Black Diamond Spot
Black Diamond’s Spot is currently the only batteries-in-the-front headlamp with this lighting configuration: a DoublePower (1-watt) LED provides a focused beam for distance illumination (eg, for walking to the top of Kilimanjaro at midnight), while three SuperBright LEDs provide bright lighting for close objects (eg, scratching around in your tent).
Each has three strength settings, and the result is great battery management and the right kind of lighting for different activities. Its sturdy, all weather, tiltable housing sits on a comfortable headband. Maximum distances are 70m and 19m for the 1-watt and SuperBrights respectively. I put in fresh batteries before I left and didn’t need to bother about taking spares. I didn’t notice any performance problems even in below freezing conditions on summit night.
Weight: 85g with three AAA batteries
RRP: R405
Ray’s tip:
Choose to go hands-free While you can get cellphone coverage on most of the mountain, we’re concerned more about lighting here… and are referring to a headlamp. Rather go with a headlamp & keep your hands free for tasks at hand & helping you balance.
