CRI or Color Rendering Index plays an integral role in many lighting applications. The color rendering index is a tool used by manufacturers to scale the ability of lighting sources to render color as it pertains to the rendering ability of natural lighting sources. The higher the CRI value (1-100 scale), the better the artificial source is in rendering colors.

The color rendering index has goes beyond Lumen Testing and has been mainly of interest to color-critical applications such as photography or cinematography. With these applications it is crucial that the lighting source give an accurate representation of colors as they would be in natural lighting conditions. Even though CRI is only relevant to a given Kelvin color temperature parameter, it makes sense for outdoor recreational based lighting companies to base their CRI claims around the Sun’s kelvin range (5000-6000K). Taking this into consideration allows LED Bike Lights, LED Flashlights, LED Headlamps, and Off Road LED Lights users a base for relevancy and accuracy when choosing their lighting product.

Why should a high CRI light source matter for outdoor recreation you ask? Whether you’re walking, riding, or driving, the Sun’s light will be constantly changing in intensity, color temperature, and light angle. All of these factors will create visual difficulties, whether it’s shadows or misperceived objects– the difference between a rut and a rock. A properly balanced light will incorporate a high CRI level to distinguish subtle differences and help illuminate your path.

LED lighting sources are progressing swiftly with their ability to effectively render colors in the natural lighting spectrum. Look for an LED device (LED Bike Lights, LED Flashlights, LED Headlamps, and Off Road LED Lights) with a CRI around 80 to 95 and with a kelvin temperature in the range of 5000 to 6000K and make your outdoor excursion that much more safe and vivid.