Trail running shorts and trousers: key features
Thanks to the 3D-FLEX® technology, compression and muscle support help improve performance and reduce the risk of cramps and muscle pain. The lightweight, comfortable fabrics and stretch of our trail shorts also offer excellent freedom of movement.
What’s more, the flatlock seams minimise the risk of chafing and irritation, while an elasticated waistband supports your abdominal muscles during exercise.
Trail running trousers and shorts: who are they for?
All our technical products for trail and road running are designed for demanding athletes looking for quality and comfort at a great price. Our shorts, compression shorts, trousers and full-length tights are all carefully finished, with a focus on technical innovation.
Developed with input from doctors and physiotherapists specialising in elite sport, they meet the needs of male trail runners and women looking to perform at their best.
How do you choose the right length for trail shorts?
The right length for your trail shorts depends on your personal preference and the conditions you plan to run in. Trail shorts should let you move easily and comfortably as you run. If you prefer greater freedom of movement, you can choose shorter shorts.
But if you run on trails with lots of undergrowth or long grass, a longer shorts can help protect your legs from cuts and scratches. Depending on the temperature, you can choose shorter or longer shorts for comfort. If you plan to enter a trail race, check the race rules to see whether a specific shorts length is required.
What should you consider when choosing trail trousers?
Choose trousers suited to the weather conditions you expect to run in. In cold or wet conditions, you’ll want a pair that keeps you warm and dry. If you run on trails with lots of undergrowth or long grass, tougher trousers can help protect your legs from cuts and scratches.
Trail trousers should let you move easily and comfortably as you run. Look for a pair with a stretch fabric for greater freedom of movement. If you need to carry items such as keys, energy bars or a mobile phone, look for trousers with practical, functional pockets.
If you often run in the evening or early morning, look for trousers with reflective details for better visibility. If you run in hot conditions, look for breathable trousers to help keep you cool and dry.
The right trail trousers depend on your needs and personal preferences. Choose a pair that fits properly and keeps you comfortable and protected throughout your run.
What’s the best fabric for trail shorts or trousers?
The best material for trail shorts or trousers depends on the conditions you plan to run in and your personal preferences. The polyester is a lightweight, breathable fabric that wicks moisture away and dries quickly, making it an excellent choice for running in hot weather.
The nylon is a durable, tear-resistant fabric, making it a good choice for running on more technical or overgrown trails. The spandex is a stretch fabric that allows excellent freedom of movement, making it a great choice for runs requiring plenty of flexibility, such as mountain races.
The mesh is a lightweight, breathable fabric often used for ventilation panels in trail shorts and trousers. Its effective sweat-wicking helps keep you cool and dry.
Should you choose shorts or trousers with or without pockets?
Whether to choose trail shorts or trousers with or without pockets will depend on your personal preferences and how much you need to carry. Pockets can be useful for carrying energy gels, keys, a mobile phone or a credit card during your run.
If you prefer to run without extra kit and don’t need to carry much, shorts or trousers without pockets may be enough. If you do need to carry items during your run, pockets are more practical.
This is particularly true in ultra trail when extra belts and pockets are essential for carrying the kit needed over long distances. Safety matters too: choose shorts or trousers with secure pockets to stop your belongings falling out as you run.
If you’d like to learn more, all our technical trail clothing or road running are available on our website. For a more specific need, buy a running jacket or a trail t-shirt at a great price at CimAlp. For more options, explore our selections of women’s trail trousers, shorts and skirts or all our men’s trail shorts and trousers.
