Fitting Debate: Is Your Headlamp TOO Bright?

By Cool J

As a runner, I understand that safety is important. When running solo, I carry mace. I often bring along Ms. Matilda (with all her ferocity) to “protect” me. Lately, I’ve been running with friends, and we vary our routes.

And as the dark specter of winter encroaches, we wear headlamps. Seems logical, right?

{Headlamp in Hawaii- not an example from the winter in Minnesota}

Well, this morning, as our group of four safety-conscious ladies hit the lakes for a 7 miler, we were bombarded with evil glares, angry walkers, and nasty commentators.. Where’s the holiday cheer people?

“Those lamps are BLINDING!”

“OH. MY. GOD. That’s way too bright!!!!”

“Stupid headlamps. Stupid runners.”

Some other runners/walkers were a little more good-natured:

“You girls look like a group of aliens approaching!” 

“You girls look like a festive Christmas tree!”

Let me ask you...was it really that obnoxious for all 4 of us to wear our headlamps? Did we really deserve the wrath that we encountered?

Personally, I don't think so. My headlamp isn't all that bright, but it does help me see where I'm going, and helps others see me approaching. It's safer for me to wear a headlamp. In Minneapolis, the trails have the occasional streetlamp, but generally speaking, it's pretty dark out there. Especially so until we get some snow on the ground. How can one see a rogue branch on the path, or an approaching stroller before a terrible collision?

I have definitely been blinded by an approaching car, but I have never been upset about a bright light bouncing along on an approaching runner’s head.... I guess I would prefer a bright light in the eye to a broken ankle!

I am wondering if perhaps in our group of four, we didn’t all need headlamps.  Is there a headlamp quota for a group? Or is safety the first priority?

Let me know your thoughts in this FITTING DEBATE!

While you're pondering this topic, I need to go pack for a visit with these cuties!

Keep checking back for more posts with LL and Cool J together at last!