UltrAspire’s waist lamp is a bright idea

By Henry Howard

I had brushed aside the idea of a waist lamp for years, thinking that it would be uncomfortable to wear or interfere with my arm swings when running. I was absolutely wrong on both counts.

After one too many pre-dawn trips and falls, due to not seeing a small root or other obstacle, I decided to try the UltrAspire Lumen 800 Multisport Waist Light. My UltrAspire headlamp has 600 lumens, so I knew there would be an upgrade in the amount of light.

But it's also a matter of where the light shines, as the top photo demonstrates. The waist light projects a wide glow on the trail, letting me quickly scan for roots, rocks, etc. After running with it for more than 50 miles during a bunch of zero dark thirty runs, I can honestly say that I never once had an issue with a rock, root or other hard-to-see trail obstacle.

I highly recommend the UltrAspire waist light to anyone. (Disclaimer: I am an ambassador for UltrAspire. However, I have tested products from at least five other competitors and UltrAspire is tops in creating great gear for runners, innovation, customer service and more.)

More about the waist light

There are two spot cones that create the wide angle and project far ahead allowing the runner to go fast down the trail or road. The light is adjustable so runners can properly angle it to the position that works best for them.

This light features UltrAspire 3D Lighting, which casts shadows across uneven surfaces, helping the runner navigate terrain. This was especially useful when I took the waist light out on a new-to-me section of trail.

Like the headlamps, this waist light uses UltrAspire rechargeable batteries and features an innovative USB charging port. To charge the light, you simply loosen one side of the light, which reveals the USB post. Genius.

In addition to the USB charging cable, the light comes with a bike bracket and attachment for those who choose to use it as a headlamp.

I have not yet tried the light on my bike. However, UltrAspire says the light can be removed from the belt and attached to the bike bracket. It will work on 31.8mm and 35mm handlebars.

Comfort and performance

The breathable mesh that UltrAspire uses for the waist light is excellent. In fact, I can’t even tell I’ve got something strapped around my waist. It is recommended for those with waists between 26 and 38 inches.

The light only weighs 5.3 ounces and fits comfortably. Thanks to the sturdy construction and aircraft grade aluminum, the waist light has high-quality durability while reducing overall weight. I don’t plan to submerge it but if I do, I can take comfort in knowing that it has an IPX7 waterproof rating.

Conclusion

I can’t believe how much I like the UltrAspire Lumen 800 Multisport Waist Light. It should be no surprise since UltrAspire’s founder, Bryce Thatcher, has a history of making high-performing gear for runners, hikers and other athletes.

Count me among the converts to a waist lamp. I do have to be cognizant of the four- to eight-hour charge that UltraSpire attributes to the battery. So I’ll have to be extra careful about making sure I have enough juice when I take it out on long runs or races.

Speaking of races, I am so glad I will have the Lumen 800 Multisport and will definitely be using it during the night in my upcoming 100-mile race at the Hennepin Hundred.