Trail running is the perfect combination of a passion for running and a love of nature. It's an activity that allows you to exercise while marvelling at the varied landscapes. Trail running is a sporting discipline that gives you a great sense of freedom and challenge. To make the most of your outings in the mountains, it's vital to choose the right clothing for the weather and your activity. Here's some advice to help you choose the right equipment.

It's important to choose your equipment according to the 3-layer system:


It's a proven fact that to be comfortable and at ease in your clothing throughout your run, it's important to take into account the 3-layer system.

To know :

  • Choose a base layer: atechnical garmentthat offers good moisture wicking and quick drying, to keep you dry all day long. This first layer can be adapted according to the season. A short-sleeved T-shirt is sufficient in summer. When temperatures drop, a long-sleeved top is recommended.
  • Choose a mid-layer: a garment with insulating and breathable properties to keep out moisture and the cold. This layer can be thicker or thinner, depending on the temperature.
  • Choose a protective layer: a windproof, waterproof and breathable garment to protect you from bad weather and/or possible injury.


Our product expert's advice:

 Choosing the right clothing is essential for Trail running. It's a very intense and difficult effort. So it's important to feel good in your gear. That's why it's best to choose close-fitting clothing. This will limit skin friction and prevent minor injuries during your run or training session.

Nicolas - Product expert in the Trail universe

About Nicolas: "I'm a passionate sea and mountain traveler, and particularly enjoy surfing, trail running, biking and snowboarding in winter."


How to choose your Trail jacket?


It's essential to choose the right trail jacket. This garment is essential and must be included in your equipment list. It will keep you comfortable throughout your outing.
First and foremost, it's very important to choose a highly breathable jacket that offers optimal moisture wicking. The leading membrane on the market is GoreTex. This is because the fabric is made up of billions of pores that are larger than the perspiration molecule (water vapor). This means that moisture can escape during exercise.
In addition, it's important to find out about the level of protection against rain and wind.
Ideally, the jacket should be minimalist and compact so that you can easily stow it in your bag after a shower or sudden change in temperature.



How to choose a trail shirt

The trail shirt is a layer that is always in direct contact with the skin. So it's vital to choose the right one, so you'll always feel comfortable, whatever the situation.
To begin with, the t-shirt must be highly breathable and quick-drying to limit unpleasant rubbing and avoid the risk of irritation. To offset this risk, it's also important to choose a cut that's closer to the body, so that the garment feels like a double skin.

Did you know?



During a trail run, every gram counts. You need to be as light as possible to practice this sport. However, it's not necessary to take a very light t-shirt, as it will be unpleasant to wear once you're soaked. A slightly thicker shirt is preferable. It will then take less time to get wet, but will keep you warm for longer.
However, there are some ultralight technical T-shirts with mesh inserts for better moisture wicking and quicker drying.


How to choose the right Trail socks?

There are different types of sock garments. You can choose shorts, leggings or tights. Your choice will depend on the season, but also on how sensitive you are to chafing.

Leggings and tights are ideal in winter. They keep your muscles and joints warm, even at the start of your run. This reduces the risk of injury.
In summer, shorts are the perfect choice. However, it's important to choose a cut that's a little close to the body to avoid the risk of skin overheating.



How to choose trail accessories

For a trail outfit to be complete, it's important to choose accessories that will make your run easier.

Cuffs are the perfect accessory for adjusting your outfit to changing weather conditions. They're ideal if your outing is cooler than expected, or even if you're climbing in altitude.

Sunglasses are an essential part of any trail run. Whatever the season, it's vital to protect your eyes. A pair of sunglasses with suitable lenses is essential to ensure you have a good time and avoid burning your retina.

The hydrobag meets a vital need: hydration. It allows you to carry a large quantity of water and your personal belongings. A hydration bag is the most important accessory to have on a race.

A headlamp is not mandatory on every outing. However, in poor light, it will help you avoid obstacles and limit the risk of falls and injuries.

Trail running is a very physical and technical sport, so it's essential to be comfortable in all your clothing. To prepare your outing properly, you need to use equipment adapted to the type of outing, the weather, the gradient and your sensitivity to textiles.

TO REMEMBER :

  • Respect the 3-layer system
  • Choose clothing that breathes and wicks moisture away from the body.
  • Don't neglect your choice of accessories