Run Mountain Peaks

Summer is here and June has not disappointed. It's one of the best times of the year. Full blown trail season with lots of people getting on trail, races every weekend, and big miles in the mountians. Without giving anything away, this week I rank the best months of year for trail running & hiking in the Northeast mountains.

Lincoln Woods is officially closed and lots of people squeezed in a Pemi Loop earlier this month. I talk about some of those efforts and other premier routes that may see some action this year. I also give an update on some of the June mountain races and talk about my recovery from the Hut Traverse.

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week I talk about my recent DNF on the notorious Hut Traverse. The Hut Traverse links all 8 AMC Huts in the White Mountains in an epic 45 mile 16k ft of gain route over the best of the best Whites terrain. You start at the Carter Notch hut in of the coolest spots in the Whites, traverse over the Presidential range over the highest and gnarliest terrain in the region, then take the A to Z trail into the Pemi across the Twinway and Garfield Ridge, before summit Mt. Lafayette and heading down the Old Bridle trail. You then head up to Lonesome Lake Hut, but I wouldnt know about that. I made it a total of 44 of out 45 miles. Yikes. First DNF. I talk about how the second half turned bad and why I bailed at mile 44 uninjured.

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week I talked with Lexi Jackson who is fresh off her Wantastiquet-Monadnock-Sunappee ~100 mile unsupported FKT. This route combines the Wantastiquet-Monadnock trail with the Monadnock-Sunappee Greenway trail in a single push with 20,000 ft of climbing. An epic route and cool story, doing it all solo.

We also discuss some of Lexi’s other FKT and race efforts including the White Mountains 100, Dirritissema, and so many more. She has been throwing down long distance (mostly unsupported) ultras for a long time and has lots of stories and tons of good ultra tips.

Oh, and shes a grid finisher already working on grid #2 & #3.

https://fastestknowntime.com/athlete/lexi-jackson

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week I ranked the toughest trails in the White Mountains. Not just the most technical, but the hardest trails to go fast on. I got a ton of input for this list which was awesome and did a little bit of research on trail stats as well. I gave a bunch of honorable mentions and then ranked the top 10.

I did a Chocorua Mountain race preview and some of the history from one of the coolest races in the Whites. Awesome trails, tough terrain and super competitive.

I also previewed the US mountain running championships at the Sunapee Scramble. Always cool to see the best in the US come to New Hampshire and race.Threw in some other race results and quick previews.

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week, I deep dive into the iconic Presidential Traverse. 18 miles and 8,500ft of gnarly White Mountains terrain. I discuss the required peaks: Madison, Adams, Jefferson, Clay, Washington, Monroe, Eisenhower and Pierce. Yes on Clay, but no on Franklin? And Jackson was a president, but not that Jackson. I talk about the Presi FKTs and the blazing paces over those rocks.

At the end, I brought back some non running related rankings. This time doing my top 3 favorite TV shows of all time. And I finish with a correction on the Wapack 21.5 miler results (my bad) and a few other race recaps.

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week I sat down with Eli Burakian. Eli wears just about every hat you can imagine in the Northeast trail scene. He’s an ultra runner, backpacker, professional photographer, author, and race director/co-founder of Northeast Trail Adventures. He just loves getting out on trails and being part of the Northeast community and it shows. We dive deep into his background managing the Moosilauke Ravine Lodge, writing guidebooks for trails and mountains in the region, and getting started with ultramarathons and FKT.

We also get into co-founding Northeast Trail Adventures and his vision for the future. We break down the huge success of Mt. Ascutney Vertical Backyard Ultra and the unique format that suits us Northeast vert stackers.

HOW TO FIND ELI & NORTHEAST TRAIL ADVENTURES:

https://www.instagram.com/eliburakian/

https://www.instagram.com/northeasttrailadventures/

https://northeasttrailadventures.com/

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week we were joined by a true NH trail running power couple, Clark Plummer & Allie Leveille. Clark is a staple NH & White Mountains trail runner. He is a Grid Finisher and stacked over a million feet of vertical gain on foot three straight years in a row. One of the most enthusiastic people you will ever meet on the trail. Allie was a road runner who has taken to more trail and ultramarathon efforts the past couple years. She has 11 FKTs in the last year alone and the count is growing. Multiple ultra marathon wins already under her belt and is only getting better.We chat their background, some of their past efforts, their recent outings at White Lake Ultras, Clark proposing on Pierce, and more!

HOW TO FIND CLARK & ALLIE https://www.instagram.com/allierunsnh?igsh=MWFwdmJpN2U4b2tiZQ==https://www.instagram.com/clark_alan15?igsh=bzRqYnRqZHNncXJ2

DISCOUNTS FROM ALLIEhttps://1stphorm.com/AllieRunsNHhttps://alnk.to/cHQUsGV

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week, I’m breaking down everything I think about when it comes to moving efficiently in the rugged Northeast mountains during summer. Shoes, gear, strategies & more. If you don't listen, it could be summed up simply as: don’t ever stop moving, bring the lightest gear (safely) possible & don’t fight the trails and its many obstacles, just keep moving forward relentlessly and as unphased as you can.

First I go through shoe choice. I like a shoe with great grip, big lugs, light as possible, and cushion and stack height that vary by distance: low stack and minimal cush for short uphill, low stack and medium cush for short up down, medium stack to a lot of cush for ultra distance.

Then, I go through all my gear and tricks to bring the essentials while staying lightweight. This is not a safety talk, this is an efficiency talk!

NH HIKE SAFETY INFORMATION:https://www.wildlife.nh.gov/get-outside/hiking-safety

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week, I dive into how the podcast came to be, lessons learned through 6 months, and how I feel being a content creator. Two years ago, I had zero social media presence, no TV, no laptop & no wifi. Now I’m posting a weekly podcast and posting on multiple social media platforms almost daily. The transition was gnarly and I talk about all the growing pains and why doing a podcast is so much harder than I thought. I also got my first full fledged hate message and I break that down lol

I talk about the spectrum of professional athletes/trail running and content creators. I think they are actually doing the same thing in a sense. And embracing the two together isn’t a bad thing at all for most people.

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.

This week I interviewed Joe Palisi. He is a runner, hiker, climber and skier and this March became the first person to finish the Northeast Ultra 8 Gold Skyrunner Challenge. Joe completed the Presi Traverse, Pemi Loop, Mahoosuc Traverse, Devil’s Path, Great Range Traverse, Taconic Crest Traverse, Saranac 6 & Cranberry 50 in both summer and winter all under strict time limits. These are eight of the toughest single day routes in the northeast and he had some crazy and epic stories getting this project done. He’s a great athlete, strong runner & hiker and a good dude.

HOW TO FIND JOE:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/joe.palisi/

STRAVA: https://strava.app.link/Q8ZAnr0ar2b

I've tried a lot of different trail running gear over the years and have refined my ideal kit for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite running and hiking shoes and gear. If you have any questions, please reach out! By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏

👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:

Hoka Speedgoat 7: rei.pxf.io/7XBr4r OR https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS 

The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. Its a high stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is my favorite version so far. It's lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: rei.pxf.io/0GB7gP OR https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi  

My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack so fairly stable but also has some cush to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: rei.pxf.io/6kR90V OR https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5  

One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed. 

⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:

GPS Watch: rei.pxf.io/VOjena OR https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq  

In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.

Running Vest: rei.pxf.io/zzD3We OR https://amzn.to/4feeEzr  

Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L and in the Winter I use a 12L. 

Lightweight Water Filter: rei.pxf.io/R0Djza OR https://amzn.to/4vErYTK  

A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream. Super easy to use and can help out in a pinch as well.

🍩TRAIL FUEL

Tailwind: rei.pxf.io/NGYD17 OR https://amzn.to/4cEiam4 

I always have a sugar mix in my bottles for long runs. It’s the easiest way to make sure you are getting enough calories and electrolytes in.

Energy Gel: rei.pxf.io/4aBD69 OR https://amzn.to/4wQgOfq 

I like Precision, Maurten, and SIS Beta gels the most at the moment. I like mixing it up and never exclusively use one type.

Caffeine: rei.pxf.io/0GB70M OR https://amzn.to/4gvZRAN 

I don’t drink caffeine and don’t like the caffeinated gels as much. These are cheap and effective for speed workouts, long runs and race efforts.