I tested the Fenix HM65R-T headlamp in several training sessions prior to the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc and its 100k distance (CCC), and I have to say that it has withstood varied weather conditions which surprised me very pleasantly.
The first thing I have to say about this Fenix HM65R-T headlamp is that it comes with 1,500 lumens, a 3,500 mAh rechargeable battery and two bulbs with three intensity settings each, making your way to the finish line easier by illuminating up to 150 meters away. Its wide beam of light facilitates nighttime transit through technical areas and allows you to anticipate possible unforeseen events.
Resistant to falls of up to 2 meters, which I have not been able to test for the moment as I have been very careful with it; and submersible, a test I did by putting it in a river and getting it out cleaner if possible. By the way, it worked perfectly
What are the three arguments in favor of the Fenix HM65R-T?
From my personal point of view, the three arguments in favor of this top of the range product from Fenix Lighthing are:
The BOA system for adjusting the headband on the head.
It works great because the headband fits perfectly, does not move and there is no bounce. A headband that incorporates reflective, is breathable and has a width of 36mm. This system is a success in my opinion, pending to know the durability it may have.
Ignition and handling system
A very easy system that even with gloves is easily manipulated. In addition, we have the possibility of changing the intensity of the bulbs without having to go through the phase of off the front, pressing the button for 2 consecutive seconds.
Battery life
With the minimum intensity is up to 300 hours, which is a great point in favor of this headlamp. Being its minimum duration of 4 hours, at maximum intensity, which we can see in its intensity recommendation guide for each activity and distance of the same. As the battery runs out, the intensity goes down instead of turning off suddenly and although it heats up at maximum intensity, this is a normal aspect in all the frontals and does not become an annoying temperature to the touch.
Its status is checked by pressing any button for less than 2 seconds during the off phase of the front and can be easily visualized thanks to 4 blue LED dots located between the power buttons.
What are the strengths of the HM65R-T Fenix?
Although Fenix is becoming more and more known in the world of trail running, it has long been offering high quality flashlights and headlamps, products designed for extreme situations.
Fenix headlamps have an unmatched quality and power. All their headlamps are extremely comfortable, easy to use, very robust and offer high performance lights for trail Running, MTB, hiking, trekking or trekking, hunters or professionals of the state forces.
In the case of the HM65R-T Fenix, it complies with IP68 certification, which indicates its level of resistance, obtaining the maximum score thanks to the fact that it can be submerged for 30 minutes up to 2 meters deep, and that it is resistant to falls of up to 2 meters in height.
It promises more than 24 hours of battery life for trail running at low intensity (Spootlight) and its 5 warranty is a plus.
What we liked most about the HM65R-T Fenix
After putting it to the test in my training sessions prior to the big goal of this season: running the 100k CCC mode of the UTMB 2023. And of course after the adventures and misadventures suffered in the flesh in Chamonix, the points that I liked the most about this HM65R-T from Fenix Lighthing are summarized in:
- This is a tough, long-lasting light headlamp whose head strap is very comfortable, reflective and fits perfectly with the BOA system.
- The battery life is more than adequate for ultra-distance running and the battery is well placed to avoid bouncing.
- Easy manipulation of the on/off buttons and change of light intensity, with six possibilities of intensity. In addition to having the ability to tilt up to 90 degrees.
Opportunities for improvement of the HM65R-T Fenix.
Yes, of course I'm talking about a top of the range front, but this HM65R-T I also consider that it has some areas that can be improved in future versions, and that I summarize in the following lines:
- The neutral position of the front prevents you from manipulating the power buttons, as it has a protective tab on the top that prevents you from accidentally turning on the front.
- Its measurements, 80x47x39, make it heavier and bulkier than most trail running headlamps. Although its size is not a problem to store it in the pockets of the backpack, if it occupied and weighed a little less it would be an ideal headlamp.
- The BOA system requires both hands to loosen, which is not very cumbersome in the race, since once adjusted you don't have to touch it again, in theory.
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Go to the Shoe FinderWhat kind of users is this HM65R-T Fenix aimed at?
It is a headlamp to run comfortably in technical terrain and with a beam of light so powerful that it can be used in a large number of outdoor activities, apart from trail running, such as hiking, canyoning, caving, mountain biking...
Its lighting power makes you daylight in the most adverse conditions and the battery can be changed by unscrewing one of the sides or can be charged with an external battery.
Final verdict on the Fenix HRM65R-T headlamp
Self-dubbed 'Darkness terminator', this HRM65R-T Fenix is a top quality headlamp with exceptional battery life and illumination and great ease of use. With its 1500 lumens of illumination, 6 levels of intensity and correct adjustment, I recommend it for all types of outings in the toughest and most extreme conditions. For me, during the development of the UTMB 2023 test, it has been a complement that has become my great ally for those stretches of night race in Chamonix. It is a front of maximum guarantees.
As a final note, I think it is fair to give it a 9 out of 10. And the headline I leave written is: strength and durability to live great adventures in all types of mountain terrain.
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