Features

Producing up to 350 lumens of light, this is a fairly high-powered head torch, though admittedly not as bright as some of the other options in this year’s Outdoor 100 selection. Still, redesigned optics make the most of the power on offer. It’s more than adequate for most users, and has the advantage of being intuitive to operate thanks to a second switch that switches between the different LED lenses. You can have either spot or flood modes, depending on whether you’re trying to pick out landscape features down the trail or cast a wide circle of light on your campsite. There’s also a red light mode for preserving night vision.

Helpfully, the lamp has a brightness memory, so it will remember your preferred light intensity next time you turn it on, and you can also instantly ramp up the brightness with a single tap, rather than having to cycle or press and hold the main button.

Conclusion

There’s a lot to be said for keeping it simple, and the Revolt 350 certainly delivers in that regard. It’s well-built and easy to use, and will be a solid, reliable head lamp for hiking, climbing and camping. It’s reasonably light and comfortable to wear, tipping the scales at around 90g, though the traditional design puts all of that weight at the front of the head. There’s no overhead strap, which keeps things simple and makes it easier to use with a helmet, but can lead to a little bouncing if you’re moving fast. Then again, this isn’t a specialist trail running head lamp.

“This is a practical head lamp for climbers, wild campers, backpackers, hikers and hillwalkers.”

There are also enough features to add plenty of versatility without overcomplicating things for the user, while the ability to use either the included rechargeable battery pack or standard AAAs also adds flexibility in the field. 

Tester’s Verdict

Ash Routen, outdoor expedition writer and photographer

“The Revolt range from Black Diamond was one of the first to include a USB rechargeable battery, and the big thing that stands out in this latest Revolt 350 is the ability to run the headlamp off the included lithium battery or standard AAA batteries. This is a big plus for me. On multi-day trips, particularly to remote regions, you just can’t rely on re-charging electronics on solar or powerpacks.

“The Revolt 350 could be described as a solid all-round headlamp. The strap is excellent, with strong elasticity and a hard-wearing weave. I find many lightweight hiking focused headlamps tend to have rather puny straps. The lighting buttons (particularly the mode selector) are a little on the small side, especially if you’re wearing gloves. But there is a nice “powertap” function which allows you to switch between the main and dimmer bulb simply by tapping the side of the lamp. 

“I also like the fact that you get a battery life readout on the side of the lamp. There’s nothing worse than having to fiddle with replacement batteries in the dark. Especially as accessing the battery compartment is a slightly fiddly affair.

“The 350 lumens produced by the main bulb has more than enough reach for hiking purposes. I have a 400-lumen lamp for Arctic trips that runs solely off of AA batteries, and throws a beam of light at least 50 meters (although claims at 115m on its brightest setting). I’d be surprised if the Revolt manages to hit the claimed 80m mark.

“One final feature that I think is worth highlighting is the angle adjuster, which feels reasonably sturdy, adjusts smoothly and clicks into place very positively.”