Working calculators
Pack Capacity by DistanceRight pack size for your trail run distance. Shoe Lug Depth by TerrainRight outsole aggressiveness for your trail type.Plain note about money: Some product links are affiliate (eBay Partner Network). Small commission, doesn't change your price.
Guides
Gear actually worth buying
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Trail running shoesHoka Speedgoat for cushion, Salomon Speedcross for grip, Altra Lone Peak for wide-toe box. Don't road-test trail shoes — surface matters.
Hydration vest (2L)Nathan Pinnacle and Salomon ADV Skin fit most body shapes without bounce. Chest straps matter more than back capacity for runs under 3 hours.
Running headlampBlack Diamond Spot 400 and Petzl Actik Core are the two you'll see at every pre-dawn trail start. Rechargeable beats disposable past 50 miles of yearly use.
Ankle gaitersShort gaiters keep debris out without adding weight. Dirty Girl Gaiters and Injinji-compatible options attach directly to shoe lace loops.
Collapsible trekking polesZ-poles fold small enough for a vest pocket. Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z is the reference; Leki Micro Vario is the packable alternative.