The world of trail running is different to the road so you need to be prepared for some new challenges. With the right gear and equipment, you can enjoy outdoor runs on rough and rugged terrain.
What’s the reward? Beautiful landscapes and the feeling of success after a challenging run.
So whatever your running experience is, here are 10 essentials to take with you.
1. Support your feet with trail running shoes
The most crucial thing is specialist trail running shoes. Out in the hills you need the right amount of grip so your foot doesn't slide on uphills and downhills – and if it’s raining, you need that grip even more. Trail running shoes also give your feet added protection on tough terrain. Plus, they support and stabilise your foot when you’re on more technical trails.
2. Stay hydrated with a backpack and built-in water supply
Your trail route might not pass by any fresh water source. The solution is to bring a backpack with a built-in water supply. It adds some weight to your run so you should get one with comfortable straps and an ergonomic fit. Taking a backpack also gives you handy pockets to carry food and energy gels.
Store everything in a Lightweight Running Backpack
3. Move freely in trail apparel that doesn’t restrict your upper body
When you run uphill, you swing your arms more to power yourself forward. You might also move quickly to balance yourself over technical trails. It all means that your top needs to give you real freedom of movement. You might also go for a long-sleeve top which protects your arms if you’re running through thorny woodland.
4. Prepare for bad weather with a packable jacket
Trail running sometimes means heading out into the wilderness so you need to be prepared for changeable weather. A packable jacket is made of water repellent fabric so it keeps you dry. Plus, it’s easy to roll up in to a pouch so you can run with it.
5. Protect your legs with a trail running tight
A normal running tight isn’t suited to running in hills and woodland. Branches and thorns can tear the fabric. With a trail running tight, your lower legs are protected with tougher woven fabric. They’re made of a comfortable material that stretches to your movement – so they suit running over technical trails.
6. Stay on track with maps or GPS devices
Without any roads, you’re reliant on your orientation skills. A good Ordnance Survey map and compass can give you peace of mind. If you have a GPS system, you can log your run and track your progress using MYASICS
7. Be ready for different terrain with a spare pair of shoes
You might encounter a range of different terrain on your run, so think about bringing two pairs of shoes with you. You can tackle the uphills with a lighter trail shoe. Then on the descent, you can pull on a supportive shoe with maximum grip.
8. Get nutrition with gels and energy bars
It’s essential to eat on longer trail runs, but you don’t want to be weighed down with a backpack of food. A good way around the problem is to take some small and lightweight energy bars and gels.
9. Keep your feet comfortable with gaiters
Trail running sometimes means going over gravelly and rocky terrain. Gaiters cover your shoes and stop little stones getting into them. That means you stay comfortable and never have to stop to get bits of debris out of your shoe.
10. Shield your eyes with a lightweight running cap
For extra protection from the sun, a running cap keeps your eyes and face protected so you can stay focused on the terrain.
