Last Updated on 08/03/2024
In this guide to the best headlamp strap replacement, we share the best way to find a replacement as well as some universal options that fit most headlamps. You will learn which is the comfiest headlamp headband replacement and which is the easiest to adjust.
Not all headlamps are built using the same type of strap or strap attachment, so it is important to check the fitting of your headlamp before ordering a new one. You can do this just by looking, but you also need to measure the width.
Most headlamp bands measure precisely 1 inch across. This includes most of the biggest brands like Petzl, Black Diamond, Petzl, Princeton Tec, Energizer, Coast, etc.
5 Best Headlamp Strap Replacement
Pre-Owned Headlamp Strap Replacement
The best headlamp strap replacement is an exact match of the one you are replacing. If you are okay with using second-hand items, there are plenty of replacement straps out there. Plus, you can easily wash a headlamp headband (by hand or in a washing machine).
There are a few ways you can replace your headlamp strap for cheap. Here are some of my favorites:
- Search eBay for your brand of headlamp and sort by cheapest first
- Join a Facebook group for outdoor gear and put out a request
- Check thrift stores
- Buy the cheapest headlamp out there and use the strap
The reason there are so many preowned headlamp bands available is that headlamps can break but the straps last for a very long time.
Petzl Swift RL Replacement Headband
The Petzl Swift RL Replacement Headband is my favorite headband on any headlamp ever.
Two things set this apart from every other headband out there. The first is the padding on the strap for your forehead. I don’t know why they don’t do this on all their headlamp straps because it is amazing. Not only is it ten times comfier, but it also stabilizes the light so that it doesn’t move around when you’re jogging.
The second thing that is different about this headlamp that makes it so good is the adjustment system at the back. In addition to being easy to adjust, the split band adjustment system cradles the back of your head for extra stability and less acute pressure. Some head torches feel so tight that they give me a headache after wearing them for any length of time, but not this one.
The Petzl Swift RL replacement strap will fit most headlamps that use a one-inch headband and is well worth the money if you use your headlamp often. Check out our full Petzl Swift RL headlamp review for more details.
Third Eye Headlamps Totally Awesome Headband
The Third Eye Headlamps Totally Awesome Headband comes in some of the most creative designs out there. The one-inch band will fit most headlamps, including Petzl, Black Diamond, Petzl, Princeton Tec, Energizer, Coast, etc. It has a removable slot system to take it apart to fit through your headlamp.
The choice is pretty slim for headlamp strap replacements, and these colorful designs make a nice change to the standard branded black strap. The design above is called metric, but the others are worth checking out too.
Weltool Durable Elastic Headband Replacement
The Weltool Durable Elastic Headband Replacement will work on most headlamps, and because of the additional center strip, you can even use some heavier caving headlamps on this strap. There is a thin silicone strip on the inside of the band to provide extra grip on your forehead, so you never get any slippage. On the outside, you also have a reflective strip so that cars can see you from behind if you are running or walking on a road or path.
This is one-size-fits-all with just one color option, black. It will fit most headlamps and has the optional center strap for added stability.
Princeton Tec 1-Inch Headlamp Strap
The Princeton Tec 1-Inch Headlamp Strap is the same one that comes with pretty much all of their headlamps. They come in four colors that are all suited to military or civilian use (including camo). They are only available from their website from within the US but are pretty cheap and very reliable.
If you need a new strap for your Princeton Tec headlamp, this will fit the EOS, Quad, Vizz, Fuel, and Sync but is not compatible with the Bot, Byte, or Remix rechargeable headlamps. You can, of course, use it with any headlamp that will accommodate the universal 1-inch strap.
Black Diamond Headlamp Strap Replacements are currently out of stock everywhere, but because they are a universal fit, you can use other headbands instead.
Choosing the Best Headlamp Strap Replacement
When you need to find a new headlamp strap replacement, the first thing you need to check is what width headband you need. Then you can start looking for the comfiest replacement that will fit and make sure it can be adjusted for your head size.
Width
I would say at least 80% of modern headlamps are designed to fit on a 1-inch headband strap. Simply measure the width of the slot where the headband slots through to confirm a 1-inch strap will fit. You want a good fit. If it’s too loose, the headlamp will not be stable, and if it is too wide, you will sacrifice your comfort.
Comfort
If you want the comfiest headband replacement for a headlamp, then there is only one I would recommend – The Petzl Swift RL headband. It has padding on the forehead and is easily adjustable to ensure you always have a good fit.
Adjustment
Most universal headlamp straps have the same buckle-type adjustment that you might see on a backpack strap. It involves feeding one length through and then pulling it tight to either shorten or lengthen the strap. This can be faffy and can sometimes slip if the buckle doesn’t provide much grip. Again, the Swift RL headband offers the easiest adjustment, which is as easy as pulling each buckle in the opposite direction.
How to Adjust Headlamp Strap
To adjust a headlamp strap, you have to feed one length through the buckle and then pull it tight. Repeat this process in small increments until you have the correct tightness. I have found it is better to be slightly tighter than necessary instead of too loose as that your headlamp doesn’t fall off your head and get damaged.
How to Replace Petzl Headlamp Strap
Petzl headlamps have solid loops where the headband threads through. This means that if you want to replace it, you need to be able to disassemble your strap to link it through. You also need to be able to reassemble it once through as well. That is why the Third Eye Headlamps strap is a good idea, because it works on Petzl’s. Here’s a video showing you how to do it.
I hope you found this guide to the best headlamp strap replacement helpful.
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