It’s time to shake off the winter blues and hit the ground running. Let us help you find the right gear for where you most want to rack up some miles this year.
1. Scarpa
Ribelle Run GTX
Designed for the type of loose, rocky, rooty, and generally tough terrain that’s par for the course when trail running in the high reaches of the Rockies, this shoe serves up stability and confidence. The 4mm drop is just enough for a bit of cushion without subtracting feel and the solid Presa outsole sticks to all that ugly stuff underfoot. And the Gore-Tex liner and sock fit keep out at least some of the wet elements. $199
2. Hoka
Mafate Speed 4
You can always count on Hoka to deliver underfoot comfort, and this sleek shoe for those who like to hit it hard on the trail is no exception. The low-profile cushion bed is not as plush as some of the brand’s other offerings, making the shoe more quick and responsive, and the Profly+ midsole delivers explosive performance on tricky trail surfaces. Also, a Vibram Megagrip outsole provides plenty of traction. $185
3. Scott
Ultra Carbon RC
Built for the rigors of ultra racing and training, this carbon-plated shoe combines the lightweight and durability necessary to tackle daylong distances. Built with an innovative swallowtail design, that carbon plate actually stiffens as you run faster and eases up when you slow down. That kind of responsiveness in a shoe not only helps you keep pace and navigate tough terrain, it also helps prevent injury. Add a bit of rocker for more roll on your foot strike and you have the perfect weapon for long-distance endeavors. $230
4. Altra
Rivera 3
This road runner brings trail ingenuity to the pavement. It’s the ideal shoe for those who want to mix in some road training with trail running or just want to get out for a run a few days a week. The Altra Ego midsole and balanced cushioning makes it comfy and bouncy with each step. And breathable mesh keeps your dogs cool when you are pounding out miles. $140
5. Saucony
Endorphin Elite
These race-day road shoes were designed to suck up the pounding of the pavement thanks to an energy efficient design that will help propel you to your fastest times. Credit that performance to super-responsive PWRRUN HG foam and a propulsive carbon plate. $275
6. Roark
Motorhead Bless Up Trail Shirt
Seminal British metal band Motorhead is the perfect soundtrack for gut-it-out runs. This techincal button-up performance shirt will tell everyone on the trail you know the lyrics to “Orgasmatron” and it offers four-way stretch. $95
7. Tracksmith
Thaw Long Sleeve
Merino is the key to the cozy feel and high performance of this long-sleeved running shirt. Bolstered by a wicking eco-friendly finish that sheds mud and wet, it’s made for those cold ugly days when you are just getting back in your training groove or refusing to be kept from your run by bad weather. $118
8. Tailwind
Active Hydration
Every runner knows that hydration and nutrition are the all-important backend necessities of the sport. Tailwind gives you both in this tasty mix—flavors include cherry acai, strawberry lemonade, tangerine grapefruit, and tropical orange—with electrolytes, collagen, and vitamin C. Hydrate pre-run or load up your bottle for long rambles. $21
Fastpack 20
Big mountain adventure runs require gear since things can get crazy in a hurry. Ultimate Direction has been the gold standard when it comes to packs that jive with your torso as you move fast over tricky terrain. And this smart hauler, with water bottle holders up front and straps for trekking poles, will be your best friend when you tackle big endeavors. $150
