General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Running in the dark... Rss Feed  
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2004-11-01 9:13 AM

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Subject: Running in the dark...
Well, thanks to daylight saving time, I'll have to head out for my first run in the dark tonight. I plan on running on back roads, to cut down on the traffic, and wearing a red flashing light in back, neon ankle bands, and a head lamp. (And, I’m actually thinking about picking up a reflective vest at lunch.) Do you think this is overkill? Also, does anyone run with a head lamp? I'm thinking it may drive me crazy with all the up-and-down.

Thanks for any feedback!

Rob


2004-11-01 9:20 AM
in reply to: #77806

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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...
I run in the morning so this time change is to my benefit, I've been running in the dark the last month or so. Definitely go for the reflective vest, cheap and effective in letting you be seen by drivers. I didn't use a headlamp but I wish I did. Last Thursday I ran into a fallen branch that I didn't see in the dark and got all scratched up, lucky I didn't fall and hurt something more.
2004-11-01 9:38 AM
in reply to: #77806

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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...
I agree, a vest is a good idea. I run with one in my own neighborhood! I figure you can't be too careful. Even a small arguement with a car is bound to result in personal injury. I have thought about a headlamp and think an LED model is the way to go....very bright, white light.

2004-11-01 10:30 AM
in reply to: #77806

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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...
Rob

If you run in the morning, it's light out .

I've always gone with the reflective vest, and that's pretty much it. Most of the places I run in the dark are unlighted, and frankly I like it like that, I think a head lamp would spoil the peacefulness of it all

Chris

Edited by cdf26.2 2004-11-01 10:32 AM
2004-11-01 10:37 AM
in reply to: #77806

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Master
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Newbury Park, CA
Subject: RE: Running in the dark...
I usually run at 5 AM so it's always dark.  I tend to buy shirts that have some reflective stripes or some reflective decal on it.  That works well for me.  I also am running on pretty well lit streets on the sidewalk.  I feel safe but you need to do what is prudent for where you are running.  A headlamp would drive me crazy.
2004-11-01 12:17 PM
in reply to: #77806

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Elite
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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...
Ok. I must admint. A headlamp is a little "out there" unless you can't see where you're going. A headlamp is less "bright" and can not be seen (by cars) as far away as a good quality reflective vest.

Consequently, I highly recommend a vest at the very minimum.

I run using my elastic, reflective ankle banks I also wear while cycling.


2004-11-01 12:24 PM
in reply to: #77806

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Master
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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...

I run at 5 am, it's dark.  I bike at 8 pm, it's dark.  I use a reflective belt, as well as reflective tape on my shoes and I have LED lights on the front and back of my bike.  The streets I ride and run are mostly all dark, with very little lighting.  I stepped in a hole last week while running that I didn't see, and I tend to run over lots of stuff while I bike. 

One thing I've learned is that you have to try things to see what works for YOU.  You might love having the light.  Personally I think it would drive me crazy, but give it a whirl, and let us know what you decide!!

wendi

2004-11-01 12:27 PM
in reply to: #77806

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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...
Okay... I ran out to the LRS a little earlier (5 min away) and got a vest. I'll also give the light a shot. I'll report back tomorrow.

Thanks,
Rob

Edited by MountainBreeze 2004-11-01 12:28 PM
2004-11-01 1:55 PM
in reply to: #77806

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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...
I'm not a morning person, though I'm finding that if I get up and run in the AM, I have more energy throughout the day.

Fortunately, I still have some stuff leftover from previous sporting endeavours and the Army, A couple lightweight LED 'binky dot' lights. Put on on the front, one on the back. I also have a 3" wide dayglo-green reflective strap from the Army that I wear either as a belt, or bandolier style, depending on what I'm wearing. Also have reflective strip on my running tights.

I probably look like a UFO to an early morning joe headed to work, but I'm visible!

Regarding the headlamp, if you're on streets, you probably won't need it. Blinky red-led dots will get more attention from cars than a solid light. If you run on a trail/forest preserve away from street lights, it's probably more needed. You'll want one of the nice twist-on/off style, as lightweight as possible. Also, something with an over-the-head strap in addition to the headband strap will be a lot more comfortable due to less 'bounce'. Petzl makes some nice ones. Check out http://www.REI.com

Hope this helps!
-Chris
2004-11-01 2:16 PM
in reply to: #77806

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Elite
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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...

Of course, do everything with reflective materials and lights  to make yourself visible, but also always run or ride under the assumption that the drivers on the road do not see you.  Last week, a guy was riding his motorcycle while his dogs ran along with him.  He was going slowly on neighborhood streets but he was not looking for a runner.  I had to jump up on the curb to avoid being hit as he came around a corner.

TW



Edited by tech_geezer 2004-11-01 2:18 PM
2004-11-01 2:27 PM
in reply to: #77806

Champion
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Subject: RE: Running in the dark...

If you do decide to go with a headlamp, try one of the units that we backpackers take for those times when we get stuck "night hiking."  The new LED models can usually be set to a flashing mode that really attracts attention, and it extends the battery life as well.  I use this one and it works great...I've just never used it for running though:

http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47567578&parent_category_rn=0&vcat=REI_SEARCH



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