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In certain climates, winter running requires traction beyond what even the grippiest trail shoes can provide. This winter, we’ve tested three new products on the market: two of them are part of the first-ever traction line from Black Diamond and the other is from Kahtoola, a well-established name in this category.

Nashville software company Atiba Labs had already started a conversation with UltraSignup founder, Mark Gilligan, in the fall of 2019. “UltraSignup dominates the trail running registration space – they are already established,” said partner Jay Kelley, who is also an ultrarunner. The partners say they plan to stick with the brand’s look and feel, but will address the website’s need for more horsepower.

This spring, The North Face swings for the fences with a new footwear design approach that has been several years in the making and tested extensively with their team of elite athletes. The technology is called VECTIV and in essence, it combines a rocker high-energy midsole compound with a firm propulsion plate, and a super-secure outsole platform to grip the trail and allow speed with confidence.

When you win a high school cross-country race on campus, and your English teacher is the head track and field coach, not only are you guaranteed a spot on the track team, but there is little chance you’ll be able weasel your way out of it.

Founded in 1981, UltraRunning Magazine is celebrating 40 years as the Voice of the Sport™ in ultrarunning. The February 2021 issue will provide comprehensive and in-depth historical coverage featuring a summary of each decade written by former UR publisher John Medinger.

While Tropical John’s voice can be heard announcing finishers at the Western States finish line in Auburn, he also maintains a prominent voice in the magazine. We spoke with John about his ultrarunning career, the history of the magazine, as well as his piece, “Four Decades of Ultrarunning” in the 40th anniversary special issue coming out in February.