I have been a road runner for nearly 30 years. And this April I am finally taking my running off road.
Trail running has been on my radar for a while and this spring feels like the right time to make the leap. I have done my research, talked to experienced trail runners, and put together a kit that I feel genuinely ready to hit the trails with.
I want to be upfront — I am a beginner trail runner. I am not going to pretend otherwise. What I am is an experienced road runner who has done her homework and is excited to share exactly what gear I am starting with and why I chose each piece.
If you are in the same boat — a road runner curious about trails, or a complete beginner thinking about giving it a try — this post is for you. Here’s the trail running gear for beginners I’ve bought to get started.
Table of Contents
Brooks Ghost Trail Running Shoes
Starting with the most important piece of gear — the shoes. I already run in Brooks Ghost Max on the road and the Ghost Trail felt like a natural transition. It has the cushioning and fit I love from the road version with added trail specific features — a more aggressive outsole for grip on varied terrain and added protection underfoot for roots and rocks. Familiar enough to feel comfortable, capable enough to handle the trails. A perfect starting point for a road runner making the transition.
Great for: Road to trail transition, light to moderate trails, beginners
Get a pair here: Brooks Women’s Ghost Trail, Versatile Off-Road Running Shoe for Rugged Terrain
Altra Unisex Trail Gaiters
I said I was not getting gaiters and then I changed my mind. Trail gaiters attach to your shoes and keep debris — dirt, rocks, twigs, and trail gunk — from getting inside your shoes and socks. After reading enough trail running advice from experienced runners it became clear that gaiters are not optional if you want to enjoy your runs rather than stopping every mile to shake something out of your shoe. The Altra trail gaiters are designed to work with trail running shoes and stay securely in place during a run. Lesson learned before I even hit the trails.
Great for: Keeping debris out of shoes, light to moderate trails, any trail conditions
Get them here: ALTRA Unisex Trail Gaiter
Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Trail running socks are different from road running socks and merino wool is the material of choice for good reason. It regulates temperature — warm when it is cool, cool when it is warm — wicks moisture away from your skin, and resists odor naturally. The Danish Endurance socks come in a 3 or 5 pack which is practical for getting out on the trails regularly without constantly doing laundry. A small upgrade from regular running socks that makes a real difference in comfort on varied terrain.
Great for: Trail running, hiking, any outdoor activity on varied terrain
Get them here: DANISH ENDURANCE Hiking Socks, Lightweight, Merino Wool Socks
AONIJIE Hydration Vest Pack 5L
Hydration on trails is a different situation than road running. You cannot always count on water fountains or convenient stopping points and trails often mean more effort and more sweat than road running. A hydration vest keeps water accessible without requiring you to carry anything in your hands. The AONIJIE 5L vest is designed for trail running and racing with a fit that stays close to the body and minimizes bounce. Having hydration on your back changes what is possible on a trail run.
Great for: Trail runs over an hour, warm weather trail running, women who want hands free hydration
Get it here: AONIJIE Hydration Vest Pack Backpack 5L
MoFiz Women’s UPF 50+ Sun Protection Trail Running Shirt
Trail running often means more direct sun exposure than road running — fewer buildings and shade structures, more open sky. A UPF 50+ shirt provides built in sun protection that does not wash off or sweat off the way sunscreen can. The MoFiz quick dry fabric handles sweat efficiently and the athletic fit moves well without restricting your stride. A practical and protective choice for any outdoor workout.
Great for: Trail running, outdoor workouts, sun protection on exposed terrain
Get it here: MoFiz Women’s Short Sleeve UPF 50+ Sun Protection Sports T-Shirt
TrailHeads Sun Visor Hat for Women
A good visor is essential for trail running — it keeps the sun out of your eyes on exposed sections without trapping heat the way a full hat can. The TrailHeads visor is made from recycled materials which I appreciate, and it is designed specifically for running with a fit that stays in place during movement. Sun protection for your face and eyes without overheating. A simple and effective piece of kit.
Great for: Trail running, outdoor workouts, sun protection without overheating
Get it here: TrailHeads Sun Visor Hat for Women
FitsT4 Women’s Lightweight Windproof Running Jacket
Trail conditions change fast. What starts as a mild spring morning can turn cool and windy quickly especially at elevation or in wooded areas. A lightweight windproof jacket that you can stuff into your vest pocket gives you options without adding bulk. The FitsT4 jacket is reflective for added visibility, has a hood for extra protection, and is light enough that you barely notice it when you are not wearing it. The kind of layer you hope you do not need but are very glad to have when you do.
Great for: Variable trail conditions, spring and fall trail running, emergency layer
Get it here: FitsT4 Sports Women’s Cycling Running Jackets Lightweight Windproof Bike Windbreaker Reflective with Hood
Getting Ready for the Trails
I am genuinely excited about this next chapter of my running life. Nearly 30 years on the road has given me a strong fitness base and a deep love of running — and I cannot wait to see what the trails add to that.
If you are thinking about making the trail running leap here is my honest advice — do your research, invest in the right gear, and start with trails that match your current fitness level. You do not need to tackle technical mountain terrain on day one. Find a local trail that is manageable and just get out there.
The trails will meet you where you are. I am counting on it.
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