Off-road driving is a popular hobby, into which many enthusiasts invest a lot of time and money. It can be difficult, however, to decipher which modifications will best optimize your vehicle’s safety and aesthetic appeal. Lighting, for example, can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of your vehicle.
Installing new off-road lights may be purely for cosmetic purposes; however, often people choose to do so for enhanced visibility when out adventuring on hazardous terrains. Without proper lighting, you may fall victim to severe accidents. It is, therefore, important to consider investing in higher-quality equipment.
Types of off-road lights
Spotlights
If you’re seeking adjustable lights that create a strong beam in the darkest of environments, spotlights may be the way to go, as they can illuminate a decent distance ahead of you. It’s important to note that these lights aren’t to be used for just anything; their strength can be quite distracting.
Off-road spotlights are generally associated with halogen light bulbs; however, LED spotlights are considered to be more efficient, using approximately 85% less energy than the former.
Light bars
Light bars are relatively popular among off-roaders, as they're simple and easy to use. They’re also able to cover a larger area than spotlights, increasing your visibility and safety. Light bars can be made up of LED lights, halogen, and also high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting.
Fog lights
Fog lights live up to their name, as they’re manufactured to better direct the driver through harsh weather conditions, even though more subdued with regard to illumination. They may also utilize HID, halogen, or LED bulbs, depending upon your specific requirements.
Benefits of off-road lights
There are several advantages to installing off-road lights that go beyond simple aesthetic purposes. Benefits may include:
- Increased visibility
- Enhanced safety
- Visual aesthetics
- Affordability, depending on the lights you choose
- Easy to use
Top off-road light brands
Rigid Industries
Rigid Industries was founded in 2001 and offer affordable, maximized lighting with a wide selection of enticing lighting features. Their E series LED light bar is even considered to be one of the most efficient out there.
Baja Designs
Baja Designs was founded in 1992, with the sole purpose of enhancing light safety for off-road enthusiasts. They have provided equipment to several racing competitions, and continue to remain one of the most popular lighting companies around. Their engineers have even been referred to as “scientists of lighting”.
Spyder Auto
Founded in 2006, Spyder Auto are considered leading providers in off-road lighting. Their purpose is to provide quality equipment while holding their customers’ needs as top priority.
Arb Lighting
The inspiration behind Arb Lighting can span back to 1975. After experiencing 4-wheel-driving first hand, the founder decided to bridge the gap in equipment inadequacies. Focusing on quality and practicality, they remain Australia’s biggest 4-wheel-drive accessory manufacturers.
Best Off-Road Lights
While it's up to you to determine what the best off-road lights are for your specific vehicle, we suggest the following products:
Flood pair
Flood pair lights are considered to use advanced technology, and are believed to be versatile and reliable.
Spot beams
Also utilizing advanced technology, spot beams are considered to be very powerful, and can regulate temperatures efficiently with a die-cast aluminum exterior.
Light Bar
Light bars optimize lighting output while allowing the user to customize their look to their own specifications (coloring, for example).
Final thoughts
Choosing the best off-road lights for your vehicle will depend upon your specific needs. However, once your purpose is clear, there’s a wide range of lighting products that display both high-quality practicality and visual appeal.
