Trail running requires a little more gearing up than your average jaunt around the block. When you run in the mountains, the forest or the desert, you’re less likely to happen upon a convenience store or water fountain. So, you bring it with you. In the summer, it can be a lot: You need to carry enough water and electrolytes, sunscreen, maybe anti-chafing cream; plus, whatever you’re wearing needs to keep you cool, dry and comfortable. That’s all on top of the basic trail gear, including snacks, navigation and safety tools.
Even if you’ll be out there for a mile or two, you don’t want to skimp: As the atmosphere heats up, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and protected from the sun, while also taking care to slow down and listen to your body. (And if it’s over 98.6°F and above 70% humidity, do yourself a favor and stay indoors or go for a swim. Forcing the run could severely put your health at risk.)
To make your planning easier, we’ve compiled a list of the gear best suited to your summer trail runs, whether short, long, competitive or purely for fun.
The Basics: Runs of Any Length
Whether you’re running easy, returning from injury or hitting the trails for the first time, you can’t go wrong with these essentials in your kit. When in doubt, think of your comfort. If you’re a heavier sweater, you’ll want to be more diligent about your choices in apparel and hydration. If you’re new to the activity, take your time shopping around for the right shoes.
goodr Circle Gs Polarized Sunglasses
Tried and true, the goodr Circle Gs are the perfect lightweight, no-bounce option to protect your irises on sunny runs. They’re well-suited to the trail, too, since their malleability combined with affordability mean it’s no sweat if they take a tumble. (And nonslip frames will make that outcome less likely to begin with.) $25
REI Co-op On The Trail Cap
Sweat gets in your eyes. Keep those beads at bay with this nifty bit of shade. The lightweight and breathable trail running cap from REI Co-op comes with UPF 50+ sun protection and an internal sweatband so you can focus on the run and not the weather. Pro tip: Soak your headwear in ice-cold water before your next warm-weather run for some sweet relief. $26.95
Buff Coolnet UV Multifunctional Neckwear
For those rocking baseball-hat-resistant hairstyles, a Buff is a jack-of-all-trades solution. It’s a headband; it’s a neck gaiter; it’s a water-bottle hand sleeve. The brand’s propriety HeiQ cooling fabric technology combined with UPF 50+ sun protection will meet your summer running needs, while Polygiene® odor control allows you to wear it a few times before washing. It’s also made of 95% recycled polyester, sourced from recycled water bottles, so you can feel good about adding this versatile piece of fabric to your repertoire. Plus, a range of fun colors and patterns turn this simple trail accessory into a statement piece. $24
REI Co-op Swiftland Running T-Shirt (Women’s and Men’s)
A light, comfortable, sweat-wicking shirt is essential on summer runs. The REI Co-op Swiftland Running T-Shirt provides both ease and breeze in a suite of appealing colors. $39.95
On Tank-T Running Shirt (Women’s and Men’s)
If you prefer a tank or that barely-there feeling in your summer running gear, look no further than On. Their Tank-T Running Shirt feels smooth as silk while showing no sweat. The singlet style is also perfect for racing. $70
Janji 3” Multi Shorts – Women’s and Janji 7” Multi Shorts – Men’s
For those short, fast and hot trail runs, you can’t go wrong with Janji‘s versatile Multi Shorts. The women’s come in a 3″ inseam with a split-short design for freedom of movement and lightweight mesh built-in underwear that keeps everything secure. The men’s shorts are fully lined; if you’re worried about chafing, you may want to go the 7″ inseam route, regardless of gender. Both shorts come in a range of fun, bright colors that will keep you both visible and fashionable on the trails. They’re also equipped with stealthy and convenient pockets in the waistband for keys, wallet, phone and snacks. $78-$86
REI Co-op Swiftland MT Trail-Running Shoes (Women’s and Men’s)
The co-op’s first trail-running shoe is designed to work well on all kinds of terrain, from loose rock and gravel to hard-packed trail and stretches of road. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into trail running or a seasoned runner putting in time on feet, the Swiftland MT (Multi-Terrain) has you covered. Plus, the shoe’s 90% recycled PET FirmaKnit™ Run uppers are seam-free and lightweight, keeping foot sweat and blisters from bogging you down. $130
Nathan QuickSqueeze Lite Insulated Handheld Water Bottle – 12 fl. oz.
Don’t forget your water. For short trail runs, you don’t necessarily need a bladder, but you will be glad to have a bottle on you. This handheld bottle from Nathan is insulated, so your water will actually stay cold for a few miles. It also features a small pocket for keys and cards. (For more carrying capacity for your summer hydration needs, see our picks for longer runs.) $30
Skratch Labs Sport Hydration Mix – Single Serving
Hydration isn’t just about consuming enough water, but replacing the electrolytes your body sweats out. Skratch Labs has you covered with their Sport Hydration Mix, which comes in single-serving packets for ease on the go. Coming in three flavors—fruit punch, oranges and lemons & limes—each packet contains 380mg of sodium, 40mg of potassium and 19g of carbohydrates. Drink before your runs to top off your glycogen stores while prepping your body to shed some salt. Bring another serving with you in a handheld water bottle when you know you’ll be sweating buckets. The mix also comes in a 20-serving bag for those who like to stick to one flavor. $1.95
SaltStick Fastchews Chewable Electrolyte Tablets
For very salty sweaters, you may need to top off with a more direct source of electrolytes as you run. Try these SaltStick packets of fast-chew tablets in five different flavors. Each tablet contains 50mg sodium, 15mg potassium, 5mg calcium and 3mg magnesium. Add these to your hydration regimen so you can keep up the effort through your summer training. $3.25
Raw Elements Face + Body SPF 30 Sunscreen Tube – 3 oz.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable; no matter your shade, the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin and harm your overall health. If you’ve been searching for a mineral sunscreen* that goes on like lotion, look no further. Raw Elements has combined UVA-UVB broad spectrum protection with antioxidants and minerals that will help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Apply to both face and body 15 minutes before you head out for 80 minutes of water-resistant protection. If you have dark skin, be sure to apply thinly, in layers, rubbing in well to avoid white cast. Raw Elements also makes the same formula in an easily packable tin, as well as a tinted facial moisturizer with mineral sunscreen, here. $18.95–$20.95
The Level-Up: Gear for Extended Outings
Try these accoutrements for those summer marathon and ultra training runs, as well as warm-weather multiday adventures. You’ll likely have to invest more money for this next level of gear, so if you’re newer to trail running, it’s a good idea to stick with those shorter outings at first. For more recommendations regardless of season as well as key advice for planning multiday runs, read What Is Fastpacking? and Gear Check: Running the Wonderland Trail at Mt. Rainier.
Oakley Radar EV Path Sunglasses
Looking for some serious shades? You can’t miss with the Radar EV Paths from Oakley. If you’re not the type to misplace your sunglasses at every turn, these could be the best investment you make in your summer running kit. These light, stylish frames provide optimal coverage for those startlingly bright days, resting securely on your face as you zip through variable terrain. Plus, the brand’s proprietary Prizm™ lenses control light transmission so you can maintain full visibility while keeping your eyes relaxed. $211–$261
The North Face Trailwear QTM Bike Shorts – Women’s and The North Face Trailwear OKT Shorts – Men’s
If you prefer more protection on the run, look no further than The North Face‘s Trailwear line. The women’s QTM Bike Shorts provide ample coverage for those hot, sticky runs—keeping your legs dry and chafe-free. The men’s OKT Shorts are a bit hardier—fit for bushwalking and scrambling. Both pairs have pockets aplenty for those who like to avoid running with packs. And for the adventurous trail stylist: The entire line sports dazzling patterns and eclectic colorways. $70–$75
Body Glide Anti-Chafe Formula Skin Protectant – 1.5 oz.
Don’t let thighs that rub and toes that sweat stop you from enjoying long days out on the trail. Body Glide has you covered with this portable anti-chafing balm, which comes in a deodorant-like apparatus for ease of application. This runner-beloved formula doesn’t skip a step: It’s fragrance-free, petroleum-free, hypoallergenic, non-greasy, non-staining and water- and sweat-resistant. $11
HOKA Mafate Speed 4 Trail-Running Shoes (Women’s and Men’s)
On long journeys, you’ll want a roomy yet lightweight trail runner. HOKA has found the perfect balance with the Mafate Speed 4, our pick for Best One-Quiver Trail-Running Shoe of 2023. You’ll feel secure on technical terrain while being able to move quickly when you want to. Despite being high-performance, these are comfortable shoes: No carbon plate and a soft, breathable and spacious upper will accommodate feet swollen from the heat and hard work. $185
Salomon Adv Skin 5 Hydration Vest
If you prefer bottles on your long trail runs, Salomon‘s Adv Skin 5 Hydration Vest is the way to go. With 5 liters of gear capacity and 1 liter of liquid (bottle) capacity, you’ve got options. Fill the included bottles with electrolyte water and a reservoir/bladder with plain water (you’ll have to purchase your own bladder). Its Sensifit construction system allows you to adjust the vest in multiple areas to comfortably fit your chest so that your hydration system doesn’t burden you en route to that breathtaking vista. $140
MSR Guardian Gravity Purifier
Backcountry fastpackers rejoice: This 1 lb. 2.7 oz. water purifier from MSR packs in features while remaining relatively light. Don’t worry about carrying all your water with you on a multiday trip. According to MSR, the Guardian removes most viruses, bacteria and protozoa—as well as sediment and microplastics—from “worst-case” water conditions. Sporting a 10-liter reservoir you can hang up at camp to refuel before your next day out, this is a must-have for self-supported trail-running adventures. $299.95
More options: The Katadyn BeFree 1.0 L Water Filter Bottle is a much lighter alternative to the Guardian—you’ll just want to be pickier about your water source.
Raw Elements Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 – 0.16 fl. oz.
Going ultralight? Pack a few of these trial-size mineral sunscreen packets from Raw Elements. Made with non-nano zinc oxide, sunflower oil, cocoa butter and vitamin E, this sunscreen goes on smoothly while leaving your face and body protected.
Tailwind Endurance Fuel Drink Mix – 30 servings
Get that full energy boost while replenishing electrolytes. Tailwind‘s Endurance Fuel Drink Mix is an “all-in-one” solution that combines with water to keep you going through ultra-endurance runs. One to two scoops of Tailwind mixes well with 20 to 24 fluid ounces of water, so you can either fill up your hydration bladder or a couple of bottles in your hydration vest. Coming in Mandarin Orange and Lemon flavors, the non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free mix is also easy on the stomach. $30
Bobo’s Oat Bars Stuff’d Bar
Let’s be honest: It’s no fun to fuel off of drink mixes alone. Part of the fun of trail running is consuming real food as you go. On a multiday trip, you’ll want to take advantage of some of our delectable backpacking food options. But if it’s a matter of topping up on long runs, try Bobo’s Oat Bars Stuff’d Bar. One bar is packed with enough carbs, fat and protein to keep your muscles satiated, and tasty to boot. It’s also well-suited to a range of dietary concerns and preferences: vegan, certified non-GMO, kosher, soy- and gluten-free—though you’ll want to avoid if you have any nut allergies. $3
SaltStick Electrolyte Salt Capsules – 100 Capsules
These salt capsules from SaltStick pack in 215mg of sodium per capsule (and complete electrolytes). They’re the smarter choice for salty sweaters on long runs since they contain more electrolytes than their FastChew companions. Pop a handful in a reusable baggie and tuck them away in an easy-to-access compartment in your hydration vest; your muscles will thank you! $27.30
Garmin fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar Edition
For lengthier adventures, you may want to throw down for a GPS watch with more extensive features. Garmin delivers with a new addition to their fenix line, the 7 Pro Sapphire Solar Edition, which includes a built-in LED flashlight, TopoActive maps and Up Ahead navigation prompts. Data nerds rejoice: Advanced training features allow you to measure your strength and endurance on the uphill and track your progress over time. A key perk, of course, is the watch’s solar charging capabilities, which will keep your battery topped off through lengthier adventures without requiring you to schlep along a battery pack. The watch’s battery life extends from 18 to 22 days with solar; and in GPS mode, from 57 hours to a solid 73 hours. $900
Garmin inReach Mini 2
Safety first. For self-supported trips, you should carry a satellite communication device. Even in the backcountry, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 allows you to access maps and a 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center, as long as you have an active satellite subscription (additional purchase required). Battery life is extensive on this watch, depending on how intensely you track your activities or how much direct sunlight you get to charge it. For example, standard activity recording with 30-minute tracking mode nets you an astonishing battery life of 10-30 days. $400
*A Chemistry Lesson: REI only sells mineral or “physical” sunscreens. The alternative, organic or “chemical” sunscreens, usually contain ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene. They work by absorbing the sun’s rays before they get to your skin and so tend to go onto the skin transparently, leaving no white cast or residue. Despite their efficiency and convenience as a sheer option for darker skin tones, certain ingredients in these sunscreens have raised flags for researchers since they have been shown to enter the bloodstream and remain for long periods. Research on the effects of these chemicals on the human body is ongoing, though certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, may be worth avoiding.
Mineral sunscreens—made with either zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both—work physically rather than chemically. That means that the sunscreen acts as a shield (rather than a sponge), not only from harmful UV rays, but also from the feeling of the hot sun bearing down on your skin. Mineral sunscreens are reef safe—especially as a lotion, rather than a mist or spray. They’re also safe for adults with sensitive skin and children over 6 months old, though some formulations can be difficult to apply and leave a heavy white cast. However, over the years, major improvements have been made—now many brands offer mineral sunscreens that can be applied easily and without leaving noticeable residue. For broad-spectrum UV protection for fair skin, a mineral sunscreen should ideally contain 20-25% of zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Formulations with as low as 10% of those active ingredients may be more suitable for people with darker skin tones; in combination with other sun-shielding measures, they should provide enough protection without leaving you with a ghostly pallor.