Trail running can be challenging, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most exciting and immersive ways to stay fit and explore some of nature’s most stunning settings.
Of course, as with any form of exercise (and perhaps more true with outdoor exercise), you’ll need the right trail running gear and equipment to achieve peak performance and stay as safe and comfortable as possible.
The Taunton Leisure team has put together an easy-to-follow guide on what you’ll need to take your first steps into the intrepid world of trail running. Whether starting your running journey on trails or transitioning from road running, all you need is right here!
What is trail running?
First, let’s explore exactly what trail running is. Unlike road running, trail running is a fantastic way to get off the beaten track, connect with nature, and escape urban life.
Whether seeking amazing views, diverse landscapes, and peace and quiet for a change of scenery and serenity or prefer your outdoor exercise in seclusion, trail running offers it all.
Despite all its many pulls and pros, trail running is undoubtedly more challenging than road running, mainly because of the varying terrain you’ll encounter — and how quickly it can change in adverse weather conditions.
For this reason, it’s crucial that you invest in trail running equipment to make your new fitness adventure as safe and comfortable as possible.
Trail running shoes
Trail shoes are arguably the most essential trail running gear investment. Taunton Leisure is home to some of the best trail running shoes available, where you’re sure to find the perfect pair to meet your foot size, shape, and exercise needs.
First, consider the terrain you’ll be running on — you’ll need trail running footwear that best suits the area you’ll be exercising. Once you’ve determined this, you should look for:
- Grip: Choose a sole that suits the specific environment. A higher, well-spaced lug will offer excellent traction on loose, muddy terrain (similar to football boots), while shallower, tighter treads provide better grip on harder, drier surfaces.
- Protection: Trail running involves more adverse terrain, with plenty of foliage and pesky rocks to traverse and avoid. Opting for trail footwear with toe caps will help protect your feet from trips or stubs, while higher-fit options are available to protect the ankle area better.
- Cushioning & Support: Again, consider the terrain you’ll encounter to determine the best support for your feet. Extra midfoot support will help hold your trail running shoes in place (a must on challenging ascents and descents). Chunkier, more cushioned soles are great for longer distances and hard surfaces, while lower-profile soles are ideal for uneven terrain, providing more surface feel.
With industry-leading products from brands like Altra, La Sportiva, Scarpa, and The North Face, the sport’s leading athletes have tried and tested many of our trail running shoes at Taunton Leisure in all corners of the world.
Trail running clothes
Perfecting your trail running clothing is essential for staying comfortable and can significantly improve your performance.
Whether you need breathable fabrics for hitting the trails on hot days or insulated running clothing for colder conditions, get it right, and your trail running apparel will allow you to focus on your exercise, bring your A-game, and enjoy nature care-free.
As with most outdoor exercise, layering is key to preparing for a trail running adventure. However, ensuring these layers are as breathable, sweat-wicking, and fast-drying as possible is essential.
- Light layers: Though blazing sunshine and clear blue skies are rare in the UK, good weather will undoubtedly make you want to hit the trails hard and soak up the sun and nature.
Shorts, T-shirts, and baselayers offer the perfect amount of protection and keep you cool and comfortable while exercising, while a long-sleeved shirt will protect the arms without the bulk and extra weight of a jacket. - Insulated layers: The typical British weather calls for insulated clothing, particularly if you’re running trails in elevated areas with varying temperatures and high winds.
We recommend investing in a quality insulated jacket to protect against cold, a wind shirt for optimal wind protection, and a fleece or mid-layer to wear underneath your jacket on chilly days. Alternatively, you could opt for a vest or gilet, offering adequate insulation while leaving your arms free for increased movement while running. - Underwear: Socks and underwear are often an afterthought when it comes to exercise, but they’re an important consideration regarding any type of running, especially trail running.
Given the potential for inclement weather and the rigorous exercise you’ll be performing, it’s vital to invest in running underwear that will wick away sweat, avoid rubbing and chafing, and maintain comfort. Our specialist trail running socks provide the perfect combination of breathability and protection for trails of all types.
Trail running accessories
Even shorter trails will call for some running accessories to accompany you on your adventure, while longer routes will require you to take a little more to keep you comfortable, safe, and well-covered for any eventuality.
We’ll divide these considerations into necessary and optional ones, making it easier for you to determine which suits your particular needs.
Necessary
- Trail running packs: A trail running pack is ergonomically designed with running in mind. They offer crossbody support or fit around the waist to free up your arms and prevent the pack from swinging around during exercise. Many of our products also incorporate hydration packs, which means you have less gear to take!
- Water bottles: If your pack doesn’t have this feature, a running-friendly water bottle is a must. Staying hydrated during exercise is essential, so remember to keep a means of hydration on your person or in your pack every time you hit the trails. A flask can provide a welcome break and a hot beverage on colder days, but remember to replace fluids with water still!
- Head torches: Trail running head torches can be indispensable on your run. Small and lightweight enough to pack away and quickly pull out, they will illuminate your path when the daylight starts to fade or in darker areas such as woods, saving you from any potentially dangerous trips that could disrupt your run and cause serious injury.
- Nutrition: It is always recommended that you pack an adequate amount of food for your run, whether energy bars to keep your levels topped up during exercise or a meal to enjoy at the end of your chosen trail. Refuelling will help keep you safe, healthy, and switched on.
Optional
- Warm clothing accessories: Though not necessary on warmer days, if you’re running in colder weather, our range of trail running hats and gloves can save you from an uncomfortable and potentially miserable experience during your outdoor exercise.
- Navigation: Navigation equipment, such as a simple compass, map, or wearable technology, will ensure you stay on track. If you stray off-trail and become lost, having a means of navigation will help you find your way back to safety. This is especially important if you’re unfamiliar with the area and exploring a new set of trails.
- Poles: Trail running poles are incredibly lightweight and ergonomically designed to attach to the wrists, freeing your hands. Though not necessary on flatter trails, running poles can be indispensable on uneven terrain, ascents, and descents, allowing you to maintain balance and power through to the end.
- First aid: You could argue that a first aid kit is necessary, but if you’re familiar with the trail or running a short route, not including one will lighten your load. Still, having plasters handy for any nasty blisters or equipment to deal with cuts and grazes is always a plus!
- Dry bags: Dry bags and waterproof cases will keep any spare clothing and electronics safe during your run. Investing in some dry bags can give you extra peace of mind and protection if you’re running in wetter weather or encountering streams during your trail.
- Toiletries: Packing toiletries and personal hygiene products can go a long way toward keeping you comfortable during a trail run. These innocuous items can make a difference if you need an all-purpose soap or dry wash to clean up after a trip or fall or a sun stick for protection on hot days. You may even want to take a toilet roll because when nature calls, it calls!
If you’re searching for more guides and information from the Taunton Leisure experts, browse our blog page! For more hands-on advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us or connect on Facebook or Instagram, and we’ll be happy to help.
