ADV SKIN 12 by Salomon — The ADV Skin 12 is a classic larger capacity trail running vest that carries a lot well while running, and remains true to "vest feel" versus carrying more like a small pack. Generous pockets for snacks, bear spray, flasks, and spare layers. Be sure to size properly.
Spot 400 Headlamp by Black Diamond — BD headlamps of all types are in our gear room, but the relatively simple and bright Spot is a winner. For everyday use it’s rechargeable, but also takes AAA when a spare is needed.
Capilene Cool Sun Hoodie - Men's by Patagonia — The new Patagonia Cap Cool sun hoody is a game changer, with zip pocket and a new fabric that is comfortable and 40 UPF. Whether you're skinning uphill in the sun or enjoying a lunch break waiting for corn, a sun hoody is a critical piece of gear for any long tour in the alpine.
ULTRATRAIL FX.ONE by Leki — The FX.one Ultralight fixed-length poles have a great removable strap system and multi-purpose grip, with a simple folding system. Great for long runs where ounces and transition speed matter.
Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5 L Water Filter Bottle Blue by Katadyn — The Katadyn Befree are an essential part of any mountain adventure where there's running water -- like the streams throughout the Tetons. Even if the locals say they trust the water, trust your gut and make it happy by filtering.
Bobcat by Smith Optics — The Smith Bobcat is a great, full coverage pair of sunglasses that fits many face types well. The photochromatic lenses help when transitioning from a sudden snow storm to high alpine sun, and everything in between.
Elysian Fields | Packable Run Cap by Skida — For those with medium to large crowns, this Skida run hat is perfect for summer adventures. Quick drying for when you want to dip in an alpine lake or under a waterfall.
I’ve been a follower of Skida since the early days, and their products and print selection don’t disappoint.
Ultralight/Watertight Medical Kit - .3 by Adventure Medical Kits — A nice tiny first aid kit for single-day adventures.
8.1oz Bear Deterrent Spray by Counter Assault — Luckily haven't had to use, knock on wood (but used old canisters to test). This is the smallest option to save weight; some stuffing of a flask pocket is required for it to carry with less bounces (versus the larger 10 oz cans).
ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe - Women's by Nike — Ben swears by these (Laura has a few pairs too). Fits pretty true to size. A good balance between cushioning and speed. Not the most technical, but plenty for most established trails that don't involve too much boulder hopping or scrambling. Plenty of cushion for long efforts.
Prodigio Pro Women's by La Sportiva — Laura swears by these for many long runs, and has used many a La Sportiva trail shoe for trips up to the huts. Any time of the season, from early runs with snow to fall runs with dust and less water crossings - a trail runner like these can be the perfect footwear for a long run like Teton Crest -- fast drying and low bulk.
UltraFlask™ Speed 500ml 2-Pack by HydraPak — Easy to fill and designed to fit a wide variety of pockets, we use these flasks for water and electrolyte drinks alike on long runs. Generally carry two, both up front, but sometimes one is enough if it's not too hot as there is quite a bit of available water on the Leadville 100 course.
Hydration Sport Drink Mix Variety Pack by Skratch Labs — The Scratch single-serve packets are a great option for longer runs so you can add your favorite flavor to a flask of filtered water mid-race.
Skratch Labs Sport Energy Chews by REI — All flavors (especially the sour cherry with a little caffeine) are part of any good long run, one large step above gummy bears. Be sure to bring a couple flavors to keep up variety.
SOL Emergency Blanket by REI — An essential in every pack, big or small. You never know when you'll need it, but when you do, you do. Cell phones and satellite messengers aren't perfect, helicopters can't fly in all conditions, and sometimes you need to hunker down.
Fenix 8 Pro Amoled Sport Watch by Garmin — We've used Garmin Fenix series watches for many years, and they are some of the best for multi-sport use (and relatively waterproof in unforgiving conditions). Mapping on your wrist helps prevent missed turns on the many tricky trails in Holy Cross Wilderness. The Garmin Connect app is easy to use.
inReach Mini 3 Plus by Garmin — We've used a few iterations of the InReach mini for out-of-service adventures (and even in-service ones where you need an extra safety margin). This most recent allows you to exchange photos, which is a great addition.
Be careful if traveling abroad; some countries do not allow these.
M10 Anorak - Men's by Patagonia — The m-10 from Patagonia is a great lightweight layer for rain and snow days (or high wind / blowing snow, or even extra warmth). Reasonably waterproof for monsoon conditions.
Multi Trails 8in Short - Men's by Backcountry — These are a nice lined Mens short that Ben swears by for long runs. More coverage than many running shorts means less re-applied sunscreen. A nice mix of pockets as well for wrappers or other light essentials.
Terrebonne Jogger - Men's by Patagonia — The Terrebonne jogger is a great, lightweight, just in case pant -- for pre-dawn starts, wind on high passes, or an after-sunset downhill jog back to the hut. If you're going lighter-weight on your hut trip, this is a good pant option. Also mostly mosquito-proof.
Capilene Cool Daily Long-Sleeve Shirt - Men's by Patagonia — Ben loves the long-sleeve Patagonia capilene daily shirts. They have a nice, soft hand feel, provide good sun and wind protection, and are a nice base layer for under a puffy or fleece if its colder.
Vert Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Cushion Sock - Men's by Darn Tough — A nice, lightweight cushioned sock for longer runs -- with the added cushioning keeping your feet happy for longer. The Merino blend is warm when wet, and dries quickly.
Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF50 (Reef Safe) by Dermatone — Dermatone's sunscreen sticks are great for on-the-go, low-mess sun protection. For high altitude like long tours above the huts, we like to go up to 50 spf.
Original Medicated Lip Balm SPF30 by Dermatone — Great for all seasons. SPF 30 (versus more traditional SPF 15 options) keeps your lips happier for longer.
Skin Protector Balm SPF 23 (Moisturizer & Frostbite Fighter) by Dermatone — Say no to chapped lips and sunburn on your nose and ears. We have tins of this in every vehicle and pack for when the conditions get a little windy or sunny.
