Trail Running Shoe Season is Here! Your Guide to Spring Running in Kelowna

Longer, warmer days mean it’s time to get outside! With spring in the air, it’s the perfect time to take out your running shoes in Kelowna. The Okanagan is the ideal place to get outdoors early season thanks to its mild, dry climate. Get excited with our spring running guide. 

Essential gear

We’re blessed with warm weather in Kelowna, but spring can still be tricky thanks to freezing overnight temperatures and warm highs.

Layers
When you run outdoors, there’s no way to avoid a layering system. The right layers keep you warm when it’s cold, cool when it’s hot, and always wick moisture. 

Tops
For bra users, a quality moisture-wicking layer is game-changing. Look for a supportive sports bra made with natural, quick-dry fibres like merino. We love the medium impact Mons Royale Stratos bra. 

No matter the season, we turn to Roark tees for style and performance, like the Roark Mathis Core SS. This top puts cotton t-shirts to shame by drying four times faster and regulating body temperature. 

Chillier days call for a little more coverage, like the Mons Royale Yotei high neck long sleeve, made from a merino blend to keep you comfortable and dry. 

Bottoms
For leggings lovers, spring is a great time to experiment with quick dry base layer leggings like the ultra-stretchy Cascades in ¾ length or full with the Diversion Trail short for freedom of movement. 

For more full-coverage joggers, look for loose fabric and taper at the ankles to avoid getting snags, plus zips to secure your valuables. Check out the Mons royale Virage.

Light jacket
A slim-profile, breathable windbreaker is key to cutting the chilly air and keeping you from cooling off too quickly. We love the artsy, Basquiat-inspired Secondwind packable layer from Roark (psst: it’s also on sale now!).

Trail running shoes 
Spring conditions can mean mud or even ice, thanks to overnight freezes. For extra security, invest in the sole of your trail running shoes by selecting a model with high traction and sticky rubber. Some cult favourites include:

• Salomon Speedcross for their serious lugs and Contagrip soles.

• Hoka Speedgoat, which marries the cushy comfort of Hoka with the security of Vibram rubber. 

Most major running shoe brands will make a trail running version, so experiment with the shoe that fits you best!

Where to run

Kelowna is an outdoor runner’s paradise, with flat trails and rolling hills to satisfy any level. Here are some of our favourites come springtime

Easy
The Kelowna waterfront is about as accessible as you can get — and with only 75 metres of elevation gain over five kilometres, it may not be precisely flat, but close enough to satisfy beginners!

Moderate
Rose Valley Scenic Loop in West Kelowna adds a little more elevation and a lot more views for those looking for a bit more of a challenge. 

Across the lake, Knox Mountain is a classic trail running destination with easy to moderate trails. Opting for the Apex trail will add a decent amount of elevation to kick-start the season with more challenging terrain. 

Community
Looking for some extra motivation? Sign up for a run club or get stoked for a race! Registration is open for PACE Trail runs run club, Kelowna Running Club, and more. 

Quit dreaming, start doing. Our sports stores in Kelowna have everything you need to find your new sport. See what’s in store, then get out and enjoy the Fresh Air!

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