The term “trail running” encompasses a massive range of experiences. For some, this means simply running on a surface other than pavement, perhaps an evening jaunt on a backyard trail. For others, a trail run is a feat of endurance through technical, exposed mountain terrain.
Either way, this activity is all about traveling through a landscape under one’s own power. What you carry depends on the nature of your run—the distance, complexity, and your familiarity with the terrain—but the basics are the same no matter how many miles you’re covering. In this article, we’ll focus on what goes into your pack on big, fast-paced missions in the mountains. If you’re looking for help deciding which type of pack will best suit your needs, take a look at this article, where some of our athletes weigh in on their pack and vest picks for trail running.
As mentioned above, trail running can include a variety of activities. In this article, we will focus on mountain running, as it's the most gear-intensive form of running and often involves technical terrain. Mountain running and a day of scrambling above tree line involve much of the same equipment, so we’ll talk about both types of activities first.
Long days in the mountains often start before dawn, so the first thing you’ll want to make sure you have packed is a headlamp. The Deploy Run Light is a great pocket-sized headlamp and is the lightest and most compact model we make. For something more durable and reliable for long missions, an athlete favorite, the Distance LT 1100, is a great choice.
Layers are next. On big days in the mountains, chances are, you will pass through a wide range of temperatures over the course of the day. Our top-of-the-line running layers are extremely light and packable. You will cover most of your basics with the Deploy Down 0.5 Pullover Hoody and the Distance Wind Shell. For a day that’s more focused on scrambling with more walking and a slower pace, it may not be a bad idea to pack a First Light 1.0 Stretch Hoody for breathable insulation. The Distance Short Sleeve Tech Tee is a great base layer, and we’re all about sun protection, so having a sun hoody, like the Alpenglow, in the mix as well is a must.
Next up, not necessarily in order of importance, are snacks, hydration, and other essentials. The decisions you make about what to bring for snacks are a personal choice, but we think you should always pack at least some candy along with an assortment of bars, and make sure to include some savory snacks mixed in with the sweet treats. Electrolytes are also a must, especially in the heat of summer. All of our running-specific packs are hydration compatible, meaning you can carry an internal bladder in the pack, and you can carry two soft flasks in the front. If your route requires extra water, you can throw in an extra 500mL Distance Flask. You’ll also want to pack a filtration system if you’re not planning to drink straight from the source.
Other small essentials we recommend having for both mountain runs and scrambling missions are tape, ibuprofen, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, a headband or beanie on cold days, and running gloves like the Deploy Glove. For longer, more committing routes, bringing a satellite phone, your cell phone, and a more robust first-aid kit might not be a bad idea.
The beauty of mountain running and scrambling is seeing and moving through lots of different kinds of terrain in a single day. Our larger running packs, like the Distance 22, can fit a small tag line, packable harness, and a few lockers if your route is steep enough to require rappelling. Some routes involve snowfields and glaciated terrain and may require you to carry lightweight crampons or traction devices, like the Distance Spike Traction Devices. An ice axe might also be necessary if you’re moving through steep, snowy terrain. You can stow your axe on the outside of our running packs easily.
If you’re planning a shorter run, a half-day or afternoon jaunt, you won’t need to carry as much gear. Our 2L and 6L Distance Vests can carry everything you need for these types of outings. Throw a sun hoody, a few bars, and two 500mL flasks in your vest, and you’ll be good to go. There is such a wide range of activities that constitute a “trail run”, but hopefully this list will get you started on the essentials.
Jane Jackson is a writer and editor based in the Sierra Nevada. She loves granite and being in the mountains, and has spent most of her adult life obsessed with rock climbing in all of its forms.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
