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Silva Head Torches - Our Range Explained

Posted by Mark Richardson on Nov 07, 2022

 

The one thing all our Silva Head Torches have in common is Silva's Intelligent Light functionality, the unique combination of a long reach spot light and a close flood light results in less head movement, better control, improved balance and minimised risk of missing important details. We've been trying it out recently and we like it, one of those things that you don't realise is a feature but you just feel you're using a good quality light.

 

Terra Scout Models

The Terra Scout Models are a sustainable choice, made from Hemp and recycled materials. Designed for camping and general outdoor use they feature Silva's intelligent Light functionality (of course), but they all also have a night vision mode using a Red LED and battery charge level indicator as well as being water resistant to IPX5. The different Terra Scout models are distinguished mainly by their battery format, they can run on standard AAA batteries or Silva's rechargeable battery (included in the case of the Terra Scout H, an optional extra for the other two).

 

 

Scout Models

The Scout Models fall into the same category as the Terra Scout Head Torches but they are not made from sustainable materials, hence they are a different sub-range. Designed for camping and general outdoor use they feature Silva's intelligent Light functionality (of course), but (apart from the basic Scout 3 model) they all also have a night vision mode using a Red LED and battery charge level indicator as well as being water resistant to IPX5. If you simply want a decent light then the Scout 3 is the one to go for, but the others in the range offer higher Lumens (brightness) and the other features mentioned.

 

The Scout models are distinguished mainly by their battery format, they can run on standard AAA batteries or Silva's rechargeable battery (included in the case of the Scout XTH, an optional extra for the others).

 

 

Explore Models

Silva's Explore Models build on the functionality of the Scout Models, they do everything the Scout Head Torches do but at a higher lumens (brightness) and a greater level of waterproofness (IPX7 rated). The Explore 4RC model has a built in rechargeable battery whereas the standard Explore 4 model uses standard AAA batteries only. It's a more rugged design and we like the additional 'Map Reading' Mode. All the Scout, Terra Scout and Explore Models (except Scout 3) have a Red LED as well as White for night vision, but Red is not ideal for Map Reading - so the Explore Models feature a third Orange LED that can be used to preserve night vision while ensuring contour lines remain visible on an OS map. The Explore Models also have an SOS Blink Mode and a very low setting to preserve battery life.

 

 

Trail Runner Models

The Trail Runner Models feature a battery pack that sits at the back of the head while the light sits at the front, creating a more balanced Head Torch for stability during intense activity. The word FREE in the title indicates that the wire connecting the front and back units is built into the headband creating a clean fuss free product. Of course, all the models feature Silva's Intelligent Light functionality, the unique combination of a long reach spot light and a close flood light results in less head movement, better control, improved balance and minimised risk of missing important details. All the Trail Runner Models also feature a battery level indicator and are waterproof to IPX5. The Trail Runner Free Ultra also includes a long life battery providing greatly extended battery life for longer runs.

  
Mark Richardson
 

Mark was the founder of Ultralight Outdoor Gear back in 2006 and has completed long distance backpacking routes in some of the remotest parts of the world. His favourite hikes have been Torres del Paine (full circuit), the John Muir trail and the Markha Valley trail (Ladakh, India). Although semi-retired Mark has not lost any enthusiasm for minimalist backpacking and is tackling Scotland’s Munros choosing multi-day backpacking routes over the more usual guide book excursions.

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Silva Head Torches are a bit different, using two beams instead of one, and with a full range of battery and feature options we explain the different models on this page. The one thing all our Silva Head Torches have in common is Silva's Intelligent Light functionality, the unique combination of a long reach spot light and a close flood light results in less head movement, better control, improved balance and minimised risk of missing important details. We've been trying it out recently and we like it, one of those things that you don't realise is a feature but you just feel you're using a good quality light.