The Storm+ Is Here: Black Diamond's Brightest Everyday Headlamp Yet

Black Diamond just updated one of its most trusted headlamp families, and the result is the Storm+ — a 750-lumen, USB-C rechargeable light built to handle everything from a dark camp kitchen to a late-night scramble down.

Why the Upgrade Matters

The original Storm line has been a go-to for climbers, hikers, and campers for years thanks to its rugged, fully waterproof build. The Storm+ carries that reputation forward and pushes the output further — nearly double the lumens of the outgoing Storm 450 — while switching to USB-C for faster, more universal charging.

What's Actually New

• 750 lumens max output — plenty for route-finding, trail running before sunrise, or lighting up a whole campsite.

• USB-C rechargeable with pass-through charging, so you can run the light while it tops off.

• Two oversized, glove-friendly buttons — one for power and brightness, one to cycle through low/medium/max, RGB, SOS, and strobe modes.

• Red, green, and blue night-vision modes plus a peripheral flood setting for close-range camp tasks.

• Digital Lockout to stop the light from accidentally switching on in a pack or pocket.

• IP67 waterproof and dustproof — sealed against a full meter of submersion for 30 minutes.

• 80-hour max burn time, with a battery indicator built into the light.

No More Broken Battery Latch

If you've owned an older Storm (the AAA-powered 400 models, and older ones that that), you may already know the one common complaint: the battery compartment door latch. It's a small plastic clasp that holds the compartment shut, and it's notorious for cracking or snapping off after repeated battery changes — a well-documented issue across owner reviews.

The Storm+ sidesteps that problem entirely. Instead of a removable battery door, it runs on a sealed, non-removable rechargeable battery that charges through a waterproof USB-C port. There's no latch to open, close, or eventually break — one less point of failure, and one less accessory to worry about while it's rattling around in a pack.

Why It Matters for Us Down Here

Between early starts on humid summer trail days, late finishes at the crag, and the kind of unpredictable Southeast weather that makes "waterproof" a non-negotiable, the Storm+ hits a sweet spot most people in this region will actually reach for — bright enough for real technical use, but not overbuilt (or overpriced) like the ultra-high-output ski and bike lights. And at 114 grams, it stays light enough for all-day wear without giving up serious brightness.

Quick Facts

What's new about the Black Diamond Storm+? It replaces the Storm 450/500-R with a brighter 750-lumen output and USB-C charging.

How much does it cost? $99.95.

Is it waterproof? Yes — IP67 rated, sealed for up to 1 meter of submersion for 30 minutes.

Available colors? Black and Pewter

How long does the battery last? Up to 80 hours on its lowest setting.

Where can I buy it locally? Find it at a local retailer near you through Locally — real, in-stock inventory from the independent shops that carry it.

Picked one up yet? Tag us @ontheroadandoff and let us know how it's held up on your trips.