Petzl Nao
The Nao by Petzl is the next generation of head torch. Super bright, super engineering and super-smart.
The Nao has just been relaunched with an impressive 575 lumen. That is seriously bright, and it is seriously clever. This is a torch with USB integration. You are able to connect this to your computer (both Mac and pc) and customise the power output and the sensitivity of the sensor. All this allows maximum performance tailored to the user.
The lamp has two lamps and one sensor. The sensor reacts to the light it receives. This is fantastic, if you are looking at the open moorland in front of you, lighting up all you can see, and you then whip out a map and look down at it normally you would be blinded by the full powered lamp lighting up a white map, but no!! The Nao reacts so quickly, almost
instantaneously the lamp reduces output to a level that best fits the purpose required. Look up at the landscape, and instantly power and light are granted!! The reactive technology is good, I mean really good. Ive had cars in the past that are supposed to have “reactive” rear-view mirrors. They all suck by comparison. The Nao is quick and efficient.
The Nao has a big old rechargeable battery and it sits on the back of your head. The fit is good, and unlike most head torches that simply have an elastic headband the Nao features a drawcord, and a section of elastic. You put the torch on, and tighten the drawcord and its comfortable. The elastic sections make the torch sit comfy and secure. Its secure enough to go running with, and it is a revelation. Looking around whilst running at night, the lamp constantly adjusting, everything always illuminated perfectly. Its excellent. It also has an additional strap that goes across ones head for a little extra security, but I haven’t bothered with that as it does not need it!!
The battery pack will allow for standard AA batteries should you not have access to a usb port in order to charge it.
They claim its waterproof too. This is obvious by the seals and the connections, but by waterproof I think they mean in the rain, I wouldn’t want to swim in it!!
Above the picture shows the Nao and 3 of its modes, you can see the lamp will illuminate everything, or just a little!!
PROS: Bright, long burn time, comfort
CONS: Price.
