Continuous Forward Progress

I went out to eat prior to running yesterday and I kept getting weird looks. I realized that running trails has caused some important changes in how I prepare to run. I would guess a fellow trail runner could recognize a fellow female trail runner with the following 5 criteria:

1. Trail Running Shoes

I love my Mizuno Wave Ascends! It isn’t just that they are cute…which they are.  But, even better than their adorable-ness factor, is their functionality! They are lighter than my regular running shoes and the soles keep the traction on slippery surfaces as well as rocky terrain. Each person runs differently and needs to find the shoe that fits their running. If you are running trails, find a pair  of trail running shoes that works for you!

2. Gaiters

I HATE getting rocks and pebbles down in my shoes or those stick-tights sticking to my socks. Gaiters help prevent that from happening.  Fellow Mudbabes suggested I try out a pair from Dirty Girl Gaiters. What a GRAND idea! I look cute and my feet stay safe. I also like the price at $20 a pop and all profits are donated to worthwhile charities by the ultramarthoner who creates them. Don’t let the name fool you. I’ve seen both male and female trail runners sporting these bad boys at races.

3. Staying Hydrated

Trail runners carry their water with them. For long runs, I love my Nathan Hydration Vest. It holds almost 2 liters of water plus tons of space for food, toilet paper, and what not. Whether you prefer a hand held bottle or a vest, most runners out in the woods carry their water.

4. The Running Skirt

I never thought I would actually prefer to run in a running skirt. It is comfortable and hides parts of my body that age and ill use have made not so pretty. I don’t have a favorite brand yet. Next, I plant to check out Lucy Running Skirts and SparkleSkirts.com. Let me know if you have a favorite!

5. Hair Styles

So, my hairstyle is less about making a fashion statement as it is on being comfortable. I have these little wispy strands of hair that can’t even be tamed by a pony tail. Only with using a headband or pig tails can do I stop messing with my hair as I run. I see all manner of hairstyles on fellow Mud Babes. So, if you want to run trails, do what you want!

So, ladies, get out on the trails and run in style… or at least in comfort and have some fun !

Thanks to See KC Run for taking photos at Trail Nerds Events!

~ by Terri Johnson on August 6, 2012 . Tagged: clothing, female, mud babes, running, trail running, ultrarunning