With the economy still at a historic low, we wanted to discuss ways to get into adventure sports while keeping your budget intact.

Of all the ‘adventure sports’, trail running would have to be the easiest on the wallet. During mild weather, one can just head out the door wearing just about anything. However, if you have ever lived or raced in the south during July or August, it doesn’t take long to figure out that a cotton t-shirt is not quality gear. I don’t remember the last time I bought a cotton t-shirt though they are forever accumulating in my closet from every event in which I compete or volunteer. Cool weather apparel involves a little more of an investment but the dividends will be worth it in the long run and those cotton sweatpants will be a distant memory.

We asked several gear manufacturers to send us some product options for participants who want top quality gear without breaking the bank.

This is what we found:

Shoes:

Check out this recent post on our site about dressing for adventure sport activities where trail running shoes were addressed. We also reviewed 17 trail running shoes between the May and July issues this year.

Cooler Weather: (click on any of the below images to see a larger version)

Tops:

GoLite’s DriMove BL-2 Longsleeve Zip: This shirt is really great as a stand alone piece for cool weather runs and even better as a base layer for ‘cold’ runs. MSRP: $55

The Pearl Izumi Infinity Thermal Jacket sleek styling combined with its technical fabrics make it perfect for changing weather conditions. MSRP: $100

The Mountain Hardwear Transition Super Power Jacket is a great choice for those long cold, windy days when you just aren’t ready to call it quits. It has WINDSTOPPER panels in the front while the back panels allow for increased breathability, mobility and heat dispersal. MSRP: $140

Bottoms:

One of our favorite running tights are the Mountain Hardwear Mighty Power 3/4 Tight. It is paramount with running tights more so than tops that they provide warmth and breathability as more often than not…they are the only layer covering the legs. MSRP: $65

Other items we like for those cold runs:

Socks:Smartwool PhD Trail running mini. MSRP: $16.95

Gloves:Mountain Hardwear Power Stretch Glove. MSRP: $27

Headwear: Smartwool Reversible Training Beanie. MSRP: $25

If you are not already inspired by the above information, check out this awe inspiring video below:

UltraRunning from Matt Hart on Vimeo.

Photo at top (left) courtesy of Tim Holmstrom