Equipment can be key when taking on a sport, and trail running requires a surprising amount of gear. Here, nature expert Ása Steinars gives us the low-down on the essentials you need
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At first glance, trail running isn’t that different from regular running – other than its setting in the wilderness, which is what makes it so magical. But with the wilderness comes steep terrain, fickle weather conditions, and in worst case scenarios, lack of shelter or phone signal. So preparation is crucial.
To get started, you want to seek out essentials to guarantee your comfort and safety. Below, we have listed the five key items you need to get your hands on before hitting the trail.
Trail shoes
This is perhaps the most obvious one. Trails are not smooth, and you will need footwear with good grip – especially if you end up in a muddy areas. Depending on where you run, it’s also helpful if the shoe is fully waterproofed to keep your feet dry and warm. There is an extensive range of shoes available for different types of terrain and length of runs. One of our favourites is ON Cloudventure. It’s the perfect all-round shoe to start with, and it’s water-protected.
Hydration vests
The easiest way to spot a trail runner is by the water bottles stored in their vest. This is for a good reason: hydration is essential for a long run, and a vest is the best way to carry it while on uneven terrain. At 265 grams, Swedish brand Silva produces one of the lightest and most durable running vests on the market. In addition, there’s room for a hydration bladder in the back and a waterproof pocket for your phone.
Waterproof jacket
Depending on where you run, you will need different outer layers. A general rule when running in a mountain area, as you often are when trail running, is to always bring a windproof and waterproof outer layer. When it comes to combining lightweight functionality with style, Arcteryx is one of the best. Try their Airshell Hoody; it’s perfect for this.
Running poles
Running with poles is not for everyone, but they can be invaluable for steeper inclines. Going uphill, the poles take some of the load off your legs to make you faster, while downhill they help with balance. Salomon makes foldable running poles so that you can attach them to your running vests when you don’t need them.
Headlamp
For Scandinavia runners, a headlamp is mostly useless during the extended sunlight of the bright summer months, but it can be an excellent investment for the rest of the year that will give you flexibility with your running timing. Silva has the gear to light up your trail.