When the sun goes down, the reggae stops for many. We cannot run at dusk or before dawn? Why? Because street lighting is not always great. Trail running is practically impossible without a light.
For some, headlamps come in handy. For others, Flashlights and Lanterns
Either is a good choice, but an excellent choice is the chest lamp
Chest Lamp is an excellent choice when you want to stay handsfree for longer and avoid the fuzzy feeling that comes with using a headlamp for too long
Here’s why investing in one is not just a good idea—it’s almost essential.
1. Safety First: Be Seen and See
You may have great shoes, a reflective vest, and flashy running gear, but motorists, cyclists, or boda bodas need to see you early and clearly. A chest lamp positioned at your front can light up the ground immediately ahead—showing obstacles like potholes, loose stones, or speed bumps—and also act as a signal to drivers.
When running in the streets, where mixed traffic (cars, bodas, pedestrians) is common, having a bright light in front makes a big difference. The red light tells everyone you are there avoiding those hit from behind scenarios.
2. Adjustable Beam & Dimming: Bright Without Blinding
You want enough light to safely guide your steps, but not so much that you blind oncoming drivers or pedestrians. A good chest lamp gives you:
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A head/beam angle you can tilt so the light doesn’t shine into people’s eyes.
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A dimming mode so you can reduce brightness in well-lit areas or when nearing traffic.
If you run through different environments—say, from a dark trail in Mt Kenya with Urban Swaras, to street lamps at a URK Backyard event—you’ll value this flexibility.
3. Rechargeable is the Smart Option
Imagine this: you leave early, power is out (as often happens), and your batteries are dead. No light = hazard.
Rechargeable chest lamps, powered via USB (power bank, solar USB panel, or mains when available), save you:
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The cost and fuss of constantly buying batteries
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The frustration of being caught out in the dark
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Waste—both batteries and money
It is not just about the power outages, but also the offgrid trail runs or hikes. Carrying USB-rechargeable lamp means you can charge whenever there’s power, or even from car USB ports or solar chargers.
4. Fit, Comfort & Visibility
A chest lamp should be more than just bright. For comfort and safety:
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Elastic, adjustable straps so the lamp fits snugly whether you’re wearing a light training top or a heavy jacket during the cold season.
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A reflective band around the strap for side visibility. Even from the sides, people should see you.
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Lightweight build so you barely feel it. You don’t want to be adjusting or annoyed by it mid-run.
"The reflector mark is excellent. Very comfortable and easy to use. Once worn you do not feel it at all. Can walk with it the whole day" Jennifer from Urban Swaras M2M event in September 2025
5. Many Uses Beyond Running
A good chest lamp isn’t just for running:
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Walking the dog in the evening
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Power outages at home—hands-free lighting while you fix things or move around the house
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Camping or hiking
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Biking at dawn or dusk
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Even roadside emergencies
So the value goes well beyond one activity.
Final Thoughts
We tested the chest lamp at the Mountain to Mountain event organised by Urban Swaras in September 2025.
"The chest lamp performed exceptionally well. It provided plenty of light, making it easy to navigate through dawn, the battery is awesome it is still running on the initial charge. The chest-mounted position is much more comfortable and effective than a headlamp, offering better stability and visibility. By the way, this was my motivation to complete the full ultra." George did 80KM
Running, hiking or camping need not be be dangerous or uncomfortable. A rechargeable chest lamp is a small investment with a big return: safer movements, more confidence, fewer interruptions, and peace of mind.
If you run often, especially in the early morning or late evening, this is one piece of gear you should seriously add to your kit.