My dog Charlie might be the most outfitted dog in all of New Mexico. Collars, dog beds, GPS trackers, seat protectors, you name it—Charlie has tested a lot of gear. So it’s pretty significant when a product comes along that truly excites me (and him). When I saw the ($15) at Outdoor Retailer this summer, I knew it was going to change how Charlie and I play outside.
What’s so revolutionary about a dog bowl? Well, the Trail Runner weighs only 0.8 ounces. That’s less than a slice of bread, five quarters, or six sheets of paper. It’s pretty freaking lightweight. Plus, the bowl packs into its own exterior pocket and is about the size of a golf ball when stored fully. It stashes easily inside the small hip pockets on my pack and even in the back pocket on my leggings when I’m out for a fast hike or run.
The polyester fabric is coated with a plastic material that is PVC-free and makes the bowl completely watertight. When I’m done using the bowl for the day, I make sure to unfold it and let it air-dry completely to prevent bacteria from growing inside.
If you are outside with your dog multiple times a week, this bowl is a worthy addition to your kit. Plus, it won’t add more weight to your pack than the PB&J you made for lunch.