The Tracksmith Off Roads Shorts are a trail runner’s dream come true. From the moment I slipped them on, I could tell these were a cut above the rest. The material is incredibly soft and smooth against the skin, yet highly durable and quick-drying – perfect for long runs on the trails.

After putting in 50 miles of testing, I experienced zero chafing or discomfort. The fit is secure without being restrictive, thanks to the adjustable clip belt that keeps the shorts locked in place even with a phone bouncing in the side pocket. Speaking of pockets, the Off Roads are extremely well-equipped with four internal pockets for gels/fuel and two exterior pockets that can easily fit a phone, keys, or other essentials.

Beyond just performance, Tracksmith really went the extra mile with the design of these shorts. The 4.75″ inseam provides an optimal balance of coverage and mobility on the trails. Little touches like the UV protection and anti-pilling fabric elevate them even further.

Whether you’re an avid trail runner or just prefer to take your training off the beaten path, the Off Roads Shorts from Tracksmith should be at the top of your list. They strike the perfect balance of lightweight performance and heavy-duty utility. Once you go off road in these, you won’t want to hit the trails in anything else.

As Tracksmith says, these shorts were “designed for the trails” and it really shows. The lightweight, quick-drying fabric with UV protection allows you to tackle any trail condition while staying cool, dry and protected from the elements. The barely-there liner provides just the right amount of support and protection against chafing.

One of my favorite features is the sheer number of pockets – six in total! There are four internal pockets in the rear yoke that are perfect for stashing gels, chews or other fuel for long runs. Then there’s an accessible drop-in pocket on the hip that securely held my iPhone 14 Pro even on aggressive downhills. Finally, there’s a zipper pocket for keys or other small essentials. Having all this storage means you can truly go farther off the beaten path without being weighed down.

What sets the Off Roads apart is their versatility for any trail adventure. The streamlined construction balances weight and function perfectly. As Tracksmith says, “the shorts have been thoughtfully upgraded with a significantly streamlined liner and shell.” The liner is thin and comfortable enough for short runs, yet durable enough to prevent chafing on all-day epics. The quick-dry shell sheds moisture and protects your skin from the sun’s rays.

At the same time, the Off Roads don’t sacrifice functionality for weight. Tracksmith prioritized “mobility and long lasting comfort” with an updated fit featuring increased ease throughout the legs. This enhanced range of motion is essential for tackling steep, technical trails. The 4.75″ inseam hits the sweet spot between coverage and agility. And you never have to worry about the shorts slipping thanks to the adjustable belt at the waistband.

The real genius is in how the Off Roads blend simplicity and utility. As Tracksmith puts it, “the construction has been streamlined with an improved, lightweight liner that protects from chafing and dries tremendously fast – a simplification that pairs well with the shell, which is equipped to shield the skin from UV rays and resist pilling. On the other hand, not only did we add room throughout the fit to enhance comfort, but we improved storage space, now featuring four internal fuel pockets with two external pockets that can fit your phone or other essentials.”

Hitting the trails in the Off Roads Shorts is an experience that transcends just another training run. As Tracksmith beautifully states, “the beauty of going off road doesn’t just lie in the symphony of dirt and stones crunching beneath our feet or the rustle of leaves accompanying the furry or feathered occupants in trees. It is also narrated by the silence that only trails, hills, and mountains can provide in the distance from paved roads and smooth tracks; an internal silence found in the simple space between human and earth, where intrusions of mundanity have been left behind.” Wearing gear designed specifically for getting off the beaten path elevates that connection to nature.

In the end, the Tracksmith Off Roads Shorts check every box – lightweight, durable, secure, ultra-functional storage, and most importantly, they just feel incredible to run in. If you’re seeking a premium trail running short to push your off-road adventures further, look no further.

The Tracksmith Harrier Long Sleeve is the perfect top for those early morning runs when the temperature is brisk but you know the sun will soon bring warmth. Made from a premium merino wool blend, it provides just the right amount of insulation to ward off the chill at the start while allowing excellent breathability as the effort increases.

I’ve been putting the Harrier through its paces for early morning runs in the foothills around Boulder, Colorado. No matter how cold the pre-dawn temperature dips into, the merino wool keeps me comfortable on the start. Yet as the sun crests the horizon and I work up a sweat, the shirt manages to regulate my temperature exceptionally well, never leaving me overly hot or sweaty.

The magic lies in the merino wool fabric that Tracksmith was actually the first running brand to utilize for performance apparel. Merino is nature’s miracle fiber – incredibly soft, moisture-wicking, temp-regulating, and resistant to odors. You can skip washing this shirt for multiple uses and it never develops a stink, even after long or intense sessions.

What’s most impressive about the Harrier Long Sleeve is how well it performs in such a wide range of conditions. Set out on a cold, dry morning run and the merino insulation traps precious heat to keep you comfortable. But if unexpected rain or snow falls, the fabric wicks away the moisture rather than soaking through. Then when the effort increases, the wool’s natural breathability kicks in to prevent overheating and clamminess.

The fit and construction are laser-focused on performance as well. The raglan sleeves allow for unlimited shoulder mobility, crucial for maintaining proper form on fatigued runs. The sleeve cuffs have a trim shape to avoid excess fabric flapping around. And the overall cut is streamlined but not overly slim or compressive.

Even small details were sweated, like the lack of an exterior label to prevent chafing at the neck. Just an incredibly smooth, itch-free collar that disappears once you get moving. There are also thumb holes integrated into the cuffs to create a warm shelter for your hands on cold days.

After many uses, I’ve come to appreciate the odor resistance and durability of this top. Following some of my toughest track sessions or longest trail runs, I’m amazed at how fresh the Harrier still smells even if I skip a wash. The merino-nylon blend just does not funk up. It also shows minimal pilling or wear even with repeated exposure to the elements.

What really stands out is the Harrier’s versatility for all seasons of running. In the depths of winter, you can layer it as a insulating base layer. Once spring hits, it serves as the perfect weight for chilly starts that warm up throughout a run. And when summer rolls around, the breathability and moisture transfer allow you to extend it into those months too.

For runners who prefer natural technical fabrics, the Harrier is tough to beat. You get the plush softness of merino against your skin. The natural temp-regulation covers you from freezing to overheating. And the ability to skip washes makes one durable top stretch remarkably far.

Tracksmith was truly ahead of the curve when they became a pioneer in utilizing merino wool for running gear. As they put it, “we were the very first running brand to use Merino as a performance fabric, a monumental move that created the ultimate natural fiber running top.” That spirit of innovation persists in today’s Harrier Long Sleeve.

While plenty of brands have since followed suit with their own merino tops, the Harrier remains a best-in-class option: “One of Tracksmith’s original products, refined over the years, perfecting the design utilizing the soft and durable material to create a layer that moves with you, matching the rigor of your runs year after year after year.”

Whether your goal is to chase personal bests or just get in a daily dose of running, start your day off right by throwing on the Harrier Long Sleeve top. It will keep you comfortable through any workout and all conditions that Mother Nature dishes out. This truly is an all-season warrior of a running top.