Fall In Love with Running (Again)

Fall In Love with Running (Again)

Six Essentials for Fall Trail Running

(@toni_carey)

I love Fall. The coziness of sweaters, the changing colors of leaves, pumpkin beer, pumpkin coffee, pumpkin muffins (can you tell I like pumpkin) and running. I learned a long time ago that I am not, I repeat, NOT a summer runner. I fight through the hot months, mostly complaining and running sans a shirt, only waiting for the cool crispness of Fall mornings. I. LOVE. FALL. I’m especially excited about this Fall. My first Georgia Fall. I’m talking trail running, Smokey Mountains, camping, S’mores (and I don’t even like S’mores), making my own fires, yeah, it’s going down. The temperature is falling (who’s to know if for good), but I’m already creating my Fall running checklist and I suggest you do the same to savor the changing season and say au revoir to summer.   (1) Pair of Brooks Cascadia 9 If you thought running shoes for the pavement were essential, good trail running shoes are imperative. I’ve attempted to run trails in regular running shoes and found myself slipping and sliding over rocks and branches. Not a good look. Trust me. Named Runner’s World Magazine’s “Editors Choice” in its April 2014 issue, the Cascadia will get you over the river and through the woods with the comfort and stability you need to tackle any trail AND the snow! (1) Pair of Salomon Trailer Gaiters Low What can ruin a good trail run? A rock or branch lodged in your shoe! Snag a pair of Salomon’s Trainer Gaiters to keep the sticks and stones out of your shoes, because they WILL hurt you.   (1) Website to Find the Best Trails In Your Area Welcome to AllTrails.com, brought to you in partnership with National Geographic. AllTrails.com is focused on outdoor recreation and provides information on 22 different activities including hiking, mountain biking, skiing and snowboarding. Simply put in your city or zip code to pick your poison complete with reviews and photos from users.   (1) Brooks Women’s LSD Lite Jacket IV I love a good jacket and the Brooks Women’s LSD Lite Jacket IV is no exception. It’s perfect as a windbreaker/rain coat to keep you warm and dry out on the trail or day-to-day. I love the ruching and pleated detail on the back of the jacket (because you should never have to sacrifice fashion for function). Not only that, when the skies clear and the weather warms, it packs away into its own pocket. At a mere 3.1 ounces, you can clip it on to your belt or backpack and forget about it! Sexy and Sassy!

 

(1) Trail Running Magazine I’m definitely a novice when it comes to trail running, but thanks to Trail Running Magazine, I can get the all of the information I need to get started. From learning how to run uphill and downhill to the secrets to keeping an even pace, you can find everything you need to successfully go on your first trail run.   (1 or more) REI Outdoor School Classes If you are fortunate enough to have a REI in your hood, one of the company’s best kept secrets is its outdoor school classes. From “Best Local Fall Hikes” to “Wilderness Survival: 3 Season Skills,” REI is literally your one-stop-shop when it comes to getting the hands on experience and education you need to get prepared and outfitted for whatever outdoor activity you have planned. I’ve got “Introduction to Backcountry Cooking” on my to-do list. I may have just found my new hobby.   What’s your favorite thing about Fall? Are you interested in trail running? Share!    

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