Coast | FL20R Head-Torch | 430 Lumens

The FL20R Head-Torch is a basic design with large white LED and small red LEDs. The simple hinge has good tension and range of movement. Inside the gasket-sealed battery compartment is a micro USB-rechargeable battery pack, which can be swapped out for AAA batteries. A single, large, easy-to-press button cycles through modes; there is no instant off, but it is easy to remember how to use it. Unusually, it cycles between medium, high, and then low and red.

Although the FL20R Head-Torch beam is advertised as ‘flood’, it’s hard-edged and not as broad as others. The 430lm mode doesn’t last long before declining to something more like 200lm; lumens for low and medium aren’t specified, but I’d guess around 20lm and 200lm respectively. Red mode is a very tight spot (not that useful). Battery life
is acceptable for occasional general use but it only lasts 2-3 hours on high beam.
I was able to get more than the advertised 19 hours on low beam, though. Spare rechargeable batteries are only £7.95.

I like the strap: broad and perforated, with silicone stripes for grippiness plus big reflective stripes for visibility. A buckle allows you to hang the torch from a branch.

Construction is basic and the plastic feels a little cheap compared to others. It’s proven durable so far, though. The price seems high for the features offered. 

Want to see more head torches like the HeadLamp 425? Check out our guide to the best head torches for hiking