8 Trail-Tested Essentials

Mild temperatures, warm sunshine and dry trails make summer prime time to run your favorite off-road routes. Before letting wanderlust be your guide, be sure to update your kit with some of these trail essentials.

Photos: Mark Doolittle

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Patagonia Duckbill Trucker Hat, $35

Trucker hats with performance characteristics are the latest must-have accessory. This one has a wicking headband and mesh back to dump heat, plus a dark underbill to reduce glare. It can even fold to fit into your pocket without losing its shape.

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Julbo Zephyr, $130

If you were to to make a list of features you want in running sunnies, these would check all the boxes. With photochromic lenses, full coverage, adjustable temples that stay in place without giving you a headache, ventilation and an adjustable nosepiece, you’ll forget you’re wearing them!

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UV Buff National Park NP Rocky Mountain, $25

A trail running staple, the latest UV Buffs celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service with designs representing six of the most iconic parks. In addition to blocking 95 percent of UV rays and controlling odor, 3 percent of every purchase is donated to the American Hiking Society.

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Altra StashJack, $130

Functional and unique, this wind- and water-resistant jacket
stores in a waist pack and is easy to put on as you go. Here’s the crazy part: It has an open back to fit over your pack, meaning no stopping and futzing with gear when bad weather rolls in. It even has a hood.

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Outdoor Research Sensor Dry Pocket Armband, $45

For those who run without a pack, finding a safe way to carry your phone can be a struggle. Consider the problem solved with a waterproof armband that fits comfortably and securely, leaving your hands free for scrambling. It also works with headphones.

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Montane VIA Armguard, $25

Make temperature adjustments on the fly with lightweight sleeves. Breathable and fast drying, the fabric (made from recycled coffee grounds) also offers UPF 50+ and odor control, and feels cool to the touch.

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Salomon Trail Gaiters High, $42

Keep rocks, mud, snow, sand and any other unwanted trail debris outside your shoes with these handy gaiters for happy feet. They go on over shoes and wrap around your ankles.

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Stance Fleshman OTC Socks, $36

Road and track speedster, author, and co-founder of Picky Bars Lauren Fleshman collaborated with Stance to adorn socks with her own inspired designs. The art on this over-the-calf style is an ode to the trails in her hometown of Bend, Ore. (Available July 1)

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