Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy is a popular wall color, but in some spaces it can feel darker than expected.

Many people enjoy the tone yet want a softer look that feels more comfortable at home.

Finding a close replacement can feel confusing when looking at paint samples, but there are good substitutes available in the market from the renowned brands like Behr, Valspar, and many more.

This blog focuses on navy shades that sit one step lighter than Hale Navy and explains how they help improve light balance while keeping the same classic feel.

What Makes BM Hale Navy Feel so Dark?

Benjamin Moore Hale Navy has a low Light Reflectance Value, or LRV. This number tells you how much light a color bounces back.

Hale Navy sits around 8, which means it absorbs most of the light in a room. The undertones also play a big role.

Hale Navy leans toward gray and green rather than pure blue. In low light, those undertones come forward and make the color look even darker.

So when you need something lighter, you want a navy with a higher LRV.

Benjamin Moore Lighter Hale Navy Alternative: Evening Dove

Evening Dove (2128-30) sits right in the middle as one shade lighter than Hale Navy.

It’s not too blue, not too gray. This color feels soft and balanced, making it perfect for open living areas.

It stays consistent throughout the day, so it won’t surprise you as the light changes.

LRV: 12.02

Sherwin-Williams Lighter Navy Alternative: Naval

Naval (SW 6244) often reads lighter than Hale Navy on walls, especially in satin finishes.

It’s close to Hale Navy Benjamin Moore but has a slightly higher LRV. That small difference makes a big impact on how the room feels.

LRV: 4

Behr Navy Alternative: Dark Navy

Dark Navy (S530 7) is deeper than Midnight Blue but still lighter than Hale Navy.

It stays bold without feeling heavy on large surfaces.

If you’re painting a feature wall or an entire room, this color gives you richness without closing in the space.

It works especially well in rooms with good natural light where you want depth but need the space to breathe.

LRV: 7

Farrow & Ball Lighter Navy Shade Alternative: Hague Blue

Hague Blue is actually darker than Hale Navy in full saturation.

But here’s the trick: thin it out slightly or use it in rooms with lots of natural light. When you do that, it reads as one shade lighter and feels less intense.

Pair it with cream or off-white trim for the best effect.

Valspar Navy Alternative: Indigo Streamer

Indigo Streamer offers a balanced navy that sits one shade lighter than Benjamin Moore Hale Navy.

It suits both modern and classic homes equally well.

It’s not too blue, not too gray, which makes it easy to work with when you’re mixing furniture styles or switching up your decor.

LRV: 3.748

Final Thoughts

Finding one shade lighter than Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy gives you depth without the darkness.

Each of these colors offers something different, so consider your lighting, trim, and how you use the room.

Test samples on your walls first. Colors look different in every space. Take your time, and trust your gut.

You’ll know the right shade when you see it in your own light.

Your space deserves a color that feels just right.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Undertone of Hale Navy?

Hale Navy has gray and green undertones. These undertones make it look less like a true blue and more complex.

2. What Color is Similar to Hale Navy?

Naval by Sherwin Williams is very similar to Hale Navy. Both are deep navy blues with gray undertones. Naval reads slightly lighter on walls, especially in satin finishes.

3. What is One Shade Lighter than Hale Navy?

Blue Note by Benjamin Moore is one shade lighter than Hale Navy. It keeps the navy depth but reflects more light. Gentleman’s Gray is another excellent lighter alternative.