Equipment to Be Seen at Night When Running

With less traffic, time constraints and distractions, finishing off your day with a run can help you end on a high note. Unfortunately, running at night can also pose problems with visibility, particularly when your route takes you through high-traffic areas or where it may be difficult for drivers to see you. By getting the right equipment to increase visibility, you can enjoy your nighttime run in safety.

  1. Reflective Gear

    • One of the best ways to make yourself more visible to motorists is to use reflective tape and other gear, suggests REI. When light hits the reflective materials, they make you easier to see. You can buy running gear with reflective panels already sewn into the fabric, but you don't need to rush out and buy a new wardrobe if your running gear lacks the patches. Reflective tape is often sold at sporting goods stores and allows you to personalize the gear you already have for added safety.

    Lights

    • If you run in an area that lacks adequate nighttime lighting, you'll need to bring your own. A headlamp serves multiple purposes. It allows you to see your route more clearly, watch out for danger and makes you easier to see. If you don't need a headlamp because a street is well-lit, you can still wear a blinking light clip on your clothes to be seen by drivers while you run.

    Armband

    • If you're more of a minimalist runner, you may not like a lot of extras while you're trying to exercise and train. An armband can be an excellent way to be seen while still having the necessities like your timer and phone for easy access. Look for a reflective armband that fits your gear and straps securely to your upper arm. You'll stay safe and won't have to worry about bringing extra gear on your run.

    Extra Precautions

    • While it may be tempting to plug in your MP3 player and run with your favorite tunes, the Road Runners Club of America warns against plugging in your headphones during a nighttime run. Without the ability to hear, you may not notice oncoming cars or other dangers that can be avoided. It's also best to run against traffic so you can see and hear oncoming traffic more clearly. Low visibility isn't the only potential danger that could disrupt your run, so carry identification, self-defense tools and try to recruit a running buddy.