As we write this at seven in the morning, the sun still hasn't come up. It's getting dark earlier in the evenings too, and most of us are heading home after it's gone down.
A small light or reflector makes a real difference to being seen by drivers and cyclists. These are the ones we keep on our own bags, bikes and dogs this time of year. They're easy to clip on and easy to forget about until you need them.
Why something small is enough
You don't need a high-vis vest to be visible. A reflector catches headlights from a long way off, and a small light on a bag or zipper shows where you are from the side, where bike and car lights don't always reach. The point is to have something on you every time you leave the house, so the best option is the one small enough to stay clipped on all season.
Small lights
- Snow Peak Micro Hozuki LED Lantern KeychainThe smallest of Snow Peak's Hozuki lanterns, named after the Japanese hozuki plant and its lantern-shaped husk. It's under an inch across, weighs 5 g and clips on with a stainless steel ring. Three modes: high (up to 27 lumens), low (around 31 hours of soft glow) and flash. Rated IPX5, so rain is fine. Runs on two CR1632 coin batteries, which aren't included.
- ABITAX 0510 Tag LightA tiny clip-on light from Japan that hooks onto a zipper, keyring or bag strap. It's been made since 2000 and won a Long Life Design Award at Japan's Good Design Awards in 2020, which goes to products that have stayed useful on the market for years. The battery is easy to replace. Made in Japan.
Reflectors
Reflectors need no batteries and no charging. Clip one to your bike or bag and it lights up whenever headlights hit it. These are all from Blue Lug, the Tokyo bike shop, and colours are assorted.
- Triangle ReflectorBlue Lug's best-known piece, a low-profile take on the yield sign with a sturdy strap. Ties onto a bag, frame, keys or a dog's harness.
- Mini Triangle ReflectorThe same shape at about 5 cm, sized for keys and small bags.
- Sandwich ReflectorMade from offcuts of reflective material, folded into a sandwich shape.
- Glow WhistleA small glow-in-the-dark whistle from Blue Lug Tandem. It clips to a zipper pull or keyring and is easy to find in the dark.
Where we put them
- On a backpack or toteA reflector on the strap facing back, and a small light on a zipper pull.
- On a bikeA Triangle Reflector on the seat post or rear rack, alongside your regular front and rear lights.
- On the dogA Mini Triangle or a Micro Hozuki on the harness or leash for evening walks.
- On your keysA Tag Light or Mini Triangle, so there's always something with you.
Shop the Bright & Glowy collection
Frequently asked questions
Is a reflector or a light better for walking at night?
They do different jobs. A reflector shows up brightly when headlights hit it and never needs charging. A light makes you visible from angles headlights don't reach. Carrying one of each is a good habit.
What batteries does the Snow Peak Micro Hozuki use?
It takes two CR1632 coin batteries, which aren't included.
Where can I buy Blue Lug reflectors in Vancouver?
SORT carries Blue Lug reflectors at 2550 Stephens St in Kitsilano, Vancouver, and online at sortdays.com with shipping across Canada and the US.
What's a good small gift for a cyclist or dog walker?
A Blue Lug Triangle Reflector, the ABITAX Tag Light or the Snow Peak Micro Hozuki. They're small, useful every day through the winter and easy to tuck into a stocking.
