This list includes recommendations for mountain fell running (running off-road and often off-trail) in unpredictable weather between two checkpoints sometimes without a clear path and above 11,000' of elevation.
Sections
4
Planning
Shoes
Apparel
Gear
Planning
Everything you need to prepare for fell running
A great explanation of general fell running education
A guide to fell running - Runner's World
Read up on my favorite fell runner and ultra marathoner
Learn from Kílian Jornet Burgada
I like this app for a personal way to explore potential routes
Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) App
I use this topographic map of the Northern Colorado mountains to study potential fell running routes
Colorado Backpack Loops North Map
Education is key to preparation. Read more about fell running here
Fell Runners Association
The section of CDT in Colorado between Jones Pass and Devils Thumb is perfect for high altitude fell running and traversing above tree line. Learn more about the CDT here.
Continental Divide Trail
A great resource of food and fuel ideas
Best Foods for Fell Running
Shoes
These shoes have been tried and tested fell running along the CDT in Colorado
My go-to fell running shoe, which does especially well in muddy terrain and sharp rocks
Best in mud and wet climates
I love these shoes, the colors, the function, durability, and they're lightweight
These are the lightest recommended
These are my favorite fell runners for all around comfort in dry climates
Best all around for protection
One of the most popular fell running shoes in Britain - the birthplace of fell running
Most popular in Britain
Apparel
Layering your clothing is always best. Check the weather ahead of time. Know before you go. These are all tried and true clothing pieces to keep you dry and warm.
Personally, I like to have a running jacket that's lightweight, packable, and has a hood.
Running Jacket
I love the ear flaps that can be extended for when the wind is really whipping
Waterproof hat
Waterproof gloves are essential to keep your hands warm
Running gloves
Best for summer running July-August
Running Shorts
My go to for fell running September-June in Colorado
Running Pants or Tights
I'm a big fan of long sleeve shirt. Keeps the sun off, protects against scrapes, and keeps the heat in on cold windy days
Running Shirt
Keeping your socks dry and clean is essential to enjoy fell running
Running socks are like gold
Gear
I run as a minimalist. These are essential items I take with me every time I fell run
Hands down my favorite running vest with storage
Hydration Vest with Storage
I've used Garmin and Suunto watches. I typically pick one with the longest battery life.
GPS watch with altimeter, barometer, compass, heart rate monitor, and extensive battery life
I bring a water filtration straw just in case I run out of water…. it's happened!
Straw Water Filter
I like to take photos along the way and having a phone is great for emergencies
Cell phone and case
Since I almost always run solo, I take a small first aid kit with me
Simple first aid kit
I almost always leave super early in the morning, before it's light out, so having a headlamp is a must
Headlamp for early morning starts
Chapped lips is a real bummer so lip balm is a must
Lip balm and sun protection
I never forget to put on sunscreen at high altitude.
Sunscreen for high altitude runs
I got snow blind once running on snow without sunglasses so you won't catch me doing that again.
Sunglasses are mandatory
My go to guide for what to eat before, during, and after a hard fell running trip
Running Nutrition: What to Eat | REI Expert Advice
