So, you LOVE running but hitting the tarmac is getting a little… monotonous. You’ve ticked off your road race bucket list and now you’re after something a bit more challenging, scenic and unpredictable. Enter: trail running.
Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or taking your very first steps off the pavement, venturing onto the trails requires the right kit.
If you’ve been toying with the idea of venturing onto the trails for some time, but aren’t quite sure where to start when it comes to all that off-road gear (like do you need special shoes?!), then you’ve come to the right place. While staples like hydration packs, grippy shoes and technical socks are year-round must-haves, tackling slick mud, sudden rain showers, icy morning breezes and technical descents means your gear has to work twice as hard.
To help you stay warm, dry, sure-footed and completely blister-free, we’ve put together our “lust-list” list of 21 trail running gear essentials we’re loving right now. Keep on scrollin’.
READ MORE: 7 Amazing Benefits Of Trail Running, From Two UTCT Runners
Trail Shoes
Listen, we all know that solid sneakers are a for all runners. When you add rocks, branches, steep ascents (hello, Platteklip Gorge!) and some seriously mean declines into the mix you REALLY do need a sturdy pair of shoes that’ll keep your feet comfortable – and you upright.
Brooks Cascadia 20
Launched in July, this revamped trailblazer features Vibram Megagrip traction and DNA FLASH v2 cushioning for confident multi-terrain comfort.
Hoka Speedgoat 7
This cult-favourite trail crusher features debris-blocking gaiter integration and a stretchy front vamp that allows for natural foot splay (no crushed toes!).
ASICS GEL-TRABUCO 13
Plush FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning meets a protective rock plate to provide your feet soft comfort and respite over jagged terrain.
UA Charged Bandit TR 4
Built to take the sting out of harsh landings, this shock-absorbing workhorse has Charged Cushioning® to absorb impact so you’re not punishing your knees. She’s a smooth operator!
Salomon S_LAB GENESIS 2
This elite trail shoe blends ultra-tough Kevlar threads with responsive cushioning and a protective toecap so you can fly down technical paths with zero fear.
adidas Terrex Agravic SL
For the accident-prone trail runner, internal reinforcement and a top-loaded shank lock down your midfoot to fight off ankle rolls while keeping the forefoot flexible for a natural stride.
READ MORE: 8 Life-Saving Trail Running Tips You Should Know
Waterproof Jacket
This is a no-brainer really – it gets wet (and windy!) out there in winter. Trust us, you’ll be ever so grateful if you have a solid waterproof jacket on hand, because nothing ruins a run faster than hypothermia!
First Ascent AR-X Waterproof Jacket
This trail-race-approved essential is lightweight, fully waterproof and packs down into its own pocket for unpredictable weather.
Salomon Bonatti Pro Women’s Jacket
This lightweight shell features adv.DRY™ waterproof tech and a minimalist design for premium, breathable storm protection on technical trails.
adidas Terrex Xperior 2.5 Layer Light Climaproof Jacket
Zip pockets for valuables, a slim fit and Climaproof tech (blocking rain and wind while letting sweat escape), are small details that make a big difference on the trail.
Hydration Pack
Running without a water reserve is one of the biggest rookie errors you can make. Mountain weather can be unpredictable at the best of times and the last thing you want is to find yourself in a tricky situation without any water. This is one of the reasons why hydration packs are compulsory at most big local and international races.
First Ascent X-Trail Running 5L
This budget-friendly pack keeps front flasks secured while a designated pocket can hold a lightweight rainjacket or extra layer. Plus, it has an integrated emergency whistle.
Salomon ADV SKIN 12
This best-selling endurance champ uses a stretchy, hugging Sensifit™ design to deliver a bounce-free, second-skin fit that easily swallows compulsory ultra-race kit and gear.
Ultimate Direction Ultra Belt
Not keen on a full vest? We give you dynamite in a small package. This breathable mesh waistbelt gives you a weather-resistant zip pocket in the rear and a key pocket in the front.
READ MORE: At 54, I Raced And Finished The Full UTCT – Here’s How
Apparel
Off-road runs involve steep climbing and constant movement. High-performance apparel that wicks moisture, stays put and prevents chafing is essential for staying comfortable.
adidas Terrex Xperior CLIMACOOL+
You can be confident you’ll stay fresh km after km thanks to Polygiene StayFresh odour-control tech and Climacool+ wicking materials specifically placed in high sweat zones.
Salomon Shakeout Bliss Sports Bra
This medium-support bra is buttery soft so you can run without worrying about nasty chafe. We also love the stow loops for your shirt if you decide to ditch it.
Burnt Venture Women’s Run Short
Four pockets for gels, a back zip pocket for your phone and an additional gusset to prevent chafing are just a few great features that make this a trail essential.
Socks
Repeat after us: “protect those precious toes at all costs!”. If you’ve ever had a bilster before, you know full-well that it sucks. Don’t make the newbie mistake of thinking that those old, thin socks with the hole are going to get you through a trail run. They won’t and you will be sorry.
When you run off-road your feet can and will hit hard rock and roots, so it’s really important to keep them cushioned and comfortable. If you’re worried about getting scraped or cut up by that mountain vegetation, then go for a slightly longer sock.
Versus Wild Flower Trail Run Socks
Advanced Nanofront™ yarn delivers enhanced grip and stability, a seamless toe means less friction and blisters, while full-cushioned soles support against heavy trail impacts.
Falke Blister Protection All-terrain
For the runner tackling uneven singletracks, ankle-stabilising tech provides extra support. A friction-free Mohair/wool blend and seamless toe aids in blister prevention.
Injinji Trail Midweight Crew Socks
Okay, hear us out on this one! This five-toe design wraps each toe to eliminate inter-toe friction, allowing your feet to splay naturally for maximum stability on rocky terrain.
READ MORE: Long-Distance Trail Running: Here’s Exactly How To Prep And Push Through
Headlamp
If you’re planning on going for early morning or after-work runs, then you’ll need a proper headlamp (i.e. not the torch on your iPhone). Why a headlamp? Well, running in the dark without a light is not only a logistical challenge, but it’s also downright foolish.
Silva Seek 450 Recharge
This 450-lumen, 70g featherweight has three brightness levels and features a detachable lamp unit that easily slides off the headband to mount onto your running vest or pack.
Petzl Swift RL
You get an ultra-powerful 1200 lumens and REACTIVE LIGHTING® tech that automatically tunes beam brightness (like dimming when reading a map and brightening when looking far).
Black Diamond Storm 500-R
500 lumens and waterproof, the PowerTap lets you go between full and dimmed power in an instant and the brightness memory means it can be turned on and off at a selected brightness.
Source: https://www.womenshealthsa.co.za/fitness/feed
