Disclosure: Some of the gear featured was previously provided for review. This article was written independently, with no brand involvement.
Ciss Outdoors is an independent outdoor and travel publication exploring places through time spent outside. Writing draws on personal experience and regional familiarity, with an emphasis on practical judgement.
Trail running is one of those outdoor activities where kit choices quickly start to matter. Conditions can change fast, terrain varies underfoot, and once you’re moving for any length of time, comfort and reliability come into play.
Over the years, I’ve refined the trail running gear I carry through trial and error. The kit listed here is what I now rely on for running regularly in Scottish conditions.
If you’re new to trail running or simply looking to refine what you already use, this breakdown covers the core items that form the backbone of my setup, alongside areas where decisions change depending on distance, weather, and terrain.
Gear List Overview
Trail Shoes: Keen Seek
Available from: Keen and other UK retailers.
The Keen Seek are extremely comfortable. The sock-like construction hugs the foot without feeling tight, and the wider toe box gives your foot room to move on uneven ground. They dry quickly when wet and have held up well despite the amount of mileage I put through my trail shoes.
Key features
- Sock-like, cushioned fit
- Roomy toe box
- Quick-drying
- Durable
Why They Earn a Place in My Gear
They remain comfortable over long distances and have held up better than any trail shoes I’ve owned to date.
Running Vest: Rab Veil 12L
Available from: Rab and other UK retailers.
The Rab Veil 12L is a well-made, dependable running vest with enough capacity to be versatile. The rear compression bungees helps keep the load secure and close to the body. It comes with two 500ml soft flasks, which adds value. While the fit takes a little time to adjust to your liking, it remains secure once set.
Key features
- 12L capacity
- Rear compression system
- Supplied with soft flasks
- Conveient front pocket layout
Why It Earns a Place in My Gear
The build quality, which matters most when I need to carry kit over longer distances. The compression bungees mean the 12L doesn’t feel bulky when it’s mostly empty.
Waterproof Running Jacket: Mac in a Sac Ultralite
Available from: Mac in a Sac and other UK retailers.
This jacket is extremely lightweight and packs down into its own integrated pocket, making it easy to carry and ideal for travel. The hood is close-fitting with a stiffened peak, which helps keep rain out in heavy downpours, and the elasticated cuffs seal well in wet weather. The fit works well for me as a taller woman, feeling tailored without being restrictive.
Key features
- Very lightweight
- Packs into integrated pocket
- Close-fitting hood with stiffened peak
- Elasticated cuffs
- High-visibility colour option
Why It Earns a Place in My Gear
Reliable protection in heavy rain without adding bulk or weight. The fit and packability make it easy to carry and rely on when conditions turn.
GPS Watch: Garmin epix (Gen 2) Sapphire
Exact model discontinued – Garmin current range.
The Garmin Epix (Gen 2) Sapphire is an excellent GPS watch with strong battery life and a screen that is easy to read at a glance. The Sapphire lens is a big part of why I trust it for trail running, because it holds up well to the inevitable knocks and scrapes.
It’s particularly useful for pacing and timing nutrition on longer runs, and it integrates directly with Strava. Battery drain is noticeably higher when using mapping, but I do not rely on the watch for navigation, I carry a map and compass.
Key features
- 47 mm case, 1.3-inch display
- Tough sapphire crystal lens
- Strong battery life for normal use
Why It Earns a Place in My Gear
It gives me pacing and timing I can rely on, and it stands up to real outdoor use. Mapping drains the battery faster than I would like, but that is not how I use it.
GPS Emergency Communication:
Garmin inReach Mini 2
Available from: Garmin and other UK retailers.
When running solo in remote areas, a communication and SOS device is a non-negotiable for me. I carry the Garmin inReach Mini 2 for emergencies only, but it also allows two-way messaging and location sharing when there is no phone signal. It requires a monthly subscription.
Key features
- 100 g
- Global satellite coverage
- Battery life: up to 4 days with moderate tree cover
- IPX7 waterproof rating
Why It Earns a Place in My Gear
Peace of mind without needing phone signal, with minimal additional weight.
Base Layers and Legwear
Base layers and legwear vary by season and conditions, so I don’t treat them like fixed kit in the same way as shoes or a jacket.
Useful things to know
- Merino base layers breathe well, help regulate body temperature, and still feel comfortable if they get damp.
- For tights and leggings, I generally prefer a compressive feel that supports muscles without restricting movement.
- In warmer weather, I’ll opt for shorts and tops that have mesh panels or good sweat-wicking properties.
These pointers help me stay comfortable across a range of conditions.
Other Items I Carry Depending on Distance, Weather, and Terrain
Beyond the core kit, there are a few smaller items I carry depending on how far I’m running, the conditions, and where I’m heading. This isn’t the same for every run. What I take changes based on judgement of that specific run.
Examples include a head torch if there’s any chance of running into low light, or a map and compass when I’m heading into more remote terrain.
Other items I regularly choose from include:
- Powerbank – for phone, watch or GPS comms device running out
- Foil blanket – light, small and easy to carry in case of an emergency
- Sun protection – suncream or UPF50 lightweight hoodie for coverage, sunglasses
- Cold weather accessories – Buff, gloves, beanie, headband
- Nylon cap – great for either sun protection or to keep rain out of your eyes
- Electrolytes – for particularly hot or long runs
- Nutrition – anything high-calorie and easy to eat on the go, e.g., jelly babies, gels
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Related reading:
Can I Call Myself a Runner? What Really Counts
Resting Isn’t Quitting: The Importance of Recovery in Outdoor Adventures
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