Petzl Tikkina Headlamp by M. Swigart
While water, shelter, and food are necessities for survival, there are a few pieces of outdoor gear that are also paramount to . One such item is a light source. Whether it is preventing your fall, illuminating the path, or highlighting potential danger, nighttime vision is important for your outdoor adventure. My favorite piece of night gear for camping, backpacking, and night hikes is my Petzl Tikkina Headlamp. I have a few other headlamps, but the Petzl Tikkiana is my most used and trusted. I will share the strengths of this product, as well as some honest criticism from myself as well as the many other Petzl Tikkina Headlamp users.
Highlighted Features of The Petzl Tikkina Headlamp
Design
With such an affordable price, a simple design is to be expected with the Petzl Tikkina Headlamp. However, the simplicity of the headlamp’s design is what makes the Petzl Tikkina so friendly to use.
Power Button
You do not have to worry about fumbling in the dark to find the power button with the Tikkina. There is a single large power button at the top of the headlamp, which is easy to locate with or without gloves.
Easy of Adjusting Brightness Levels
The “on” button also controls three different brightness levels. Just push the large button to adjust to the desired lumens and you are on your way.
Effortless Tilt
The headlamp is also able to tilt almost 90 degrees, allowing for a large custom range of focused light. Tilting the headlamp’s beam is easily done with one hand while the Tikkina is being worn.
Petzl Tikkina Headlamp by M. Swigart
Brightness
The Tikkina has three different brightness levels; low (5 lumens), medium (100 lumens), and high (150 lumens). Offering only three different settings keeps the choice simple. I do not have to push the button ten times to return to my desired level of brightness. I found that these three settings are all that I need. Though the distances vary, the average distances range from 30 to 180 ft.. The flood (or wide) design allows better visibility on close objects. Simply hold down the power button to turn the headlamp off.
Power Source
The Petzl Tikkina uses three AAA batteries, that are easily replaced in the back of the lamp. A CORE battery kit works to recharge the newer Petzl headlamps that can be purchased separately.
Battery Life
The battery life on the Tikkina states 220 hours, and while I personally have not tested this battery life to that extent, several studies prove the statistic to be true. On a low light setting, the Tikkina runs an impressive 223 hours.
Water Resistance
The Tikkina can easily be used in the rain thanks to its water-resistant design. Though with IPX4, this product is not completely waterproof and should not be submerged in water.
Adjustable Headband
The most enjoyable element of this headlamp is its comfortable and adjustable headband. In addition to being easy to wear, it is also removable and washable. The two-band design allows for a snug fit, even after years of the band being stretched out.
Weight
Coming in at 3.03 ounces, the Tikkina is not an ultralight headlamp, though it is a lighter option for a bright light on the night trail.
Petzl Tikkina Headlamp by M. Swigart
Durability
After years of use, I have not had any problems with my Petzl Tikkina. The headband has stretched out some, but its adjustable band makes it easy to take in the extra few inches. Other than the slight stretching, the durable plastic and water-resistant characteristics of the headlamp make it a reliable product.
Warranty
Petzl offers an impressive five year manufacturer warranty with appropriate guidelines and conditions.
Possible Improvements
Colored Light Options
I love the simplicity if Tikkina’s design, but there are some elements to the Petzl Tikkina that I wish could be more elaborate. For example, the headlamp only offers white light. There are no options for red or green light on this product (though I have been known to place red saran wrap on mine to create my own red light version.) Offering only white light is expected on a headlamp in the price range of the Petzl Tikkina, however, red and green light setting are desired characteristics.
Locking Mechanism
The large power button is a life saver at the end of a long day on the trail, yet there is no locking button. Without a locking mechanism, there are times where the headlamp accidentally turns on while being stored which can drain the battery.
Pros
- Simple, easy to use design
- Three brightness levels
- Adjustable beam direction
- Custom fit headband
- Washable headband
- Water resistant
- Capable of using rechargeable batteries
- Large and easily accessible power button
Cons
- Only three brightness options
- No colored beams or dimmer settings
- Large power button can lead to accidental usage when stored
- Not completely waterproof
- Uses batteries instead of being rechargeable
- Headband can stretch out and lose its elasticity
Final Verdict
For such a low cost, the Petzl Tikkina has excellent value. So much so that it is justifiable to have several Tikkinas around your house. An easy to use design, three light settings, incredible battery life, comfortable headband, and durable materials makes this Petzl Tikkina a great choice for an affordable headlamp for hiking and backpacking.