This year has been a whirlwind of adventures, from long fastpacking trips, short backpacking routes, and ultra races, I’ve discovered gear that truly made a difference. In my latest podcast episode, I dive deep into the products that stood out as game changers—gear that elevated performance, solved problems, and made outdoor adventures even more enjoyable. Here’s a quick look at the highlights we discussed.
Check out the Podcast where I talk through some of this gear!
Support this work and the podcast at patreon.com/freeoutside
The 2024 Gear Game Changers
Trail running and hiking require shoes that can handle technical terrain, and the Adidas Agravic Trail Shoe exceeded expectations. This shoe is just so responsive which I really appreciate.
If you’ve ever been caught in the dark without a reliable light, you know how important a good headlamp is. The Nitecore NU25 offers lightweight design, powerful brightness, and long battery life—everything you need for night runs, early morning starts, or multi-day hikes.
Bouncing gear during a run or hike? No thanks. The Naked Belt solves that problem with its snug, lightweight design that holds essentials like nutrition, a phone, and hydration flasks securely. It’s become an essential for my FKTs and ultrarunning adventures.
When it comes to endurance nutrition, simplicity is key. These high-carb gels pack a powerful punch, delivering sustained energy without the need for constant fueling. They’ve been a game-changer for reducing bonking and simplifying my race-day nutrition strategy.
Long-distance adventures demand a pack that’s lightweight, ergonomic, and easy to access. Ultraspire nailed it with their design. From hydration to snacks and extra layers, these packs strike the perfect balance of capacity and comfort.
Layering is critical in the outdoors, and microgrid fleece has quickly become my favorite versatile piece. Lightweight yet warm, it’s ideal for early mornings, cold-weather adventures, or as an emergency layer when temperatures drop.
This year, I experimented with sodium bicarbonate, a secret weapon for combating muscle fatigue. By buffering lactic acid during high-intensity efforts, it has improved endurance and recovery in some of my toughest races.
For those minimalist adventures where every ounce counts, the Aero 28 Pack delivers. It’s perfect for unsupported FKTs or fastpacking trips, providing just enough space for essentials without slowing you down.
Simple yet effective, visors deserve a spot on this list. They provide sun protection, keep sweat out of your eyes, and allow for better airflow compared to traditional hats. Plus, they’ve become a stylish staple in the outdoor community this year.
What’s Next?
Trying Out the Iced Cap
One piece of gear I’m especially excited to try is the iced cap. Designed for hot-weather races, this innovative cap provides active cooling during intense efforts. With temperatures rising in many races, I can’t wait to see how it performs. Stay tuned for an update after my next hot-weather event!
Takeaways from This Year’s Gear Evolution
Each of these items brought something unique to the table this year. From solving problems to enhancing comfort and performance, the right gear can make all the difference in the outdoors.
What about you? I’d love to hear what gear changed your game in 2024. Share your favorites in the comments or on social media, and don’t forget to tune in to the Gear Game Changers of the Year podcast episode for the full breakdown!
Listen to the Podcast
Click here to listen to the full podcast episode, where I share more stories, insights, and tips about these products and how they performed in real-world adventures.