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Why spend all day hiking somewhere when you could have run and been home in time for lunch? For many, that’s the appeal of trail running–that, and a good workout.
Trail running combines hiking with jogging. It elevates pavement-pounding jogs into backyard wilderness adventures, exposes you to new trails and landscapes, and provides plenty of variety, challenge, and sense of accomplishment.
As with any sport, wearing the right gear makes a huge difference. Shoes are a huge factor, but so are running vests, which are like tiny, super-light backpacks that hug your body and hold the essentials.
The best trail running shoes will combine key features that make your run faster, safer, and more enjoyable:
Traction: Trail running shoes should have a durable outsole with aggressive lugs or treads that provide excellent traction on various surfaces including dirt, mud, rocks, and wet terrain.
Protection: Look for shoes with adequate toe protection like a reinforced toe cap or bumper that shields your feet from rocks, roots, and other stuff on the trail. Some shoes may also have a rock plate in the midsole to protect against sharp objects underfoot.
Adequate width: Trying on shoes is critical–some ultralight trail runners are narrower than you might expect, and this can expose your toes to rocks and stuff on the trail.Durango Outdoor Exchange has a shoe nook stuffed with high-quality and CHEAP trail shoes you can easily try on.
Stability and support: Trail shoes should offer enough stability and support to help prevent ankle rolls and keep you balanced on uneven terrain. Features like a firm midsole and a secure lacing contribute to stability.
Cushioning: How much cushion do you want? Minimal cushioning keeps you connected to the ground, while maximal cushioning makes those miles easier on your footsies.n.
Breathability: Breathable uppers allow airflow and keep your feet cool and dry, especially during hot weather or intense runs.
Waterproofing: Rainy day? Snowy trail? Lots of mud? Waterproof shoes keep your feet dry but won’t breathe as well.
Weight: Lighter shoes will help you go further and reduce fatigue, though you’ll likely sacrifice durability and protection.
Fit: The most important factor. Your runners should fit snug without being too tight or causing discomfort; make sure there’s enough room up front so your toes can splay naturally. Trying shoes on before you buy them cannot be stressed enough.
Drop: Drop refers to the height difference between the heel and the toe of the shoe. Trail shoes come in various drop heights, including zero-drop (flat), low-drop, and high-drop. Choose a drop that matches your natural running mechanics and preferences.
Durability: The very lightest shoes may sacrifice durability, and if your runs are in areas with lots of rocks and mud, super light shoes may not even make it 200 miles. Keep this in mind when you shop.
Gaiter compatibility: Some trail shoes come with integrated gaiter attachment points or compatibility with aftermarket gaiters, which can help keep debris out of your shoes on rugged trails.
Price: Finally, consider your budget. Trail shoes vary widely in price, so choose a pair that offers the features you need at a price point that fits your budget. Looking to save money? Buy used!
Running vests, also known as a hydration vest or pack, are barely noticeable when on your back, and good for holding keys, wallet, jacket, snacks, and water. Look for:
Hydration system compatibility: Many running vests come with hydration bladder sleeves or pockets to accommodate collapsible water bottles. Look for vests with easy access to and compatibility with your preferred hydration system.
Hydration capacity: Consider the volume of water the vest can carry. Choose a capacity that matches the length and intensity of your runs.
Storage pockets: Look for a vest with multiple storage pockets in various sizes to carry all your stuff. They should be easily accessible while running and ideally positioned for balanced weight distribution front to back and side to side.
Adjustability and fit: Look for vests with adjustable sternum straps, side straps, and compression straps to customize the fit to your body shape and size. Like shoes, these must be tried on in person.
Breathability and comfort: The more mesh, in general, the better. This also helps keep your running vest light.
Weight: Well-made vests can be shockingly light. If you’re on a long run, shaving those ounces will pay off big.
Durability: Vests tend to be quite light and thin, so they won’t last forever, but look for one that seems well-built.
Additional features: Some vests come with extra features like trekking pole attachments, whistle buckles for emergencies, reflective strips, and removable storage compartments.
Price: As with any gear purchase, consider your budget when selecting a running vest. While higher-priced vests may offer more features and advanced materials, there are also budget-friendly options available that will work just as well for you. Like shoes, you can save even more buying used.Durango Outdoor Exchange often has vests selling for half of what they were new.
Shoes and a vest are the main pieces of year you need, but consider some other things too:
Gels, chews, bars, and drink mix
Blister pads, moleskin, anti-chafe cream, or tape to wrap an injured ankle
Lightweight breathable rain jacket or insulating layer
Headlamp
Sunscreen and lip balm
Squeeze water filter
GPS or activity watch
Hat, Buff, or bandana
For many hikers, summiting one of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks is a lifetime achievement. Others make it their entire personality, working for years and even decades to climb all of them. Some make a goal of climbing them all in a single season while others try to ski them all.
The problem with climbing 14ers for many people is that they are difficult–and we’re not just talking about the thin air. Of the 58 in Colorado, about one-third entrail considerable exposure and require skilled route-finding and ascent/descent skills. About half have either moderate or considerable challenges. Just eight are considered “easy.”
Hikers looking to summit a 14er near Durango will find four that rank generally as easy or the easy end of moderate. They are all in the same two canyons and can be climbed by someone with decent fitness, good shoes, and a penchant for waking up early. The roads to access all these peaks are part of the Alpine Loop and can be driven from Silverton in a four-wheel drive such as a Tacoma, but are generally not in all-wheel drives like Subarus.
Ready? Here goes!
If you do anyovernight backpacking, or even long distance hiking, there’s a good chance that at some point you may need to go Number Two.
Because of heavy land use and impacts to natural resources (not to mention water sources), this is not always as simple as doing your business and covering it with a rock or a handful of pine needles.
In fact, depending on where you go, you may be required to carry an approved pooping system even if you swear on your loaded lower intestine that you will hold it in no matter what.
Here’s a quick run down on backcountry toilet systems.
