I remember going on my first trail run, completely nervous.
For some reason, I’d built it up in my head as something completely different than road running. Like only the most serious of runners and hardcore athletes do it (trust me, I know this isn’t the case now). But at the time, I was intimidated.
I knew I didn’t have the right gear. I’d often forget to bring a water bottle on a particularly hot day on a road run, or I’d wear shoes that didn’t fit right and end up with blisters. I was a noob to running, in the truest sense. And the thought of running through the forest and screwing something up had bigger consequences. So I was nervous.
But, I’d come out of that run realizing that I’d worried myself for no reason. Most of it was just in my head.
And, over the years (and many trail runs), I realized a few things. First, the gear you need isn’t all that different from road running. Second, the majority of gear you see advertised for trail running is completely unnecessary.
So I’m here to share a few things I’ve learned along the way since I first started running. And I’ll share the gear I wear for some ideas to create your own.
Disclosure: Just a heads-up, The Travel Runner earns a little commission if you buy through some links here, but it won’t cost you anything extra. Thanks for your support!
Table of Contents
Trail Running Shoes
Top choice: Altra Olympus 275
Salomon, Brooks, Hoka, Saucony, Altra, Nike, Merrell, Topo — stop me if you get dizzy reading all these names.
Testing out different trail shoes and finding what’s right for you means you’ll get the most out of your trail runs. But, look for a shoe with good grip and foot protection to keep your feet save and free of injury.
I prefer Altra, Salomon, and Brooks shoes. I like the way I can feel the ground still but get some padding.
The Salomon Ultra Glide is one of my all-time favorites. But I’ve recently tried out Altra and have become a huge fan of their Olympus series (be sure to check out my Altra Olympus 275 review if interested).
Hydration Vest
Top choice: Salomon Active Skin 8
Your running pack is essential because it carries everything you can’t. Hydration pack, nutrition, safety gear — just to name a few things.
If you’re running ultras, you need something with more storage space to store more nutrition and gear. But, if you’re running shorter distances, something with a smaller capacity will do just fine.
I like the Salomon Active Skin line and have used the Active Skin 8 for the last two years. Besides the fact that I like Salomon’s products, it’s a breathable pack and is also lightweight. And their cinching cable design to keep the pack from bouncing is my favorite on a pack.
GPS Watch
Top choice: Coros Apex Pro 2
If you don’t track your run, did it really happen?
Having a GPS watch is almost mandatory. Not only does it track your run, but many watches have extra features to even keep you safe!
There are tons of brands out there, like Garmin, Coros, and Suunto. Personally, I prefer Coros for its amazing battery life and accurate GPS. I currently have the Coros Apex 1st edition. I’ll upgrade to the newest model whenever this one stops working.
But I’ve also used Garmin and it works equally well. Like the running pack, this is a personal preference, so I recommend doing your research. Especially because they can get super expensive.
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Hat/Visor
Top choice: Sprints hats
I’d say most trail runners have a favorite hat lying around somewhere. Even if they don’t wear it often.
Whether it’s the sun, rain, bugs, or you’re just trying to hide a bad hair day, a hat is a must-have. And, truthfully, there’s not much else to say. I love my Sprints Donut hat you can see my fiancee wearing in the picture above. It’s one of my go-tos.
Get a hat or vistor. Period.
Running poles
Top choice: Still searching!
Running poles aren’t mandatory, but they’re definitely a useful piece of outdoor gear.
There are arguments over whether they actually work or not, but I personally feel they do. I’ve used them in races and on training runs, and I do notice a difference in my endurance and leg fatigue. And if you’re someone who’s tackling hills a lot, they’ll be a nice friend to lean on (literally) when things get tough.
I’ve used a few different brands in races, and they’ve all worked relatively well. I haven’t found a favorite yet, though.
Headlamp
Top choice: Still searching!
It may sound scary at first, but running at night is actually a ton of fun. Sure, there may be critters and other things lurking in the shadows, but there also may not be! You can’t see ’em, so it’s better to act like they’re not there.
A headlamp is necessary to keep you from flying headfirst into the brush. And that’s the last thing you want to do when it’s the middle of the night and you’ve no idea what’s lurking. Probably nothing, but it doesn’t seem that way when you fall.
I’ve had mixed luck with my headlamps, so I’m still searching for a trusted brand. If you have one yourself, drop it in the comments!
Trail Nutrition
Top choice: Tailwind Nutrition
Longer distances require things to keep you going.
Whether it’s gels, bars, or real food — bringing nutrition on long runs is essential. For me, I opt to go as natural as possible…you know, Snickers, Coke, etc. Just kidding, but both of those do have their place in my run nutrition plan for long races to help motivate myself to keep running.
At shorter distances, I prefer Clif Blokz or Bars depending on the distance. And Tailwind is my go-to drink mix. It’s got a ton of flavors to choose from and I definitely notice a boost when I’m drinking it.
But no matter what you do, find what works for you and your stomach and stick with it. Especially if you’re traveling, then it’s important to follow some simple travel nutrition tips to stay on top of your energy.
Small First Aid Kit
I don’t usually take this with me on runs (although I probably should). But adding this to your kit is one of my top trail running safety tips.
Either my fiancee brings it, or it’s in our car. But having some things to patch yourself up on-hand is always great. I’ve taken my fair share of spills mid-run and hurt myself. And it’s not fun hobbling back to your car with blood running down your leg.
So just take a basic kit you can find at Walmart or small grocery store.
Clothing
Trail Shirt
Top choice: Brooks Luxe Short Sleeve
You want a few things out of a running shirt: lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable.
That’s why I love the Brooks Luxe shirt. It’s perfect for runs during spring, summer, and fall to help keep you cool. And it can be worn during winter as a base layer to help keep you warm. Depending on your climate, the running attire will obviously change.
But a nice running shirt will always be these three things.
Trail Shorts
Top choice: Janji shorts
The ideal pair of trail running shorts depends on preference.
Some people enjoy a shorter, classic runner-style pair of shorts. And others live and die by longer shorts (look at Courtney Dauwalter!).
My go-to brand now is Janji. I used to never care, but since having a pair of Janji shorts for over a year now, I can say they’re my number one choice. The mix of quality and comfort is perfect.
Tights or Leggings
Top choice: Under Armour ColdGear leggings
If it gets cold out, tights or leggings are the best piece of running apparel to have.
Comfy, warm, and they don’t get in your way. There are tons of brands to choose from for a pair of running pants, but one I consistently go with is the Under Armour ColdGear leggings.
Ultimately just get something that doesn’t make you chafe.
Running Socks
Top choice: Injinji toe socks
If you decide to get into longer distances, running socks become such a critical choice to protect your feet. Blisters are quick to develop, and a good pair of running socks helps keep them at bay.
Personally, I go by the motto toe socks or no socks. I like the way they keep my toes separated and keep them from rubbing together. You don’t need anything fancy here. And that’s why I go with the Injinji toe socks.
Sunglasses
Top choice: Goodr
Sunglasses are one of those accessories to keep on hand at all times. They make the sun easy on your eyes, protect your face, and you look cool. So how can you go wrong with that?
I go with budget options here because I’m likely to break them, and that’s why I choose Goodr. They have tons of options, and they’re relatively inexpensive. I especially like they’re national parks series, which works with the National Park Foundation.
Rain Jacket
Top choice: REI Rainier Jacket
I just picked this jacket up in the fall of 2024 and I have LOVED it so far.
My fiancee and I were headed to the Pacific Northwest and we knew we’d get some rain (we actually didn’t get much funnily enough), but I picked this jacket up to prepare. And I’m extremely happy I did. It’s been my go-to on extremely rainy runs, windy and snowy days, and every other inclement weather type there is!
Highly recommend the REI Rainier jacket.
Which Trail Running Gear Pieces Are You Getting?
It’s exciting to start gathering all this gear, right?
You’re feeling like a real trail runner, and you’re eager to hit the trails I’m sure. But there’s one thing I’d recommend before you do that, and that’s check out my trail running tips for runners of all levels. The gear you get is the first step in the right direction, but there are definitely some “rules” to follow to help make your trail experience the best it can be.
And, if you want even more than that, join my mailing list using the form below. I dish out all the tips, tricks, and destinations in my monthly newsletter.
