Summer Trail Running Gear Guide: Women’s Version

With an expansive network of trails just outside of Denver, you don’t have to travel far to be surrounded by nature.  These gear suggestions ensure you are not only prepared but comfortable so you can focus on the trails at hand!

• Train Smarter with 2XU Compression Technology

Run faster, play harder, workout longer – whatever your sport with 2XU Compression. The company makes everything from tights, guards, sleeves, socks and shirts to prove athletic performance. So how does it work? The clothing fits tightly around muscles, engaging them so circulation stays at it’s height. Other benefits of compression:

1. Faster recovery time.

2. Keeps muscles activated when working out.

3. Less post-workout fatigue and lactic acid build-up

4. Microfiber construction transports moisture away from the skin and helps regulate body temperature.

5. Supports muscle groups to reduce vibration, resulting in less soft tissue damage.

6. Increases Oxygen to Muscles

For summer and fall running for both training and competing- here is what we recommend:

• Women’s Compression 3/4 Tights ($89.95)

These tights use PWX FLEX fabric to support major muscle groups (hamstrings, quads, abductors and glutes). They also protect against bacteria, are breathable and lightweight.

• Women’s Compression Performance Sock ($49.95)

These socks can be used for both training and recovery as well as to help with rehab from injury or surgery. Another added benefit: these babies can minimize shin splits. And they are breathable so you don’t have to worry about smelly feet! 

• Maia Shell ($200)

The Maia Softshell Jacket from La Sportiva is 100% windproof, lightweight and breathable, making this a go-to for trail runners and hikers. Plus it’s a flattering cut and still goes to great extremes to shield you from crazy weather. Sides open for ventilation and reflective seams line the back to make sure are you visible while running at night.

• Dominate the trails with Helios ($120)

Lightweight and versatile, this shoe can be used on the trail or asphalt. How’s that for convenience? Whether you are running across rocks and mud or pounding the pavement, the cushioning molded into this shoe keeps feet happy. Plus, Nylon mesh ensures your feet stay dry by wicking moisture. And, lets be honest- the colors  it helps are fabulous!

* La Sportiva will be donating $10 from the sale of every pair of Women’s Helios ordered from L aSportiva to support the HERA Women’s Cancer Foundation. 

• Revenge R20 Fuel Belt ($43.95)

Buckle yourself into a fuel belt and never be thirsty on the trails again. Adjustable and comfortable, the belt won’t weight you down or bounce around. It fits so snuggly chances are you will even forget you have it on. The belt comes with two 7 ounce bottles (BPA Free) that are easy to grab as well as put back in the case. Options are also available that hold 3 to 4 bottles for those that will be on the trail for longer runs or hikes. Available in several fun and vibrant colors: including Royal Blue and Green, Red and Grey, Yellow and Grey as well as pink and yellow.

• Fuel Belt Night Runner Clip 

 

Gear up with a night Runner LED Light and never worry about cutting a run short after sunset again! The light, cleverly designed by Fuel Belt, can fit on a finger or clip into belts or running accessories. Choose between two settings: a flashing red and constant red. Either way you are guaranteed to play it safe.

• SnuggBuuds: SB-X & Pump’d Headphones ($39.95)

For crystal clear sound while taking the trails, turn to SnuggBuds Headset. For running, we recommend either the SB-X (sports model) or the Pump’d. The SB-X is the most lightweight while the Pump’D model knows how to seriously turn up the bass. All SnuggBuds are made of metal, aluminum alloy casings instead of plastic. This way audio stays balanced, crisp and clean.

Here’s the low down.

1. Cords won’t tangle! The cords are made of fabric so you won’t put a fight with them.

2. Perfect fit! Your headphones come with extra silicone ear gels to fit different ear shapes.

3. Scream color! SB-X colors include back, pink, white, chrome and purple. Pump’d colors include: red, pink, green, ice blue, as well as a mix of red, white and blue. USA!

•  Sweaty Bands ($12-$15)

• Sweaty Bands

Finally a fitness headband that doesn’t slip! Donna Browning, a fitness instructor, made it her goal to create a reliable band that keeps pesky hair out of your face! The elastic bands are backed with velvet that keep them comfortably and securely in place. Whether running, practicing yoga or lifting weights, the bands add style! They also come with plenty of patterns and prints to choose from including polka dots, sparkles, solids and stripes. Custom bands are also available complete with text and artwork.

•  Polar RCX3 GPS ($339.95)

Made with the multi-sport athlete in mind, this heart rate monitor allows you to input what kind of workout you are gearing up for so you have even more accurate readings. Whether you are running, cycling or snowshoeing, you can customize the settings through the 4 sport profiles. (Running, Cycling 1, Cycling 2, and Other Sport). During your workout, you will also receive feedback about which zones you should be training in- whether you need to push harder or take it down a notch. This allows you to train more effectively and also avoid overtraining.  This heart rate monitor also keeps tracks of, pace, average pace, time, zone, calories and distance. Post-workout you can track your route, sped and distance with the GPS sensor. Keep track and analyze your workouts to Polar’s online site polarpersonaltrainer.com

• Sun Bum Sunscreen 

For safe summer fun, you want to protect your skin. Brands like Sun Bum are free of junk that includes parabens, oxybenzone, PABA and retinyl palmitate. Formulated in Cocoa Beach, Florida, the sunscreen smells like the state it came from, an island paradise! Whether you reach for the lotion, spray sunscreen or face stick, the formulation is made to shield against both UVA and UVB rays. And don’t worry about break outs– this sunscreen is free of oils so your pores won’t clog- making this a perfect fit for trail running and other outdoor sports. Plus it’s water resistant and gluten free.

Sun Bum Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotions ($15.99)

Sun Bum Continuous Spray Sunscreens ( $15.99)

SPF 30 Face Stick ($9.99)

Don’t miss the Sun Bum Flavored Lip Balm ($3.99) Lips need some TLC too! Flavors: Banana, Key Lime, Coconut, Mango, Pink Guava Pomegranate flavors-all in SPF 30+.