
Northern lights in Alaska
I think Cree and I own about 14 headlamps…seriously. We guided in the outdoors for years, and were constantly trying new headlamps. Waterproof ones, micro ones, high beam varieties…and more recently rechargeable versions. And since most of the time we were carrying these lights in our packs, small and lightweight was good. But there was the challenge. Have you ever tried to push that tiny button (or even find it) on your headlamp with a large mitten on in subzero conditions. I had to take off my mittens to operate my light, not good. But then I talked to some Alaska mushers who always have mittens on, and they suggested the Fenix brand.
I’d never even heard of this brand, but quickly found out they make a large variety of flashlights and headlamps. Even better, I found their lights at REI, so obviously I was missing something here if the local (in Anchorage) store carried them. Note the photo above. I bought the Fenix HM61R V2.0 version…they have to come up with a better name! As the photo shows, this is more like a small flashlight attached to your head. But these lights are incredible. First, I can press the big button on the side with my mittens on in the worst of conditions, I never have to grope for it. Next, this light is very strong, with multiple output levels. Important for night work, it also has a red light. And finally, the light is rechargeable. This light might not be your choice for a summer outing where a small headlamp would work fine, but for cold winter aurora nights here in Alaska, this light is perfect. No more searching for the button, just squeeze the side and the night lights up!