Top Trail Gear & The Best Local Trails

Ready to get outdoors and take to the trail? Make the most of your day and your adventure with these must-have items. Included on this checklist, you will find some of our top products and footwear for the great outdoors. Also, check out the list of our favorite local trails! 

Trail Checklist

 

Trail Shoes

A good pair of trail shoes will keep your feet dry and happy during all your trail walks and runs. Trail shoes are durable, supportive, and provide traction so that you can stay steady on varying terrains. 

Performance Socks

The last thing you want on a trail walk or run is blisters on your feet! Avoid blisters with a pair of moisture-wicking socks. Also, try out a taller sock length to cover your ankles and calves. This will decrease any dirt and mud splatters and will also help keep the ticks off you!

Moisture-Wicking Apparel

Stay dry with moisture-wicking clothing. Depending on the season, you may want to invest in additional layers so you’ll be prepared for cool mornings and warm afternoons. Also, consider how much sun exposure you will have on the trail. For trails that are more open make sure you are covered and use sunscreen. Additional coverage is also a good idea for areas that are highly populated with ticks.
Hat or Buff
Keep your head covered and avoid overexposure of the sun as you navigate the trail. We love the Sprints hats! The fun colorful patterns make them the perfect addition to your running wardrobe. Buy one, or collect them all!
Hydration Gear
Make sure to pack enough water for the amount of time you will be out and about. When deciding how much water to pack, be sure to consider the temperature and how many hours you will be outside. You have choices when it comes to hydration gear including waist packs, handheld bottles, and vests.

Nutrition

Don’t forget snacks! Pick from a wide variety of gels, chews, or drink powders to keep you energized all day out on the trail. 
Garmin GPS Watch
A GPS watch will help you stay on track and record your mileage.
Safety & Reflective Gear
Depending on the time of day or amount of time you plan to be on the trail, you may want to carry a light or wear a headlamp. In addition, safety items such as a whistle are great to take on less traveled trails. Be sure to always share your location and length of time traveling with a loved one or friend. 

Our Favorite Local Trails

W&OD Trail: This 45 mile trail runs from Arlington to Purcellville. For 32 miles of the trail, there is a gravel horse path next to the main trail which provides a softer surface for those longer runs and walks. If you're looking for a bite to eat or a cold beer, there are plenty of restaurants and breweries right off the trail! A few of our store locations are also located right near the W&OD!

C&O Canal Towpath: The towpath is a 184.5 mile dirt and stone path that runs along the C&O canal. The trail starts in Georgetown and runs all the way to Cumberland, Maryland! 

Burke Lake: Located in Fairfax Station, this 888 acre park is full of beautiful trails for running and walking! The scenic trail around the lake is 4.7 miles long. After your run or walk, check out the mini golf or disc golf courses, carousel, or miniature train! 

Lake Fairfax: Another local park with trails is Lake Fairfax located in Reston. This 476 acre park has plenty of paths to keep you busy on your next walk or run. Did you know that you can access the W&OD trail from Lake Fairfax?

Mount Vernon Trail: Looking for a more urban trail experience? Check out the Mount Vernon Trail which is an 18 mile paved trail that runs from Theodore Roosevelt Island to George Washington's Mount Vernon. This trail runs along the Potomac River, giving runners and walkers outstanding views of the DC skyline. Did you know that the Mount Vernon Trail is one of the most heavily used multi-use trails in the country? 

 

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