Facebook Twitter Instagram
    FeedTheHabit.com
    • Home
    • Gear Reviews
      • Mountain Biking
      • Road Biking
      • Bike Commuting
      • Trail Running
      • Skiing
      • Outdoors
      • Water Sports
      • Vehicles
    • News
    • Trip Reports
    • Videos
    FeedTheHabit.com
    from Black Diamond website
    Gear Reviews

    Black Diamond Sprinter Headlamp Review

    Donald BuraglioBy Donald BuraglioNovember 23, 20094 Comments3 Mins Read

    Headlamps serve two primary purposes for road runners: to see, and to be seen.  You want something that lights your path, and effectively alerts others (especially those behind the wheel of a car) to your presence.  The Black Diamond Sprinter meets both of those needs brilliantly, and is super eco-friendly to boot.

    Sprinter shown with all accessories included
    Sprinter shown with all accessories included

    Black Diamond Sprinter Specs:

    • Bulb type: High-output LED in front, red LED in back
    • Beam type: Flood
    • Brightness (high setting): 68 lumens
    • Weight: 100g/3.5 oz
    • Dimensions: Lamp: 2” x 1.25” x 0.75” / Battery pack: 3” x 1.75” x 0.9”
    • Maximum beam distance (high setting): 50m
    • Brightness levels: 2
    • Strobe: yes
    • Battery type: lithium polymer rechargeable (6 hour charge time)
    • Battery life (high setting, at 70 degrees): 5 hours
    • Retail price: $79.95

     

    Black Diamond Sprinter Review

    from Black Diamond website
    from Black Diamond website

    Black Diamond calls the Sprinter “urban-inspired”, and the combination of front and rear LEDs is ideal for runners who need an extra measure of security from road hazards and approaching vehicles.

    Front view: superbright LED, single multi-function button on top
    Front view: superbright LED, single multi-function button on top

    Light output is impressive: the 68 lumens in front are brighter than most compact lamps, and over 40% brighter than the Black Diamond Spot.  The flood beam distributes light evenly in a wide visual field, and is regulated for constant illumination throughout the battery life.

    Optional top strap attached for improved stability
    Optional top strap attached for improved stability

    Compared to most external battery headlamps, the Sprinter is very lightweight, and its fore-aft weight distribution is balanced for minimal bouncing and improved comfort.  However, an optional top strap is included if you need additional stability.

    The red rear strobe is an outstanding safety feature, and has an on/off switch in case you’re either 1) on trails far away from cars, or 2) in a group of runners who don’t want a flashing red light in their face.  (Trust me, it’s no fun.)

    Battery pack resting on charging unit
    Battery pack resting on charging unit; rear view with LED strobe and on/off switch

    The Sprinter’s distinguishing feature, however, is the rechargeable lithium polymer battery.  With a 6-hour charge time, it burns for 5 hours on the high setting, and 64 hours on the dim setting.  The docking port comes with adapters for multiple outlet configurations.  Interface between battery pack and charging station is slightly unsteady, so look for the indicator light to ensure the unit is charging.

    Finally, the Sprinter’s water resistance is a mighty IPX7, sealed waterproof to 1m – about as good as you’ll find in a running headlamp.

    Good Sprinter

    • Strong front LED beam bright enough for use on trails as well as road
    • Blinking rear LED for safety, with convenient on/off function
    • Rechargeable battery is eco-friendly and economic over long term
    • Lightweight, comfortable design
    • Outstanding water resistance

    Bad Sprinter

    • Short battery life on high setting requires frequent recharging
    • Battery pack slightly unsteady on charging unit
    • No spot setting

    Bottom Line: Black Diamond Sprinter Headlamp

    The Black Diamond Sprinter is equally suitable for road or trail use, and is a wonderful combination of everything you want in a headlamp – comfort, brightness, and safety – with the added bonus of being Earth-friendly.

    Buy Now: Black Diamond Headlamps at Backcountry.com

    28
    SHARES
    ShareTweet
    black diamond headlamps
    Previous ArticleGary Fisher Rumblefish II 29er Quick Review – Interbike 2009
    Next Article GoLite Vermillion Thermal Fleece Top Review
    Donald Buraglio
    • Website

    Donald is a physical therapist, ultrarunner, barefoot aficionado, and father of three with more than 20 years of experience in endurance sports. When he's not training for ultramarathons, he enjoys hiking or slacklining with his family in Monterey County, CA.

    You Might Also Like

    Mountain Hardwear Basin Lined Pants Review

    February 1, 2023

    Polar Pacer Pro Multisport Watch Review

    January 30, 2023

    Küat Grip 4 Ski Rack Review

    January 26, 2023

    4 Comments

    1. Kris on November 23, 2009 2:59 am

      Just out of curiosity, have you tried putting this on a bike helmet? I think this would be a very usable addition to any bike commuters light setup if would sit on a helmet.

      Reply
    2. VH on November 23, 2009 4:37 am

      I’ve got one. It would be very difficult to put onto a bike helmet. It’s a great headlight, though.

      Reply
    3. FT Admin on November 29, 2009 9:22 am

      Since I prefer to strap my headlamp around my upper arm, your description of the Black Diamond Sprinter Headlamp makes it a prime candidate for my next purchase.

      Reply
    4. Pingback: Gear of the Year 2010; Surprise Holiday Giveaway | LikeBarefoot

    Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

    Most Popular

    Montec Fawk Ski Jacket and Bib Review

    February 28, 2022
    8.9

    Zipp 303 S Carbon Wheelset Review

    November 4, 2021

    Patagonia Downdrift Parka Review

    February 2, 2022
    9.2

    SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS Groupset Review

    August 12, 2022
    8.5

    Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Review

    November 28, 2022

    Ultimate All-rounder? Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket Review

    February 2, 2021

    SRAM Rival/GX AXS Mullet Gravel Kit Review

    September 17, 2021

    Patagonia Storm Shift Jacket and Pants Review, feat. Gore-Tex ePE membrane

    December 21, 2022
    9.1

    Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 TLR Wheelset Review

    September 9, 2021
    9.1

    Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 TLR Wheelset Review

    June 18, 2020
    Follow Us
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
    Advertisement
    Our Latest Posts
    • Mountain Hardwear Basin Lined Pants Review
    • Polar Pacer Pro Multisport Watch Review
    • Küat Grip 4 Ski Rack Review
    • Ibis Exie Goes Global
    • Trek Circuit Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey Review
    • Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Insulated Jacket Review
    • Pearl Izumi PRO NeoShell WxB Jacket Review
    • Montane Anti-Freeze Down Hooded Jacket Review
    • Fresh Wheels: Fezzari Veyo is an Aero All-rounder
    • Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody Review
    About Us
    About Us

    Since 1999, we have delivered in-depth gear reviews, articles and content. We feature a small staff of savvy, experienced writers who love to review outdoor gear.

    External links to Amazon, REI, Backcountry and other retailers include affiliate codes that give us a small commission on each sale.

    To contact us or learn more, go to our About Us page.

    © FeedTheHabit.com 1999 - 2023. All rights reserved.

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.