You signed up for a trail race. Bold move. Whether you’re toeing the line at your first 10K or lining up for something ultra, a little prep goes a long way. We teamed up with our friends at Confluence Events, the folks who know how to throw a proper party in the dirt — to bring you our go-to gear list, our best technical trail running tips, and a few things you definitely shouldn’t do on race day.
Let’s get into it.
"If weaving through canyons, skirting along slick-rock, reaching epic vistas, and then chatting and dancing with new friends afterwards puts a smile on your face, then this race is for you." - Hanging Flume 50K, Uruvan, CO
THE GEAR CHECK
The golden rule of race prep? Don’t try anything new on race day. Unless you’re into blisters and unexpected GI distress. Here’s what we pack and test ahead of time:
☔️ Strafe Scout Jacket: Ultra-light, packable, and ready for surprise storms, and an extra layer to cut wind. This jacket is your insurance policy when the weather decides to go full Type II fun.
🎽 Skyline Tech Top: Wicking, breathable, and built for big days on your feet. Feels like nothing, performs like everything.
🎒 Running Vest or Belt: Think of this as your mobile aid station. Load it with nutrition, water, and the rest of your essentials. Practice with a full load so there are no surprises. Chaffing is real, know where your pack rubs, test out different packing arrangements for best fit and function!
🍌 Nutrition: Find what fuels you, and practice with it. Gels, chews, gummy bears, waffles, pb&j sammies, watermelon — whatever works. Bring backups. Research what food and nutrition sponsors are available at the race's aids, try those out to lighten your load. Electrolytes are life.
🧴 Sunscreen: Apply early, reapply often. High elevation sun exposure is real. A sunburned hydration vest tan is not a flex.
👟 Shoes: Dial these in well before race day. Go for grip, comfort, and something that’s seen dirt before. Break them in with some technical terrain, and maybe throw in a creek crossing or two.
🚽 When Duty Calls: LNT and respect the environments we're exploring. Know before you go. Research where bathrooms and port-a-potty stops are: the start, along the course, and finish lines. Bring along a Pact Outdoors Bathroom Kit for great sustainable backup solution. There's no poop fairy. 💩🧚 No one wants to dodge or pick up your TP flowers. Do your part to respect and keep our lands clean and safe.
📋 Required Gear: Check the race list and double-check it again. Rain shell? Space blanket? Buff that turns into 12 different things? Don’t be that person scrambling the morning of.
"If you enjoy running on golden paths of Fall colors in enjoyable cool temperatures, then this race is perfect for you." - Deep Creek Half Marathon, Telluride, CO
TRAIL RACE TIPS & TRICKS
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Power hike with purpose. Everyone hikes at some point — make it efficient. Hands on quads. Lean in. No shame. And if you've practiced bring poles, extra legs never hurt anyone. Do as the Euros do.
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Downhill = free speed (but also danger). Keep your weight slightly forward, eyes scanning 5-10 feet ahead. Channel your inner mountain goat.
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Aid stations are not buffets. Get what you need, say thanks, and keep it moving. Unless you’re mid-bonk — then yes, eat all the pickles or broth.
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Pace like you’re smarter than you are. Especially if you’re starting at elevation. Start slower than feels reasonable. You’ll thank yourself when the climb hits later.
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Smile for the photographer. Even if you’re dying. Especially if you’re dying.
FUNNY THINGS NOT TO DO IN A TRAIL RACE
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Don’t sprint the first quarter mile, it’s not a beer mile.
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Don’t ignore course markings because “you think you know a shortcut.”
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Don’t borrow new shoes from your roommate the night before.
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Don’t drop your banana peel on the trail. This isn’t Mario Kart.
TRAIL ETIQUETTE 101
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Yield to the climber. Uphill runners have the right of way.
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Call your passes: “On your left!” is polite. Bonus points for a “thank you!”
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Pack it in, pack it out. Yes, even your sticky gel trash. (Tip: bring a ziplock or dog poop bag for trash to stuff in your vest)
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Be cool. Cheer on fellow runners. High five kids. Thank volunteers. Trail racing is a community sport — act like it and maybe you'll encourage others out there in a time of need.
Show up prepared. Stay humble. Don’t poop on the trail. And remember: the best part of a trail race isn’t the finish line — it’s everything that happens after the start and in between.
We’ll see you out there!
- Strafe Outerwear x Confluence Events
Built for the best days. Even the Type II fun ones.
About Confluence Events
Built on the sentiment that recreation, health, and good vibes can pair with community growth and sustainable economic development, Confluence Events is devoted to creating fun events that provide the utmost value for both the participants, and the communities that they occur within.
Interested in running a Confluence Events race? Learn more and sign up here!