Trail Running, Beyond Paved Surfaces

Jump over fallen trees, climb steep hills, follow well-worn paths or make your own way across untraversed land. Let lungs take in fresh air, muscles strengthen. Avoid virtual adventures and human-made ground that dulls the senses of yours. Feeling the earth, burn calories. With trail running, live more.

A tral running woman captured leaping over lower land between two hills.

What is trail running?

Trail running is basically running off-road. Forests, deserts, mountainous areas. It doesn’t matter in where you go for a run provided you stay within the great outdoors. A bit challenging and exhilarating than running in-road or on a treadmill, this is a sport that combines hiking with strenuous exercise. Offering two major activities at the same time, trail running enables one to experience real joy of being at the heart of nature.

A trail running man while following a path.

As a matter of fact, to have that joy isn’t easy. Running on uneven surfaces pose a danger for joints and requires intense concentration on each step you take, so that your ankles remain unhurt. In addition, there is a good chance that you get lost while rushing past confusing trees scattered all around. Nature isn’t distinctive and full of signs showing direction. Therefore, although running off road is tempting, be prepared and geared up rightly before leaving the same old roads behind.

Two trail running competitors ascending a hill out in nature.

How to prepare and gear up?

Not to lose traction, start with choosing the right shoes giving a good grip to descent or ascent safely. To tackle mud, roots, rock, and slabs, prefer lugged soles;
Running on any ground causes perspiration, perspiration always means loosing liquid. Invest in a hydration vest, waist-pack or simply handheld water bottle to keep hydrated;
Carry a head lamp for the night, sun glasses for the daytime. A jacket is recommended to get protection against the sun’s rays and wind. Particularly a GORE-TEX one also ensures to stay warm and dry (what is GORE-TEX and how does it work is here );
Stuff some snacks in your pockets for more energy to complete the course. Sugar containing bars help go on even if exhaustion forces to give up;
Above all, where to run? Study the exact details of the area you want to test your performance and do not set off without a GPS (phone, GPS device, smart watch etc.). Know how to find direction in case you have to find direction. (finding direction in nature is here. )

Other items to carry

An emergency whistle – to make a high sound if needed,
Blister pads and bandages – to tie around a wound to occur,
A small knife – to use if something needed to be cut,
Trekking poles – to secure stable movement,
Salt tablets and capsules – to replenish sodium in hot weather.

A man with a hydration vest and a woman with a handheld water bottle in a trail running adventure. — rei.com

What trail running gear is available on Amazon?

Running off-road with friends or competing in a marathon through the wilderness. Both become more delightful and safer with related gear developed for customers to give the best experience.

To save your time, we compiled a list of top 5 products mentioned above for every avid trail runner to have.