When the trail goes dark, your headlamp becomes your most important piece of kit. Fenix has long been a favourite among trail runners for their reliability, brightness, and lightweight builds — but with three models in our range, how do you choose? We've broken it all down for you.
Meet the Lineup
Fenix HL12R V2.0 – 500 Lumen Lightweight Rechargeable Headlamp — $99.95
The HL12R V2.0 is the go-to for runners who want a capable, no-fuss headlamp at an accessible price point. At just 78g, it's featherlight and won't slow you down on long efforts. With 9 lighting modes — including spotlight, floodlight, red constant, red flash, and SOS — it's surprisingly versatile for its size. The IP66 waterproof rating and aircraft-grade aluminium body mean it can handle whatever the trail throws at it.
Best for: Casual trail runners, training runs, and those new to night running.
Fenix HL18R-T – 800 Lumens USB Rechargeable LED Headlamp — $119.95
The HL18R-T is purpose-built for trail running. It's the lightest of the three at just 63.2g and features Fenix's patented SPORT headband with a rotary push-pull clasp for single-handed adjustment on the move — a genuine game-changer mid-race. Dual LEDs (Cree XP-G3 S3 + Everlight 2835) deliver a balanced 800 lumens with both spotlight and floodlight modes, and the 60° adjustable angle lets you dial in your beam perfectly.
Best for: Competitive trail runners, ultramarathon racing, and anyone who values fit and adjustability.
Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 – 1600 Lumens USB Rechargeable LED Headlamp — $199.95
When you need maximum output for technical terrain, fast descents, or long mountain nights, the HM65R-T V2.0 is the answer. With a massive 1600 lumens and long-range beam visibility, this is Fenix's flagship trail running headlamp. Fast charging, an LED battery indicator, and weather + impact resistance make it a serious piece of kit for serious runners.
Best for: Mountain running, night ultras, technical terrain, and elite athletes who demand the best.
Side-by-Side Comparison
|
Mode |
Fenix HL12R V2.0 |
Fenix HL18R-T V2.0 |
Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 |
|
High Mode |
500 lumens — 2 hours & 20 min |
800 lumens — 3 hrs |
1600 lumens — 3 hrs |
|
Medium Mode |
150 lumens — 6 hrs |
350 lumens — 6 hrs |
400 lumens — 12 hrs |
|
Low Mode |
30 lumens — 25 hrs |
130 lumens — 10 hrs |
130 lumens — 24 hrs |
|
Red Light Mode |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Warm Light Mode |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Max Beam Distance |
125m |
125m |
170m |
|
Battery System |
Built-in 950mAh |
Built-in 1900mAh |
3400mAh 18650 |
|
Charging Port |
USB‑C |
USB‑C |
USB‑C |
|
Weight |
72.5g |
103g |
140g |
|
Best Use |
Hiking, casual running |
Trail running & racing |
Ultra & mountain adventures |
Which Fenix Headlamp Should You Choose?
- Budget-conscious and versatile? → Fenix HL12R V2.0 – $99.95
- Racing and need the best fit? → Fenix HL18R-T – $119.95
- Maximum power for big mountain missions? → Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 – $199.95
All three are USB rechargeable, built tough, and trusted by trail runners worldwide. Whatever your goal, there's a Fenix headlamp in our range that's ready to light the way.