We also use Cambridge gloves to investigate any particular challenges users with limited hand movement might find with the torches but so far have found none are extra difficult. The first method I'm going to show is using Isopropyl. Isopropyl is what is known as a synthetic alcohol and can be found in things like shaving creme, antiseptic and industrial applications. We subject each torch to a heavy shower for several minutes and inspect the lamps and battery casings for water ingress. Red light is much less likely to dazzle you if you were to look directly at the torch directly by accident. If you're on a night hike and want to see some wildlife, red light is also far less likely to spook animals than white light is. Five testers of various genders and ages score the torches for how easy it is to operate controls and settings with bare hands and while wearing gloves.

We switch on each torch to its brightest setting and record how well it lights up a set area at distances of 5 metres, 10 metres, 25 metres, 50 metres, and 75 metres. Several of the torches we've tested have red lights, which is a useful feature for those wanting to avoid the harshness of white light while still being able to see. Although it's flammable, Isopropyl is pretty benign. However, you should try and wear gloves when using it can readily absorbed into the skin if used in large amounts. We also compare how widely and evenly all the torches we test spread light at a distance of 10 metres. We charge up the rechargeable torches and use fresh batteries for those that require them, and then switch them onto their brightest settings to time how long they last before running out of battery or having significantly reduced brightness.