Flashlights have come a long way in the last few years. They’re no longer dinky little single-setting beams with soft yellow lights—they’re waterproof, tactical, durable, and adjustable! Waterproof flashlights are great for hiking, backpacking, and any outdoor exploration.
Waterproof flashlights are an indispensable resource for anyone who likes to spend time outdoors, or works in settings where they need a bit more light. They’re designed with efficient LEDs that have a higher lumen count to cover a wider area, and many of these flashlights have focused beams with adjustable settings so that you can work, play, and see at night. Designed to resist weather, corrosion, rust, damage, shock, and impact, these flashlights are sturdier than anything you’ve seen before, and are made to last for years. But how do you find the best waterproof flashlight when there are so many on the market? We’ve put together this list of the waterproof flashlights that really impressed us and lit up even the darkest scenarios.
Read on to see why our experts love these waterproof flashlights!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are waterproof flashlights fully submersible?
While waterproof flashlights are designed to resist inclement weather such as snow and rain, not all waterproof flashlights will work after being plunged underwater. Ensure the flashlight you’re purchasing has a submersion rating by reading through the summary and reviews—tactical waterproof flashlights that can be fully submerged have to be made from a specific alloy and especially sealed.
How many lumens does my flashlight need?
While the brightness level of your flashlight might vary, the higher the lumens equals the brighter the flashlight. If you require a waterproof or tactical flashlight that can illuminate pitch dark back roads and mountainsides, go with the highest lumens on the market. If you’re using your flashlight for regular household use, dog walks, or camping, you don’t need a lumen level that can potentially blind someone.
Buying Guide
We’ve put together this handy little guide so that you can rest assured that you’re buying the best waterproof flashlight for your needs!
- Modes: Many waterproof flashlights and tactical flashlights come with adjustable brightness settings and modes, such as SOS and strobe. If you require a light for outdoor excursions, these modes will be your friend.
- Brightness: You don’t want to blind anyone while out on your regular walk, but if you’re a backpacker exploring the deep outdoors you’ll want a flashlight with improved brightness and stability.
- Charge: Some flashlights still require batteries, others have a USB charge. Depending on your needs, you might want to ensure that the flashlight you buy carries a longer charge if you’re camping or backpacking.
Dorcy Waterproof Flashlight
Most Practical
Comes with a carabiner clip to attach the flashlight to your belt
This waterproof flashlight is compact and lightweight. It offers unique floatability in water. It also provides powerful 32-lumens of light output and a strong 100-foot beam distance.
Pros:
- Available in different colors
- Offers a slip-free comfortable grip,
Cons:
- May require frequent battery changes
Morpilot UV Flashlight
Best Tactical Design
Can be used for detecting stains, medical forensics, inspections and customs
With its four lighting modes and innovative zoomable design, this is a smart flashlight to use in any setting. It can be adjusted to control the field of view and it offers a high level of brightness.
Pros:
- Includes three AAA batteries
- Features an anti-drop design
Cons:
- Sliding zoom beam may become lose over time
ThuZW Tactical Flashlight
Best Value
Includes two flashlights
The two flashlights in this pack feature powerful 3000-lumen LED bulbs that generate a brilliant large floodlight or a focused spotlight. They shine over a beam distance of 656 feet.
Pros:
- Made of durable aluminum alloy and rubber
- Compact enough to fit in a handbag or backpack
Cons:
- Does not include batteries
LUMINTOP LED Flashlight
Best Battery Life
Offer 60 hours of runtime on low mode
This lightweight but durable flashlight is designed to withstand submersion under water up to 6.5 feet. It features an aircraft-grade aluminum body and four lighting modes that are easy to adjust.
Pros:
- Offers an anti-slip grip
- Compact and easy to handle
Cons:
- May switch brightness automatically at times
RISEMART Flashlight
Most Compact Design
Weighs just 0.65 ounces
This tiny 3.5-inch waterproof flashlight includes LED bulbs that produce 120 lumens. It is the perfect compact flashlight for hiking, cycling or camping in all types of weather. It comes with a sturdy clip for convenient attachment to your belt or pocket.
Pros:
- Features an easy-to-use tailcap
- Includes a keychain
Cons:
- May be too small for some users
