Reviews

Peak bagging has a particular set of gear needs to help ensure success, which we break down with the items we tested this summer.

Tracksmith has dabbled in trail running apparel in the past, but the Eliot Range is their first dedicated shoe for that purpose. It’s designed to move fast over relatively mellow ground surfaces, with a lightweight build and sleek construction that lends itself toward racing.

Shokz headphones are great for trail use thanks to their combination of comfort, functionality and sound quality, and their OpenSwim Pro model provides a compelling option for runners who routinely explore the land as well as water.

There is something of a demarcation line among endurance athletes when it comes to sports watches. Some like the robust, expedition-style watch that says, “I do epic sh*t.” Others prefer a sleeker, more understated device that blends well with everyday apparel but can still handle extreme activity. In Garmin’s ecosystem, the former crowd is served by Fenix and Enduro series watches, while the latter gravitates towards the Forerunner series.

Altra’s Experience line of running shoes offers a natural running experience for users with added support and comfort in three unique models: Flow, Form and Wild. With the recent release of the second iteration in May, we put the Wild 2 to the test on trails throughout Central Oregon.

This is an all-purpose, all-conditions shoe that provides a comfortable and responsive ride on a wide variety of terrain. We might call it a “workhorse,” but there’s also a bit of thoroughbred in the High Country, as it feels equally suitable for 50k races or 100-mile adventures.