Dark winter walks: how to stay seen
Since the clocks went back, the after-work walk happens in the dark for most of us, and by December it's dark before half past four. A few small habits make a big difference to how easily drivers and cyclists can spot you both.
Light and reflection do different jobs
Reflective trim only shines when a light hits it, such as car headlights. A light of your own works everywhere, including on unlit paths and in the park, where there are no headlights at all. For winter walks, it's worth having both.
- Reflective coat or harness: picks your dog out in headlights from a distance.
- Clip-on light: lets you see where your dog is off the road, and lets others see them from every angle.
Habits that help
- Wear something bright yourself. A reflective band or a light-coloured jacket helps drivers judge where you are.
- Where there's no pavement, the Highway Code advises walking on the right-hand side, facing oncoming traffic, and keeping your dog on the side away from the road.
- Shorten the lead near roads so your dog can't step out unexpectedly.
- Charge the light when you get home, not when you're heading out.
- Carry a torch or use your phone light on unlit paths, so you can see what your dog is sniffing, and pick up after them.
Our winter walk kit
- The NightBeacon clip-on light: USB rechargeable, clips to a collar or harness, in seven colours.
- The StormBreaker raincoat with reflective trim, for the evenings that are dark and wet.
- A TrailPack waist bag so your hands stay free for the lead and the torch.
You'll find everything in one place in our Winter Walk Essentials.