REVIEW: Fenix HL60R Rechargeable Headlamp

A Must for Outdoor Needs

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Fenix HL60R Rechargeable Headlamp

Indestructible, solid, hearty, and just plain awesome are descriptions that come to mind after testing the Fenix HL60R Rechargeable Headlamp.  This premium headlamp was perfect for an alpine start on Mt. Hood and will become my go-to for all major climbing endeavors.

 

Holds a Charge

In preparation for climbing Mt. Hood, I charged the HL60R one week in advance.  Come climbing day, the HL60R still held a full charge and performed perfectly.  More than one week post-climb, the charge is still going strong.  I plan to take this on a three day backpacking trip next month, which will include many hours of needed run time.  This headlamp is so reliable that a backup seems unnecessary.

 

Hearty

Despite unintentionally dropping it twice, the HL60R headlamp continues to function properly.  My normal headlamp would have been at risk of shattering from these falls, but this one came out completely unscathed.

Versatile Lighting Options

This headlamp offers: red, eco, low, medium, high, and turbo settings.  The “low” setting on the HL60R is brighter than my normal headlamp and stronger than most of my teammates’ headlamps.  I found low to be perfect for night climbing, never needing to venture brighter.  A fellow climber told me she preferred to be either directly in front of or directly behind me on the mountain because she could see better with my headlamp lighting the way.  What’s incredible about that feedback is this headlamp holds three brighter settings than the one I used that night!  Had I been alone, I might have tried one setting brighter.  In a group, low is perfect.

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HL60R in action on Mt. Hood

Comfortable

The straps are soft and comfortable.  I enjoyed having the added security of the top strap on the helmet, but it is removable if desired.

Easy to Use

While my fellow climbers sometimes struggled to turn their headlamps on and off through thick gloves, the on/off switch on the Fenix HL60R is easy to use.  I am able to gracefully turn the headlamp on and off or adjust the brightness (which I cycled through a few times for testing purposes) through gloved hands.  Likewise, the headlamp allows many tilt options which also adjusts easily with gloved hands.

Final Words

If the look of this model is a departure from what you might normally select, rest assured it’s worth it.  I expected to look and possibly feel manly wearing it, but instead felt strong and empowered.  In person, the headlamp is attractive, suitable for both men and women.  Especially exciting is the functionality, ease, and comfort of the HL60R.  In addition to Mt. Hood, I have invented other reasons to wear it (like walking around my neighborhood at night) because it’s that good.  I can’t wait to take the Fenix HL60R Rechargeable Headlamp on my next adventure.

 

Summary
Holds a Charge
Hearty
Versatile Lighting Options
Comfortable
Easy to Use

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Easy adjustment switch on the side of the Fenix HL60R

 

Also check out my review on the Fenix CL30R Camping Lantern, which also charges your electronics.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the Fenix HL60R Rechargeable Headlamp for free from Fenix in consideration for a gear review.

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