Master spring trail running layering, from breathable base layers to waterproof gear. Stay dry and comfortable with our expert tips.
Discover the joy of trail running this spring with our clothing guide. As the days grow longer and nature comes to life, there's no better time to take your first steps into the world of trail running.
We believe that everyone can experience the thrill of the trails, regardless of their experience level. Our guide is designed to help you start your journey with confidence, comfort, and a connection to nature.
Why Spring is Perfect for Trail Running
Spring offers ideal conditions for new trail runners:
- Mild temperatures
- Breathtaking scenery as nature awakens
- Longer daylight hours for flexible run times
Dressing for Success: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gear to get started. Focus on:
- Comfort: Choose clothing that feels good and allows easy movement.
- Breathability: Look for fabrics that help manage sweat and keep you cool.
- Versatility: Opt for layers you can add or remove as needed.
Our Trail Running Kit
Our range of trail running clothing is:
- Designed and tested in the UK's varied landscapes
- Perfect for unpredictable spring weather
- Made with materials that wick moisture and dry quickly
- Built to last, reducing environmental impact
Remember, the most important thing is to get out there and enjoy the experience. With the right clothing, you'll be comfortable and confident as you embark on your trail running journey.
Ready to take the first step? Explore our collection and find the perfect outfit for your spring trail running adventure!
Moisture management for Spring time trail running
For trail running, selecting the right base layers is crucial for optimal comfort and performance. This includes tops, shorts, tights, and underwear; garments designed to wick moisture away from the skin and facilitate rapid evaporation. This process not only helps cool you down during intense runs but also prevents the discomfort of clamminess and the chill that can set in from retained moisture.
We've developed a range of base layers specifically for trail runners:
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Koulin Trail Tee: Our bestselling trail running t-shirt is made from a lightweight, quick-drying fabric that efficiently wicks sweat away from your skin. Its anti-odour treatment keeps you feeling fresh even on long runs. "I've worn my Koulin Trail Tee for everything from 5k park runs to ultra-marathons. It's incredibly comfortable and dries in no time!" - Sarah, Alpkit customer and ultra-runner
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Koulin Trail Long Sleeve: For those cooler spring mornings, our long-sleeve version offers the same moisture-wicking properties with added coverage. Its thumb loops keep your hands warm at the start of your run.
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Koulin Trail 3/4 Tights: These tights are perfect for variable spring weather. Made from our four-way stretch fabric, they offer freedom of movement while providing light compression to support your muscles.
The choice of material plays a pivotal role here: Our synthetic fibres excel in wicking moisture and quick drying, making them ideal for the warmer months. We've also incorporated recycled materials into our fabric blend, aligning with our commitment to reducing environmental impact.
For cooler weather, we offer merino wool options like our Kepler range. Merino stands out for its natural breathability and ability to retain warmth even when wet. Both our synthetic and merino options are versatile for year-round use, with a slight preference for synthetics in the summer and merino in the winter, depending on your specific needs and the climate you're running in.
At Alpkit, we believe in the importance of proper care for your gear to ensure its longevity and performance. For our synthetic base layers, we recommend machine washing at 30°C and avoiding fabric softeners to maintain their moisture-wicking properties. Our merino products should be washed on a gentle wool cycle to preserve their natural properties.
Remember, the right base layer is just the foundation of a good layering system. In the next sections, we'll explore mid-layers and outer shells to complete your spring trail running outfit, all designed to work seamlessly together for optimal performance on the trails.
Spring Breeze: Tackling Unpredictable Winds
When facing the capricious nature of spring weather, don't underestimate the importance of a good windproof jacket or gilet. At Alpkit, we've designed lightweight, highly packable layers that are your first line of defence against the spring chill.
Our Arro Windshell is a prime example of what a spring trail running jacket should be. Weighing just 100g, it packs down to the size of an apple, making it easy to stow in your running pack. Yet, despite its minimal weight, it's remarkably effective at cutting through the wind and light rain you might encounter on your spring trails.
"The Arro Windshell has been a game-changer for my spring runs. It's so light I forget I'm carrying it, but it's saved me countless times when the weather turned." - Mike, Alpkit customer and trail running enthusiast
For those who prefer a vest, our Gilet Go is designed specifically for high-output activities like trail running. It offers core protection without restricting arm movement, perfect for those spring days when a full jacket feels like overkill.
Moreover, accessorising with our Multitube neck warmer, Merino 150 Beanie, and Flip Gloves can be a game-changer. These seemingly small additions are incredibly effective at retaining body heat and can be easily carried, ready to be deployed when the spring temperature dips unexpectedly.
Spring Thaw: Insulation Without Overheating
For those chillier spring mornings or high-altitude trails, consider beefing up your layering system. Our Griffon Fleece is a lightweight, breathable mid-layer that offers additional warmth without compromising on moisture management. Its grid fleece interior traps warm air while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape, making it perfect for variable spring conditions.
For a versatile outer layer, our Morphosis Jacket is hard to beat. It's a hybrid of a light insulated jacket and a breathable softshell, designed to adapt to your activity level and the changing spring weather. The synthetic PrimaLoft® insulation in the body provides warmth where you need it most, while the stretchy softshell sleeves and side panels allow for unrestricted movement and excellent breathability.
"I love how the Morphosis adapts to my run. It keeps me warm at the start, but I don't overheat once I get going. It's become my go-to jacket for spring trail running." - Emma, Alpkit ambassador
Spring in Your Step: Choosing the Right Trail Running Legwear
As spring arrives, it's time to transition from the heavier gear of winter. Our Koulin Trail Shorts are perfect for those warmer spring days, offering unmatched comfort and mobility for fast-paced activity on hilly terrains. Made from a lightweight, quick-drying fabric with built-in briefs, they're designed to keep you cool and comfortable on your springtime trails.
For those who prefer more coverage or for cooler spring mornings, our Koulin Trail 3/4 Tights offer a versatile solution. They provide additional coverage while still allowing for excellent mobility and comfort, making them an excellent choice for variable spring weather. The high-stretch fabric moves with you, while the wide waistband ensures they stay in place no matter how technical the trail.
April Showers: Essential Spring Waterproofs
Spring weather can be unpredictable, with sunny skies quickly giving way to rain showers. Our Gravitas Jacket is a non-negotiable for those capricious spring days. Weighing just 170g, it's one of the lightest fully waterproof and breathable jackets on the market. Despite its featherweight construction, it boasts a 20,000mm hydrostatic head and 20,000 g/m²/24hr MVTR, ensuring you stay dry from both rain and sweat.
The Gravitas is designed with runners in mind. Its athletic fit allows for unrestricted movement, while the fully adjustable hood can be cinched down to move with your head as you navigate technical trails. When the sun comes out again, it packs down small enough to fit in the pocket of your running shorts or vest.
"The Gravitas has been a revelation for my spring runs. It's so light and packable that I always have it with me, and its performance in sudden downpours has been outstanding." - Tom, Alpkit customer and trail runner
Spring-Ready Feet: Trail Running Footwear and Socks
Choosing the right footwear for spring trail running is crucial for comfort and performance. While Alpkit doesn't currently produce trail running shoes, we've partnered with leading brands to offer a selection that complements our running apparel.
However, we do produce high-performance running socks that are perfect for spring conditions. Our Trail Running Socks are designed with a blend of merino wool and synthetic fibres, offering the best of both worlds. The merino provides natural temperature regulation and odour resistance, while the synthetics ensure excellent moisture-wicking and durability.
The socks feature targeted cushioning in high-impact areas to absorb shock on rocky spring trails, and mesh panels for enhanced breathability as temperatures rise. A seamless toe construction reduces the risk of blisters, crucial for those long spring runs as you build up your mileage.
Catch Spring Off Guard
As you embark on this season's trail running adventures, let this guide and our thoughtfully designed gear inspire your clothing choices. At Alpkit, we're committed to helping you enjoy the trails safely and comfortably, while also treading lightly on the environment. Our products are built to last, and we offer a repair service to extend their life even further.
Remember, the joy of spring trail running lies in being prepared for anything. With the right layers, you're ready to run free, and let the trails lead you to catch spring nature off guard. Happy running!
Women's Trail Run Clothing
Lightweight, quick-drying trail running shorts with Polygiene® odour control
$49.99
Twin layer running shorts for better weather protection and reduced chafing on long runs
$64.99
Wicking and fast-drying long-sleeved base layer tee with Polygiene®
$39.99
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