Gearhead: Black Diamond's newest headlamp offers 7 lighting modes

This precise, super-bright, long-lasting and ultra-reliable Spot headlamp from Black Diamond Equipment ranks consistently high with hikers, backpackers, campers, cliff climbers and many others who need to keep their hands free while moving around in the dark.

The Spot has two beams: a spot beam, and a proximity beam for close activities. Combined, the two beams give out an amazing 300 lumens of adjustable light. The Spot is waterproof and has IPX8 protection with sealed electronics. It also has seven lighting modes - including red night vision - to allow for any situation you encounter, and its “brightness memory” turns the light on to your preferred brightness level (saving battery life). Sleek, with a low profile, the Spot runs on three AAA batteries for a total weight of 3.2 ounces. It will burn from 25 to 180 hours, depending on power setting, and comes in five colors. $39.95. blackdiamondequipment.com

In Sonoma County, Black Diamond products are sold at Athleta in Petaluma and REI in Santa Rosa. To find dealers in other locations, go to blackdiamondequipment.com.