{"id":189747,"date":"2025-08-28T15:06:19","date_gmt":"2025-08-28T22:06:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=189747"},"modified":"2025-11-03T11:35:13","modified_gmt":"2025-11-03T19:35:13","slug":"warm-weather-trail-running-kit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/run\/warm-weather-trail-running-kit","title":{"rendered":"The Perfect Kit: Summer Trail Running"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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\u2019re 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\u2019re wearing needs to keep you cool, dry and comfortable. That\u2019s all on top of the basic trail gear, including snacks, navigation and safety tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if you\u2019ll be out there for a mile or two, you don\u2019t want to skimp: As the atmosphere heats up, it\u2019s crucial to stay hydrated and protected from the sun, while also taking care to slow down and listen to your body. (And if it\u2019s over 98.6\u00b0F and above 70% humidity<\/a>, do yourself a favor and stay indoors or go for a swim. Forcing the run could severely put your health at risk.) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To make your planning easier, we\u2019ve compiled a list of the gear best suited to your summer trail runs, whether short, long, competitive or purely for fun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Editor’s note: <\/strong>We updated this article on August 28, 2025, to replace some out-of-stock merchandise and to improve our reporting on chemical sunscreens. Future updates will more extensively update the product offerings in this article to align with current tested gear guide recommendations. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Basics: Runs of Any Length<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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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<\/a>. If you’re new to the activity, take your time shopping around for the right shoes<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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goodr Circle Gs Polarized Sunglasses<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
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Tried and true, the goodr<\/a> Circle Gs are the perfect lightweight, no-bounce option to protect your irises on sunny runs. They\u2019re well-suited to the trail, too, since their malleability combined with affordability mean it\u2019s no sweat if they take a tumble. (And nonslip frames will make that outcome less likely to begin with.) $25<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

REI Co-op On The Trail Cap<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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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<\/a> comes with UPF 50+ sun protection and an internal sweatband so you can focus on the run and not the weather. Pro tip:<\/a> Soak your headwear in ice-cold water before your next warm-weather run for some sweet relief. $26.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Buff Coolnet UV Multifunctional Neckwear<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For those rocking baseball-hat-resistant hairstyles, a Buff<\/a> 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\u00ae 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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Runner Devin Arnold in the Buff Coolnet UV Multifunctional Neckwear<\/a> and the REI Co-op Swiftland Running T-Shirt – Women’s<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

REI Co-op Swiftland Running T-Shirt (Women\u2019s<\/a> and Men\u2019s<\/a>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A light, comfortable, sweat-wicking shirt is essential on summer runs. The REI Co-op<\/a> Swiftland Running T-Shirt provides both ease and breeze in a suite of appealing colors. $39.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

On Tank-T Running Shirt (Women\u2019s<\/a> and Men\u2019s<\/a>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you prefer a tank or <\/mark>that barely-there feeling in your summer running gear, look no further than On<\/a>. Their Tank-T Running Shirt feels smooth as silk while showing no sweat. The singlet style is also perfect for racing. $70<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Janji 3\u201d Multi Shorts \u2013 Women\u2019s<\/a> and Janji 7\u201d Multi Shorts \u2013 Men\u2019s<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Images courtesy of Janji<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For those short, fast and hot trail runs, you can’t go wrong with Janji<\/a>‘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 <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nathan QuickSqueeze Lite Insulated Handheld Water Bottle – 12 fl. oz.<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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<\/a> 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<\/a>.) $30 <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Skratch Labs Sport Hydration Mix – Single Serving<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hydration isn’t just about consuming enough water, but replacing the electrolytes your body sweats out. Skratch<\/a> Labs has you covered with their Sport Hydration Mix, which comes in single-serving packets for ease on the go. Coming in three flavors\u2014fruit punch, oranges and lemons & limes\u2014each 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<\/a> for those who like to stick to one flavor. $1.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SaltStick Fastchews Chewable Electrolyte Tablets<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For very salty sweaters, you may need to top off with a more direct source of electrolytes as you run. Try these SaltStick<\/a> 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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raw Elements Face + Body SPF 30 Sunscreen Tube \u2013 3 oz.<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sunscreen is non-negotiable; no matter your shade, the sun\u2019s UV rays can damage your skin and harm your overall health. If you\u2019ve been searching for a mineral sunscreen*<\/a> that goes on like lotion, look no further. Raw Elements<\/a> 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,<\/a> as well as a tinted facial moisturizer with mineral sunscreen, here<\/a>. $18.95\u2013$20.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Level-Up: Gear for Extended Outings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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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?<\/a><\/em> and Gear Check: Running the Wonderland Trail at Mt. Rainier<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Oakley Radar EV Path Sunglasses<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Looking for some serious shades? You can\u2019t miss with the Radar EV Paths from Oakley<\/a>. 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\u2122 lenses control light transmission so you can maintain full visibility while keeping your eyes relaxed. $244 – $296<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The North Face Trailwear QTM Bike Shorts \u2013 Women\u2019s<\/a> and The <\/a>North Face Trailwear OKT Shorts \u2013 Men\u2019s<\/a>  <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Images courtesy of The North Face<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you prefer more protection on the run, look no further than The North Face<\/a>‘s Trailwear line. The women’s QTM Bike Shorts provide ample coverage for those hot, sticky runs\u2014keeping your legs dry and chafe-free. The men’s OKT Shorts are a bit hardier\u2014fit 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\u2013$75<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Body Glide Anti-Chafe Formula Skin Protectant – 1.5 oz.<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Courtesy of Body Glide<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

HOKA Mafate Speed 4 Trail-Running Shoes (Women\u2019s<\/a> and Men\u2019s<\/a>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Courtesy of HOKA<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

On long journeys, you’ll want a roomy yet lightweight trail runner. HOKA<\/a> has found the perfect balance with the Mafate Speed 4, an Editors’ Choice Award Winner<\/a> in 2025. 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. Read the full review<\/a>. $185<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Salomon Adv Skin 5 Hydration Vest<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Courtesy of Salomon<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you prefer bottles on your long trail runs, Salomon<\/a>‘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<\/a> 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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MSR Guardian Gravity Purifier<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Courtesy of MSR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Backcountry fastpackers rejoice: This 1 lb. 2.7 oz. water purifier from MSR<\/a> packs in features while remaining relatively light. Don’t worry about carrying all your water with you on a multiday trip. According to MSR, <\/mark>the Guardian removes most <\/mark>viruses, bacteria and protozoa\u2014as well as sediment and microplastics\u2014from “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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More options: <\/strong>The Katadyn BeFree 1.0 L Water Filter Bottle<\/a> is a much lighter alternative to the Guardian\u2014you’ll just want to be pickier about your water source. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raw Elements Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 \u2013 0.16 fl. oz.<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tailwind Endurance Fuel Drink Mix – 30 servings<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Get that full energy boost while replenishing electrolytes. Tailwind<\/a>‘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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bobo’s Oat Bars Stuff’d Bar<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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<\/a> 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\u2014though you’ll want to avoid if you have any nut allergies. $3<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SaltStick Electrolyte Salt Capsules – 100 Capsules<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Garmin Instinct 3 Solar<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For lengthier<\/mark> adventures, you may want to throw down for a GPS watch with more extensive features. The Garmin<\/a> Instinct 3 Solar lets you to stay powered up with its varied battery modes and extended battery life. In fact, the Instinct 3 Solar offers 130 hours of battery life in solar GPS mode. Without the use of solar, this watch is still impressive and the brand reports it can last an astounding 56 days in battery saver mode, 28 days in expedition mode, and 24 days in smartwatch mode. Every one of those settings can be boosted with the power of the sun, prolonging inevitable dips in the watch battery. This feature alone makes it an attractive pick for endurance athletes, backpackers and expedition-lovers. Read the full review<\/a>. $400<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Garmin inReach Mini 2<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Safety first. For self-supported trips<\/mark>, you should carry a satellite communication device. Even in the backcountry, the Garmin<\/a> 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<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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*A Chemistry Lesson:<\/em><\/strong> REI only sells mineral or \u201cphysical\u201d sunscreens<\/a>. The alternative, organic or \u201cchemical\u201d sunscreens, usually contain ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene. They work by absorbing the sun\u2019s rays before they get to your skin and so tend to go onto the skin transparently, leaving little to no white cast or residue. Despite their efficiency and convenience as a sheer option for darker skin tones, certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens may be irritants for those with sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens are generally safe for humans, though certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, have come under question<\/a> in research trials and even been banned in places like Key West and Hawai’i due to the harm they may pose to coral reefs. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mineral sunscreens\u2014made with either zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both\u2014work 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<\/a>\u2014especially as a lotion, rather than a mist or spray. They\u2019re 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. Some brands mix mineral sunscreens with chemical sunscreen ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene to minimize white cast. 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. <\/em><\/p>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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\u2019re 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 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11690,"featured_media":190154,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[975,727,2167,2227,2228,2174,2226],"internal-tag":[],"class_list":["post-189747","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-run","tag-hydration","tag-latest-posts","tag-summer","tag-summer-running-gear","tag-sunscreen","tag-trail-running-2","tag-warm-weather"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/run\/warm-weather-trail-running-kit","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"The Perfect Kit: Summer Trail Running","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/run\/warm-weather-trail-running-kit","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/run\/warm-weather-trail-running-kit"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/06\/Vagnini_030823_3579-1.jpg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/06\/Vagnini_030823_3579-1.jpg?fit=2000%2C1334"},"articleSection":"Run","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"REI Staff"}],"creator":["REI Staff"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["hydration","latest posts","summer","summer running gear","sunscreen","trail running","warm weather"],"dateCreated":"2025-08-28T22:06:19Z","datePublished":"2025-08-28T22:06:19Z","dateModified":"2025-11-03T19:35:13Z"},"rendered":"