Best Trail Running Gear for Summer

 Drymax Lite socks repel the water you might encounter from puddles or even small creek crossings. The padded heels provide added protection from the pain of steeping on small rocks or other debris; extra padding around the ankles provides added comfort, and the band around the ankles create a seal that keeps water, dirt and pebbles from slipping into your shoes and causing irritation.

Optic Nerve Squeezebox Photomatic Lens Sunglasses

Running during the summer means dealing with a wide range of lighting conditions—blinding sunlight, overcast conditions, shady woods and everything in between.

The Optic Nerve Squeezebox Photomatic lens adjusts to changing light automatically to give you the best possible vision in changing lighting conditions. These performance sunglasses are extremely light and come with ventilated lenses, which help maintain an active airflow and prevent fogging. They also come with an adjustable nose piece for a snug, comfortable fit.

More: 5 Hot Weather Running Gear Tips

AMK Ultralight/Watertight .3 Medical Kit

Hopefully you'll never have to use this item, but it can save you a lot of trouble if you do happen to run into a minor medical issue on the trails. At less than 3 ounces, the Ultralight/Watertight .3 is AMK's lightest medical kit.

Packaged in a waterproof kit bag, it contains key supplies such as moleskin for blisters, butterfly bandages and even tick forceps. Small enough to fit into just about any pocket, it won't weigh you down or get in the way. Most importantly, the kit gives you extra peace of mind when you're out on the trail.

More: 7 Trail Marathons to Do in 2012

Summer's the best time of the year for trail running, so why not get out there and add a new dimension to your running? You won't regret it.   

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