Getting out to run the fantastic trails, dual tracks and mountain roads of South Africa requires the right kit and gear. At its simplest trail running is liberating because all you need is a pair of shoes, socks, shorts and a tee to head out on an adventure. For short runs like those, where you’re going fast and light, First Ascent has you covered. We can also kit you out for long runs too, from marathons to ultras, First Ascent has performance-tested gear to help you through any trail adventure.
The basis of the First Ascent Trail Running collections is the AR-X and X-Trail products. But for the roadies and runners wishing to expand their wardrobes the Kinetic and Corefit provide more colours, styles and some great cold-weather running kit. There is also a range of hats, caps, neck gaiters and other accessories which will help keep you warm or protected from the sun, on your run.
Fast and Light Kit
For everyday training runs and short trail races the perfect outfit is a simple pair of shorts and a tee. Avid trail runners can combine the Men’s or Ladies X-Trail tee with the Men's AR-X 6" Running Shorts or the Ladies Corefit Air 4-inch Short. The X-Trail tees are constructed from lightweight Polygiene® permanent odour fabric, which not only prevents the growth of odour-causing bacteria but is also light enough to ensure complete freedom of movement. For the guys the AR-X 6" shorts are, as the name suggests six inches long, but also feature a five-inch inner brief to prevent chafe. They are constructed from lightweight ripstop Nylon, making them exceptionally durable and suitable for those off-trail bundu bashing excursions. Women who prefer running in shorts to tights will love the Corefit Air 4inch shorts because of their breathable LiteSpeed outer fabric and Quick-Wic inner brief. Both the men’s and women’s shorts recommended here have a convenient key pocket, while the AR-X shorts also have mesh pockets on the waistband which provide a handy place to stow a bar or gel for those longer runs.
To keep the sun off your face while out on the trail, the Limitless Running Cap is a great addition to any runner’s arsenal. It features a packable design, is constructed from Cool Dry fabric and has an adjustable elasticated back with a plastic buckle to ensure a comfortable fit.
Kitted in these First Ascent garments, with a pair of good trail shoes, you will be ready to take on any mountain run to the point where you start to need a hydration vest. Though if you get thirsty sooner than most, but do not want to carry a pack, you can grab a Collapsible Cup and stow it in your shorts pocket. With that in hand, you will be able to drink easily at water sources or grab hydration from a trail run aid station, without relying on a single-use plastic vessel.
Cold and Wet Kit
When the weather gets cold or the rain starts to fall First Ascent have a range of products to keep you warm and dry on the trails. The first items to consider for cold temperature runs are the X-Trail tights. Available in Men’s and Ladies specific cuts they are designed to keep you warm at the start of your runs, and then, thanks to their moisture-wicking Tevole Elastane fabric construction, dry once you get going. Strategically located quad grippers stop them from riding up, while mesh and a rear pocket, complete with a zip, provide storage for essentials like car keys and energy gels.
Staying warm up top can include wearing a baselayer, in really cold weather, or simply donning a long-sleeve tee. First Ascent’s Baselayer range features both vest and long-sleeve options for everything from cool to ice-cold weather. Then to stay dry in the rain the AR-X Jackets are ideal. Rated waterproof with for up to a 15 000mm water column the Men’s and Ladies AR-X Running Jackets have a double-covered full-length YKK front zip, sealed seams and are constructed from 100% Nylon Ripstop VapourTex fabric. Vitally the AR-X Jackets are compliant with the most stringent trail race gear check-lists and can stow away in a small stash pocket, allowing them to easily fit in a hydration vest.
Other winter warmer kit items from First Ascent, which trail runners should consider, are the Flex Arm Warmers and the Printed Neck Gaiter to help stay warm on chilly runs.
Trail Running Accessories
First Ascent also offers a range of Accessories to make your life on the trails safer and easier. From the Collapsible Cup, featured above, to the essential Safety Blanket, which reflects up to 90% of your body heat back at you when you wrap yourself in it. Other handy accessories include the hydration bladders for your hydration vest and the Ibex II Trekking Pole for the really tough mountain runs.
Browse our X-Trail Running range for the apparel and gear you need for your next trail run.
Stay Updated
There are also some really cool new products dropping in June 2023… so keep an eye on the First Ascent Newsletter and social media handles. Like the First Ascent Facebook page, follow @firstascentSA on Twitter or @firstascentsa on Instagram, and subscribe to the First Ascent SA YouTube Channel.
Shop the ranges: Full First Ascent Men’s Running Range | Full First Ascent Women’s Running Range
Read more First Ascent blogs and adventure stories.
Author: Seamus Allardice