Trail Running Clothing & Kit (2024)

FAQs

What should you wear for trail running? ›

Trail running demands similar kit and clothing to road running. So you will need a few basics, such as shorts or tights, t-shirt or long-sleeved baselayer, gloves, buff, beanie and socks. The main difference between running on trials and tarmac is the footwear.

In trail running and particularly for long-distance runs (like ultra-trails), long shorts of 6-7" (15-18cm) provide better protection against the sun and additional warmth if the temperature happens to drop. They are also more suitable for the integration of a longer inner short for better muscle support in the thighs.

It is not hyperbole to state that if I were to write a best-gear-ever list to summarize my all-time favorite and most reliable running gear, the Patagonia Wind Shield Pants and the Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover would be included.

Trail shoes have lugs that provide the grippiness needed for running on technical terrain. If you run on paved surfaces, the lugs will break down and decrease the life expectancy of the shoe. Additionally, wearing shoes made for the trail on roads could lead to an injury.

Look for a snug fit without too much pressure in the heel and midfoot. The toe area should feel uncramped.

The Origins of Short Running Shorts

As more women entered competitive sports in the 1960s-70s, shorts got progressively shorter to allow greater mobility. Brands like Nike featured runner models in short shorts, sparking a trend.

In short, trail running hats offer a number of key benefits for runners: They provide protection from the elements and ensure comfort during the run, as they act as shields against the scorching sun, helping to prevent sunburn on the face, neck and ears.

For many trail runners, it's their everyday trail shoe, from a short spin on the roads to an easy run in the local park to a 100-mile race across rugged terrain. For others, it's an excellent daily wear (and occasional run) option for increasing lower leg strength and mobility outside of running.

Patagonia and The North Face both have a wide range of outerwear made from sustainable fabrics, however Patagonia has 7% more items made from recycled fabrics. Not only does Patagonia use recycled fabrics, but it also produces items in a more environmentally and ethically conscious way.

The limited advertising campaigns are a significant weakness for the brand. The company offers mostly expensive products. A particular section of society is willing to buy high price clothes just for the brand name. More customers will look for budget-friendly deals with buying clothes.

Why is Patagonia so trendy? ›

Additionally, Patagonia's quality and sustainability have stood the test of time, and in addition to its timeless styles, the brand consistently stays ahead of the trends.

Clothing made from breathable, sweat-wicking materials will help you regulate your body temperature. Items like a GPS watch, sport sunscreen, running sunglasses, and a hydration pack will help you stay safe and comfortable as you venture further into the wild.

There isn't a set number of miles you will get out of your trail running shoes. Many people think that you need to replace your shoes every 300-500 miles, but this isn't necessarily the case. The key things to consider are the wear on the sole of the shoe, and how your legs feel when wearing them.

Synthetic / Wicking – synthetic materials are more breathable, wicking the moisture away from your skin and allowing it evaporate so you feel cooler. Synthetic fibres are really good at doing this, as is merino wool, but avoid cotton which will get heavy with sweat and not allow for breathing.

Tips and Tricks for Lacing your Trail-Running Shoes

Don't tie your shoelaces too tightly over the metatarsals. The little piggies need to breathe, and you don't want to asphyxiate them needlessly. Too-tight lacing around the mid-foot can cause tendinitis, especially around the big toe.

All the best trail running shoes need rugged outsoles to grip whatever surface you're on. If the local off road trails are fairly smooth, you won't need an outsole with big "lugs," or the extra weight of those protrusions that touch the ground first, but if you run rough trails, you'll need an outsole to match.

It depends on the trails and the runner, but you generally want to see thicker and softer outsole rubber than you find on a road shoe. The midsole may be made of a similar material, but it should include a rock plate (a plastic plate embedded in the foam) if your trails include sharp rocks and stones.

Foot dryness is another uncomfortable issue trail runners may deal with. Fortunately, you can help prevent it with the following tips: Wear moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes to prevent sweat buildup and keep your feet dry.