Running in the darker months: tips for staying safe on the go

When running in the dark, bright, vibrant colors are advantageous so that you are clearly visible to other road users. Even those who usually prefer plain colors should now opt for bright or even vibrant colors. Besides protection from the cold, the priority in winter is primarily seeing and being seen. Neon and signal colors on running apparel significantly increase your visibility to other road users when jogging in the dark.

Along with bright neon colors, reflectors are especially effective for being seen better while running. Fabrics and surfaces made from reflective material increase visibility by reflecting headlights back. Important: The reflectors should be 360° reflectors, because what’s the point if a reflector only works from one direction.

Many brands offer a wide range of accessories with built-in reflectors. A small reflective logo on the chest of your running jacket is usually not enough and should be supplemented, for example, by reflective bands on arms and legs. For even better visibility when jogging in the dark, reflective running vests and belts are recommended.

Your own vision plays by far the most important role so that you can enjoy your run injury- and worry-free. In addition to bright neon colors and reflective accessories, headlamps are therefore a must. These greatly improve your vision, which is invaluable, especially on poorly lit paths or routes with many tree roots, loose scree, and potholes.

If you go running in poor light conditions, you should definitely take your smartphone with you so that you can call for help in an emergency. Especially in the evenings during winter, significantly fewer pedestrians are out on the streets who might be able to help you after a fall and injury.

However, it's best to avoid music when running in the dark. While it's very entertaining, it distracts your concentration and makes it much harder to focus on the running route and the ground.

Our recommendation: The easiest way to carry your smartphone is in a running armband or a running belt, so it doesn’t bounce around uncomfortably in your jacket pocket, but you still have it within easy reach at all times. A great option, for example, is the NEO Run Belt running belt. It not only offers enough space for your smartphone, keys, and other accessories—you can also attach all headlamp models from the NEO series to the flexible running belt. That way, you have everything you need for your run compactly and securely in one place.

Choose a running route you know. Where you’re familiar with the area, the chance of an unexpected surprise is lower. Also keep in mind that well-lit routes with a paved surface and no major uneven spots are the safest option for a run when it comes to injury prevention.

If you do intend to run on an unfamiliar route, you should first familiarize yourself more thoroughly with the route using a map app. Does the route lead more through populated areas or primarily through nature? Does it mainly run along wide roads or narrow paths? With Google Maps, you can find out a lot about the conditions on your planned running route before you lace up your running shoes.

When running in the dark, it is also advisable to hold back a bit with your own ambition and not go for maximum performance. Because even with a headlamp, visibility is never as good as during the day.

Join a running group. Especially in the colder months, it’s harder than usual to get yourself going. It helps you overcome that inner resistance and stick to your planned routine and training plan. In winter, running together also has the unbeatable advantage of making you much more visible in traffic. What matters, though, is that the distraction doesn’t make you less attentive—keep paying attention to your surroundings and be considerate of other road users.

Bonus on Top: In company, the risk of assaults also decreases, especially on paths with few other people, such as in parks or forests.