What We're Getting Dirty With

Published July 30, 2020 10:57PM

The days are getting longer and hotter as my adventures take me further into the mountains. Here’s the gear I’ve been using to go the distance and gear up for summer summit season.

Patagonia Endless Run Shorts

These shorts are the real deal for long summer runs. Sporty, light and with plenty of storage, they’re built for coverage and performance while running in the mountains. Burly seams make these babies as sturdy as shorts come (mine have survived many a wash, intact!) and a 4″ inseam allows for striding and scrambling without riding up or chafing. Two generous side pockets, and a big pocket at the back can hold enough snacks for a very long jaunt, while a sturdy waistband keeps them from bouncing, even when loaded down.

Tracksmith Twilight Tank

Tracksmith’s earthy-hued spring and summer collection is right at home on the track or on the trail. I’m a huge fan of the twilight tank, for it’s singlet like construction and ultra-luxurious fabric that’s as durable as it is appealing. The twilight tank has generous straps that won’t chafe under a vest and offer just a tad more protection from the sun. This tank’s versatile looks and cut make it a staple piece for year-round running. Tracksmith’s line rocks vintage speedster vibes with classic cuts, perfect for tempo-zooms around town or long days on the trail.

La Sportiva Kaptivas

I like trail shoes that fit like sneakers and feel light and ready to rally. La Sportiva’s Kaptivas are exactly that. A sporty off-road runner that craves speed in the single track. They don’t feel overbuilt or sloppy, and are ready to roll for techy, or even scrambly adventure runs. Impact lugs make for efficient breaking on the descents, and a rock guard in the midsole helps protect the feet. These are great kicks for summer runs on packed trail and in the alpine.

Salomon Pulse Hydration Belt

Salomon’s Pulse hydration belt is perfect for hot runs where you need a little extra agua to get you through. This simple, hydration helper is light and makes stashing snacks and sips easy on the go. A front pouch is perfect for easy-access snacks and a phone, while a back zip pocket can safely hold keys and a credit card. The minimal design and low profile make this easy to wear over or under a t-shirt, and minimize sweating. This is perfect for runs where you might just need one flask to get you through.

Julbo Fury Sunglasses

I’d never been a huge fan of big-frame shades, but the Fury’s totally changed my mind. They are light, speedy and feel like a windshield for my face. The reactive lenses are perfect for variable light conditions, like running through a forest. The single-pane lenses keep imagery sharp and don’t mess with depth perception. These babies look and feel fast, on the road or on the trail.

Hoka One One Ora Flip Flops

When I’m en route to the trail head, lounging – er – working from home, or pretty much everywhere in between, I’m rocking some cush recovery shoes. Avoiding being barefoot and wearing a supportive shoe between runs can help with arch and calf pain, and these flips are so light, you’ll forget you’re even wearing them.

GU Roctane Energy Drink

This drink mix is delicious, and the summit tea flavor isn’t overly sweet, which makes it easy to stomach on hot, long runs. With 35mg of caffeine, you’ll be ready to ROCK without tearing up your stomach. Each serving has 250 calories, which makes it a great addition to your ultra-fueling strategy, and also has electrolytes. The 24-serving container is a sustainable option for athletes filling their own flasks for mountain adventures.

Zoë Rom is Assistant Editor at Trail Runner , host of the DNF Podcast and a trail running coach. She enjoys podcasts and pizza.