Trail equipment: What you need to improve your trail running

Why is it important to choose the right equipment?

Choosing the right equipment is relatively important for beginners and experienced trail runners alike. It's what enables you to be effective during your training sessions or races.

Obviously, equipment alone won't make you an excellent trailer. Training and discipline with the right equipment will help you progress.

When it comes to equipment, the most important thing is to have something that suits you (your stride and your style). Here are the most interesting items to choose from

Trail shoes, essential for running

Choose the good trail shoes is more than just an aesthetic preference or a question of style. It's a crucial decision that can have a significant impact on every aspect of your trail running experience, from your immediate comfort to your long-term performance and safety on the most demanding trails. Here's why it's imperative to pay careful attention to your choice of trail shoes:

First of all, consider the terrain you will be running on. Visit trail trails are very variedThese range from steep mountain paths to gentle forest trails and muddy, wet stretches. Your footwear must be carefully adapted to these changing conditions. A sole with a adequate adhesion and multidirectional studs will provide the traction you need to negotiate slippery terrain with confidence, while reinforced protection around the toes and heel will protect your feet from stones and roots.

La stability is a key factor in maintaining a safe, confident stride on technical trails. Trail shoes are designed with a wider base and extra lateral support to avoid twisting the ankle during sudden movements. Whether you're facing steep descents or steep climbs, a shoe that offers increased stability will enable you to keep your balance and your pace without compromising your safety.

Comfort is also important in a good pair of shoes. Firstly, because you're going to be covering several hundred kilometres in your pair of shoes, but above all because trail running is very demanding with your joints, muscles and tendons. So you need to choose a shoe with a drop and cushioning that suits you.

Finally, bear in mind the durability of your shoes. Trails can be unforgiving for running shoes, but quality trail shoes are specially designed to withstand abrasion, moisture and repeated impact. Investing in a durable pair of shoes will not only guarantee you optimum performance, but will also save you unnecessary expense in the short term.

In short, choosing your trail running shoes is about much more than aesthetics. It's a decision that has a direct impact on your safety, comfort and performance. Take the time to analyse your specific needs, consider the type of trails you plan to explore and choose footwear that will enable you to meet any challenge with confidence.

To help you choose your shoes, the editors have put together a comparison of the most popular best trail shoes for men and women in 2023.

Trail bags: Choosing the right bag for your races and long training sessions

Choosing a rucksack for trail running is really important. Although you don't always have to take one, if you need to, it's important to choosing it well. For short trails (around fifteen km), you don't necessarily need to take a bag. On the other hand, for longer trails where you need to carry safety equipment, a jacket and supplies, a bag is more than necessary. Here's why it's important to take a trail bag and not something else:

Lightweight and comfortable Trail bags are designed to be lightweight and snug-fitting. They are made from special materials that are light and comfortable to wear. They stay firmly in place during the running phases and limit irritation. It's the design itself that offers good stability.
Plenty of space: these bags have pockets and compartments for everything you need during the race. Water, snacks, a change of clothes - it's all here. organised and easy to find. Trail bags often have a volume of between 5 and 15 litres. Enough to carry a lot of equipment.
Drink easily: they have special pockets for flasks or even water pouches. Hydration is a key element in trail running, so trail bags allow you tohave your water or carbohydrate drink handy.
Guaranteed comfort: These bags are made to be comfortable. The padded straps and adjustable belts mean you can carry the bag without feeling uncomfortable. The ventilation and materials also offer a good thermoregulation. It also provides essential support for the bag over long sessions.

In short, choosing the right bag for trail running will make running more enjoyable and easier. That's why we offer a top 6 best trail bags.

Trail gloves: essential for fighting the cold in winter and at altitude

Having a good pair of gloves is essential when trail running, especially in cold or changeable weather conditions. In trail running, where you're often exposed to low temperatures, wind or humidity, your hands can quickly become cold and numb, which can not only reduce comfort but also affect performance.

Gloves help maintain body heat, protect against the elements, and ensure that the hands remain functional to manage equipment, such as trail poles or GPS devices.

What's more, some gloves offer additional features that are useful when trail riding, such as improved grip or compatibility with touch screens.

In short, in trail running, gloves are not just an accessory for comfort, they are an essential part of the equipment for maintaining performance and safety in difficult outdoor conditions.

If you're looking for a good pair of gloves, take a look at our comparison of the best pairs of trail gloves.

Trail poles: essential for long distances

Poles play an essential role in trail running, providing extra support and improving balance, particularly on uneven terrain and on steep ascents and descents.

They distribute effort more evenly, taking the strain off the legs and helping to save energy over long distances. To combine performance and comfort, it's crucial that these poles are both lightweight and robust.

Lightness minimises the effort required to handle them, while robustness guarantees reliability and a long service life, even in the most demanding conditions. So choosing the right poles that combine these two features is an important step for any runner concerned about their performance and well-being while running.

To find a pair of poles that's right for you, take a look at our guide and comparison of the best trail poles.

Trail running goggles: a must-have piece of equipment not just for the summer months

When trail running, wearing glasses is crucial for a number of reasons. They offer essential protection against UV rays and debris, reducing the risk of eye injuries.

Trail goggles improve visual clarity and contrast over diverse terrain, helping runners to better discern obstacles and ground irregularities. They also help to minimise the distraction caused by sweat and natural elements such as wind or rain, enabling trail runners to stay focused on their route.

Finally, they add an element of comfort, reducing eye fatigue during long outings, making them essential for performance and safety in trail running.

To make an informed choice about your future pair of trail goggles, consult our guide and comparison of the best trail goggles

Trail belt: a space-saving storage solution

Trail belts are essential for outdoor runners, providing a convenient and comfortable way to carry hydration, supplies and essential equipment such as walking poles.

They provide quick access to your gear without compromising freedom of movement, thanks to their ergonomic design and lightweight materials. As a result, they keep you hydrated and your hands free, enhancing your trail-running experience and performance.

You can discover our comparative guide to trail belts.