Common sense is key to staying safe on the run, but having the right running reflective gear and safety items can also help you avoid or deal with dangerous situations. If you frequently run alone or in dark or low-light conditions, it’s especially important that you take precautions with some essential items.
From reflective apparel to lights and ID bracelets, we’ve found the best running reflective gear and other safety items. Take a look to see how you can stay safe when you’re out pounding the pavement.
Noxgear Tracer360 Illuminated, Reflective Vest
With a combination of 360-degree illumination, reflectivity, and fluorescence, the Tracer360 vest ensures that you’ll be seen when running in dark or low-light conditions. The LED lights can be switched between different high-visibility color options and flashing modes, all with just a touch of a button.
With a unique X shape, the lights have a large visibility area, so you’re visible from over a quarter-mile in all directions. This vest is made of a lightweight and breathable mesh and is also sweat- and water-resistant, making it ideal for running. The straps are adjustable, so it can fit over all types of clothing. Buy on Amazon
LED Running Headlamp
A headlamp makes you more visible to oncoming traffic and also helps you see what’s in front of you, so you don’t trip and fall. This LED running headlamp has a super bright light that gives off 500 lumens. You can choose from five different lighting modes, to customize for any conditions or situation.
The rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 7 hours of lighting in high mode or 15 hours in low mode. The adjustable elastic headband provides a snug, but comfortable fit, so it won’t slip or bounce. Buy on Amazon
Tribe Reflective Running Phone Armband
Running with your phone is a smart safety precaution because you can call for help if you’re injured or feeling unsafe. This sweat-proof, weather-resistant armband keeps your phone protected and makes it easy to operate through the clear, touch-sensitive panel. The armband features an extra-plush, adjustable Velcro strap, so you can get a secure and comfortable fit. It also features reflective detailing to help you stay visible to oncoming traffic in low-light conditions. Buy on Amazon
Sabre Pepper Spray
Carrying pepper spray can help you protect yourself from strangers or animals when you’re running alone. This Sabre pepper spray is non-lethal, but will cause the immediate closing of the eyes, difficulty breathing, runny nose, and coughing in your attacker, whether he’s a person or animal. It’s small enough to hold in your hand or carry in a pocket while you’re running. The spray can be used with a 10-foot range, so you can protect yourself while staying at a safe distance. Buy on Amazon
Safesound Personal Alarm
If you prefer not to carry pepper spray, you may want to opt for a personal alarm to get protection from strangers and animals while you’re out running. This one features a 130dB ear-piercing alarm that can be heard up to 300 yards away. It comes with a rechargeable lithium battery that can be charged in just 30 minutes and lasts for one year in standby mode. The alarm is small enough to fit in a pocket and can be easily attached to your keyring or your running belt or backpack with the bag clip. Buy on Amazon
LED Reflective Belt
Another effective and affordable running reflective gear item to keep you safe and seen on the run, this bright belt gives you 360 degrees of visibility. You can change the light between “flash” and “glow” with just one click. Lightweight and comfortable, it has elastic straps that are easy to adjust for a comfortable fit. The belt has a USB rechargeable battery that gives up to 20 hours of illumination in flashing mode. Buy on Amazon
LED Safety Lights
These super bright LED safety lights are a simple and affordable way to make yourself more visible when running in low-light conditions. They come with two high-powered safety lights that feature three different lighting modes – steady, slow flash, and fast flash.
The set comes with an elastic Velcro strap that you can use to carry the light on your ankle, wrist, or arm. The lights can also easily clip onto your running belt, pockets, running vest, or backpack. Weather-resistant and versatile, they’re so compact and lightweight, you won’t even notice you’re wearing them. Buy on Amazon
Freemove Reflective Vest
For a basic, budget-friendly reflective vest, it’s tough to beat this one from Freemove. Ultra-lightweight and easy to move in, it provides 360° visibility. It also has adjustable straps, so you can wear it over a variety of clothes, from short-sleeve shirts to winter jackets. Buy on Amazon
First Aid Kit
Although it’s not feasible to carry an entire first aid kit with you when you’re running outside, it’s good to have one in your car and at home so you’re prepared for running injuries. This kit is stocked with first aid supplies that will come in handy if you’re injured on the run, including first aid tape, cold packs, and wound care items. Buy on Amazon
Road ID Bracelet
Road ID bracelets are engraved with your name, address, phone number, emergency contact, and medical history so first responders and medical professionals get the information they need if you’re injured and unconscious. This essential safety item incudes a silicone band with a stainless-steel clasp and faceplate. Buy on Amazon
More on Running Safety Gear:
How can I stay safe when running in the dark?
Taking proper precautions can help you stay safe when running in the dark or low-light conditions. Here are some safety tips for running in the dark:
Wear bright, reflective gear and clothes. When running in the dark, visibility is significantly reduced, and drivers, cyclists, or other pedestrians may not easily see you. By wearing bright colors and reflective gear, such as a vest or bands, you can enhance your visibility and make it easier for others to spot you in the dark.
Wear or carry lights. Holding a small light or wearing one (on your head, for instance) will not only help others see you, but it will illuminate your path, to help prevent falls.
Run in well-lit, populated areas. Early morning or evening is not the time to hit the trails or run on a quiet road. Stick to busier roads and well-lit areas to keep yourself from being an easy target.
Bring your phone. Carrying your phone in a pocket, running belt, or armband phone ensures that you can seek help or contact someone in case of emergencies.
Limit distractions. By staying alert and minimizing distractions, such as using headphones or checking your phone, you can maintain a heightened sense of awareness and react quickly to any potential hazards
Run facing traffic. You should be able to see oncoming cars, so you can easily get out of the way as they’re coming toward you.
Why You Should Trust Us
An avid runner, certified running coach, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT enjoys researching and testing running gear and gadgets. Her decades of running experience and writing have helped her learn the value of using the best gear to improve comfort, safety, and performance.
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