Zebralight H51w OR Zebralight H31w - which one should I get for running?

Outdoorsman5 · Mar 29, 2011

I have two zebralights & love em. I want a neutral light for running (I go running before the sun comes up.) Half of my run is on the road and half is in the pitch black woods on trails. Normally I run 30 min to an hour....occasionally longer. Recently I've been using my sc30 and sometimes my sc60 - both are cool white. I wear them on top of my head in a Nitecore D10 headband. I did have a H51 & a sc51, but gave em away as presents...loved em both.

I now want a neutral to warm color tint, and this will be my first neutral color light. I'm having trouble deciding between the H51w and the H31w. I have tons of new eneloops, and have 2 AW brand RCR123 batteries. I have good chargers for both types of batteries. I'm currently leaning towards the H51w because of the runtimes and because I like the size....plus alkalines are easy to get if I was in a pinch (like on a trip.) I plan to use this light for camping & hiking as well.

I've noticed that both of these lights have slightly different output levels. Also, the runtimes listed for the H51w are the runtimes I would expect since I would be using eneloops (which is what the light was tested with.) I like that the H31w is smaller, but it would have shorter runtimes for me since I'd be using Li-ion RCR123 rechargeables. I like how fast Li-ion batteries charge, but the runtimes listed for that light were based on a CR123 primary which I will not be using.

Based on your experience, which one should I get? Why?

B0wz3r · Mar 30, 2011

I have an H51w, so that's my recommendation. I'm strictly an AA format guy. You'll get longer run times, and be able to get replacement batteries easily; that won't be the case with 123's. I always use L91's in my H51w... I like the much lighter weight than nimhs or alkies, and they outlast nimhs by about 1/3 more.

smokey616 · Mar 30, 2011

One thing to consider is that the H51 has been optimised to run on Eneloops, which are heavier than Lithium AAs. And the light itself being heavier than the H31 you're gonna get a relatively heavy headlamp which isn't ideal for running. I'd go with the H31w.

Outdoorsman5 · Mar 30, 2011

B0wz3r said:
I have an H51w, so that's my recommendation. I'm strictly an AA format guy. You'll get longer run times, and be able to get replacement batteries easily; that won't be the case with 123's. I always use L91's in my H51w... I like the much lighter weight than nimhs or alkies, and they outlast nimhs by about 1/3 more.

One thing to consider is that the H51 has been optimised to run on Eneloops, which are heavier than Lithium AAs. And the light itself being heavier than the H31 you're gonna get a relatively heavy headlamp which isn't ideal for running. I'd go with the H31w.

Both of you have very good points. I like the H51w because it runs on AA's & I favor my AA lights more than my cr123 & rcr123 lights. Also, the H51w has better runtimes on a rechargeable compared to the H31w. HOWEVER, the H31w is smaller & lighter which has advantages for running & other applications.

Does anyone know the runtimes of the H31w on an AW RCR123?

B0wz3r · Mar 30, 2011

Outdoorsman5 said:
Both of you have very good points. I like the H51w because it runs on AA's & I favor my AA lights more than my cr123 & rcr123 lights. Also, the H51w has better runtimes on a rechargeable compared to the H31w. HOWEVER, the H31w is smaller & lighter which has advantages for running & other applications.

Does anyone know the runtimes of the H31w on an AW RCR123?

I doubt you'll notice the difference in weight between the two lights, unless you're going to be running in really rugged conditions...

The weights listed by ZL are 28 and 35 grams; while you might be able to feel a difference in them in your hand, you're much more sensitive their than what your neck muscles are going to notice.

With respect to the form factor, it's a matter of choice. I prefer lights that are longer and slimmer, so that fits well with my preference for AA's. Again, if you're willing to run L91's in your new light like I do, I really doubt the 51w is going to be too heavy for you. And again, in my experience, L91's give a good 35 - 50% more run time than any of the nimh's I use.

GeoBruin · Mar 30, 2011

Outdoorsman5,

We had a good long thread about running headlamps that I think got wiped out when CPF went down. It had lots of testaments from runners who were also flashaholics. Several folks have tried running with the H51/H31 and always seemed to encounter the same issue with the light bouncing. I am one of them. I love my H51 and got it specifically for running but the bouncing issue was distracting and unbearable.

Several clever ideas were attempted to secure the ZLs. Some required a little engineering skill, others did not. For myself, I wound up with the following solution.

I found that you must absolutely have a top strap to prevent the light from torquing downward when your foot strikes the ground. But, you don'y have to have a dedicated top strap mount. Just using another strap (the one in the picture is from a BD headlamp but I have since started using the one that came with my SC51w) and wrapping it around the light, over your head, and around the back of the main strap holds the light in place perfectly.

I run with this configuration at least twice a week now and it works like a charm. Also, I discovered that I can mount my SC51w in its silicone holder on the top strap facing forward for use on long runs when I need the extra runtime.

It may not seem like the most elegant solution but it actually works perfectly, does not require any additional engineering, and if you already have other ZLs, you have all the straps you need.

That said, either the H51w or the H31w will make fine running headlamps, and the weight difference will be unnoticeable, especially with the implementation of the top strap.

Outdoorsman5 · Mar 30, 2011

GeoBruin said:
Outdoorsman5,

We had a good long thread about running headlamps that I think got wiped out when CPF went down. It had lots of testaments from runners who were also flashaholics. Several folks have tried running with the H51/H31 and always seemed to encounter the same issue with the light bouncing. I am one of them. I love my H51 and got it specifically for running but the bouncing issue was distracting and unbearable.

I remember that thread, and remember your solution. I like it...a lot, and will try it out...seems like the best solution yet. I've been using a Nitecore D10 head strap so far. It also has a strap on top with loops for my forward facing lights (the light rides on top of my head.) I've used it with my SC30 & don't even notice the weight, but the SC60 is not as comfortable for longer runs. Overall it works well, but I wanted to go back to a dedicated headlamp with one of these zebralights. If bouncing is not an issue with either one then I think I am still leaning towards the H51w. With the additional strap supporting the light & keeping it from bouncing, the weight is really not an issue. Thanks GeoBruin.

Bolster · Mar 30, 2011

Who's the handsome dude you got to model the light for ya?

tedh · Mar 30, 2011

One other thing in favor of the H51 - I find it easier to use a handheld light when running on trails with rocks or roots; I can see them better because the handheld light casts longer shadows than a headlamp close to my eyes. The H51 can be removed from the silicone holder and held in vertically in your fist. The H31 is shorter, and won't do this as well. so, the H51 might be slightly more versatile.

Ted

Outdoorsman5 · Mar 30, 2011

tedh said:
One other thing in favor of the H51 - I find it easier to use a handheld light when running on trails with rocks or roots; I can see them better because the handheld light casts longer shadows than a headlamp close to my eyes. The H51 can be removed from the silicone holder and held in vertically in your fist. The H31 is shorter, and won't do this as well. so, the H51 might be slightly more versatile.

Ted

That's another good point.

GeoBruin · Mar 30, 2011

tedh, that is a VERY good point. I too have had a great experience running with my H51 in hand.

Also, Bolster, I'm blushing

MichaelW · Mar 30, 2011

Do you heel strike run? or do you do a proper forefoot/mid-foot strike?
If you heel strike, you'd need/want the lightest possible lamp.

GeoBruin · Mar 31, 2011

MichaelW said:
Do you heel strike run? or do you do a proper forefoot/mid-foot strike?
If you heel strike, you'd need/want the lightest possible lamp.

I think your question was directed at the OP, but I will say this: I am a meager 155 lb runner with a very efficient stride and I still get a lot of bounce with my ZL. I tried a lot of things in the beginning to keep it from bouncing including modifying my gate a ridiculous amount just to see if I could keep it from bouncing. It's just not meant to be a running headlamp out of the box.

Most headlamps that are good for running are designed to fit flat against your forehead. The shape of the ZL and the design of the silicone holder mean that it can twist down and foreward with the slightest impact. Now, I'm not talking about twisting inside the silicone holder, I mean the whole thing twist (if only a few degrees) against your head. Unfortunately that few degrees translates into a noticeable bounce of the hot spot at a distance.

Like I mentioned above however, the lights is light enough that any kind of stabilization (such as that provided by another strap around the light) prevents there from being ANY bounce at all.

B0wz3r · Mar 31, 2011

MichaelW said:
Do you heel strike run? or do you do a proper forefoot/mid-foot strike?
If you heel strike, you'd need/want the lightest possible lamp.

It's been shown that heel-strike running is responsible for all of the various running associated injuries to ankles, feet, knees, etc. A study was done comparing heel strike runners to forefoot runners and the forefoot runners had virtually zero running related injuries in their legs and feet.

In other words, if you forefoot strike when running, you'll have a smoother stride and less bounce in your headlamp. It takes a little getting used to (mainly the extra soreness you'll get in your calved), but once you adapt to it, you'll probably be happier as it is also more efficient and makes you go a little faster. I ran the 50, 100, 440 relay and mile relay back in HS and being a sprinter, I pretty much always ran on my toes. In fact, watch a young child, 2 or 3 years old run... they don't heel strike, they toe run... That tells me it's what nature meant us to do.

Outdoorsman5 · Apr 1, 2011

MichaelW said:
Do you heel strike run? or do you do a proper forefoot/mid-foot strike?
If you heel strike, you'd need/want the lightest possible lamp.

I've been running for around 25 years off & on, and have never really thought much about this. It appears that I heal strike, and it sounds like I should consider changing this before more injuries set in (I have plantar fasciitis already, but has been corrected with inserts.) Anyway, my stride to me feels & seems efficient, but I guess everyone thinks that of themselves. Anyway, I don't bounce in excess I feel, and intend to try Geobruin's technique when I get one of these. I've been using my sc30 & sc60 so far, but these are worn on top of my head. I'm still thinking it would be more comfortable to have a headlamp on my forehead instead on top of my head.

ScottG · Apr 8, 2011

B0wz3r said:
It's been shown that heel-strike running is responsible for all of the various running associated injuries to ankles, feet, knees, etc. A study was done comparing heel strike runners to forefoot runners and the forefoot runners had virtually zero running related injuries in their legs and feet.

In other words, if you forefoot strike when running, you'll have a smoother stride and less bounce in your headlamp. It takes a little getting used to (mainly the extra soreness you'll get in your calved), but once you adapt to it, you'll probably be happier as it is also more efficient and makes you go a little faster. I ran the 50, 100, 440 relay and mile relay back in HS and being a sprinter, I pretty much always ran on my toes. In fact, watch a young child, 2 or 3 years old run... they don't heel strike, they toe run... That tells me it's what nature meant us to do.

I am not sure I agree on your assessment of heel vs fore foot striking. I'm not trying to call you out on this, but I'd be very interested in that study. Do you have a source for it?

If interested , this study (Hasegawa et al., J Strength & Cond., 2007, (21), 888-893) shows that the vast majority of elite runners are heel strikers. A good summary of the discussion can be found here.

For those who want the cliff notes:
Don't focus on the footstrike but instead focus on where your feet land relative to your body. This will help you to keep form overreaching, which is the actual problem.

Hitting heel first as part of your natural stride is not inherently bad as long as it doesn't act like a brake, which is pretty rare in my observations of runners in the races I participate in. I've actually never seen someone who heel strikes that bad.

In fact, more problems usually occur when some try to change their gait from heel to fore.

Sprinters will run on their toes as you did in school. I used to as well in short-distance races, but as a former mile-specialist, I can tell you that I did not run the mile naturally on my toes and today I run the marathon with a heel strike. I just let my feet strike where they may.

The only time I got a foot injury in the last 20 years was a Mortons nueroma I caused because I was trying to change my gait. Big mistake.

To get back on topic, I love running with my Zebralight H501w. Its the best light I've ever owned for running.

Outdoorsman5 · Apr 8, 2011

ScottG said:
I am not sure I agree on your assessment of heel vs fore foot striking. I'm not trying to call you out on this, but I'd be very interested in that study. Do you have a source for it?

If interested , this study (Hasegawa et al., J Strength & Cond., 2007, (21), 888-893) shows that the vast majority of elite runners are heel strikers. A good summary of the discussion can be found here.

For those who want the cliff notes:
Don't focus on the footstrike but instead focus on where your feet land relative to your body. This will help you to keep form overreaching, which is the actual problem.

Hitting heel first as part of your natural stride is not inherently bad as long as it doesn't act like a brake, which is pretty rare in my observations of runners in the races I participate in. I've actually never seen someone who heel strikes that bad.

In fact, more problems usually occur when some try to change their gait from heel to fore.

Sprinters will run on their toes as you did in school. I used to as well in short-distance races, but as a former mile-specialist, I can tell you that I did not run the mile naturally on my toes and today I run the marathon with a heel strike. I just let my feet strike where they may.

The only time I got a foot injury in the last 20 years was a Mortons nueroma I caused because I was trying to change my gait. Big mistake.

To get back on topic, I love running with my Zebralight H501w. Its the best light I've ever owned for running.

Good lesson....thank you. I had not considered the H501w for running, but have really wanted that light (mainly because it seems to be such a favorite among CPF'ers & I like floody lights.) I may have to get it along with one of these - H51w or H31w....or just get all three.

ScottG · Apr 8, 2011

Can't go too wrong is buying all of them :thumbsup:

I really like the flood on this light while running and its one reason why this is my favorite. No moving around my head to scan the sides of a rough road or trail.

I use the lowest setting for early evening just for safety when running against traffic and then progressively move up the the highest setting as it gets darker. Of course, you lose that high setting if the battery is run down. I've carried an extra battery when on looong runs at night.

The other thing I like is the light weight. I can't tell its on my head using the stock headband.

davidt1 · Apr 8, 2011

+10 for the H501.

I have been switching back and forth between the H51w and the cool H501. I have been using the H501 for the past three days. I am wearing it around my neck right now with the homemade lanyard/headband as I type this post. I don't miss the H51w even though I like NW tint more than cool white. That's because the even flood beam of the H501 is just so darn useful. Battery life takes a hit over the newer, more directional, and more efficient H51w because I have to use the H501 on high most of the time. But in the age of Eneloop batteries, that's not a problem.

It's too bad Zebralight has decided not to make an updated version of this wonderful light.

B0wz3r · Apr 9, 2011

ScottG said:
I am not sure I agree on your assessment of heel vs fore foot striking. I'm not trying to call you out on this, but I'd be very interested in that study. Do you have a source for it?

I don't unfortunately. But, you can probably do a quick search on Yahoo to find the story about it, because I read it in a Yahoo News story a while ago.

I'm sure you could probably find it with a Google Scholar search too, or something similar.

Zebralight H51w OR Zebralight H31w - which one should I get for running?

Which one should I get for running?

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