Streamlight has long been my preferred brand of portable illumination products. There are others out there that are just as good, no doubt. But I tend to be brand-loyal with my gear. I find one I like and stick with it. They recently came out with a new hands-free light called the SideSaddle that looks all sorts of awesome.
The Streamlight SideSaddle
Most headlamps today are mounted such that the light is at the center of your forehead. This one, as the name suggests, sits on the side of your head. It’s designed to easily fit on baseball hats and bump caps, as well as safety helmets.
In addition to outdoor recreation at night, headlamps are a great tool in the prepping world. They allow you to complete chores after dark during a power outage, such as cleaning dishes or bringing in firewood. While a flashlight or lantern can suffice for those jobs, it’s nice to be able to keep both hands free while you work.
Two Versions
The SL-SideSaddle comes in two models. One is powered by a 2000 mAh lithium polymer cell with USB-C rechargeability and the other uses three AAA alkaline batteries. They differ slightly in size. Both are three inches long and 1.14 inches high. But the USB model is 1.72 inches wide, and the alkaline battery version is slightly larger, at 2.25 inches wide. It’s a hair heavier, too, at 3.4 ounces compared to 3.1 ounces for the USB model.
The USB version of the SL-SideSaddle offers a maximum output of 400 lumens for five hours or 100 lumens for about 12 hours. The alkaline model gives you 300 lumens for five hours or 60 lumens for 16 hours.
Both models are available in either black or yellow colorways.
Features
“The SL-SideSaddle series is setting a new standard in hands-free lighting,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “Designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand versatility and high performance, the SL-SideSaddle offers reliable illumination without interfering with your gear. Whether mounted on athletic helmets or clipped to a baseball cap, it’s the perfect companion for all of your outdoor adventures.”
Both models of the SL-SideSaddle allow for a high-output spot, flood, and spot/flood combined beam, along with a rear-facing bright blue safety light. The push-button tail switch remembers the last mode used. The same button also cycles through the different modes.
The SL-SideSaddle comes complete with everything you need to mount it to your cap or helmet. Once attached to the mounting hardware, the light can be rotated up and down as needed for personalized beam placement. This is particularly nice so you don’t blind those around you when you look at them. The mount can be positioned just about anywhere, so it won’t interfere with hearing protection, visors, or other accessories.
The unit has a tough polycarbonate thermoplastic construction that’s rugged and dependable. The unbreakable polycarbonate lens has been drop-tested to withstand a 2-meter impact.
The SL-SideSaddle USB has an MSRP of $94.34, and the alkaline version has an MSRP of $62.54. Both are backed by Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
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