My Spring trail essentials

Written By James Petrie


Spring is one of the best times of year to hit the trails. The mud is soft, the air is cool, and the long miles start to feel possible again. But spring is also unpredictable. One minute it’s blue skies, the next you’re battling sideways rain on exposed ridgelines.

After years of trail and ultra running, I’ve learned that smart layering and reliable footwear make the difference between a great run and a miserable slog home.

Here’s the spring trail kit I rely on — practical, proven, and ideal for UK conditions.

1. OMM Kamleika jacket – Your Spring Safety Net



If you run in the UK, you need a proper waterproof. Not “water resistant.” Not “packable wind shell.” A genuine, mountain-rated waterproof.

The OMM jackets are built specifically for mountain marathon and ultra conditions. They’re lightweight, breathable and genuinely protective when the weather turns. I also love the fact they are stretchy.

Why I recommend it for spring:

  • Fully waterproof (essential for exposed trails)

  • Lightweight enough to carry on every run

  • Breathable under sustained effort

  • Complies with most UK ultra mandatory kit lists

Spring showers are inevitable. Having a jacket you trust means you don’t hesitate to head out.

👉 Look for Montane OMM waterproof jackets on Amazon hereOmm Kamleika

2. Montane Dart Base Layer – Temperature Control Without Bulk

In spring, layering is everything.

A good base layer regulates temperature, wicks sweat and stops you getting chilled when you slow down or hit exposed ground.

Montane base layers are:

  • Lightweight and fast drying

  • Close-fitting without restriction

  • Comfortable over long efforts

  • Durable enough for repeated washing - my current one is about 4 years old!

On cool mornings, I’ll pair a Montane base layer with the OMM jacket. As the day warms up, the jacket comes off and the base layer does the work.

👉 Browse Montane base layers on Amazon hereMontane Dart

3. Adidas Trail Shorts – Freedom to Move

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Once temperatures rise above single digits, I switch to shorts — even in spring.

The Adidas trail shorts (especially Terrex models) strike a great balance between minimalism and practicality.

What you want in spring:

  • Lightweight material that dries quickly

  • Secure waistband

  • Small pockets for gels or keys

  • Zero chafing over long miles

Spring trails can still be wet, so fast-drying fabric matters more than you think.

👉 Check current Adidas trail shorts on Amazon hereAdidas Terrex Multi Shorts

4. CEP Compression Socks – Lower Leg Protection

Spring means mud. Mud means slipping. Slipping means calf fatigue.

I’ve found CEP compression socks particularly useful during long trail efforts and back-to-back training days.

Benefits:

  • Improved circulation during longer runs

  • Reduced calf vibration on descents

  • Added lower-leg protection from brambles and debris

  • Good moisture management in wet conditions

Are compression socks essential? No.
Do they make a noticeable difference on ultra-distance training blocks? In my experience — yes.

👉 Find CEP compression socks on Amazon hereCEP Compression Socks

5. Altra Lone Peak – The Ideal Spring Trail Shoe

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If I had to choose one spring trail shoe, it would be the Altra Lone Peak 9.

Why it shines in spring conditions:

✔ Zero Drop Platform

Encourages natural foot strike and strong posterior chain engagement — especially helpful on rolling terrain.

✔ Wide Toe Box

Allows your toes to splay naturally. On long runs, this reduces hotspots and improves stability on uneven ground.

✔ Grippy Outsole

Reliable traction in mud without feeling overly aggressive on firmer trails.

✔ Lightweight but Durable

Perfect balance for high-mileage training blocks.

Spring is when you’re rebuilding volume. You need comfort over hours, not just speed over minutes.

👉 View Altra Lone Peak options on Amazon hereAltra Lone Peak 9

How to Layer It All Together (Spring Setup Example)

Cool & Wet Morning (8–10°C):

  • Montane base layer

  • OMM waterproof

  • Adidas shorts

  • CEP socks

  • Altra Lone Peak

Mild & Dry Afternoon (12–15°C):

  • Montane base layer

  • Adidas shorts

  • CEP socks

  • Altra Lone Peak

Keep it simple. Spring isn’t about overcomplicating kit — it’s about adaptability.

Final Thoughts

Good trail kit doesn’t make you fitter.
But it does remove excuses.

Spring is the perfect time to build consistency before summer races. Invest in:

  • A reliable waterproof

  • Breathable layers

  • Comfortable shorts

  • Supportive socks

  • Shoes that let your feet work naturally

The trails are waking up. You should be too.

This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase via these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support JP Trail Running and allows me to continue producing honest trail and ultra running content.



James Petrie
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