Winter running can sometimes be a drag and dark. Daylight hours are getting shorter and shorter for us, which means that winter is fast approaching. With less daylight, running can be dangerous, thus safety is important.
Thankfully it’s easier now to be safe while running during the early mornings and evenings. Even now during the summer when I wait until it cools off to run, which means around 9-10 p.m., it’s dark and I have to take certain safety precautions. The reflective vests are awesome, but sometimes we just need to go the extra mile and wear safety lights. APace Vision safety lights are lightweight and easy to use.
I especially like to wear the blinking lights when I don’t want another layer, thus I don’t want to wear a reflective vest or when running relays. Sometimes relays require overnight running. The blinking lights let others spot you from hundreds of feet away. This allows other runners, bikers, or moving traffic to see you preventing any type of collision.
During the summer I don’t run in the dark as much, but I did try the Apace Vision safety lights that were sent to me to see if they held up to their described use. They are easy to attach to any article of clothing, running cap, leash, or backpack.
I rather wear them on my waist band so they don’t bounce around as much. Wearing them on the collar of my t-shirt or tank can cause bouncing. It’s not annoying and it didn’t rub or cause any type of bruising worn on the back near the neck, because they are lightweight. You can’t tell they are there, but everyone else can. They are bright and they have a blinking option as well. I think they would be worthwhile on the trails.
They will even work on bikes or strollers. They lights come with two velcro straps that can be used to strap to bike handlebars or a bike frame, or to a stroller. I find this useful when I am running in the dark with R, this way oncoming traffic or bikers will see a blinking moving object coming their way. Easily attached to a pet’s collar as well, so Rover stays protected too.
Also, included are two extra batteries and a screwdriver so you are able to replace the batteries. The batteries are similar to what is found in watches, purchased at most stores. The batteries last for 76-90 hours, which means you can run a lot of miles with these lights. The lights have a 1 year warranty as well.
Even better they are weather resistant, thus can be worn rain or shine, snow or wind. There are 3 lights per clip, and they use ultra bright LED lights. I plan on using them when R is bigger and we are camping, this way I can see her blinking from a ways a way.
You can find Apace Vision Safety Lights on Amazon for a fairly decent price. Definitely worth it if you do most your running in the dark during the winter and late fall or are a frequent relayer, walker or biker. These are a fairly new product, and are simple to use. I like the small packaging, easy care and easy use. You can learn more about Apace Vision and all the products they carry by visiting their Facebook page. They make other gear that includes safety vests and belts as well.
In my opinion, taking precautions while road running or biking is important in low visibility areas. Many accidents occur between motor vehicles and bikers/runners/walkers each year, and being visible can help lessen your risk of being involved in such an accident. I would definitely purchase these lights again.
Disclaimer: I was given a pair of Apace Vision safety lights to try. In return I was asked to do a review of the product. All thought and opinions are my own and were in no way influenced by any other parties.
Until Next Time Be Whole and Be Fit
What precautions do you take when running in the dark? Do you use a safety vest or lights in low visibility areas or times when running or biking?