The Actik is Petzl’s latest offering. The light is a hybrid and can run on AAA batteries or be used with a ‘Core’ lithium ion battery ($59, sold separately). It has two beams – wide and narrow – which can run simultaneously or independently.

The batteries are housed behind the light in a separate unit. At 92g, it is lightweight for the amount of light it produces – 300 lumens – but it is heavier than the Black Diamond Iota. It is extremely compact for its output. Petzl claims the light on full power will run for 60 hours, and up to 260 hours on the low five-lumen setting. The beam reaches 90m on high power. These are impressive run-times, but keep in mind the light dims over time as the batteries are drained.

I used the Actik on a trip to the remote Garibaldi Plateau in Kahurangi National Park. Its wide beam was perfect for around camp, while the narrow, more powerful beam performed excellently during night travel. We had dry weather, so the water-resistance wasn’t tested. It is rated to IPX4 so should be able to handle splashing and rain.

I found the Actik to be a comfortable headlamp; it sat well on my head and the headband was easy to adjust so that it did not feel overtight.

The Actik feels sturdy and is made from durable materials; it also comes with a reassuring five-year guarantee.

Given the quality feel of the product, its ability to switch between narrow and wide beams, its weight and impressive run-times, I think this headlamp is spot-on for trampers. It’s also good value for money.