The trail running pack is an essential piece of equipment for trail runners. Just as important as the shoes, it is essential to ensure your autonomy and safety on your outings! The choice of the right equipment is a key factor, it must allow you to face all types of conditions. In addition, depending on the route you choose, there are some things to think about. Here are the essentials to put in your trail bag.
- A waterproof jacket, to protect you from changing and sometimes difficult conditions: depending on the season, the weather can turn quickly. So be prepared and always carry a compact waterproof jacket that doesn't take up space.
- Food: it is very important to eat to keep your strength up during your trail runs! So remember to take energy bars or gels, bananas etc.
- A water bladder: bring at least 1L of water. Always bear in mind that there may not be a water point on the route.
- A multifunctional neckband: to protect yourself from the wind, the sun and even the cold, the neckband is an essential item to have in your trail bag. It can be used as a headband, a hat, an ear warmer, a neck and nose warmer, a scarf, an elastic band and a wrist protector.
- A survival blanket: one of the items that should never leave your trail bag. The blanket protects you from cold, heat, rain, humidity and wind, in case of problems on the trail, injury, waiting for help.
- A headlamp: even if you go in the middle of the day, we are often surprised by the night (especially in the mountains and in between seasons).
- Money : you never know for if you need find an alternative way home!
- First aid kit: compresses, paracetamol, bandages in case of a fall or blisters can save your trail outing.
- Téléphone : Don't forget to take a charged battery with you. A little tip: you can put your phone in a waterproof bag to avoid the risk of it getting wet..
In winter or during the off-season, don't hesitate to add gloves, waterproof trousers or a pair of socks for example.
This list is not exhaustive, you can adapt it according to your preferences and habits. To guide you, you can refer to the list of compulsory equipment required by the major races.
As you will have understood, the key is to anticipate, it is better to plan too much than to find yourself in difficulty. Unlike road running, don't forget that trail running is a semi or autonomous discipline. You need to cover your needs OR the possible situations you might face. Nature is welcoming but changing, it is essential to be able to anticipate them calmly.
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