GEAR SHED 83
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Chillbeam Glowmad mini and original
BY DALE MEARS @ SUPWITHDALE
These inflatable LED lighting solutions pack a punch for adventures on and off the water. This review is for both the original and the mini Glowmad.
First of all, both have the same form factor – an inflatable TPU tube – and feature a clever valve system similar to that of a paddleboard. This system can be inflated by mouth or with a small mini pump available from Chillbeam( supplied with the mini). I’ ll be honest, I’ m more likely to inflate by mouth simply for convenience, and the mini inflated in a single breath, pretty. The larger original takes a few breaths to inflate, but certainly is quick due to the large valve size and non-return valve, meaning nothing is lost.
Once inflated, these are ready to go. What I love is that both the mini and original come with a loop ideal for a karabiner or clip of any sort, making it easy to clip onto bags, your paddleboard, or a kayak / canoe. They also come with a built-in magnet system, allowing the tube to be attached to any magnetic surface quickly and easily. I’ ll add that the magnets are pretty strong, too, so they will really hold up.
Regarding functionality, these models feature a 150( mini) or 317( original) lumen internal strip light, integrated into a clever power pack. Both the mini and original versions include a USB-C port for charging, which is protected from water by an easyto-use rubber bung. I’ ll add that this is much easier to close securely before inflation, but either way, you can do it.
The mini then has a small built-in power button, which is a single-button operation. Each press of the button works through the different lighting settings. You can easily adjust brightness from bright to dim( I found that when using at night on the paddleboard, the dimmer setting meant less glare and distraction paddling. There is also an emergency flashing setting ideal for those wanting to alert emergency services.
The original also includes a secondary button for controlling the red light and a built-in solar panel for outdoor charging. Unfortunately, the mini does not feature the red light or the solar panel, but it could be a possibility for future models. Both models are IP66, so that they can be used in water without worry of damage. Both also come with a USB-C to USB adapter, allowing you to charge a mobile phone in an emergency or use it as a power bank by utilising the original’ s solar cells. Included in the packs are small bags, too, to protect them when carrying them around.
The mini is 30cm long and weighs just 107g with a 2000mAh internal battery, so even when inflated, it doesn’ t take up much space. When folded up, it folds in half and almost flattens, making it easy to throw in a pocket or bag.
The original is 86cm and has a 4000mAh battery, double that of the mini; however, it’ s over twice the length! The original weighs 266g and has a slightly brighter light at 317 lumens. Of course, the original, as discussed, has the solar charge option and red mode. All other modes, such as the SOS mode, are also included.
I took these out for a night paddle and found them excellent, not only for visibility but also for providing some light. The form factor meant I could easily slide these under the front and rear bungees. I used the mini up front on a warm white setting and the original on the rear on red. These really lit up well, so I could be seen with ease. Once I finished my paddle, I used it to pack away, mounting it to the side of my car before packing up and heading home.
These will definitely be a part of my kitbag from now on, and as they don’ t take up much room, they can sit in my paddle bag until needed. That said, I think they will also get some series use camping, as it will be ideal for awnings and any campervan situations. They have many bundles available at the moment and 25 % off site-wide, which brings down the price for a short time. Price: Original: £ 65.00. Mini: £ 40.00 https:// chillbeam. com / collections / shop-theglowmad ®-range