AC100 headlamps: picks + battery plan for race night
If your light fails, your race turns into survival mode. This page gives you a simple system: a primary headlamp you trust, a real backup light, and a drop-bag power plan you can execute when exhausted.
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Related: AC100 Gear · AC100 Shoes · AC100 Guide
Quick picks
Premium pick: Petzl NAO RL
High-output rechargeable headlamp built for long ultra nights. Great when you want one “primary light” you can trust.
Check price →Best value: rechargeable mid-tier headlamp
Look for a model with a stable headband, simple controls, and an easy recharge routine you’ll actually follow.
Suggested models: Petzl Actik Core, Black Diamond Spot, Nitecore NU-series.
Minimalist backup (mandatory)
Small backup light you can turn on instantly. If your primary fails, you keep moving without drama.
Backup plan checklist →What matters for AC100 night running
- Reliability: simple controls, consistent beam, no weird lockout surprises.
- Comfort: stable headband that doesn’t bounce when you run downhill tired.
- Beam pattern: enough throw to see corners ahead, enough flood to read the trail right under you.
- Battery routine: a plan you can execute at 2 a.m. with cold fingers.
Backup light plan (do not skip)
Your backup is not “extra batteries.” It’s a second light you can turn on instantly.
Option A: small backup headlamp
- Lives in your vest (easy pocket).
- Always charged before race week.
- Tested on at least one night run.
Option B: handheld backup
- Easy to use with gloves.
- Simple single-button UI.
- Works as “task light” at aid stations.
Rule: if you can’t access your backup without stopping and digging, it’s not a real backup.
Battery + power bank plan
- Default: keep your primary headlamp fully charged; carry a small backup light; stash a power bank + cable in one drop bag.
- Drop bag: include the exact charging cable your light uses (label it).
- Fail-safe: your backup light should work even if your power bank dies.
Drop bag mini-kit (night)
- Power bank + short cable
- Spare headlamp strap (optional)
- Spare batteries if your backup uses them
- Small tape + blister item (because night = mistakes)
Quick aid-station routine
- Swap to fresh/charged light if needed
- Turn off any “auto” modes you don’t trust
- Lock the light before you stash it
Setup checklist (do this once, then repeat forever)
- Do one 60–90 minute night run with your full kit (primary + backup in vest).
- Practice turning your light on/off and locking it without looking.
- Practice your “drop bag charge” routine: plug in, confirm charging, stash cable.
- Decide where the backup light lives and never change it.
FAQ
Do I need a second headlamp if my primary is “high-end”?
Yes. Electronics fail, straps break, and mistakes happen when you’re tired. A backup light is part of basic risk management.
Do I need a handheld light too?
Optional. Some runners love a handheld for descents. If you add it, keep the system simple and train with it.