Trail Blazers: The Best Gear for Your Off-Road Runs

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Taking to the trails can add a whole new dimension to your runs, whether you're climbing long distances, speeding through the woods or picking your way over rocks. However you choose to do it, trail running gets rugged--and your gear needs to be able to hold up. Here are some picks for trail running gear designed to go the distance with you.
Hoka One One Speedgoat
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Inspired by ultrarunner Karl Meltzer, these kicks were specifically made to handle tricky terrain. The uppers hug the forefoot for extra support, and a rubber toecap protects against rocks. Hefty yet lightweight lugs on the trail-specific sole deliver stability and traction off road. Available in men's and women's sizes. ($130; hokaoneone.com)
Zeal Optics Decoy Sunglasses
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Light can vary on the trails as you run through trees, into blazing sun, or experience flat light from overcast skies. Zeal Optics' new AutoSUN technology features a polarized, photochromic lens that changes its tint to correspond with the UV light, allowing you to see better and stay protected no matter the conditions. The Decoy sunglasses also feature eco-friendly Z-Resin plant-based frames and rubber on the temples and nose bridge to help them stay comfortable and in place. ($219; zealoptics.com)
Lululemon Men's Surge Short
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These run shorts are made with trail-specific, 'Hi-Impact' fabric, designed to resist tears and rubs from rocks and branches. They also feature a sweat-wicking liner for supportive, chafe-free comfort, along with a rear compression pocket to keep items from bouncing around. Reflective details help keep you visible when light gets low. ($74; lululemon.com)
SmartWool PhD Run Short
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Stretchy and lightweight, yet durable fabric moves with you as you slice through the trees, and a soft merino wool inner brief provides thermoregulation to help keep you warm or cool, depending on the temperature. A zippered back pocket holds items close to your body, and reflective details all around the shorts help you stay seen at night. ($80; smartwool.com)
Patagonia Fore Runner Shirt
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Long distances call for sweat-wicking, quick-dry materials, and this shirt's lightweight, (100 percent recycled!) polyester fabric delivers. Flat, off-set seams help prevent chafe, and Polygiene odor control technology helps keep you stink free. The Fore Runner also features built-in UPF 15 sun protection and reflective logos to help keep you visible at night. Available in men's and women's sizes. ($39; patagonia.com)
Sunday Afternoons Sprinter Cap
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The Sprinter wicks moisture via breathable, microfiber mesh and features a UPF 50-plus sun protection rating. It also features an integrated sweatband to help keep you dry. The packable, adjustable cap has a ponytail opening in back, and is available in men's and women's sizes. ($23; sundayafternoons.com)
Nathan Trail Mix Belt
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If you're running a long distance, you'll want to take water and some gels. Nathan's trail-specific belt can hold off-road hazards and is designed to carry your necessities bounce-free. The fully adjustable belt features pockets for your phone, keys and food along with two included BPA-free bottles. ($45; nathansports.com)
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