Gear & Apparel

What’s on your feet matters. Trailhead’s Gear & Apparel section covers the kit that keeps trail and ultrarunners moving — long-term trail shoe reviews, hydration vest testing, jacket and layering guides, sock and headlamp roundups, and brand-new product launches as they hit the trail. From entry-level trail shoes to 100-mile race-day kit, expect honest takes from runners who actually go long. Brought to you by UltraSignup, the world’s leading trail running registration platform.

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Trail Tested: Mount to Coast H1

How the versatile Mount to Coast H1 became such a buzzworthy shoe on the trails.

Brian Metzler

June 11, 2026

Trail Tested: Hoka Speedgoat 7

The Hoka Speedgoat 7 is dependable option for runners who value consistency, traction, and protection over long miles on the trail.

Allison Mercer

May 1, 2026

Trail Tested: Nike ACG Ultrafly

The Nike ACG Ultrafly is a cushy, responsive, and stable shoe design for long-distance running and ultra-distance racing on a variety of surfaces.

Brian Metzler

April 24, 2026

Trail Tested: Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL

The Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL is a soft, smooth-riding and versatile daily trainer.

Brian Metzler

April 19, 2026

Trail Tested: Kiprun KipSummit Race

The Kiprun KipSummit Race offers a good blend of semi-firm cushioning, energetic propulsion, reliable traction, and lateral stability.

Brian Metzler

April 10, 2026

Dirty Dozen: 12 of the Best Trail Shoes for Running in the Mud

Springtime running often means running on muddy trails. That’s OK if you’re wearing the right pair of shoes, specifically a pair of toothy trail runners with an outsole that boasts sizable lugs.

Brian Metzler

April 6, 2026