A trail running headlamp lives or dies on three things: weight on the forehead, a headband you can adjust while moving, and a beam that shows the trail ahead and your feet at the same time. Fenix's magnesium HM series was built around exactly those, and this guide ranks the three running lamps we sell plus the one for ultras.
1. Fenix HM65R-T V2
The standard. Magnesium body, spot and flood LEDs, white and warm white, a 24-hour mode, 170 meters of throw, one-hand SPORT headband, USB-C 18650. $104.95.
2. Fenix HM65R-DT
The same lamp with a 3000K warm LED at 1500 lumens for fog, dust and rain, and a perforated headband. The one for bad weather. $99.95.
3. Fenix HM62-T
Lighter and simpler: 1200 lumens, white and red LEDs, one switch, an emergency whistle in the buckle, 23.7 hours. For shorter runs and anyone who wants less on their head. $75.95.
4. Fenix HP35R
For a 100-miler with a crew: 4000 lumens and a rear battery pack with 500 hours on low. Heavy, and worth it at 3 a.m. on hour twenty. $229.95.
What to look for
Under 100 grams on the head if you can. Spot and flood together. A warm option for fog. A headband that tightens with one hand. And enough runtime for the longest night you plan to be out.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best headlamp for trail running?
The Fenix HM65R-T V2.
Warm or cool light for running?
Warm cuts through fog and dust; cool reaches farther in clear air. The HM65R-T V2 has both.
How many lumens do I need for trail running?
300 to 500 sustained; turbo for descents.
How long should it run?
The full night, on the level you actually use.
Should I carry a backup?
On anything over a few hours, a small light in the pack.
The bottom line
The Fenix HM65R-T V2 is the trail running headlamp; the DT if you run in weather.
Related reading
Fenix HM65R-T V2 review
Fenix HM62-T review
Best rechargeable headlamps
