DAVID PICOREL. The first impression when taking the Fenix HL18R-T headlamp out of its packaging, which by the way gives a feeling of very high quality, has been a pleasant surprise. Not only for its design, but also for its lightness. When it comes to carrying a headlamp, this is one of the aspects to take into account, and it is very much appreciated. This Fenix headlamp weighs little and is very easy to carry.
As an accessory for mountain runners, this Fenix HL18R-T is a "must", especially designed for trail running. Now the nuance and personal appreciation: it is more for hiking, or in those trail outings when it starts to get dark. Later I will give you more arguments why.
What are the strengths of the Fenix HL18R-T headlamp?
This Fenix HL18R-T has two different bulbs: one neutral white and the other white with a lifetime of about 50,000 hours.
Its included battery is charged directly from the front panel in about 2.5 hours, but we can also extend our outings if we run out of battery, as it is 100% compatible with AAA batteries.
Another interesting point is its battery indicator to keep us alert.
Speaking of its lightness, this complement for trail runners has a weight of 91 grams. An aspect that may make you doubt its resistance to falls, but BEWARE that it is very robust and withstands falls of up to 1 meter.
However, in the long distance test performed, the battery lasted about three hours of use, at maximum power, but it was noticeable that when there was little battery left, it went into saving mode, lighting less. This was noticeable.
What did we like about the Fenix HL18R-T headlamp?
From my point of view, it is a headlamp that I would use for sunrise and sunset, which is great, or for areas that are not excessively technical.
Also to highlight the adjustment mode similar to the BOA system of trail running shoes. A system that is very comfortable, and simply spectacular with that adjustable strap a la carte.
It has an incredible resistance to rain, sweat, etc, as it integrates the Waterproof fabric. You will not be able to get under water, but you can use it in any weather without any problem.
How does it work?
To start it up, just press any button for a few seconds. This action makes it turn on with one of the two bulbs it has. If we have turned it on in the spotlight mode it will be with a power of 200 lumens, and each time we press the button we change to 500, or 70 lumens of power. Pressing the other button we change the focus to 30 lumens, or emergency light.
Holding down the two buttons locks the front, preventing it from turning on accidentally, and when we go to use it we are out of battery. This is a very useful and practical detail because it is easy to turn on accidentally. In addition, pressing any button with the front off indicates with 4 blue LEDs how much battery is left.
Summary and conclusions of the Fenix HL18R-T headlamp
This Fenix HL18R-T is an ideal headlamp if you are just starting out in trail running or for training at night on less technical terrain. Personally I do not see it for an Ultra, although it is true that it can be a good second headlamp or for an emergency, in case the first one suffers some kind of mishap.
It may be missing the red back light, it also lacks light capacity and duration to be able to use it in long distance or more complicated terrain.
However, its quality and price ratio will lead you to choose it as:
- Good headlamp for training.
- Emergency headlamp.
- Valid option for beginners in trail running.
Fenix HL18R-T headlamp technical data sheet
It has two lights with the following specifications. The first light has three intensities of:
- 500 lumens, 82 meters distance and 3 hours duration.
- 200 lumens, 54 meters distance and 8 hours.
- 70 lumens, 35 meters distance and 20 hours.
The intensities of the other spotlight are 30 lumens, 12 meters and 30 hours. While theemergency light (which emits an SOS signal in morse code), which is 4 lumens, 300 hours.
It has a battery level indicator.
Micro USB charging port for the included 13 milliamp lithium polymer battery. And you can also use it with three triple AAA batteries.
Lock function.
Patented closure similar to the BOA of trail running shoes. Called SPORT (Secure Performance for Outdoor Running and Trail) system.
60° tilt mechanism to direct the light beam where it is needed.
1 meter impact resistance and reflective material.
IP66, resistant to dust and foreign elements. Heavy rain and splashing water will not do any harm.
Working temperature from -35ºC to 45ºC.
5 years warranty.
Review by David Picorel(@dpicorel). More information: Fénix Flashlights.
