10 Best Night Running Gear Reviewed

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
Test Winner: North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
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If you are on the hunt for the best night running gear, then you have come to the right place. Here we will go over the best of the best options currently available, along with their Pros and Cons and what to look for before making your purchase.

While we know that not everyone loves to run outside, there are quite a bit of you that do really enjoy it. However, it is important to acknowledge that running in the dark can be dangerous and requires additional precautions you need to take.

Nowadays there are a ton of different types of night running gear out there for you to choose from—so it can be pretty hard for you to find the best of the best currently available. Lucky for you, we have done all of the work for you.

Check out what we found!

Standout Picks

These shorts are really comfortable, lightweight, and breathable. They have some reflective features that make you a lot more visible--so they really are just the perfect shorts for night time running!
Amazon Link
f you love to run at night then you know that without a source of light, you are pretty much blind--and if you can't see that also means it's probably difficult for others to see you as well. The Black Diamond Spot lamp is great for those of you who find yourselves running on roads with no lighting as well as those of you who find yourselves on the roads at night.
Amazon Link
Wearing reflective clothing is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe and be sure you are seen when you're running at night. It will allow you to be visible in the dark when any source of light, like a car's headlights, flashes on you.
Amazon Link
Reflective bands can be useful but rely too heavily on outside sources of light to make you visible. The Nite Ize Slaplit bracelet makes absolutely sure you are seen no matter what, by being its own source of light.
If you don`t find reflective clothes appealing then this is the perfect product for you. The Tracer360 visibility vest by NoxGear is a modern and unique product that will keep you visible on your night runs. It features 6 color options for illumination. The Tracer360 visibility vest by NoxGear is one of the most unique products meant for night running on the market today.
Amazon Link
A headlamp is a necessity for running at night, but sometimes they can be bulky and uncomfortable. If you are looking for an more comfortable light source, then look no further than the Panther Vision Powercap. This simple and handsome cap is lined with 4 LED lights with adjustable levels to make sure you can see and be seen.
Amazon Link
If you run a lot at night, then buying yourself reflective running shoes is a no-brainer. They give you another layer of visibility for safety, and they look super cool. The ASICS GEL-Kayano 22 are running shoes that will provide you with the visibility that you need on night runs, with a modern and beautiful design.
When you run at night you need to keep your whole body warm. These running tights will keep your legs warm and protected, and you can wear them as a top layer or under sweatpants. The choice is up to you as they are functional in multiple ways.
Amazon Link
The Ultraspire Lumen comes highly rated and recommended by many runners. It provides an added layer of visibility and easy to use, comfortable, and a great addition to the running gear of all nighttime runners.
Amazon Link
If you run at night you know that it can get really cold, especially in fall and winter, and safety is important year round. That is why these arm warmers are a great addition to your night running gear. They will keep your arms and believe it or not hands warm better than just about any other accessory, and their BioViz reflective technology helps keep you safe in low-light situations.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Features

This is a diverse list but they all have qualities that will help you stay seen and safe.

Even though the products on our list fall into lots of different categories, ie. reflective clothing, glow in the dark shoes, headlamps, etc, the one thing they all have in common is having features to help keep you safe at night! When looking at safety gear for running at night, be sure to think about the features that are important to you, as well as the weather where you live.

if you'll be using different safety gear in different seasons and other factors that are important to you. For example, if you want one piece of gear that you can use all year round no matter where you live, you might want to look at the Noxgear Tracer 360 Visibility Vest, which can worn comfortably year round because it's lightweight, goes over any type of clothing, and features a highly visible external light.

However if buying and changing batteries sound like something you won't actually end up doing, you should look elsewhere, since if you're not likely to maintain and wear your gear it can't keep you safe. Another feature we love in nighttime running gear is reflectivity. When a piece of gear has reflective elements designed right in, it makes it really easy for you.

You don't need to think about changing batteries, or even turning on a switch. All you have to do is put them on, and you were going to do that anyway (at least we hope so). The downside is that reflectivity might not be enough to make you highly visible, and when it comes to your safety, it's best to not mess around.

That's why we recommend wearing multiple pieces of gear with multiple features. For example, wear the Baleaf reflective tights with the Panther Powercap, that way you get reflection AND an externally powered light, which will ensure you're well seen and safe.

Comfort

There’s no need to be uncomfortable or distracted just because you’re wearing reflective gear.

Let’s face it: if your gear isn’t comfortable, you’re not likely to wear it. When it comes to gear for running at night, breathability is a big factor, so we took that into account when looking at the comfort of each item on our list. If your leggings, tights, or sleeves aren’t breathable, and they leave you sweating and wet with moisture so you're uncomfortable on your run

You’re not going to grab it next time you want to go for a run, and you won't be as safe. So we made sure that we checked each and every product in our buying guide for comfort and breathability. In fact, there were several items that were comparable in function and form, but slight changes in comfort levels made them get the pick over their counterparts.

What we are left with is a list of easy to wear nighttime protection that doesn’t get in the way, and is easy and comfortable to use. Thoughtful and ergonomic design is also crucial here. Just because a product is a good idea, in theory, doesn’t mean that it has been executed well.

We used our industry knowledge of running gear design as well as the consideration of over 1200 reviews in order to determine whether or not a product meets our high standards. Make sure you do this for yourself too though so you can be sure you are getting something that also meets your standards as well.

Durability

A long-lasting product is always ideal--and there is nothing wrong with wanting something that will last.

Ideally, our gear is both highly functional and durable. Getting these two things to meet in real life can be difficult, however. The most durable items on our list are the simplest; the 2XU Hyoptik and Baleaf running tights and Pearl Izumi arm sleeve. While these are all designed to be highly reflective, it really is best, and we can't emphasize it enough, to wear something reflective, and have a source of light.

However, while they're all well made, lighting gear such as the GRDE headlamp, the Panther PowerTap, and the Nite Ize Slapit bracelet all have more moving parts and some plastic pieces, which means there is more that can go wrong. Because we care about your safety, we only included items on the list that were rated as durable by reviewers.

The last thing you want is to be counting on a piece of gear to keep you safe, only to have it break just before or during your run. If something breaks right before your run you’re probably going to just go on without it and that’s not safe, so we made sure to include products that come from quality companies with a solid reputation, as well as ones that have a lot of good reviews from real-world users.

Visibility

Even though all these products are different from one another, they all have reflective qualities and elements that help keep you visible and safe.

We also made sure to include night running gear that makes you more visible in every direction, not just from behind. Whether it be a light belt or a reflective running jacket, our selections will make sure that you pop up on everyone’s radar, no matter what direction they are coming from.

Furthermore, user feedback indicates that having reflective materials at eye level is much better than just having reflective running shoes alone. So we selected options that have higher visibility in the midsection as well. Another way to stay highly visible at night is to have both reflective items of clothing as well as wearing a flashing light.

Having these two different types of lighting is the ultimate way to stay seen. It activates different parts of the brain of people who you’re sharing the road with so they’re sure to notice you. For example, a tired driver who has been looking at reflective road signs for a long time may not differentiate between your reflective gear and another sign and may not notice you.

But if you’re wearing a flashing light this is very unique and different from what they’ve been looking at so their brain is sure to notice the difference and then see that the flashing light is attached to a person who needs to be avoided. All in all, the best night running gear should ensure you are always visible so you can be clearly seen at all times.

10 Best Night Running gear

1. North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts

Where to buy
Amazon Link
North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
Amazon Link

These shorts are really comfortable, lightweight, and breathable. They have some reflective features that make you a lot more visible--so they really are just the perfect shorts for night time running!

Read more

Features

These hand warmers do exactly what they're designed to do; keep your arms and hands warm while reflecting light to help keep you safe while you're running at night. We all know how uncomfortable it can be when you run at night without any real protection for your hands. In the end, that can cause you to decide to stop your running session. Make sure to always be prepared with these reflective arm sleeves

Comfort

These Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Warmers get the job done. The price tag vs. value is questionable to some, especially those who consider arm sleeves an unnecessary accessory. But if you're the type of person who likes extra comfort, you get it with these arm sleeves. These are affordable, and effectively keep your arms visible, protected, and warm.

Durability

Hand warmers can protect your hand from the wind that can cool off your hands even faster than low temperatures outside can. They can also protect you from the rain and snow, which is always a plus in the books. Some reviewers remarked that they would sometimes fall down the arm a bit after running for a while, but it didn't seem to be a major issue for most users.

Visibility

Depending on the color you get, these shoes are actually available in lots of really bright colors to choose from. They also have some reflective features that you will love and that will ensure you stay safe while you are out on your nightly runs.

Amazon Link

2. Black Diamond Spot Lamp

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Black Diamond Spot Lamp
Black Diamond Spot Lamp
Black Diamond Spot Lamp
Black Diamond Spot Lamp
Black Diamond Spot Lamp
Amazon Link

f you love to run at night then you know that without a source of light, you are pretty much blind--and if you can't see that also means it's probably difficult for others to see you as well. The Black Diamond Spot lamp is great for those of you who find yourselves running on roads with no lighting as well as those of you who find yourselves on the roads at night.

Read more

Features

If you have a strong enough source of light you will be visible for up to one mile. The black diamond spot will definitely make sure you are visible and ensure you are seen by drivers and other people on the road.

Comfort

The best part about this lamp is that it is easy to adjust and is really comfortable for you so you can adjust it to fit you perfectly each and every time.

Durability

A source of light is a valuable piece of equipment for your night runs. You should never be cheap when you are buying yourself a headlamp because it can literally save your life or the life of another person. This headlamp comes at a great price and is well worth the cost.

Visibility

When you have a source of light on your night runs then you will be able to see every obstacle on the road in front of you. This one comes in high and low beam options as well as strobe, distance, dimming, and ref night vision options.

Amazon Link

3. Santic Rain Jacket

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Santic Rain Jacket
Santic Rain Jacket
Santic Rain Jacket
Santic Rain Jacket
Santic Rain Jacket
Amazon Link

Wearing reflective clothing is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe and be sure you are seen when you're running at night. It will allow you to be visible in the dark when any source of light, like a car's headlights, flashes on you.

Read more

Features

The most important feature of reflective clothing is to make you as visible as possible. With reflective clothing, you will be safe on your long night runs.

Comfort

The Santic Reflective Rain Jacket is affordable, made with quality in mind and worth picking up if you want to stay visible and warm on your night runs.

Durability

This is also a wind protector and cold air will not penetrate the material. That way you will stay warm on windy and cold nights. Also, it protects you from the rain and other weather elements.

Visibility

You will be visible at an approximate range of a few hundred feet and this will allow any oncoming vehicles to see you on time and prevent a possible accident. The bright and reflective Santic Rain Jacket is one such piece of running gear.

Amazon Link

4. Nite Ize Slaplit

Where to buy
Nite Ize Slaplit
Nite Ize Slaplit
Nite Ize Slaplit
Nite Ize Slaplit
Nite Ize Slaplit
Amazon Link

Reflective bands can be useful but rely too heavily on outside sources of light to make you visible. The Nite Ize Slaplit bracelet makes absolutely sure you are seen no matter what, by being its own source of light.

Read more

Features

The Slaplit, as its name suggests, has a snap-on design. This means it will wrap around practically anything the runner wants it to, including additional layers of clothing.

Comfort

This is especially helpful for night runners who need to worry about heat conservation. Another thing to consider is that when deciding where to wear or hang the Slaplit, think carefully because it has issues with sweat absorption.

Durability

The Nite Ize Slaplit sells for an affordable price and has considerable battery life. This bracelet should be a real contender when deciding on gear for your night runs.

Visibility

The Slaplit uses a combination of a reflective pattern and a brightly colored light. This combination makes a runner easily visible at night.

5. Noxgear Tracer360 Visibility Vest

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Noxgear Tracer360 Visibility Vest
Noxgear Tracer360 Visibility Vest
Noxgear Tracer360 Visibility Vest
Noxgear Tracer360 Visibility Vest
Noxgear Tracer360 Visibility Vest
Amazon Link

If you don`t find reflective clothes appealing then this is the perfect product for you. The Tracer360 visibility vest by NoxGear is a modern and unique product that will keep you visible on your night runs. It features 6 color options for illumination. The Tracer360 visibility vest by NoxGear is one of the most unique products meant for night running on the market today.

Read more

Features

Is it worth purchasing? Let's see, it is very easy to use, lightweight, comfortable, functional and adaptable for any weather condition. If you buy one you won't be disappointed. And at this price, it's worth checking out.

Comfort

The Tracer360 is very lightweight, so you won't even notice that you are wearing it. Also, you will be able to wear it at any time of the year, since it is easily adjustable and easy to put on over bulky clothing.

Durability

The good thing about this vest is that it is actually designed to be really durable so you don't have to worry about it breaking down on you any time. So, if you want something that will last you the long haul, you will love this one.

Visibility

This vest will provide you with 360-degree illumination, which makes it a very effective single piece of equipment to be utilized for night

Amazon Link

6. Panther Vision Powercap

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Panther Vision Powercap
Panther Vision Powercap
Panther Vision Powercap
Panther Vision Powercap
Panther Vision Powercap
Amazon Link

A headlamp is a necessity for running at night, but sometimes they can be bulky and uncomfortable. If you are looking for an more comfortable light source, then look no further than the Panther Vision Powercap. This simple and handsome cap is lined with 4 LED lights with adjustable levels to make sure you can see and be seen.

Read more

Features

The Panther Vision Powercap is a steal. Some did have issues with the batteries running low and lights dimming, after only a few runs, but said it still worked for a long time before the batteries died completely. And batteries are included, something rare these days. Even when the price is adjusted to account for the replacement batteries, it still comes out to less than a rechargeable light. The Powercap is highly recommended if you are looking for a headlamp alternative.

Comfort

The Powercap is soft, light, and well insulated for outdoor wear. While it may not be able to cover your head entirely, insulated caps, or similar run gear, could easily fit under it. Few reports any issues with sweat affecting the performance of the caps. Compared to a strap-on headlamp, the cap is a lot less bulky and will have far fewer issues with movement.

Durability

As far as durability goes, you will love this cap because it is designed and constructed to last you for the long haul.

Visibility

This cap won't stick out as much as a head lamp, for certain, but this may be appealing to a lot of runners. The Powercap is extremely bright with some directional control of the beam. It is one of the less visible pieces of equipment on this list but this can easily be offset by the runner who is properly prepared.

Amazon Link

7. Asics Gel Kayano 22 Reflective Running Shoe

Where to buy
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Reflective Running Shoe
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Reflective Running Shoe
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Reflective Running Shoe
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Reflective Running Shoe
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Reflective Running Shoe
Amazon Link

If you run a lot at night, then buying yourself reflective running shoes is a no-brainer. They give you another layer of visibility for safety, and they look super cool. The ASICS GEL-Kayano 22 are running shoes that will provide you with the visibility that you need on night runs, with a modern and beautiful design.

Read more

Features

Because of their great comfort, comfortable and high-quality materials, great reflectivity, and breathability, the Kayano 22's are a great buy for night runners. If you don't run at night often, or if you live in a cold environment, then they might not be the right shoe for you.

Comfort

These are very comfortable running shoes and they also provide great breathability. They are perfect if you run at night during spring and summer. The style of the ASICS GEL-Kayano 22 is modern and slick. they certainly are eye-catching.

Durability

The good thing about these running shoes is that they are designed and constructed to last and hold up to consistent use.

Visibility

These reflective running shoes will allow you to be visible from afar. They do that job perfectly. They will be visible hundreds of feet prior to any vehicle getting near you, thus keeping you from the potential of getting struck.

8. Baleaf Compression Tights

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Baleaf Compression Tights
Baleaf Compression Tights
Baleaf Compression Tights
Baleaf Compression Tights
Baleaf Compression Tights
Amazon Link

When you run at night you need to keep your whole body warm. These running tights will keep your legs warm and protected, and you can wear them as a top layer or under sweatpants. The choice is up to you as they are functional in multiple ways.

Read more

Features

No doubt about it, these tights will keep your legs warm. For many runners this is an accessory that flies under the radar, bt you wouldn't believe how important and helpful it is to have a pair of running tights. They are extremely effective in keeping your legs warm when you run on chilly nights.

Comfort

Most importantly, these Baleaf have a highly reflective design to make you visible and help keep you safe at night. They also protect your legs from the elements. They are durable, hold up well, and will keep you well protected and warm.

Durability

They are worth investing in if you do a lot of night running and want to go extra mile literally and figuratively. Even if you want to wear your favorite pair of sweatpants, you can wear these underneath and they will go a long way in providing that extra layer of protection. Are they worth the cost? Depending on your situation, yes.

Visibility

When it comes to the visibility of these leggings, they do offer some reflective features. While they are not super visible and aren't going to ensure that everyone can see you at all times--so you want to make sure you get some other reflective gear as well, not just this.

Amazon Link

9. Ultraspire Lumen

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Ultraspire Lumen
Ultraspire Lumen
Ultraspire Lumen
Ultraspire Lumen
Ultraspire Lumen
Amazon Link

The Ultraspire Lumen comes highly rated and recommended by many runners. It provides an added layer of visibility and easy to use, comfortable, and a great addition to the running gear of all nighttime runners.

Read more

Features

The best thing about this one is all of the different lighting options you have to choose from and how adjustable they are. It is also available in lots of different neon colors to choose from as well--so you can be more visible to others while you are out running.

Comfort

This waistbelt is meant to fit most people and can be adjusted. It is comfortable and lightweight--and is water resistant (not waterproof). It comes with a mesh battery pocket, so you can make sure you have an extra pair available--just in case.

Durability

This one is really pricey--but if you are a frequent nighttime runner, whether it be the trails or the road, then this is a great option for you.

Visibility

When it comes to visibility, this one does not disappoint. It has a 600 lumen output and will ensure you are really visible during your runs. It can stay on for up to 36 hours and comes with a rechargeable battery.

Amazon Link

10. Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Sleeve

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Sleeve
Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Sleeve
Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Sleeve
Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Sleeve
Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Sleeve
Amazon Link

If you run at night you know that it can get really cold, especially in fall and winter, and safety is important year round. That is why these arm warmers are a great addition to your night running gear. They will keep your arms and believe it or not hands warm better than just about any other accessory, and their BioViz reflective technology helps keep you safe in low-light situations.

Read more

Features

These Pearl Izumi Ride Elite Thermal Arm Warmers get the job done. The price tag vs. value is questionable to some, especially those who consider arm sleeves an unnecessary accessory. But if you're the type of person who likes extra comfort, you get it with these arm sleeves. These are affordable, and effectively keep your arms visible, protected, and warm.

Comfort

These hand warmers do exactly what they're designed to do; keep your arms and hands warm while reflecting light to help keep you safe while you're running at night. We all know how uncomfortable it can be when you run at night without any real protection for your hands. In the end, that can cause you to decide to stop your running session. Make sure to always be prepared with these reflective arm sleeves

Durability

Hand warmers can protect your hand from the wind that can cool off your hands even faster than low temperatures outside can. They can also protect you from the rain and snow, which is always a plus in the books. Some reviewers remarked that they would sometimes fall down the arm a bit after running for a while, but it didn't seem to be a major issue for most users.

Visibility

They will keep your arms and believe it or not hands warm better than just about any other accessory, and their BioViz reflective technology helps keep you safe in low-light situations

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Editorial Team , Refinery29, Lifestyle Blog
  2. Editorial Team , Science Based Running, Science based running Website
  3. Editorial Team , Woman’s Running, Running Magazine
  4. Kieran Alger, The best reflective gear and accessories for running at night, Runner's World
  5. Megan Roos, Susan Lacke, The Best Reflective Gear For Running After Dark, Website

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