Based on the study evening workouts are indeed more energy-efficient, powerful, and allow a higher endurance compared to morning grind. The study refers back to circadian rhythms and the fact that our body’s metabolism, mood, appetite, and other functions peak at different times of the day.
Other than the amazing health benefits, there are a few things to admire while doing night strides. You can run past noisy pubs on a Friday night, or through empty paths lit only by flickering street lights. At the same time, you can do running intervals towards the same long stretch of quiet-but-poorly-lit suburbia.
With hectic schedules, most of us find the only time to pound the urban pavements, either in the darkness of dawn or during cold nights. Whatever the reason may be, it’s time to trade in your singlets and running shorts for something more reflective.
Remember your environment changes significantly when running in the dark. This change also requires you to consider what gear you are training in. Many manufacturers feature reflective panels on the arms and shoulders of garments that help to make you far more visible to others while running on the dark side. Reflective options largely come in two main groups. Clothing and Accessories.
Here are our roundup and personal picks of night-time running essentials to wear while running in the dark.
Salzmann Reflective Band with 4 LEDs – RM39.00
- The reflector has 4 built in LED lights to add visibility
- Velcro fastening with elastic adjustment to fit all sizes
- Salzmann Reflective band is lightweight and has water resistant construction
- It easily packs away (they will fit neatly into your pocket or bag)
- The band is designed to work in all weather conditions.
Available at Running Lab Pavilion Elite and 1 Utama
Salzmann Light Band – RM49.00
- Two operating modes the flashing and steady that can use during your late night running session
- Available with a bright red or blue light and coordinated with on/off button.
- Visibility can reach up to 200m
- Made with 3M ScotchliteTM reflective material
- You can easily attached this waterproof band to your arm
Available at Running Lab Pavilion Elite and 1 Utama
Saucony Ride 10 Reflex – RM489.00
- All-new engineered mesh upper for a dynamic, lightweight fit
- Woven heel piece adds structure and support for a lockdown fit
- Refined TRI-FLEX outsole design for added comfort
- EVERUN Topsole construction for superior cushioning and energy return
Available at Topman World/QB Sports / Running Lab (1Utama) / Life Habitat SC
Brooks LSD Jacket – RM425.00
- Four-way-stretch fabric for optimal flexibility
- Brooks LSD jacket is lightweight with windproof and water- resistant construction
- Full-zip with chin guard and draft flap for comfort and protection
- Packs into back zip pocket that houses a wearable, elastic band for portability Front and back retro-reflectivity for night visibility
Available at Brooks concept stores & authorized dealers
Brooks Sherpa 5” Shorts – RM210.00
- Lightweight and stretch-woven fabric with moisture- wicking mesh brief liner
- Elastic waistband with stretch drawcord and faux-fly detail ensures the shorts won’t get loose
- Storage pockets at each hips with inner security at the brief liner
- A secure and sweat-resistant zip pocket at the back center
- Semi-fitted and mid-rise with a comfortable cut design
Available at Brooks concept stores & authorized dealers
Nathan HyperBrite Strobe Light – RM69.00
- Varying LED intensities provide a high degree of visibility
- High Lumens with a low profile for enhanced safety
- Safety with style in a slim, lightweight, and waterproof strobe
- Red 4-LED clip light that attaches easily to apparel, shoes, back of a hat, or just about anywhere else
- The on/off switch is for you to choose amongst 4 strobe or constant lighting modes
Nathan Pulsar Strobe Light – RM49.00
- Featuring three separate light modes to make sure you will be seen whatever the conditions
- Clips anywhere and provides a high level of visibility
- Minimal weight or interference on the body
- All lights have either 3 (Pulsar Strobe) or 4 flashing modes ? Burn time on high is 4 hours and low is 10 hours
Saucony Zealot ISO 3 Reflex – RM499.00
- 3mm EVERUN Topsole construction for enhanced cushioning and energy return throughout the run
- Updated TRI-FLEX outsole design for the optimal blend of flexibility and protection
- Engineered mesh upper brings a more dynamic, adaptable fit
- Molded heel collar provides a lockdown heel fit
- This lightweight shoes is available in gray, black and citron colorways
Available at Stadium, Royal Sporting House & authorized dealers
Asics Gel-Cumulus 18 – RM499.00
- Rearfoot and ForeFoot GEL® Cushioning System for strike-specific shock attenuation
- FluidRide® Midsole technology for enhanced comfort and gives a spring-loaded ride
- Comfordry™ Sockliner which provides cushioning performance and has moisture wicking properties
- Trusstic System® Technology integrates Guidance Line® construction for enhanced gait efficiency
- Seamless materials reduces the potential for irritation and friction caused by traditional stitches and seams
Available at Asics concept stores & authorized dealers
Asics Elite SS Running T-Shirt – RM149.00
- MotionDry technology ensures a dry and comfortable feel
- Offset anti-friction seams reduce skin irritation
- Strategically placed mesh material on the sleeves, the upper body and the back ensures good air circulation
- Tight fit and the short sleeves ensure freedom of movement with a stylish touch
- ASICS spiral logo at the back panel are reflective so you can be seen in the dark
Available at Asics concept stores and authorized dealers
Asics W’S 3.5″ Running Shorts – RM149.00
- Elastic waistband with moisture wicking properties
- Lightweight with enhanced breathability which keeps you cool and dry
- “V” cut at each side of the hem provides increased range of motion
- Two hand pockets offer storage space
- The ASICS spiral logo at the side and at the back panel are reflective to increase visibility in low-light conditions
Available at Asics concept stores and authorized dealers
Nathan LightBender – RM89.00
- Wraps around your arm to provide 360-degree visibility
- Hyperbrite Strobe Light is completely sweatproof and is water-resistant
- Powered with easily replaceable watch batteries
- Settings offer blinking or solid modes; large push button for easy operation
- Comfortable silicone, ABS plastic and elastic armband ensures no chafing or discomfort