Running off-road is a joy. It’s also a full immersion in the vagaries of the British outdoors. As such, trail running gear needs to give you the confidence that you’ll be dry and warm, that you can carry what you need, and that you’ll stay on your feet when things get muddy. Here are three essentials.
Waterproof jacket
Minimus Lite Waterproof Jacket
montane.com | £185
Waterproof trail running jackets are shorter than walking jackets and made to be as light as possible. Montane are experts in creating mountain running gear, and this latest version of the stalwart Minimus Lite jacket is a case in point, with zero that’s superfluous. The material is light, stretchy, and thin enough to pack into a tiny bundle. It has two handwarmer pockets and a fully adjustable hood. Brilliant.
Trail running shoes
salomon.com | £160
Trail running shoes need to feel stable and secure, striking a balance between comfort and letting you feel the trail. The outsoles must also be grippy, with deep lugs to stick into the mud. The Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2 is an interesting pair of shoes. Its main point of difference is the collar with an integrated tongue, designed to keep out debris and the worst of the water. And despite being tricky to get on, they are super comfortable when they are.
Trail running shorts
Patagonia Multi Trail Shorts
eu.patagonia.com | £70
When buying shorts, you need to consider the pockets (are you taking a phone?), the material and the comfort — do you prefer them with boxer liners for more support, or are you channelling the look of the 1984 Olympics? These Patagonia shorts are lightweight summer shorts with boxer brief lining. There are two zipped front pockets and a pocket at the back with a snap. Light, breathable and comfortable.
Want to give trail running a go? Here’s our tips on how to start trail running.
Photo credit: Hendrik Morkel / Adobe Stock
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