What are /r/trailrunning's favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

A Buff is my new favourite thing. Having longer hair and sweating like a moose in a sauna, these things are the best for keeping wet hair tips from trying to poke salty holes into your eyeballs.

https://www.outdoors.org/articles/amc-outdoors/the-10-essentials-revisited

If you’ve got like $10-15, I can personally recommend one of the personal alarms on Amazon. I got a Sabre alarm that also has an LED light on it. They make alarms like this anywhere from 110-140db, obviously the louder it is, the further you can hear it.

He was indeed awesome. I think we probably averaged 12-13min/mi during that part of the trail. A lot of elevation change and I could see how considerate he was with his footing. You don't want to roll an ankle when you have over 40 days left to go. I found him just shy of the 8mi mark here and ran back with him https://www.strava.com/activities/314340061

Hey!

I'm finding I'm lurking in this sub much more than I'd like, so I guess I'll introduce myself here for the good people who don't know me from /r/running!

1. Im in southeastern BC, Canada! Right in the Rockies!

2. Training for my first ultra, which is this weekend.

3. I usually kinda Frankenstein my own plans together haha

4. no running club, although there is one the next town over, I just haven't had a chance to go on any runs with them yet.

5. I'm maybe on the roads 15% of the time. Love the trails!

6. I love hiking! And eating bread! Woo!

7. https://www.strava.com/athletes/7811572

I'm in Mill Valley, CA. Currently training for a road mile on July 30 (gotta change up racing and training!), but after that, Headlands 50k in August and then a fall race TBD. I follow the training plan prescribed by my coach depending on the race and distance. I'm a member of West Valley Track Club, based out of San Francisco. Trails vs. road are usually 50/50 (much easier to run roads from my office on the weekdays as I work in downtown SF but live in MV with access to trails <1 mile from my door). Strava profile: https://www.strava.com/pros/727367

1. Queens, NY
2. Eastern States 100 next month, Javelina Jundred later in the year
3. No real plan, I'd like to become more structured though
4. Not a very social guy so no running club, may join the local road running club with my girlfriend just because I think SHE would enjoy it
5. Usually 3 days on roads (about 95% of this is repeats over a bridge), 2 days on trails (Sat long run, Thurs the bridle path in Central Park)
6. Had a rough year of injuries last year, this one is going well and hopefully I can actually train for faster finishes in the coming months rather than just to finish races
7. https://www.strava.com/athletes/6525119

Ran my first trailrun! Hardest, but the coolest thing i've ever done. Due to all the rain/hail/bad weather the course was shortened a bit to 26,5 instead of 28km! Finished 14th out of 84 people so really happy with the results. I'm really planning on doing more of these runs!
Here's the strava.

Stills from GoPro
Machen Mountain Race I ran yesterday. Beautiful day for it, but a 3pm race in August is madness! 4.4miles and around 1,100ft elevation. Got confused by trail markers at the end and lost 2 minutes and 5 places!
EDIT: Strava

Here's an example of a typical run on the A.T. for me. On the very steep, it's a combo of running and power hiking: https://www.strava.com/activities/678001964 Note the GAP vs actual pace on the steep sections.

The hardest thing is learning to move quickly downhill on the gnarly terrain of the A.T. It can be so very technical is spots.

Happy trails!

This is a really good idea.

Where in the world are you?
London UK!

Are you training for anything in particular?
Got a couple of HM road races coming up in the Autumn. Hoping for sub 2.

What kind of training plan are you following?
A reduced volume form of the pfitz HM plan. Undiluted Uncle Pete is way too many miles for my poor legs.

Are you a member of a running club?
No, but I'd like to check out the Serpentines club at some point. It's just a matter of fitting it in around the responsibilities of a family man.

How many days per week do you hit the trails vs. the road?
1 day out of 5 is moderately traily. It doesn't get more technical than the occasional slightly muddy areas though.

Also tell us something about yourself.
I spend too much time playing video games. Also I'm (unemployed) working on an educational math app targeting 12-13 year olds. I'm vaguely contemplating stealing smashrun's badge thing.

Link your strava/smashrun account!
Strava

I keep thinking I should spend more time here.

Where in the world are you?
Northeastern Ohio

Are you training for anything in particular?
I finished my first trail 50k in July, so I'm working on building up everything I need to run to longer distances.

What kind of training plan are you following?
I just run every day. It took me a few years of injuring myself to figure out that I don't respond well to full rest days, so I'm going to keep it simple as long as it's working.

Are you a member of a running club?
Not yet.

How many days per week do you hit the trails vs. the road?
Unfortunately, it's only two days a week most times. If I could teleport, it would be all trails all the time.

Also tell us something about yourself.
I actually enjoy climbing hills and stairs.

Link your strava/smashrun account!
Strava

The way I've always gotten there is from the Douglas State Forest in MA. There is a little free parking lot on MA16. A great trail to run!

Here is a link for one of the routes to get there: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/massachusetts/tri-point-and-midstate-loop

I use this with my dog when hiking—allows you to attach the poop bag to the leash or the outside of their harness without risking getting the smell on it

Okydoky Dog Poop Bag Holder Leash Waste Carrier Holder Bicycle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0797YJR3Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MG66V420HCKY1YJ27APV?psc=1

I haven't looked at Koerner's plans, but if they include doubles I'd nix them based on your Strava history.

I took a quick glance at your lead up to your 50k and may have missed something, but only saw one 20 miler (nothing over that) and not a lot of other longer runs, with a lot of miles in the junk range (I personally think that +/-3 miles for ultra training is junk territory, but I still do it for my runstreak).

Based on your running volume history RFP 50 would be most manageable, but even then you're looking at quite a big step up both with total long runs (13 runs over 16 miles) and mid-longs (18 runs at 10-14 miles).

However, you ran the 50k in a good time relative to the training volume so take my advice with a grain of salt.

Edit: Just to say that it's easier to get a grasp of your overall training if people take a look at the training log view: https://www.strava.com/athletes/10433861/training/log

Love this, I'm a frequent lurker on all of the running subs. I'm relatively new to trail running, so this is great! I have always loved to run, but I didn't start running regularly or racing until after I met my future husband. He had just starting to run ultras at the time, and I started training for races so I would have something to do while I waited for him to finish. I was not into trail running for a long time because I'm super klutzy. However, I did a few desert trail races after we moved to Arizona last year and LOVED them. I love the distraction of running on uneven ground with beautiful scenery all around. So now I think I'm hooked!

Where in the world are you? El Paso, Texas, USA

Are you training for anything in particular? Training for the Dead Horse 50K in Moab, Utah, but I'm running the Franklin Mountain Trail Run Half Marathon leading up to it.

What kind of training plan are you following? I recently joined a women's ultra training program (for the 50K) which came with a coach, not sure what plan she will be following exactly...

Are you a member of a running club? Not currently, but I used to be involved with the Savannah Striders when I lived in Georgia. Unless my ultra training program counts (there are only 6 people involved, so I'm guessing no).

How many days per week do you hit the trails vs. the road? I usually only run on trails once a week, but I will be trying to increase that during my ultra training. When I'm training for something (which is most of the time), I run 5-6 days a week total.

Also tell us something about yourself. In addition to running, I also compete in agility with my youngest dog. It's a blast for both of us, and probably good training for running as well!

Link your strava/smashrun account! https://www.strava.com/athletes/7811293

1. Las Cruces, NM
2. My first ultra. Mt. Taylor 50k in October.
3. Bryon Powell's 50k @ 50mpw from Relentless Forward Progress.
4. No. I start too early and am only outgoing on the interwebs.
5. 3 days on roads, 2 on trails, due to time constraints.
6. I'm boring and think I'm funnier than I probably am.
7. Strava!

I can’t do handhelds at all, and I wasn’t sure if ai would like a vest so I bought an inexpensive one off of Amazon to try out so if I didn’t like it, I wouldn’t feel bad for wasting the money if I didn’t like the concept.

I’ve actually been super pleased with the vest.

No irritation. No weird tastes from the bladder (🤔). Lightweight. Easy to use.

Might be worth exploring if you aren’t ready to drop the big bucks: LERMX Lightweight Running Hydration Vest https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y164HKF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kyprAb7VD5K3F

Unless you absolutely need the room, you don’t need a vest over 3L/5L. Check out the Salomon line of hydration vests. They have soft flasks on the front, and are easy to reach. They’re pricey, but worth it. You can also put a 1.5L bladder in the back if you need the extra water. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSWWT5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_038PBbZ814Y7S

Edit: search for “running hydration vests ”. You’ll end up with a better selection of gear aimed towards runners.

My favorite GPS app for mobile is Gaia GPS: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.trailbehind.android.gaiagps.pro&amp;hl=en. It's $20, so not cheap (at least compared to apps, still much cheaper than a dedicated GPS device), but it allows you to load in GPX files and also download base maps from a wide array of sources (topos, aerials, etc) for offline use.

You can also load GPX files through the web interface and it syncs with the app. You can save waypoints, routes, tracks, photos, etc. that sync with the site.

Hai!!

1. I'm in South Florida, it's pretty hot and humid here.

2. First Trail Half in April 2017! Before then I have an "unofficial/untimed" 12hr/50K that I'm going to attempt to do 13-16mi at ... a road 10K and a bunch of 5K's.

3. Shooting for 15-20/mpw with a 10K (Garmin) training plan starting in September followed by a Half plan that will take me through to April.

4. I'm a new member of the Down to Run group and have also started attending some of the running store fun-runs near me.

5. I'm pretty evenly split between trail and road days. My long runs tend to be on trails with my morning runs in my neighborhood.

6. I'm plant powered and love pilates & yoga.

7. https://www.strava.com/athletes/6558072

Did a 24mi run on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, one of the most amazing and diverse trails I've ran on in my life.. kind of had something for everyone unless your thing is oxygen-thick air. Started around 6500 feet and hit 9000+ near the top. I've got 20 photos on my Strava activity but I can post to Imgur later too perhaps. Ended up hitting 100 miles for the week with an easy 6 the next day, a PB training week!

https://www.strava.com/activities/674822945/

• Where in the world are you?

Lyon, France

• Are you training for anything in particular?

Ultras of different sorts. The next major race is the Saintelyon in early December. It's a 72km trail race between two cities (Saint Etienne and Lyon) run in winter and starting at midnight so basically with headlamps from start to finish.

• What kind of training plan are you following?

Nothing particular. I find I run well if I get in 80km a week and at least one long run. I have a 50 mile run in the UK planned for mid-September along the dead flat Thames Path to get me in gear (and visit my parents) and I might try and squeeze in one more between then and December to get some hills in.

• Are you a member of a running club?

The Lyon Running Club is a mostly social club that puts on three runs a week: an interval session on Tuesday night, a steady hour-long run on Wednesday night, and a run for women on Saturday mornings. I usually use the Wednesday night run as a recovery run after getting in a harder run in the morning before work. They are a great group and the runs are a nice way to explore the city and meet runners passing through town (there is no joining fee, people in town for a few days often turn up to chat and get a runner's tour of the city).

• How many days per week do you hit the trails vs. the road?

About half of the weekly mileage is trails.

• Also tell us something about yourself.

I skipped straight from a road half marathon to ultras and haven't looked back. ;)

• Link your strava/smashrun account!

On Strava I'm here.

1. Suburbia of Milano, Italy

2. I wanna run this beauty next year. It's in a place that's very dear to my family and I can't wait. I would like to do a half marathon before, and maybe a couple shorter races too

3. 8-12 k every other day in my city park/roads outside my house, I'm just beginning to run in the trails (did my first mountain run sunday and it was fantastic, though my legs are still sore)

4. nope

5. 3-4 times road/park, unfortunatley almost no trail yet

6. Spaghetti are the solution to all humankind problems. Spaghetti to solve hunger, famine and wars. Spaghetti for world peace.

7. Spaghetti

Here is a 360° Video form a run I did in Seoul South Korea in May. I want to make it its own post, but I guess this might/might not be the right place?

360° Running in Korea

There was a lot more walking than I had planned as it was REALLY steep 800Ft in 1.5 miles (240m/2.4km)

Strava

Edit: I know the beginning is on the road, but it does get on the trail I promise :)

Very cool thread! Thanks for starting this.

Where in the world are you? Waukesha, Wisconsin. Just outside of Milwaukee. Famous as the birthplace of Les Paul and home of soon to be undrinkable radium water.

Are you training for anything in particular? I have a 50K at the end of the month and a slew of races in fall.

What kind of training plan are you following? No plan. I just run. Sometimes I bike. And I do Crossfit.

Are you a member of a running club? I have a few informal running clubs I'm part of (basically a Facebook group that consists of posts like "anyone wanna run?" and a bunch of replies. It's pretty great, to be honest).

How many days per week do you hit the trails vs. the road? I hit the trail most weekends and occasionally during the week. I'm not doing a runstreak anymore (I quit at one year) but I still run most days).

Also tell us something about yourself. I take a lot of photos when I run. I'm not fast. I do speedwork, tempo runs, etc. and I'm getting better, but when I'm out on the trail I'd rather just have fun and take photos. I think the experience is 100x more important than my speed.

Link your strava/smashrun account! Strava Smashrun

I own a Fenix, and it has never gotten 50 hours—even with a reduced data collection rate. At Leadville last year I carried a USB battery pack and charged the watch during the race so that I could get a continuous capture. And on really cold days (single digits F), I've had the watch crap out after 6-7 hours at the default sample rate.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/bear-peak-trail

Bear peak is great. Basically goes straight up then straight down. Very technical for the last mile or so to the summit, but it's absolutely killer.

I live in Colorado Springs and this is generally where I go to look:

https://www.alltrails.com/

I generally run in a forested section near my house, a wide open trail near the house or Palmer Park in the middle of town. This summer I'll be running in and near Mueller State Park many weekends. Good luck with the move and if you're in the area let me know and I can point you to a couple good trails.

Thank you and I got you buddy!

Nathan Run Hat with Pockets/Adjustable. Storage Cap to Store Keys, Cards. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WC3561K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QKYF0B022TNXQNHAEMHF?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I wear Darn Tough socks. I also run in shoes that are water resistant; Ice Bug Pytho5 and wear Under Armor Cold Gear tights that go all the down pass my ankle bones.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B5J8H7S?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Check out the Sketchers GOTrail. They start at $60 on Amazon and have 4.5/5 stars. I also just watched a review from TheGingerRunner and he had good things to say about such an inexpensive shoe. It even made his top 5 list for running gear of 2016.

Zensah socks. They sell ones with fun designs https://www.amazon.com/Zensah-Limited-Running-Socks-Anti-Blister/dp/B073211XDP

They are a bit pricier than their standard colored ones, but I usually get around $600 in Amazon cards every year between work and other things so when I do, I just put them towards new fun socks :-p.

I have these, just a little older model. So far I haven’t sweated more than they can handle...and I’m a sweaty dude.

Anker Soundcore Spirit

Hmm, I don't recall a lot of stairs. I started in the parking lot next to Issaquah High School and took the &quot;High School Trail&quot; to &quot;Poo Poo Point Trail&quot;. It was a bit steep but definitely run-able.

I did an 8.1 miles loop of Germantown Metro for the first time, very windy (~16 mph gusts) and it actually got colder despite starting shortly after noon.

As for how to carry/plan for carrying water that's just a matter of your own personal testing. Maybe a pack works better, maybe a vest, maybe handhelds. Don't know until you try.

I always voice this word of caution, though: only drink if you're truly thirsty. I've suffered hyponatremia before due to simply thinking I had to guzzle as much water as I could handle. It's not fun and potentially dangerous especially for the mileage you're planning. If you need to drink more water be sure to balance that out with appropriate salt intake.

Rob from the awesome trails of Las Vegas, NV. Owner and RD of Desert Dash (http://desertdash.com). We do trail races!

Not training for anything as I'm rehabbing my left ankle and just running as I can.

I started and help run TrailRunning.vegas, a Facebook group of 1600+ local trail runners.

Strava is https://www.strava.com/athletes/2894467

I raced my first Ultra on Saturday! The Skyline to the Sea 50k! I finished in 7:15:14. Had a blast, and finally got to put that Ultra sticker on my car :)

strava

Missed the A goal of 6 hours but came in under the B goal, 6:27. I didn't eat enough for pretty much the whole race, not sure if I could have gotten 6 hours but could have come closer. The off-trail segments were super fun. I was doing well early and was on track in the first half, then there was a 4000 foot climb from mile 14 to mile 18 and the stomach didn't feel good during that, so I went like 90 minutes without eating and came out of that climb in bonk mode. I rallied late but it wasn't enough to really turn it around. https://www.strava.com/activities/715894717

Thank you for the support! I'll try to write up some kind of fuller race report later.

Hey /r/trailrunning! I've been lurking here since the whole Black Mountain Monster/runnit thing in the spring. It's probably time to introduce myself:

Where in the world are you? Western New York. We live ~1/4 mile from Lake Erie

Are you training for anything in particular? I have a 50 miler in a couple weeks. After that nothing is planned until a 12 hour race in May. I might do a 25 miler in January that I also ran last year.

What kind of training plan are you following? The make-it-up-as-you-go kind. I've been fighting my IT bands for most of this year. This past couple months I've finally been getting close to normal mileage and feeling good but mixing in a lot of cycling, too.

Are you a member of a running club? Nope. Our local club is in the next city over, about 45 miles away. A bit too far for us to fit into our schedules.

How many days per week do you hit the trails vs. the road? During the week I'm always on the road since there are no close trails. On weekends I'll drive out to the local trails. I especially like getting my long runs done in the woods.

Also tell us something about yourself. I just did my first duathlon last weekend. It was a 5k run, 20k ride, 5k run. It was kinda cool. I finished 11th overall and won my age group, so I got some decent prizes, like a new foam roller, a pint glass with the race logo, etc. I missed my A goal by 58 seconds though. That would have put me in the top ten and let me justify buying a nicer bike.

Link your strava/smashrun account! Strava

1) I'm a total newbie in rural northern New York.

2) When I turned 30 I set a goal of running an ultra by 35. It's been a struggle to get my aerobic levels back since breaking my leg last spring.

3) I run from time to time.

4) I started a running club that gets together on Tuesday nights at a local pub for a quick 2-4 mile run followed by a social hour. We've got about a dozen people that show up regularly.

5) I'm mostly on the road, but try to hit smaller trails as much as possible. Looking to hit the Adirondack High Peaks for runs when my fitness levels increase.

6) I hiked most of the AT (GA>PA) trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life when I was fresh out of high school.

7) Strava

Not exactly a lurker as I've posted a few times, but I'll introduce myself anyways!

• I live outside of Sacramento, CA.
• I'm currently training for my first marathon, the Skyline To The Sea Marathon, just north of Santa Cruz.
• I make my own training plans, using input from more experienced runners and a little of my own experience as a former cyclist.
• I'm not a member of a running club, but I'm currently looking into a trail running club nearby!
• I do every single one of my runs on a trail. I'm lucky to live right by a pretty big trail system, and I haven't done a single run on the pavement since I started running :)
• In 2013 I volunteered with my Mom at one of the Western States Endurance Run's aid stations. I was hooked. Secretly, I've made it a goal of mine to finish the Western States.
• Say hi to me on Strava! https://www.strava.com/athletes/7219347

1. Portland, OR
2. Cascade Lakes Relay, Portland Marathon, Silver Falls Half
3. I train 4-6 days a week in a combination of running and in my gym doing hiit circuits.
4. Not a member of a running club, yet.
5. I hit the trails two days a week. I had found the Portland Trail Series which runs through my favorite park. Hooked on that one. I have a nice paved trail right outside my door, so it makes it hard to justify driving too often to get a run in.
6. I have a goal of doing an ultramarathon within the next year. Not sure which one yet.
7. https://www.strava.com/athletes/5740202

Where in the world are you? Los Angeles, CA Are you training for anything in particular? Currently training for my first half marathon in October. What kind of training plan are you following? Using a 12 week plan from the Nike + app. Are you a member of a running club? Not a member but would be interested in joining. Any recommendations are welcome How many days per week do you hit the trails vs. the road? Average between 2-3 runs a week. Mostly on roads around my house. On weekends I take a drive to the local trail. Also tell us something about yourself. Simply trying to be more active. Running and hiking as much as possible and loving it.
Link your strava/smashrun account!https://www.strava.com/athletes/16464932 just created an account. Add me

edits formatting

1. Fort Lee, Virginia

2. Army 10 Miler in October and an 8 hour event in November.

3. I train with the Fort Lee 10 Mile team, following our coaches training plan and do additional trail runs on my own.

4. Unless you count the Fort Lee 10 mile team, no.

5. Road 4 days a week and trail 1 or 2 days a week.

6. Active Duty Air Force. Picked up running because of the military and transitioned to long distance/trail running about a year ago. While I am primarily running roads right now, I prefer trail running. I have run in multiple short distance races and two 12 hour events.

I have like no strava friends so please add me!

https://www.strava.com/athletes/4696756

I'd be happy to share my passion as well ;-)

• Located in Poland, Europe
• Not training for anything special right now...
• Not following any plan (yet)
• I've started local trail running group, but it's not yet fully up and running. Still we didn't organize our first run....
• I want to run 2-3 times per week, but it's not always possible.
• My goal is to my run my first 100 miles ultra in next 5 years. So slowly climbing the distance year by year. For 2017 I plan to run some trail marathon distance.
• Strava

I'm not running a race, but I finally have a weekend off to go run a route I've been looking forward to since last year! It's the Ice Lakes above Silverton which leads to just below the Hardrock 100 course. The route is pretty similar to this training run that Kilian did before Hardrock
I'm also really excited to get to use my US Scott Jurek pack! Never actually used it running, only light hikes to this point.

Great idea!

I/we currently live in Boston, Mass. We live in the South End, so in Boston proper, but will be moving to the 'burbs to be closer to trails for my wife and I, plus our newborn son and two border collies.

This year - not so much. A few half's here or there, the cross country circuit in Boston and that's it. My next "big" race will be Manitous Revenge next July, 54 miles through the Catskills.

I'm a coach by trade, but I actually work with another coach on my own running, so I follow what Andy and I come up with. It's great to have another coach help to bounce ideas off of.

No running club here, although I may try to cobble one together when we move. I do have 50+ people that I coach, so I guess we are a global team. :)

Now it's pretty much all road with the baby. We more hike on the trails now since he's young (14 weeks) but once he's old enough and we are closer to the trails, I'll hit them a few times a week. I do love trails, but I also do love running fast on dirt roads or a nice flat path.

I've been a sports coach for 22 years (since I was 10 years old). Coaching is my life and I love what I do!

Strava - find me here

Hands On 12 Pair Value Pack, Premium Smooth Finish Nitrile Coated Glove

I have hot sweaty hands and don't usually choose to wear gloves. I only wear these gloves when it is windy and colder than ~20F. They are cheap and provide some protection against the wind, and they also work well with smartphones. I primarily use these in the summer time doing yard work, but they suit my needs just fine for winter running as well. Even in the summer I occasionally throw one glove in my pocket just in case I need to use my phone during or after a run...like i said...sweaty hands over here...

Symptoms of hyponatremia.

That list doesn't mention the increased thirst symptom but I've seen that listed elsewhere and that was the most obvious symptom for me: no matter how much water I drank it wasn't enough and I'd already been guzzling water a lot throughout the run.

I know the anxiety you talk about worrying you'll dehydrate on long runs but that anxiety is what got me into trouble. What you really should do is only drink when you're truly thirsty. There was a lot of bad advice going around a while ago such as "drink before you're thirsty" and a general belief in just drink drink drink. Sounds safe enough, right? If it's just water what harm could come of it? But too much is simply too much.

edit: and also from that link I gave too much liquid in general can be bad even if it's got more sodium:

> Drinking excessive amounts of water can cause low sodium by overwhelming the kidneys' ability to excrete water.

Two friends and I went on a short run there back in January. My expectations were exceeded with the beautiful views, well marked trails, and modest elevation gain. We ended up putting in just over 8.5 miles and had almost 1800 feet of gain. I even saw snow around the some of the cactus in the low areas.

The main part of our run was White Rock / La Madre Springs Loop which is around 6 miles. We parked in a parking lot just off the main road (South of the White Rock dot and restrooms on the map below). From there, we ran the loop and took the out-and-back to La Madre Spring. You can find a map of the trails at http://www.redrockcanyonlv.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Red-Rock-Trail-Map.pdf and my Strava at https://www.strava.com/activities/469008002 .

We rented the cheapest rental car we could get from our hotel (around $35 for the day). It was cheaper than an Uber or cab plus we didn't have to hope for cell service when we were ready to go back.

No problem. Definitely smart to do some research. I have read about it in many places but haven't saved the links. Just did a Google search of 'NSAID endurance running' and numerous articles popped up. This study also popped up and it is about ultras and ibuprofen- look at the References if you want to really look into it.

Edit. Ok I felt bad for that lazy response. Here is an article that looks at the risks and benefits of NSAIDs in athletes.

I’ve had a lot of success using the AllTrails website to find places to run.

https://www.alltrails.com

I’ve used it locally (Ontario, Canada) but have also used it on trips across the country, to the US in California and even in Italy. Bonus you can also use it to find hiking trails too.

My most minimal trail runs have no special gear, but I’ve found even on slightly technical trails that dedicated shoes with bigger lugs have been nice.

Here you go. it's 8 miles even from parking out and back. I've done it half a dozen times now and it's always pretty dead as far as other people on the trail. i think because it's a fire road the whole way but i like that for running. Still, it was a real ass kicker on sunday with strong sun and zero shade the whole way. i usually head right back but this time i had to pause at the top and cool off. beautiful right now!!

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https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/josephine-peak-trail

Pretty mellow run for around 4500 elevation gain. It's gradual switchbacks over the 7 miles to the top. Absolutely stunning run. This is the second week I've spent exploring the Wasatch Range from my home range in Northern Utah. About time.

The link to the track. The Foto is about 5 km in, the Weißbachschlucht.

If you have the chance, don't go on weekends, the trail is pretty narrow and there are a lot of tourist with dogs and stuff.

https://www.outdooractive.com/mobile/de/trailrunning/berchtesgadener-land/weissbachschlucht-jochberg-hoellenbachalm/103957961/

https://www.amazon.com/AONIJIE-Hydration-Backpack-Reservoir-Marathoner/dp/B07QSQSGR2/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?dchild=1&amp;keywords=aonjie&amp;qid=1622423646&amp;sprefix=aonj&amp;sr=8-6

Been using this for 2 years and it's great and a whole lot cheaper.

I have an older version of this one and it’s great.

AONIJIE Running Hydration Vest Backpack for Women and Men Lightweight Trail Running Backpack 5.5L Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QSV2GW3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SPH24R5ZFFKB7B9EHX6G

I used to just tuck my phone in my spandex / compression shorts on my hip. But I recently got a SPI belt, which keeps my phone less sweaty. Worth the $16 I paid for it, IMO.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040NLT9O

I live in a hevy tick zone, multiple kinds too. Each are known carries for a select host of known diseases (and possibly yet unidentified ones) aside from lyme disease.

I use a blend of high quality essential oils that includes eucalyptus, and sometimes just eucalyptus. Post run i either wash my clothes right away or set them to dry to wash later, in an area away from basically anything else. Any ticks you bring in the house can survive days in search of a host. Then shower and do a best full body scan.

If you see one embedded in you, I recommend removing it immediately using preferred methods to mitigate backwash of disease in your bloodstream. Best purchase are [these tick removers]. These work wonderfully and i have never not removed the tick in its entirety. I still run trails but I would never choose this otherwise beautiful looking route. I opt for better cleared ones but have definitely found a tick post run likely from a weed that simply grazed my calf for example, especially if it’s a day I forgot to apply the euc. essential oil

One option is this Chinese knockoff S-Lab by a company called Aonijie (Triwonder on amazon).

https://www.amazon.com/TRIWONDER-Hydration-Backpack-Lightweight-Marathoner/dp/B01N2K7E8D/ref=sr_1_13?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1528340309&amp;sr=1-13&amp;keywords=triwonder

It appears to be, let's say, "heavily inspired" by a certain model S-Lab Sense.

You can find a couple reviews online, all seemingly positive. I ordered one myself recently, interested to see how it turns out.

I'm very new to the sport and opted for this over a pair of handhelds. For one thing I hate the feeling of carrying stuff, and for another, this vest is about the price of a pair of handhelds, or a handheld and a minimalist waist belt, so I went for it. Good luck in your search!

The Paria outdoor gear aluminum poles are $48 on Amazon. I have a pair and really like them. The quick fold/unfold is really nice, and they store a lot more compactly than the telescoping kind, but are still adjustable. There also make a lighter (but slightly more fragile) carbon fiber version for $60. https://www.amazon.com/Paria-Outdoor-Products-Tri-Fold-Trekking/dp/B01HCL1WJC?ref_=w_bl_hsx_s_sp_web_14371119011

I bought a black diamond ion on Amazon for about $20 last year. It's not good enough for my main headlamp; battery life's not great and the beam isn't that bright. But I do like it as a backup.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LXZJHKK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&amp;th=1

I use silicon toe caps, $10 at Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Sumifun-Toe-Caps-Protectors-Silicone/dp/B01FJZLOVE). Plus of course, wearing a half-size up shoe and a heel lock lacing pattern to minimize the impact with the front of the shoe.

Edit: Pro tip, if you wear those caps, use some kind of foot powder to keep them from sliding when your feet sweat, and powder them again before you put them away after the end of your run.

I watched it on Amazon. It was really really good. I think it just came out... https://www.amazon.com/Once-Enough-Jeffrey-James-Binney/dp/B085GLSKX9/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&amp;keywords=once+is+enough&amp;qid=1590453261&amp;s=instant-video&amp;sr=1-1

I found this guide book to be very useful in combination with a local map:

Trail Running - Chamonix and the Mont Blanc Region: 40 Routes in the Chamonix Valley, Italy and Switzerland (Cicerone Trail Running)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1852848006

It's written by Kingsley Jones who organises running holidays in the area during the summer months.

Try Ambit Connect app.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greenpeakdigital.ambitconnect

I haven't tried it myself but the reviews mention it may be helpful in your case.

EDIT: And next time try to avoid syncing your watch with Movescount when the data service on your phone is slow or unreliable. For anything big like a 50 miler it is better to sync via computer.

I wear polarized sun glasses, these to be specific. They are amazing for anything outdoors and super comfy and lightweight.

I recommend Oladance headphones. These are more like tiny speakers that sit on top of ears but not inside ear canals. They have large batteries that last a long time, and the sound quality is surprisingly good. At the same time they don't block outside noise. I tried many different headphones but these are the only ones that continue to stay put even when I run downhills hard.

https://www.amazon.com/Oladance-Headphones-Bluetooth-Waterproof-Interstellar/dp/B09TXBWYRF/

I know this is an unknown brand. But I took a risk a few months back based on positive Amazon reviews and have been super happy with them.

Try this one

It’s on Amazon. It’s a rechargeable clip on hat head lamp called “Ultra Bright Hat Light 200 Lumens, Rechargeable Clip on Headlamps for Baseball Hats - Hands Free, IPX4 Waterproof, CREE LED Mini Clip-on Flashlight for Camping Dog Walking Running - Black” (what a name right?)

I have a blaze orange running hat for this purpose that I like. Made by headsweats.

It is good to have more than that though. A lot of long sleeve tech shirts can be found in blaze orange. Like Hanes or Baleaf from amazon.

Not sure if those would work with your weather and layering strategy.

If not I would consider just getting a vest that can go over whatever you're wearing normally.

You could try the Yellowfork loop. Doubt there’s much avalanche danger there. I haven’t done the full loop in winter but I’ve done a few miles out and back and it was great. Check out this trail on AllTrails. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/utah/yellow-fork-canyon-trail?p=32627965

This is what I set out to do (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/rim-bent-rim-tornado-pass-and-billygoat-trails-loop) but the snow was so fresh and I was the first one to break the trails so I only made it halfway through the route and turned around because I kept getting off trail. There were some folks in snow shoes going out when I returned so I imagine you won’t have such a hard time. Beautiful route, highly recommend!

I brought mine so im not sure sorry! (Have seen too many parks closing their water due to covid so im paranoid now). Some of the recent alltrails reviews do mention water at the summit though, so it seems like yes https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/mount-diablo-via-summit-trail--2

OK I found it on alltrails (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/brins-mesa-and-norms-notch), but oddly it doesn't show up on Strava heat maps... any chance the trail is closed in recent years? Or some other reason that it doesn't get much traffic?

It was amazing! We followed the blue and yellow loop. The yellow loop along the coast could get bad in winter because it’s rocky and technical. The All Trails route shows 9.5k but Garmin gave me 11k with 425m elevation gain. All Trails Link

I run with this clipped to the back of my running tights. My shirt/jacket covers it. I've never had to use it - yet - but there are a few asshats on my local *leashed dogs only* trail that think the rules are not for them.

I've been using Osprey Dyna model. It is a women's fit and ends mid-way down the back. There are a few different sizes depending on bladder. I use the 1.5 liter and it has been perfect.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MSY2P3Y/ref=emc\_b\_5\_i

I would just like to recommend a book to help with grief first. On Grief and Grieving Maybe once you come to terms with your father's passing you have more motivation to run. I am almost done with the book now and it has helped me.

many moons ago cross country taught me to watch foot placement and if I ever did roll my ankle badly -- like the one time my spikes the outside of a large hole and my ankle rolled into it -- I simply rolled with the momentum rather than fighting it, thus mitigating damage. Basically, every tree root looks like a snake, and our cadence and stride is different than road runners. To further help this, I have road running shoes, trail running shoes, shoes that work for both, and will change up my stride as needed. It's just something you get used to. You're more "bouncy" on the trails and much lighter on your feet -- stepping on a loose rock or tripping over something is less likely to throw off your momentum because of it.

For a good read on this, check out the book &quot;Natural Born Heroes.&quot;

You could cut up the old drinking tubes get a male/male hose barb to put the one you have that works on it.

Another thing I think would work is using a bite valve like this one, that has the on/off valve built into it before the bite portion of the mouth piece. With those you turn the yellow part to open and close the valve.

I use alltrails, trailrun project, and a major hiking website/app here in Washington (Washington trails association) to do research and get ideas and read find trip reports (also the local FB hiking groups have a ton of trail news)

But I primarily use caltopo on my laptop to make maps/routes and download gpx files and obsess over course details

And then when I'm out there, I bought backcountry navigator pro years ago, and it's my go to for offline maps

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.crittermap.backcountrynavigator.license

I like 2Toms. That said, depending where the chafing is my first choice (if possible) is to mechanically fix it so chafing doesn't happen, ie different shorts so thighs don't rub together, wearing Injinji toe socks so toes don't rub etc.

This is what I used.

This one

I think my feet could be somewhat like yours. Innov8 has two shoes with 270 in their name, but I am assuming you are talking about the Trailfly's.

I am very happy with the Innov8 Roclite G275 shoes - they don't turn up in their shop search anymore, but they are these: https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B089S1JPSJ If you are indeed talking about the Trailfly's, mine seem to be very much more neutral than those. Maybe give them a try if you can find them anywhere, or maybe you find one that looks like this on their shop. Since those numbers are the weight of the shoes, I guess that's the reason why the shoe names change with each iteration. :/

I do all my alpine hiking/trekking in them, and also will on occasion do my downhill runs (though my pair is just *slightly* too large for me, so I have to cinch them down a lot to avoid slipping - so they're not my first choice on that account; if you find a pair that fits you well I can totally see them to be awesome trail shoes).

My other favourite pair are Saucony Peregrine 11's - I have it in a size that is *very* snug, so it's very nice for downhill running, but thankfully no issues with any rubbing or blisters.

My vision isn't so bad that I can't go without glasses for a run, but back when I played softball, it was a constant stuggle to deal with my glasses slipping. I learned that the best style of glasses retainers are the adjustable wire Chums or these tubing style cheapos. I cut the tube style retainers down so they are just long enough to slip on my head but not long enough to let the glasses slip down my nose.

Follow up because a fellow runner in my city posted about being approached by a nefarious person today…someone in the comments recommended this pepper spray that velcros to your running belt/hydration pack or can be handheld. I thought it might appeal to you too!

I’m hesitant about carrying pepper spray bc in past situations I’ve been too hesitant to use the pepper spray anyways, but I’m going to rethink that and maybe get this one for added protection.

Check out Baleaf on amazon, they meet most of your requirements I think. I have many pairs and really like them. Both the liner and no liner options are good. These cost right around 20-25 so its also a good deal.

I tried these. They are pretty nice actually but some find the crotch a little low. It doesn’t bother me when I’m running. TBMPOY Men's Running Bodybuilding... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071HTXLBW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Personally, if the weather conditions or forecast warrant a rain jacket, I don’t run. In light rain with moderate temperatures (or snow), a wind breaker provides enough protection. This assumes I can return home or seek shelter if conditions become dangerous.

I prefer wearing shorts in temperatures down to the 40’s Fahrenheit if it’s not too windy. I like light jogging pants rather than hiking pants for cold weather. I sometimes wear shorts over the jogging pants for cold or windy weather.

Have Fun and be safe : )

https://www.amazon.com/Coxmate-Sculler-Mirror-for-Rowing/dp/B01HMLF0PO

Not built for the bounce that comes with running though. But worth a look at.

Looking at it some more...I am probably wrong.

The lupines that I am familiar with in Marin grow much more vertical and the flowers are clumped together a different way. This would be very typical.

https://www.amazon.com/Outsidepride-Perennial-Blue-Lupine-Flower/dp/B004I78M1A?th=1

But it looks like lupine is a pretty broad category of plant.

Just thought I’d follow up with this.

I found a vest that fits and after my first run with it this morning, I like it.

It is an Aonijie 10l (model c9103)

Lots of pockets, room for 1.5l bladder, and most importantly, it fits my 46in chest with plenty room to spare (I’d say about 2inch)

Not expensive either. This brand is more common over here (I live in Thailand) - unsure how it is in the west but just thought I’d share.

Here is an amazon link if you are looking.

Aonijie 10L c9103Aonijie 10 L c9103

Just thought I’d follow up with this.

I found a vest that fits and after my first run with it this morning, I like it.

It is an Aonijie 10l (model c9103)

Lots of pockets, room for 1.5l bladder, and most importantly, it fits my 46in chest with plenty room to spare (I’d say about 2inch)

Not expensive either. This brand is more common over here (I live in Thailand) - unsure how it is in the west but just thought I’d share.

Here is an amazon link if you are looking.

Aonijie 10L c9103

There are actually bandaids/covers made specifically for nipples.

Gray market, As the name implies, the gray market isn’t illegal, but it’s not really officially sanctioned by brands, either. In this article, we’ll talk about what it is, the effect it has on brands, and how to protect against it.

Usually, the factory is contract manufacturing a product for another company(solomon in this case), has one or two shifts going to supply the required order. Someone at the factory will run an additional shift making the same exact product with different colorways, and no, or a different, logo. Then then sell these products without paying the original company that contracted the manufacturer.

This is the shoe I saw.....

Yeah I have caveman feet and tried New Balance 4-6E shoes, even Wide Altra are just barely enough width in the toe. With the forefoot lace relief and a lock lace method up top, I have had a few hundred miles of no issues.

Another thing I have incorporated is very thin socks. I wear two pairs of Darn Tough Ultra Lightweight socks. Doing that has made it so there is never any bad sock bunching to create pressure spots and I have not gotten a single blister.

You might like to look for the book Fixing Your Feet by John Vonhof. It is like my foot bible.

Oh, I stick with the salt pills. Every 7km. I will vary it a bit with temperature, on cold winter runs where I’m sweating less I’ll take less salt. One more tip…. Magnesium bisglycinate - I take two 200mg capsules the night before the race, and one capsule the morning of the race.

Headsweats… fittingly! Although I have a backup cap that’s been getting a lot of wear, it was a really cheap one on Amazon with a massive brim that folds away nicely.

Amazon Link