Trail Running Gear List

Trail running is a glorious thing - peaceful, challenging, and just plain fun! Trails by nature are less traveled than roads, so be sure to carry enough gear to get through your run, and be particularly mindful of what you may need in an emergency if you're running solo or in the backcountry.

On Me

• Road ID bracelet

• Technical hat or buff

• Trekking poles

• Super awesome trail running shoes (see below)

In My Trail Running Backpack

I use a 12L Orange Mud Adventure Pack that carries everything I need to get in my training miles - whether on local well-traveled trails or more remote single track in the region. Here's what I keep in my pack and on my person:

• Phone

• Waterproof phone case

• Water bottle(s)

• Map(s)

• Compass/whistle/thermometer

• Hand towel

• First aid kit

• Sports tape

• Head lamp

• Extra batteries

• Windbreaker

• Emergency rain poncho

Remote Trail Additions

• Lifestraw

• Extra top layer

• Emergency bivy

• Bear spray (in bear country)

Cold Weather Additions

• Extra layers - top and bottom

• Winter hat

• Gloves

• Facemask

• Neck gaiter

Gear Favorites

• Trail Running Shoes | Right now, I’m rocking Hoka One One Speedgoat 2 for wet, technical terrain and Columbia Montrail XSR for dry conditions and road/trail combo runs. Both offer excellent foot protection against rocks and have slightly different heel to forefoot drops compared to my Asics Gel Nimbus 20 road shoes. (NOTE: It took a few months to get used to the Speedgoats coming from Brooks Cascadias)

• Technical Hat | At my first Land Between the Lakes Trail Race, runners received a technical hat in their swag bags, and I haven't run without one since. These hats are lightweight, wick moisture, and keep you cool when sweating your ass off on the trail.

• Headlamp | When you don't have time to run in the sun, a headlamp will help you get your miles in. This is a must-have for any runner that can't always get out during daylight hours - particularly in the winter months.