Had to pick between a new helmet light or a fresh set of drysuit seals

The old seals were starting to feel a bit stiff, but my primary light on the Superlite 17B was also getting dim. I went with the seals, figuring I could make the light work for another job. Just finished a three day bridge inspection in the Columbia River and staying dry was definitely the right call. Anyone have a good brand for a bright, budget helmet light they actually trust?

3 comments

3 Comments

reese_patel2mo ago

Ugh, that's such a tough call to make. I've totally been there, putting off a gear upgrade because something else is more urgent. Staying dry is non-negotiable, especially for a multi-day job like that. Three days with a leaky seal sounds like a special kind of misery, so you for sure made the right choice. My old backup light is basically a glow worm at this point, so I feel your pain on that front too.

blair8952mo ago

Glow worm backup light" is the perfect way to describe it.

barnes.shane2d ago

Man, it's funny how we all end up with that one piece of gear that's just barely hanging on. I've noticed it's like that in all sorts of stuff, not just outdoor gear. You know how you'll keep using a scratched up phone screen protector for months or a wonky kitchen knife just because it's still technically working? It's like we have this weird tolerance for mediocre performance until something finally forces our hand. A leaky dry bag or a really dim light is just the outdoor version of that same old pattern.