When you run, you should be able to feel free, safe, and focused. But sometimes, we find ourselves in situations that make us feel vulnerable. Almost every runner has had that uncomfortable feeling. Along with making intelligent choices about where you run, what time of day, and if to run in groups, numerous self-defence products exist, such as UK legal self-defence sprays. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best self-defence sprays for runners and dog walkers. You might also want to read through our guide to the best personal safety alarms for runners and wrist-worn panic alarms for runners. Both guides will explain how these affordable devices can help you feel safer.
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What Are UK Legal Self-Defence Sprays
Unlike some countries, Pepper spray is not legal in the UK, and the products we review should not be confused with pepper spray. We’ll only feature products that are 100% legal alternatives to Pepper spray. UK legal self-defence sprays will act as a deterrent to confuse, startle and distract any would-be attacker; they will not incapacitate them. They do not contain any harmful chemicals or toxins.
Top Self-Defence Sprays
After rigorous testing, extensive research, and valuable user feedback, we present our carefully selected recommendations for self-defence sprays specifically tailored for runners and dog walkers. However, they can be used by anyone who wants extra peace of mind whilst out and about.
Sabre Runner Defence Spray - Best For Runners
COLT SECURITY Self-Defence Spray - Best For Dog Walkers
Farbgel New Mini Criminal Identifier Spray - New Product
How Do Self-Defence Sprays Work?
These sprays will omit a bright colour dye – often red or purple; some might also give off a foul smell. These sprays can turn the tables. Firstly, the attacker goes from aggressor to victim from power to weakness.
Secondly, the dye serves to pause, confuse, reduce intent, disrupt thought processes and generally disorientate them. Any disorientation caused can give you precious time to run away from any danger. Furthermore, the attacker does not know that the spray is harmless, and the red colour can shock and panic them.
The dye can leave a stain or mark for 48 hours to a week. When marked, any later ID/capture goes from unlikely to very likely. Detectable under a UV lamp, even if washed off, the attacker can be identified afterwards.
Final Thoughts On Self-Defence Spray Effectiveness
Even if you don’t anticipate needing to use the spray, knowing you have a deterrent on hand if the situation arises is reassuring. This knowledge can instil a sense of confidence as you step out the door. However, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the proper usage of the spray you carry.
I would recommend purchasing two cans and practising with one of them. Even when the spray is empty, you can use the can to rehearse the drawing and aiming techniques, ensuring that you are well-prepared. Taking these extra steps further enhances your preparedness and self-assurance in unforeseen circumstances.
In this guide, we’ve listed our top picks for UK legal self-defence sprays that are reliable and effective. We hope that this guide has given you useful information so that you can make an informed decision about what type of self-defence spray is best for you.
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Disclaimer: This guide contains affiliate links, and I earn a small commission from any sale that occurs via my links. This, however, does not change my opinion; I always do my best to provide the facts and suggest products that will benefit my users. You pay no more and no less for using these links. It does, however, help to sustain my blog.
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