Essential Gear for Trail Runners

Gear.

Over the past few years, available gear for trail runners has exploded. The good news?

This means we're a community worth investing in, and the result is new and improved gear. The bad news?

More gear = more questions. Do I really need a handheld and a pack? A pack with a bladder and a pack with bottles? What shoes work best for my trails? Are trail running shorts really better than road running shorts?

Should I carry this stuff on every run?

It's complicated. And if you're not careful, it leads to spending a ton of money while seeing few results.

In today's episode I try to answer those questions and save you a little money. I break down all the essential gear items for trail runners, and my personal preferences for short, medium, and long runs or races.

Here's what to expect from this episode:

What gear is required to start trail running -- the answer may surprise you

Trail running shoes...Are they any different than road shoes?

Packs vs handheld bottles and when to use them

Clothing for trail runners

Why I carry certain gear during short, medium, and long runs