10 Clear Signs That You’re A Trail Runner

Every tribe has its rites and customs and being a trail runner is no different. Join Scout as she shares 10 sure-fire signs that you’re part of the gang — toenails or no toenails!

1. You’ll Always Get Amongst It

From dirt, rocks, mud and sand, to wind, rain and perhaps even snow, the elements are never a valid excuse.

2. Your Trail Running Shoe Collection Is the Only Shoe Collection You Have

You have a pair to wear while the other pair dries out, a pair you prefer to only wear when the trails are slippery and sandy, then there is a pair that provides more ankle support than the others.

3. You’re Not Really into Counting the Kms

As a trail runner, distance is usually measured over hours rather than kilometres.

4. Your Feet Look Better with No Toenails

Toenails are so overrated.

5. No Really, We’re Serious about the Toenails

If you have more than three toenails intact, then you haven’t been running enough!

6. Your Hydration Pack Is Barely Washed

Because you know you are more likely to get sick from the murky pool of water that you refilled it from.

7. Bum Bags Have Never Gone out of Fashion

‘Nuff said.

8. Even Your Shower Likes to Get Dirty

Come Sunday night your shower is stained with mud, leaves and everything else you’ve picked up on the trail.

9. Snacking Is Your Main Meal

Your car is stashed with emergency calories, somewhere in your workplace is a drawer stocked with nut bars and I bet you’re eating right now!

10. Most of All, You’ve Perfected the Art of Pooing in the Bush

If not, now’s the time to learn!

Feature image by Chris Ord

All other images by Jon Harris