affordability.This in-depth comparison examines key aspects such as price, weight, brightness, battery life, and special features. We'll dissect the performance of each headlamp under various conditions, highlighting their suitability for the demanding environment of ultramarathons. By comparing the Petzl Nao+'s reactive lighting and rear light with the Fenix HM65R-T's high lumen output and extended battery life at lower settings, we aim to provide you with the information necessary to make an informed decision based on your individual priorities and running style.
Pros And Cons
- Very light (185 grams)
- 750 lumens maximum output
- Combination of spot and flood light
- IPX4 waterproof rating
- Red light feature on battery pack
- Reactive technology for increased battery life
- Up to 6.5 hours burn time at 750 lumens with reactive technology
- Up to 13-14 hours burn time at 300 lumens with reactive technology
- Comfortable to wear for long periods
- Expensive (£165)
- Spare batteries are expensive (£65)
- Only 3 hours burn time at 750 lumens constant
- Even lighter (140 grams)
- 1500 lumens maximum output
- Combination of spot and flood light
- IP68 waterproof rating (submersible)
- Very impressive burn time (10-12 hours at 400 lumens)
- Simple to use
- Spare batteries are inexpensive (£20)
- Comfortable to wear for long periods
- Fast charging (a couple of hours)
- No red light feature
- Only around 4 hours burn time at 300 lumens
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Price and Features Comparison
The Fenix HM65R-T retails at a significantly lower price point than the Petzl Nao+ in the UK market. This makes the Fenix a more budget-friendly option for runners, especially those on a tighter budget. Both headlamps are fully rechargeable and include rechargeable batteries, a standard feature in modern headlamps.
However, the Petzl Nao+ boasts a reactive lighting technology that adjusts brightness based on ambient light. This feature optimizes battery life while ensuring sufficient illumination in varying conditions. The Fenix, while lacking this feature, compensates with a higher maximum output, reaching a whopping 1500 lumens.
Weight is another consideration. The Fenix is noticeably lighter at 140 grams compared to the Petzl's 185 grams. This difference is quite significant during long runs where every ounce counts. Both provide a combination of spot and flood beams for versatile illumination.
Waterproofness and Additional Features
Both headlamps offer impressive waterproof capabilities. The Petzl Nao+ has an IPX4 rating, while the Fenix HM65R-T boasts an IP68 rating, making it submersible to a depth of two meters for 30 minutes. This makes the Fenix exceptionally durable for runners facing challenging weather conditions.
The Petzl Nao+ includes a handy red rear light, a common requirement in many ultramarathons and night runs for enhanced visibility and safety. This is a feature that the Fenix lacks. The Petzl also integrates reactive lighting technology, a smart feature that automatically adjusts brightness to save battery power and minimize light pollution.
The Fenix HM65R-T offers a simpler interface and lacks the reactive technology and rear light. However, its simplicity may be appealing to runners who prefer less technical controls.
Battery Life and Performance
Burn time is crucial for ultra runners. On max power, the Petzl Nao+ provides approximately six and a half hours. However, using the reactive mode and adjusting brightness via the Bluetooth app, you can extend battery life to 13-14 hours at lower luminescence levels.
The Fenix HM65R-T's burn time varies considerably with brightness settings. At maximum 1500 lumens, it provides about two hours, which is significantly less. But at a more practical 400 lumens, it boasts an impressive 10-12 hours. Both torches offer replaceable batteries, a critical factor for long races.
Both headlamps feature a locking mechanism to prevent accidental activation in a pack, which is a practical safeguard. The Fenix uses a button hold, the Petzl a locking toggle. Both are equally effective.
Comfort and Additional Considerations
Comfort during extended use is paramount. While the Petzl Nao+ is heavier, its weight distribution makes it comfortable. The Fenix HM65R-T, being lighter, paired with its wide, adjustable strap, surprisingly offers comparable comfort, even during lengthy night runs.
Additional features include the Petzl's reactive technology and red rear light, which the Fenix lacks, but as a tradeoff Fenix's simplicity makes operation easy. The cost of replacement batteries differs significantly; Petzl batteries are more expensive than Fenix batteries. Charging speeds are comparable, with the Fenix slightly faster.
Both offer excellent brightness, though the Fenix's 1500-lumen max output is notably higher. However, for practical, extended use, the Fenix's 400-lumen setting strikes a balance between brightness and battery life. The Petzl allows brightness customization through a Bluetooth app.
Conclusion: Which Headlamp Reigns Supreme?
Ultimately, the choice between the Petzl Nao+ and the Fenix HM65R-T depends on individual needs and priorities. The Petzl offers sophisticated features like reactive lighting and a rear red light, but at a higher price point. Its battery life, while excellent, requires fine-tuning. The Fenix, while simpler, is cheaper, lighter, and boasts remarkably impressive brightness and battery life at lower settings.
For long-distance ultra running, the Fenix HM65R-T emerges as a superior option due to its exceptional brightness, remarkable battery life, and surprising comfort. Its simplicity is a bonus. However, the lack of a rear light may be a drawback for some runners.
Both are high-quality headlamps. If features and adjustable brightness are crucial, and budget isn't a major concern, the Petzl is an excellent choice. However, for sheer brightness, longer battery life at practical lumens, and value for money, the Fenix HM65R-T is currently my preferred headlamp.