I’ve been testing the BioLite Dash 450 on my evening runs, looking for something that stays secure, offers reliable illumination, and doesn’t feel distracting after an hour or two.
This headlamp weighs only 2.9oz. (82g) and features a moisture-wicking headband, so my first impression was that it sits snugly without any bounce.
After taking it on several runs, here’s how it performs and compares to other BioLite headlamps right now.
Key Specifications
- Price: $60 at BioLite / REI.com
- Weight: 2.9oz. (82g)
- Brightness: 450 lumens (with a 90 m beam on high)
- Battery: 1000 mAh lithium-ion; recharges to full via USB-C in about two hours
- Runtime: 3 hours on high (plus 1-hour reserve); up to 60 hours on low
- Construction: IPX4 water resistance, 3D Slimfit design, and adjustable headband
- Lighting Modes: White Spot, White Flood, Spot/Flood combo, Red Flood, Rear Red, Rear Red Strobe
- Extra Features: Pass-through charging for extended use, dimming on all modes, memory function for last used mode
How it feels on the run
On my runs, the Dash 450 has felt very stable and light, which is consistent with a number of BioLite headlamps I have reviewed in the past.
The low-profile construction doesn’t apply too much pressure on my forehead, and I don’t notice any movement or “bounce”, even when running fast.
The adjustable tilt helps maintain good visibility, whether I’m navigating trails with scattered rocks or running on the road with less variation underfoot.
It’s also important to be able to tilt the beam when talking to people, as to not dazzle them.
BioLite Dash 450 VS. Headlamp 800 Pro VS. Headlamp 325 VS. Headlamp 200
Compared to BioLite’s Headlamp 800 Pro, the Dash 450 is lighter and simpler if you don’t need the extra brightness.
The 800 Pro offers 800 lumens and a more robust battery, which can be helpful for longer, more technical adventures like ultra running events, for example.
The Headlamp 325 is lighter than the Dash 450 and still provides decent illumination, but it won’t give you the same reach or adjustable beam options.
Meanwhile, the Headlamp 200 is meant for shorter runs or general use, with fewer lumens and a smaller battery.
For runners who want a comfortable blend of brightness and battery life without jumping to the heavier 800-lumen range, the Dash 450 sits in a sweet spot, and it’s what is going to make this one of BioLites most popular headlamps.
What’s Good
One aspect I appreciate is how well the BioLite Dash 450 balances its weight across the front (the light and beam) and rear (the battery pack and rear light), so I hardly notice it once I start running.
This smart weight distribution also contributes to its no-bounce fit while running.
The moisture-wicking headband also helps prevent sweat buildup, which can sometimes lead to slipping or discomfort. The adjustable headband makes it easy to fine-tune the fit for different head sizes or layering over a running hat, and it doesn’t loosen during a run.
The headband also has reflective detailing built-in which provides extra visibility for you from side views.
The combination of spot, flood beams (and strobe) offers wide illumination without sacrificing a focused center point. This is particularly helpful when I’m on uneven terrain, since I can see both upcoming obstacles and the periphery of the trail.
The red and strobe modes are handy for road running at night too, giving extra visibility to cars and cyclists from behind.
I’m also glad BioLite included a battery life indicator.
Quick glances at the 4-dot display let me gauge whether I need to switch to a dimmer mode or connect a pass-through power bank.
This battery life indicator is the same method used on their other headlamps that have a power pack at the rear.
The pass-through USB-C charging is another element that will give runners peace of mind on longer outings, or ultra marathons.
If you anticipate being out for more than a few hours, you can carry a small and lightweight power bank and run the headlamp off it for a really long time.
Finally, the memory function saves time by remembering my last used mode and brightness level that I set. That might not seem like much, but when I’m in a hurry to start a run or need to react quickly on the trail, skipping a light-mode cycle is a nice convenience.
All these details contribute to a headlamp that feels thoughtfully designed for someone who wants a secure, no-fuss experience in low-light conditions without breaking the bank.
What’s Not So Good
My main concern is the limited runtime on high mode. Three hours plus a one-hour reserve can be tight if I’m out for an ultra or a longer nighttime trail run.
That limitation, however, is manageable if I bring along an external power bank, but carrying extra gear isn’t always ideal.
It’s also worth noting that relying on pass-through charging means dealing with cables, which can disrupt a smooth running rhythm if not well managed.
If you do many hours of running at night and you want to have a very bright beam throughout, then I recommend looking at the Headlamp 800 Pro, instead. Other options are also available, so I recommend checking out my Best Running Headlamps roundup to see them all.
My Verdict
Overall, I consider the BioLite Dash 450 an excellent choice for anyone who wants a balanced blend of brightness, comfort, battery life, and reliability during night runs.
It’s comfortable to wear for extended periods, straightforward to operate, and the range of lighting modes is versatile enough for most conditions.
If your adventures regularly stretch beyond a few hours in the dark, you may need to factor in additional power options or consider a brighter model with a bigger battery.
For most trail runs, though, the Dash 450 is a practical solution that delivers consistent illumination without feeling bulky. The Dash 450 is now my top pick for most of my night time running endeavours.
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