Training essentials for road and trail.
Leki Micro Trail Vario Poles ($220)
The three-piece design on these ultralight carbon poles makes for fast and easy deployment or collapse as conditions change from rowdy to moderate. We especially liked the cork grips—a lifesaver after hours on the trail.
Tracksmith Reggie Half Tights ($68)
Named for Boston’s famed Reggie Lewis indoor running track, the Reggie half tights became our go-to for fast workouts. The Italian-made, stretchy nylon-elastane material minimized chafing and breathed well.
Brooks Ghost Shirt ($40)
The Ghost might be the thinnest, softest shirt we’ve ever worn. The polyester dries so fast, you won’t notice it’s there—almost, well, like a ghost.
Salomon Air Logo Cap ($30)
The wide mesh on the top and back of the Air Logo vented heat on midday runs, and the stubby brim did just fine keeping the sun’s rays at bay. At night, the reflective accents helped us stay visible to cars on the road.
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp ($70)
We love the simplicity of the Actik, which powers its 350 lumens via a rechargeable lithium battery that’s easy to top off before a run. No outlet? It also runs on three AAA batteries.
Arc’teryx Norvan 7 Hydration Vest ($179)
At just over nine ounces, the Norvan is silly light for how capable it is: seven liters of storage, a water-resistant compartment, and a pair of holsters for hydration flasks all cinch down to avoid bouncing.
L.L.Bean CoolMax Nano Glide Socks ($18 for two pairs)
We admire the Nano Glide’s ankle cut, and the stretchy nylon-poly mix has just enough padding in the heel and forefoot.
Mammut MTR 71 Shorts ($65)
Mammut nailed these shorts: a wide waistband keeps them in place, a zippered pocket holds a key or gel, and the poly-blend fabric never rubs.