2018 RUNNING GEAR OF THE YEAR | The Ginger Runner

[@TheGingerRunner]

2018 RUNNING GEAR OF THE YEAR IS HERE!! You can find out more info about all the gear by using the affiliate links in the vid description. What gear did I miss that would make YOUR Gear Of The Year list? Let us know in the comments below!

[@bcockton]

TheGingerRunner love the gels that you mentioned. I suggest you try Endurance Tap. Pretty much just maple syrup, but who doesn’t love that!

[@JustinDoesTriathlon]

I'm definitely gonna give that Spring Energy a try. My biggies at the moment are Tailwind Caffeinated, Huma gels, and my Salomon Sense Rides. 🎁

[@Vo2maxProductions]

Nice reviews! Glad you like the Spring Energy "Canaberry" (yes, I actually did help design the flavor and provide a lot of feedback in its development process). It was really cool to have that flexibility and support with a "gel flavor"and a newer nutrition company that uses real food. Keep up the great work and see you on the trails!

[@patterbt]

I just got some Spring Energy gels for Christmas to try out on my long runs, looking forward to testing them!

[@DonnieJett]

After running through all of the Clifton 3s I could buy, I picked up a pair of Napalis (per your suggestion) and they were great! Thank you for the videos! I won’t buy a pair of shoes unless you’ve reviewed them and have positive feedback.

[@techs_not_day_trading4746]

I second not discontinuing the Napali. By far my favorite Hokas I’ve worn. Stocked up on the road and ATR just Incase.

[@andrewryder1319]

The Napali is a "gate way drug" for those like me who had been non-users of Hoka. When the Nepali is discontinued (and I've gone through my stock) I'll have to move up to the shoes at the higher price points- because I"m hoked on Hooka - or hooked on Hoka - whatever- the company has taken up residence in my wallet.

[@Paulo-ze1tl]

We should keep an eye out for the Rincon that'll come out in 2019. It is possible it'll be a revamped version of the Napali, which in my opinion is my favorite Hoka One One of all times.

[@andrewryder1319]

80 mile update on my Napali ATR. ATR: All terrain, really?!?!? Two days ago I did an 11 miler on a rocky section of the Appalachian Trail. At the start, with about 70 AT miles on them the shoes showed very little wear, but 11 miles later they were destined for the garbage. The outsole tore away from the midsole in a length so great that I could put my index finger between the sole and midsole. Other lugs began to separate at corners. The shoes are unusable . . . at 80 miles. If you plan on running on a rocky surface don't take the Napali nqATR (not quite All terrain).

[@hannesmorgenroth7149]

I still have a lightweight arcteryx-hoodie from 2005. They are incredible expensive but absolutely worth the money.

[@lokie1964]

I love all of my arcteryx items. Yes they are expensive but they are all amazing.

[@carolinecardullo6463]

Kogalla is amazing.............never falling on the trails in the dark out here on the BEAST COASTS roots and rocks....da best!!

[@lifesavingTaiwan]

My favorite gear of the year: Ledlenser NEO10R (600 Lumens) see way too much nocturnal eyeshine 😮 Salomon X-mission 3 trail running shoes. Feel confident running in all conditions. Decathlon apparel. Great series of trail running gear. Affordable and durable. Favorite being the trail shorts with multiple stretchy pockets.

[@marcel_frenchy]

Ethan, your videos have been awesome! Having looked back at some of your earlier releases, it is confident to say that you were on to something prit-teee big all those years ago. The sport of trail running has most definitely morphed into that of a much broader base of athletics that almost everyone can enjoy from the first-timers to some of the incredible talents you have on your shows. Trail running and sports like gravel races or grand fondos make it possible to bring hundreds of like-minded individuals together to be the best they want to be without the defeated sense one would get coming in the last of the pack. The idea of being in a major city marathon surrounded by tens of thousands of people scares the shit out of me but being among nature whether in trees or on dusty trails through fire ravaged hillsides is the way to go for sure. You have provided sound advice and given very thorough reviews and I have been able to take some of that and find what fits my style and how I run in addition to finding out what fits my ridiculously narrow and flat-ass feet. My one and only request is that you bring back the points scale. It just added a little fun and some technical validation to your product reviews and I always hoped that one day, a perfect 20 would come out on top (beards, mustaches, and donuts exempt) Other than that, keep on keeping on and best of luck to you in 2019!!

[@TheGingerRunner]

Couldn't agree more! What a beautiful sport, this is :) As for the points, it eventually caused more problems/confusion for viewers. And the points never told the full story. So much more freeing without it :)

[@tomc7153]

Black Diamond Distance Z carbon poles were one piece of gear that really stood out to me this year. They went to the Summit of Mt. Whitney, though 50k and 40 mile ultras and many other adventures in between. Light, compact and durable. Another is the Patagonia Airshed Pullover. It's short on weather protection, but that's not the intended use. It might be the most breathable running jacket I've ever used. Perfect for chilly temps and wind.

[@joserivera5632]

So glad you mentioned the Napali. Its been my go to shoe this year. Sad to see it go :(

[@mikeymomikeymo]

Dude. I had 4 pairs of the Ultra R2 and and one of the Max Road 3 Ultra. Mileages as fallows 480, 460, 407, 80 and 80. The two 80s were brand new in November. And all the others as high in mileage as they are, are still in rotation. Durable, comfortable. Great for the long haul, but ready to also kick it into gear and go fast, if they need to. Unreal.

[@AmberNixon]

I felt like I was winning the lottery every time The Ginger Runner Best logo came on the screen with it's chime. Great review of amazing products!

[@DartmoorPaul]

Great List, Ethan! My best piece of kit from 2018? Altra Superiors 3.5. LOVE THEM! Put over 300 miles on them and still they look like new.

[@ColtonCarter]

Favorite piece of 2018 gear for me was the Naked Running Band. Best all around carry and carries everything I need for any race distance.

[@bj0lly]

My favorite piece of gear is my Flip Belt! It's stretchy and hold my phone comfortably at the base of my back! Great for stashing gels and candy too!

[@alwaysevolving281]

Yup, The Napali's have been my favorite road shoe of the year by far. I just picked up a pair of Speedgoats 2's for $110 from Fleet Feet too! The SG2's are on sale elsewhere too since the 3's will drop soon. Grab them!

[@kaicollingwood4582]

Yes I have made the Napali's my go to road shoe and have put about 300 miles on them. They are great!

[@DOdermdoc]

Another great video featuring things I didn't know I wanted until you reviewed them! Holy cow you weren't kidding about the Arc’Teryx jacket being expensive! Better put it on my Christmas list!

[@TheGingerRunner]

Bryan Sands lets go, Santa! Hook Bryan up!

[@caseym8691]

Great to see Rabbit getting some independent reviews! I love their fit, feel, and fortitude. I would have to say my favorite piece of lady’s clothing this year is Tracksmith’s Brighton Base Layer. Runner up would be Rabbit’s Rabbit Fleece, which I think has sold right out.

[@susiehilsman1360]

I’d add a category called motivation and would include you there. Thanks very much for your videos, photos and posts. I ran my first trail race a couple months ago in large part to the inspiration I get from you and Kim. Thanks and Merry Christmas!

[@conradtice3998]

My fave pieces of kit this year have been the Patagonia 5' Strider Pro shorts and the Run Janji Fast Twitch Strata Singlet. If you haven't checked out RunJanji before you definitely should! They're definitely bringing something new to the running apparel game through their unique designs. They also have a different business model that I wish more running boutiques would utilize.

[@joekotlowski6270]

Saucony Freedom ISO!! Up front cost is high, but you get the twice the miles! I was skeptical at first but immediately converted in less than 50 miles. I am on my third pair and have gotten at least 800 miles out of the first two.

[@robdevine4361]

100% onboard with Spring Energy. I even paid for the Canaberry Kickstarter when they were firing it up.

[@kirstiepolentz9566]

I'd love to see a category for recovery products next year (and even reviews on them to hear your thoughts on whether they're effective).

[@ripster07]

I really love the Saucony Peregrine trail shoe series. The 8 wasn't as good as previous models but the traction on each model is unparalleled and it has a very reasonable 4mm drop. It has excellent in PA roots/rocks, CO dusty rocks, and HI super slippery roots/rocks! Great review, cheers! Chris

[@tedforsstromjacobsson4160]

Easily one of my most anticipated videos of the year. Great as usual Also: lol’d a handful of times. Can’t tell if I’m really tired or if you’re even funnier than usual. Regardless- appreciated

[@tedforsstromjacobsson4160]

And. Sloopy 👌🏻

[@siggip.]

My favorite trail shoe is the salomon sense ultra pro. It is a trail beast.

[@seanryan3937]

Favorite Road Shoe: New Balance Beacon - perfect lightweight cushioned ride, hope they never change it.

[@tomrichards5829]

Love this channel mate, podcast and video. Hours and hours of entertainment. Getting my christmas list bigger after this

[@philipgibbons9909]

Thanks for all of the videos this year! It's fun to see what you guys are up to and hear your reviews. I agree on the Evo Mafates--i came across a lightly worn pair at roadrunner for 90 bucks...and of course I bought them!

[@MrReid.]

This summer was super hot so I picked myself up a hydration vest. Loved the Arc'teryx norvan 7. Fueled my runs with endurance tap gels and switched over to North Face better than naked Long Haul shorts.

[@MrHAC19]

most important pieces of gear for 2018: Garmin Fenix 5X Plus and my legs.

[@johnmiller5630]

For me the On cloudflow and Inov8 Roc Lite 290 have been the go to shoes this year. Really enjoy your work Ethan. Happy New Year.

[@djryanashton]

Started using Stryd this year. Loving it. Have hardly any idea what I'm doing with it, but seems there's a lot of potential for improvement using it.

[@charlesmeadows6869]

Love your videos! Keep em' coming. I got to experience the kinvara 8 this year and it was a blast.

[@zachcondon7848]

By far my number one is the Lonepeak 4.0! I couldn’t stand the 3.5 and working at a running store the Timp was a hard sale with those goofy laces. I was doubting Altra but they nailed it with the LP 4.0! Hands down my favorite shoe of all time and thanks to you I’m definitely giving the Timp 1.5 a try! Might be a good RUT shoe here in Montana.

[@ljukherrecker]

I loved the HYPERLIGHT MP+® JACKET from Raidlight, the best on this superlight jacket is a little look-through window on the wrist through which you can look on your watch - very helpful. Also cool is Luma Enlite, a beanie or headband with integrated headlamp.

[@benlee526]

I didn't try as much as gear as I would have liked this year, but my two new additions that I'm liking are both Salomon (Skin Pro 1o pack and my sense ride's). Thanks for the great content GR!

[@tryhardpker]

My number 1 has to go to the Salomon sense 2 vest. My first and only pack, fits like a gem.

[@terrycraddock5321]

Thanks for putting these together. Wish I could get back to running again.

[@therealjasonrbourne]

Pliny. Good stuff. You now have my trust.

[@markstegall1840]

My favorite running article this year was a pair of goodr sunglasses. Amazing!

[@KlaasCuvelier]

Love the gear of the year!! The canaberry is indeed so delicious to just eat while not running :D

[@erictebben8206]

Also love the Hoka Napali and hope they keep it going. Hate it when they discontinue a good thing.

[@honzikck82]

Have great Xmas and all the best to the next year to the 3 of you. And thank you for your work. Have fun.

[@thomashayes9961]

My #1 piece of gear from 2018 is the Salomon Ultra Pro Trail Shoe.

[@T4JM]

I dropped my multi-year favorite stiff swampy Calderas for the chic Salomon Ultra series. Both the Pro and SLAB are amazeballs. Ride is smooth, and super consistent. They ascend as well as they descend. The outsole is evidently made of gecko toes? The Ultra Pro toe box is 'uge and the SLAB feels like you are wearing F-35's. Give 'em a yog or two.. Tell us what ya think!

[@deifor]

I got the speedcross and I love them. Getting compliments from lots of different people. They are by far the best shoes I've had for trail running in snow, especially for climbs.

[@markivkovic7235]

Sir that little tuft of hair sticking out your beanie! I thought you had a massive eyebrow at first. Keep up the gingery goodness, always dig your output, keeps me sane in between runs.

[@lethmatrosen]

Have to mention the Columbia Montrail Calodardo III. These has been my favorite trail shoes this year alomg with the Salomon S-LAB Ultra.

[@t5kcannon1]

Thanks for the video Ginger Runner. Lots of good items on the list. I got the Brooks Caldera version 1 and like them a lot. I'm very tempted to try the Caldera 2, and the Evo Mafate looks decent.

[@lucasfawcett9981]

Never tried Hoka but going to give them a try in the new year! Honestly prefer Ronhill shorts to Rabbit especially as they are half the price!

[@nicks1938]

YES!!! Been waiting for this one! Props, Ethan! PS: Evo Mafate is the real deal.

[@MoniqueLMontague]

Hi Ethan! Just saw this video and was inspired to check this out. And on the Skechers website it said the Performance GORun Ultra R2 is out of stock or no longer available. Boo! Just an FYI.

[@thehermanli]

the norvan looks interesting... right now my go to bad weather/snow is a beta ar but it is definitely overkill for when it is just raining outside.

[@JS-xn3dq]

Have to agree with you on the Pegasus 35 turbo. My runner up road shoe would be the Pegasus 35 which I plan on buying more of before they change it it. Look forward to trying the GU smores!

[@Paulo-ze1tl]

Hey Ethan, have you've tried the New Balance Beacon? I think it is a road shoe you might like. It is soft yet light with a low heel to toe drop, so it is right up your alley. The Beacon is one of my favorite shoes of 2018 and I think version 2 will be even better. It has an improved heel color similar to the one used in the NB Cruz, which is really effective a keeping your heel in place without creating hot spots or discomfort. The Cruz is not my cup of tea when it comes to running shoes, but I really like its collar and NB seems to be putting it on most of their new models.

[@mitchellmclaughlin6360]

My one and only issue with the nepalis is that the heel counter bugs my achilles insertion. It's the same in the clifton (although not the challenger atr 4, for some reason). Other than that I like it. I just wish that heel counter was a little nicer to me.

[@1trentsmom]

Yay! Glad you found Spring. It's SO good. Will Kim be doing a 2018 Gear of the year review as well?

[@jamesdylangoldstein]

Nike Odyssey React. Lots of cushioning, like a Hoka, but more responsive. Very affordable, I got them 40% off here in Beavertown.

[@Ed-ke7vn]

I'm on my 5th pair of Napalis and I would be devastated if I couldn't get them anymore. I also have the Clifton 1 and the Napali feels exactly the same except with a better upper and better durability. Truly the perfect shoe in every way.

[@mattthompson900]

Ed, Napali was my first Hoka (2018 was my first year of really running). Love them but heard everyone raving about OG Clifton. So bought it when re-released. Sent it back after a few runs for the exact reasons you mentioned plus some hot spots. Sounds like I need to stock up.

[@Paulo-ze1tl]

I'm curious to try the Hoka One One Rincon, which will come out in 2019. It'll possible be a version 2 of the Napali. The Napali is my all time favorite Hoka One One so far, so I hope they keep some sort of version of it in their lineup.

[@sgeorgesuperstar]

I always look forward to the gear of the year video! I agree on the Mafate. Awesome shoe. I did 3 long races in it. Yeah they're expensive but looks like it's going to last a long time. Totally agree on the Campfire smores! Looking hard at the Timp 1.5 vs Torrent for a light short trail shoe. For me Under Armour 7 inch speedpocket shorts, Injinji Ultra socks, GR Crew Gus wraps and the Mafate were my gear of the year!

[@tazpengra]

Ha! I'm vindicated for thinking the Skechers Ultra Road2 is one of the best trainers available! Now the 3 is out, and you can find the 2 for under $50 if you know how to hunt online.

[@JamisonMichael]

Mizuno waverider 22. Boy oh boy. They were quite something.

[@jk-ml7dv]

Injinji socks and Topo Teraventure!!!! The Topo was a total surprise to me and I love it. Thanks for the great videos Ethan. They are always great. Just wondering If you have ever considered including Kim’s picks on some gear for women?

[@frogsunite]

Thank you for making Christmas shopping easier!!! My #1 piece of gear Altra Torins

[@benjybuttons4303]

Hi Ethan! So I'm looking for your opinion or recommendation on whether I should go with the Napalis or the Sketchers GoRun Max Road 3. I've worn the Clifton 3s and loved them, so I'm worried I am going to fall in love with the Napalis only to have them discontinued. My only experience with Sketchers is that I have the GoRun Ride 7s now and love them for my tempo days. I don't know if you have or plan to try the GoRun Max Road 3s, but I'd love to hear your feedback if you have the time! (Sorry, I know this video is a little bit older) Keep up the amazing work and thank you!

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Enjoyed great stuff, now I have to wait on the new light system 👍🏽😉👣👣 appriciate the information and feedback. I also thought the Nike Epic React would make it...oh well Turboooo is also awesome ✅

[@karolinaczeska3222]

My absolute favorite item from this video is that little tuft of hair lurking from under your hat ;)

[@mllrgrnt]

Regarding the smart running watch, I'm not familiar with the Suunto watches, but I really like my Garmin Fenix 5 plus.

[@MisterioX13X]

Awesome! I’ll buy the rain jacket is on my list!

[@humanpower100]

Thanks for all the reviews! Happy New Year!

[@emithen]

You’re so fun. Thanks, Man.

[@charriso]

HOKA Napali is definitely one of my favorite running shoes ever, but I got little holes where the pinky toe is which makes me think production quality (or lack of overlays?) wasn’t great - maybe it was just me though.

[@geoffreynau8173]

Am I the only one that has been waiting since July for this...?

[@Len1977gt]

lol

[@chones_]

Really surprised the Torrent didn’t make your list given how favorably you reviewed it. But I agree with you on the Speedgoat 2s, my all time favorite. Super excited (and nervous) to see the 3s. I can’t recall if you reviewed those rabbit shorts but are they better than the strider pros? I’ve been wearing those exclusively since I watched an early GNR review a few years back. I’d put GU toasted marshmallow at the top of the list. So hard to find but sooo good. I want to try spring energy but it’s soooo expensive. :(

[@TheGingerRunner]

Torrents were up there with the Mafate. Ran more in the mafate. I mention not having the FKT shorts for my summer shorts showdown and wish I had! They're great! Also mention marshmallow flavor in the vid ( but I apparently ate my entire stock-pile, haha!). Try the Spring, seriously!!

[@bryson_stafford]

The speedgoat 2s are by far my favorite thing of 2018. I was really impressed. I'm glad to see they didn't mess with the formula in the 3s.

[@multm7108]

Great info man! You changed your thoughts about the Peg Turbo though, your review didn't speak very highly of them earlier

[@MuseRunner]

Love the P35 Turbo, got me a PB at Chicago this year

[@Josh_Stringer]

Love this every year! Just got the Timp 1.5s. Ever do a review of socks? I know you can’t review every type of gear, but maybe a list of your top 3 or 5?

[@TheGingerRunner]

Joshua Stringer injinji are my must have socks.

[@austinshields8627]

I second injinji!

[@ultralightbackpacking6888]

Spring Canaberry is da bomb!

[@Dennis-de1ji]

I hava a pair of Kayano 24s! My first trye running shoes,maybe the opposite of what I'd need from a running shoe,in terms of step correction if that makes any sense... BUT,more than 1000 km this year and If I wash them they are like brand new, except for a hole on the right of one of em! I just want to say,they are beasts in terms of durability! Though quite heavy and not springy!

[@bikeanddogtripsvirtualcycling]

i have my first ultra race planned for sept 2019 for 100 miles 162km. My furthest run was an accidental 75km over a year ago, but I have never raced over a marathon, so this goal is way above my current comfort zone. I was only a few hours ago that I became aware of the necessity for a trail shoe if going off road (I have only ever used On). My race is fairly flat, some road but mainly forest floor and canal towpath. I will certainly give the salomon vest a look. i was actually looking at the salomon speedcross 4 gtx and the s/lab ultra but will now check reviews of the hoke one one you mentioned. im going to end up becoming bankrupt arent i?

[@perdomot]

Love the quality of the gear but as a budget runner, can you make some suggestions in a video about good gear that doesn't break the bank. Been getting back into running lately and have even inspired a couple of coworkers to start running but they both comment about the costs of gear and shoes. Thanks and looking forward to the Gingermas video. Merry Xmas!

[@TheGingerRunner]

Perdomot that’s why I added the Napalis. They’re like $70 right now!

[@mythoraxe]

My 2018 shoe of the year is also the Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo. My Runner-up is the Epic React Flyknit.

[@kevinpiche924]

Love your reviews! My favorite winter gear of the year, the TSL Symbioz Racing snowshoes ;)

[@Tifore]

Ethan, Thanks for another killer video. My largest gripe with running shoe brands is killing off shoes! I'll never understand why companies bring a shoe to the table, only to scrap it a year later. I wish Brooks would make the original Pure Cadence, I wish Hoka would make the Huaka, and I wish New Balance would bring back the Leadville V3! Argh! /endgripe

[@andersmadsen8482]

Ethan, how well is the Norvan holding up after wearing race vests? The supposed fragility of the jacket from (very) long runs/races is my number one concern after reading other reviews

[@davidtfrederick]

Loving the Hoka Torrents!

[@rol4life]

The New Balance Beacon was a real sleeper shoe. Super lightweight and responsive great for training and races. Would have loved your thoughts on them. Cheers

[@sparkyfriz9]

Would you say the cushion of the Peg Turbo has held up well after all of your miles? I am between those and the new Vomero's.

[@giakamozis_fotis]

Saucony RIDE ISO in LOOOOOVE!!!

[@uroskozar889]

What about Salomon Sense Ultra Pro?!? Love them 😉

[@baltsu]

Skechers GOrun Ride 7 is pretty high in my list. I have put more than 400K on it in less than 2 months. A lot of cushioning, the legs recover so fast from long runs and the shoe is not cold now in winter because it has volume for even a thicker sock. If that shoe looked better it would be almost perfect.

[@TheGingerRunner]

Baltsu the ultra r 2 is just as soft, lighter and more breathable - winner for me.

[@tazpengra]

I haven't run in the Ride7, but when trying it on the knit upper didn't feel like it was going to keep my supinating feet over the midsole. I'm on my 3rd pair of Ultra Road2's.

[@baltsu]

@@tazpengra the knit upper is very comfortable. I'm overpronating and therefore like shoes that aren't so flexible. However, with GRR7 I haven't had any problems. My overpronation isn't as severe as it was 10 years ago. Running makes a better runner and problems disappear once legs get stronger and the runner becomes faster.

[@tazpengra]

@@baltsu I supinate; land and roll forward more on the outside of my foot. Most knit uppers won't hold the ball of my foot from slipping over the outside very well. Shoes with guide rails that cradle the knit upper work, though.

[@Farnhamification]

Been waiting for you to mention the Clifton 1 rerelease.... I’ve been thrashing my Napalis and want to know if I should cop the Clifton 1s. Thoughts?

[@northernninjarunner5506]

Salomon Speedcross 4 GTX great trail shoes so far but I have rolled my ankle a couple of times in them and I’m not the only one that has mentioned that. Still waiting for you’re review of them.

[@gixxxer1k]

i have had several pairs of them that i ran spartan races with. they shrink like crazy after they get wet too. gave them away to friends. still searching for perfect trail shoes =[

[@Brodieskipolefilms]

Brooks caldara 2 . i bought this shoe and hated it , but give it a chance and it has ended up being one of my favorite trail shoes ever. Not to mention it was only 100 bucks CAD :)

[@antha8611]

Have you tried the Naked running belt? Great for shorter runs when a pack/vest isn't needed.

[@bvjames112]

As always, great video! Lone Peak 4’s 👍🏻

[@ririemarilyn]

Ethan u need to start including Running Hats too

[@thesii213]

Luna Huaraches! Give them a shot. Just do it. Dooooo it.... ...But seriously consider it.

[@evanfortune-cabrera8887]

Ethan, as a heads up, Nepali is Clifton 3 with a different upper. Furthermore, Nepali is no longer in production because Hoka upset run specialty by not letting them sell the shoe 😏

[@TheGingerRunner]

Evan Fortune yup, see my Napali review from earlier this year :)