Trail equipment

Trail gear: Essential equipment for trail running

Trail running is a discipline that requires specific equipment to cope with varied terrain and often unpredictable weather conditions. The right trail running equipment is crucial to guarantee performance, safety and comfort. Here's a detailed guide to help you choose the essential trail running gear, focusing on quality equipment for an optimal trail experience. Start with trail poles, and above all the right trail shoes.

Trail shoes: grip, comfort, lightness

Trail shoes are the most important part of your equipment. They must offer excellent grip, good cushioning and adequate protection for your feet. Features to look for include an outsole with deep lugs for optimum traction on muddy, rocky or slippery terrain. Trail shoes also need to be sturdy to protect your feet from knocks and sharp objects, yet light enough not to weigh down your run.

Waterproof models with breathable membranes like Gore-Tex are ideal for running in wet conditions, while shoes with light, well-ventilated mesh are better suited to warmer climates. Make sure your shoes offer good ankle support and reinforced forefoot protection to avoid injury. And don't forget the right trail socks.

Hydration bags and belts: Hydration and nutrition

Hydration is essential in trail running, especially on long runs or in hot weather. Hydration accessories, often called "camelbaks", are designed to carry water conveniently and without impeding your movements. They feature water reservoirs and suction tubes for easy drinking while running. Trail hydration bags also offer compartments for storing essentials such as energy bars, gels, a cell phone and a first-aid kit.

For shorter runs or those who prefer a lighter option, hydration belts with integrated bottles are an excellent alternative. They allow you to carry a small amount of water without restricting your movements.

Technical clothing: Comfort and performance

Trail clothing should be chosen according to current weather conditions and the terrain covered. Synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon combined with elastane are ideal thanks to their ability to wick away perspiration quickly, while drying quickly after getting wet from rain or sweat. T-shirts, shorts or leggings should offer total freedom of movement while minimizing the risk of chafing.

During cold spells, it's advisable to opt for several layers: start by putting on a technical layer (in merino wool) to regulate your body temperature, then add a light sweater (in fleece) before finishing with a waterproof windbreaker so that nothing interferes with your sporting outing! And don't forget accessories such as gloves/caps/buffs, which can come in very handy!

Electronics and accessories: Safety and performance monitoring

Today more than ever, it's essential for trail runners to have GPS watches/applications dedicated to performance monitoring. These tools enable you to monitor distance covered/level of ascent/speed/heart rate, providing invaluable data for improving future performance. Some advanced models even offer handy weather alerts when unfamiliar terrain/changing conditions lie ahead!

On the other hand, headlamps are essential if you want to go out early in the morning/late at night/shady trails; so choose lightweight models with good battery life/lighting modes that can be adapted to different situations encountered along the way. And don't forget your hiking clothes fortrail outings.