Better Zebralight Headstrap?

[mntnrnnr]

Love my Zebralight H31 - but don't like the dents the silicone holder leaves in my forehead... Anyone come up with a better headstrap that solves that problem?

 

[davidt1]

Love my Zebralight H31 - but don't like the dents the silicone holder leaves in my forehead... Anyone come up with a better headstrap that solves that problem?

You might be the first to complain about this. I suggest using an elastic band instead of the silicone holder. Check out the "Zebralight Mods" thread for some ideas.

 

[jcalvert]

Love my Zebralight H31 - but don't like the dents the silicone holder leaves in my forehead... Anyone come up with a better headstrap that solves that problem?

Hi mntnrnnr,

I would suggest the Nite-Ize Headband, http://www.niteize.com/collections/flashlights/products/headband.

I just tried my H31 in the Nite-Ize headband and I like it better than the ZL headband because the band itself is more substantial. It's easier to attach and remove the lamp from the Nite-Ize band as well and you can tighten the Velcro holder to a point that the lamp won't shift while even mountain running. The only issue is that Velcro holder is wider the H31, but with LED and switch exposed, it still works just fine.

In addition to wearing the band with a right angle lamp to the front of your head, you can position it to the side of your head to use with other in-line lights. I've used the band with much larger & heavier lights in this manner. Battery Junction has it for only $3.95, but it's probably available at an outdoor store near you that carry Nite-Ize products. I hope this helps.

John

 

[B0wz3r]

Illumination Gear has something on their Zebralights page they say is a "heavier duty" headband made for Zebralights.

http://www.illuminationgear.com/14301/index.html

Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find it.

 

[psychbeat]

^^^^^
oooh that looks like a nice option.
Ill have to get a pack next time I order from them.
they've got GREAT customer service!

 

[zemmo]

I LOVE my 51, but I'm not crazy about the OEM headband either. We totally need a Niteize vs ZL accessory band test! Maybe I'll get around to it myself eventually...

 

[jcalvert]

I LOVE my 51, but I'm not crazy about the OEM headband either. We totally need a Niteize vs ZL accessory band test! Maybe I'll get around to it myself eventually...

zemmo,

I'll do it.

The results: for secure fit on the head, Nite-Ize headbands win. And, you never have to worry about the NI's adjustable, velcro, light holder loosening with age and usage as with the ZLs, because the NI's holder can always be re-tightened. Plus it accomodates a variety of diameter lights, which means you start out using it with your small ZL light and then switch to a larger, higher output light, always keeping your hands free.

ZL just needs to use a better stretch material that matches the quality of their lights.

BTW, I highly recommend the Nite-Ize Lite Holster Stretch which also accomodates a variety of diameter lights and utilizes a 360 degree rotating belt clip so that you can point your light forward as you move. It's the only holster I use for all my high tech flashlights including my Tiablo A10-G.

Here it is: http://www.niteize.com/collections/flashlights/products/lite-holster-stretch.

John

 

[zemmo]

Thanks, jcalvert. Has anyone used the optional headband from the illuminati link?

 

[mntnrnnr]

Okay, so I ended up taking matters into my own hands and actually came up with a solution to my dilemma...I borrowed Surefire's idea from the Saint and implemented a "Breathoprene" pad mod for my Zebralight.

A Google search revealed that "Breathoprene" is a padded material with nylon on one side and hook fasteners (one half of velcro) on the other. It's commonly used in splints, braces, etc. You can also buy sheets of it. But it's expensive - $40 shipped for an 18"x24" sheet. Not sure I want to spend $40... Might be cheaper just to buy a splint at the drugstore and cut it up... Hmmmm - remember that case of plantar fascititis a couple of years back? Yeah, the doc gave me an ankle brace... Where is that bad boy? Oh here it is, collecting dust in my closet. And guess what: it's made of Breathoprene!

Okay - now how to adhere it to the strap? I'd prefer it not be permanent... Velcro! Ahh! Look here: a slim, velcro cable tie! Cut it to length and wrap it around the Zebralight headstrap and viola!

This mod totally solves my problem and makes the headlamp much more comfortable. The pad also reduces the jiggling and bouncing of the headlamp that occurs when walking or (especially) running. The fact that the pad is attached with velcro means it can easily be removed (for cleaning, etc.)

Not bad for a solution pieced together from scraps I had around the house! Hope others find this useful.

 

[jcalvert]

mntnrnnr,

How can anyone respond to that with other than WOW...THAT'S SLICK. I don't think there's much better of a feeling than coming up with a clever solution to one's problem than utilizing scrap material or old, unused products from around the house and making them useful again. Seriously, BRAVO! :thumbsup:
And thanks for the photos, now I can do the same.

John

 

[qtaco]

That looks really nice mate, good job! If only the breathoprene could be purchased cheaply!

 

[psychbeat]

NICE ONE!

I might do the same with some old bike pads...
or wetsuit..

looks a bit flexi still - Ill probably add a zip tie or something
to keep the light from changing angle- I stick the thicker part
of the body through the holder but it still pivots on its own
when Im hitting jumps etc on my bike.