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UltrarunnerVivian Camillelearned the hard way how essential the right trail running gear can be.
Courtesy of the brands / Laneen Wells
I got burned pretty good by not having enough gear.
Like manytrail newbies, she quickly found out that taking your run off-road requires planning ahead.
Weather conditions can also change rapidly when youre moving through the mountains or a desert.
Original photo by SELF writer Jennifer Heimlich
I also think the ethos of being a trail runner is doing long, big things.
Here are a few other tips to keep in mind as you shop.
Branches can stick out and rip the upper; sharp rocks can dig into the soles.
Really look at what those shoes are made of, ultrarunning coachAmie Dworeckitells SELF.
A rock plate and rigid toe guards can also help protect the shoe (and your feet).
Material
Certain fabrics can keep you saferand a lot comfieroutdoors.
Just like with road running, its best to avoid cotton, which absorbs water.
A lot of gear has nylon woven in because it can be a really strong fabric, Dworecki adds.
Safety
When youre heading somewhere remote, youll need to carry more on you to stay safe.
(Many hydration vests come with one.)
An ultralight, trail-specificfirst-aid kitis also smart to bring along.
Here are our top picks, with input from coaches whove run through all kinds of terrain and conditions.
A lot of athletes are using those to go faster on the trails, Dr. Roche says.
Out of the many packs Dr. Roche has worn, she loves Salomons Adv Skin 5 the most.
It feels like it’s part of my body.
Everything on me is contained.
It’s not bouncing around.
Also helpful: She says the material lasts a long time.
Dworecki recommends the Fenix 7s for its impressive navigation capabilities.
While the Zephyrunner is water-resistant, its not meant for downpours.
Made with wind-resistant nylon and super soft fleece, its both insulated and breathable.
Some runners reach for a handheld flashlight, but most like to stay hands-free by slipping on a headlamp.
With all of that in mind, Camille loves this one from BioLite.
It has lit the way on many 100Ks of mine, she adds.
Its compact design stays put on your forehead through every stride.
One major bonus: Its rechargeable.
So you’re not having to use batteries, which are usually heavy, Camille says.
Original photo by SELF writer Jennifer Heimlich
you might use it as a headband ora ponytail holder.
Ive personally also used one to keep dust out in desert terrain.
Thats a lot of uses for just a few ounces of stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric.
First, it collapses to pack down inside your hydration pack when youre not wearing it.
And its easy to clean in the washing machine, no matter how gnarly conditions get.
The fun Run Mountains graphic on the front doesnt hurt, either.
And they have great storage capacity for gels, water, and fluids.
Choose from 12 sizes to find the exact fit for your hips so it stays secure.
Plus, at just 2.3 ounces, it barely feels like its there (hence the name).
Dr. Roche says Injinji socks are popular for their design, which doesnt squeeze your toes too tightly.
Andmaybe most importantshoppers say you’re free to rely on these not to ride up as youre running.
More great options
Different terrain, climates, and runs all call for different gear.
Original photo by SELF writer Jennifer Heimlich
But on steep terrain, they can take some of the load off your quads.
Poles are becoming an increasingly common thing as athletes do bigger and larger adventures, Dr. Roche says.
Camille points out that they can also come in handy for self-defense: you might make noises with them.
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Original photo by SELF writer Jennifer Heimlich
Original photo by SELF writer Jennifer Heimlich
