Luke Cuenco 09.09.22
Trail running is an incredibly fun, challenging, and rewarding sport. While there isn’t a strict guide for what you need to wear when trail running, more hardcore trail runners will often have their list of preferred gear that keeps them cool, comfortable, and on the move. While we’re not shy of quality imported items here at OutdoorHub, we also like to do as much as possible to help support American-made items made by American workers. Turns out there is plenty of great American-made trail running gear out there and today we’ll be giving you guys our suggestions for the best available trail running gear that’s made right here in the good ole USA!
The Altra Men’s Superior 5 Shoe is a running shoe for plenty of traction on the trails. The MaxTrac outsole uses multi-directional lugs to grip the earth while Balanced Cushioning puts your heel and forefoot equal distance to the ground for low impact landings. The Quantic midsole is lightweight and offers enough cushion to soften the demands of the trail and a breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool.
The Smartwool Men’s Run Targeted Cushion Ankle Sock is a targeted cushion sock built for running. Cushion underfoot, mesh venting up at the top, hitting all the zones just right for more comfort while you’re putting the hard work in on the road or trail. The 4 degree elite fit system ensures they won’t slip or bunch inside your shoe, with Indestructawool technology for durability in hard-wearing areas such as the toe. This merino wool blend wit recycled nylon is soft against the skin, manages moisture, and is comfortable all day long.
Introducing the Runyon TrailStash 5″ Gravel Short— a performance multi-sport fitness short that’s perfect for everything from cycling to running to hiking and beyond! This multi-sport short features two outside reflective zipper pockets perfectly sized to run with water bottles, keys, gels, a phone and all your other paraphernalia. The snazzy reflective zipper pockets helps you get noticed whether you’re running into the night or commuting around town on the e-bike. Constructed with lightweight yet durable moisture-wicking poly/spandex outer shell, it moves when you move keeping you dry while you’re on the grind. For the drawstring we used a US Military Grade survival paracord that also functions as a tourniquet if you get bit by a rattler in the wild. You’ll be glad to know our signature drawstring cord was made by a United States Government Contractor and was also purchased from a veteran-owned business. Each drawstring is individually hand-crafted and finished.
There really isn’t much to this shirt besides the fact that it’s made from high-quality American merino wool, is very lightweight, features quick drying fabrics and is UPF 20+ rated. This shirt combines the odor resistance of merino wool with the durability and quick drying capabilities of recycled polyester. The Flatlock seam construction is perfect for trail runners as the low-profile seams reduce chafing and increase comfort.
If you’re planning on packing during your trail run, you’ll first want to make sure it’s legal to do so on your planned route. Second, to that, you’ll want to make sure you have a good holster that won’t get in the way! The Crossbreed Holsters Modular Belly Band 2.0 is perfect for those who won’t have a belt on during running and also combines the convenience of a spandex belt design with the security and safety of a Kydex holster.
The Tumalo Hydration Pack is a lightweight, low-riding pack designed to follow your every move. Water weight is carried low, lowering the center-of-gravity and reducing upper pack torque. Side stabilizers hug your body keeping the pack centered and anchored to your core. With multiple storage options and Mazama’s premium 3 Liter (100 oz.) taste-free reservoir. This pack carries all the essentials in comfort, whether hiking, mountain biking, or skiing you and your gear move as one.
One of the few American-made hats out there I could find. This hat comes in multiple colors and is made from a blend of fibers including the very popular anti-microbial Merino wool.
The Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Polarized Sunglasses are athletic sunglasses for those constantly on the move. Whether you’re into running, biking, team sports or other, these XL size lenses will provide full coverage over your peepers in bright sunlight. The lenses are also polarized, preventing UV light from entering your eyes. The lightweight frame won’t cause any bobble-head effect plus the Unobtainium® at the nose pads and temple arms grip so they won’t fall off, even when you sweat.
If you’ve never done trail running, you can go outside and do it right now! Just find a trail and start running. However, if you’ve been at it for a long time you’ll know there are a few key features you’ll want for your dedicated trail running clothing to avoid chafing and the like. Your running wear should be made of moisture-wicking merino wool or synthetics rather than cotton, which is very slow to dry. Socks, too, should be merino wool or synthetic. For cool or wet weather, a lightweight rain shell or windbreaker is advisable.
I try not to load up on too much food when I go trail running especially if it’s only about an hour or so of a run. If you’re going on a lengthier run, you might want to consider taking compact snack foods that can be consumed on the go like energy gel packs, or granola bars or energy chews. Stick with simple foods and try not to load up on too many heavy foods like meat or starches.
If you’re running trails in an unfamiliar area, don’t forget navigational tools such as a map and compass or, additionally, a GPS unit. Like to run at night? A headlamp is a must. The headlamp that you take backpacking may be sufficient but if you plan to do a lot of nighttime running you’ll want a light with a minimum output of about 200 lumens. However, beyond all that, you should get to know your trails first before you set off running – if there isn’t a posted map at the physical location, try looking online for a map you can keep with you on your phone.
Luke is currently a full-time writer for TheFirearmBlog.com, OvertDefense.com, AllOutdoor.com, and of course, OutdoorHub.com. Luke is a competitive shooter, firearms enthusiast, reloader, outdoorsman, and generally takes an interest in anything that has to do with the great outdoors. Luke is also a private certified pilot and is currently pursuing his commercial pilot's license in the hopes of becoming a professional pilot. Some of Luke's other interests include anything to do with aviation, aerospace and military technology, and American Conservancy efforts. Instagram: @ballisticaviation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BallisticAviation thefirearmblog.com/blog/author/luke-c/ overtdefense.com/author/luke-c/ alloutdoor.com/author/lukec/
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