Short Description:

The NiteIze Clip-On Marker and Marker Band are, well, exactly what the name says. You can get them at PocketLights.com.

Both of these innovative little devices are different permutations of the same device. Essentially they are reflective markers with yellow very reflective plastic pockets which contain a red LED whose light is transmitted along a length of clear plastic and emitted along the entire length of the marker. There is a click switch area, clearly labeled on both markers. Press once for constant on, twice for blink, third time is off. The Clip-On Marker has a plastic swivel clip on one end and a riveted grommet in the other end. It can be clipped onto any appropriately sized attachment point. The Marker Band has a standard plastic backpack clip attached to two short adjustable bands on either end. The unit can be wrapped around an arm or lower leg and clipped in place. These markers are intended primarily for safety illumination such as for joggers, roadside workers, changing tires, bicyclists, etc. They can be used as small area/tent lights or, in some cases, as a replacement for chemical light sticks.

Detailed Information:

The NiteIze Markers are simple, straightforward, and basically a clever use of LEDs in a bit of an unexpected way. By using a clear plastic light transmission strip (sort-of like a very thick fiber optic cable) the markers light up as though they were using an electroluminescent panel instead of an LED. An even glow is emitted along the length of the marker.

The bodies of the markers are well made. Nylon piping is stitched all along the edges of the main body, giving it some durability. The Clip-On Marker uses a heavier nylon band to attach the marker section to the plastic clip and a nylon velcroed flap covers the battery access area. The reflective/glowing area is on both sides of the marker so that even if it turns on the clip, it is still reflective and the glow is visible. For the Marker Band, since it is usually strapped to the body, the glowing/reflective area is only on one side.

Inside the markers is a small circuit board with battery and LED attached. This is attached to the clear light transmission strip. The strip is flexible, so both markers are flexible and can be bent (within reason.)

Output is in the form of a soft, even glow along the length of the marker. It is quite visible at night. If the battery should fail, however, the reflective strip serves as a very positive marker in the presence of an illumination source approaching the user.

The switch is concealed within the marker. Look for the little switch indicator and press - once for constant on, twice for blink (about once a second) and three times for off. To change the batteries, open the velcro strap on either marker, which exposes the batteries. Pop out the old and replace with new, making note of the orientation of the battery when removed. Both markers use a single 2032 coin cell battery.

Although not stated, the nylon and plastic construction should make the markers generally weather resistant. If they get wet, let them dry out and check the batteries before next use.

What I Liked: Impact resistant, Long battery life, Easy battery change, Very Lightweight, Reflective and illuminated, Flexible

What I Didn't Like: Nothing. Works as expected for the intended purpose.

Other Things I Noticed:

Conclusions: Great little safety markers! Well worth it if you jog on roads, bicycle, or participate in any other activities which could cause you to encounter traffic at night. Toss one in the car for tire changes at night, or hook them to the kid's backpacks. Batteries are available inexpensively at Lowes and Wal-Mart.

Quick Facts Table: