Latest Issue
TRAIL magazine issue 41
You'll be inspired by trail runners and their adventures in the Oct/Nov/Dec issue of TRAIL, South Africa's only 100% trail running magazine. It's the 41st edition since its launch in December 2011.
Protected: My Annapurna meltdown
Huge mountains in the Annapurna range, a seemingly unending climb, and an ultra distance trail challenge at altitude create a perfect storm.
Write us a letter – you may get Feetured!
Every issue of TRAIL magazine features letters from readers just like you. So share your thoughts and life-changing experiences, and if your letter is published, you will receive a pair of Feetures Elite Light Cushion trail running socks, worth R239, courtesy of Feetures South Africa!
Send us your trail running pics
You know how it goes: everyone needs to see that while they were on the couch, you were running this pristine landscape, gazing at that exquisite view. You snap a pic. Or twenty. Submit the best photo you took on the trail to us and you could see them in the next issue of TRAIL magazine.
Bestest Reader Awards 2021
Do you qualify for a 2021 Bestest Reader Awards title? Send in your pic and you might be recognised for the crazy genius you are. Just for fun, enter your photos into the 2021 Bestest Reader Awards, to be recognised for the crazy genius you are.
Lessons from Ultra-Trail Drakensberg
Amri Williamson recalls her struggles with altitude sickness on her way to winning her first hundred miler at the 2021 Ultra-Trail Drakensberg's UTD160.
Mountain Club to the rescue
We spoke to three members of the Mountain Club of South Africa about their love for the mountains, safety tips, and their experience with rescues. Heed their advice to avoid the majority of dangers in the mountains.
Have patience with your training
Instead of going at maximum intensity every training session, trust the process and be patient with your body. Coaches Meg Mackenzie and James Montgomery of The Run Project explain the importance of patience to get long-term gains.
Trail running glossary
An ever-expanding list of terms used by trail runners in South Africa and beyond. Use this glossary to master the sport's jargon. Illustrated by Barry Maitland-Stuart. Compiled by Heloise Hunter. First published in TRAIL issue 33.
Three core strength exercises for runners
You need a strong core to be a better runner, but doing 100 sit-ups a day isn't the answer! Physiotherapist and trail runner Karine Bezuidenhout has three core exercises with no equipment to share. Originally published in TRAIL issue 37.
Install and test your grounding mat
Three short videos by Durban biokineticist Stephan Terblanche. 1. Setting up earthing equipment, 2. Testing your grounding mat, 3. Comparing your grounding mat with other materials. Best viewed after reading his TRAIL magazine issue 38 article.
How to choose your next pair of run shoes
Running shoe expert Grant Bryant of RUN Store helps you choose trail running shoes which are optimal for your needs. Hint: it's not about the style or the colour! Your history, biomechanics, terrain, run philosophy, and personal fit all count.
Previous Issues
TRAIL magazine issue 40
TRAIL issue 40 features a mega Ultra-Trail Drakensberg feature, shares Jo Keppler's story fighting substance addiction, improves your strength through hill running, helps you avoid and counter hypothermia, and much more.
Get trail smart with TRAIL 39
Take your trail running to new levels with 250 pages of trail awesomeness in the April/May/June issue. It includes a 70 event calendar and an account of two trail runners experiencing a desert flash flood in the Karoo.
TRAIL 38
Start your year on the right foot with TRAIL 38! This issue boasts 250 pages of photos, fun, and expert content to help you run at your best in 2021. Climb strong, breathe well, peak properly, and beat the heat with our latest issue.
TRAIL 37
TRAIL's second digital-only issue (Oct/Nov/Dec 2020). Get inspired and fit with 240 pages of trail running stories and lessons. Totally redesigned for maximum legibility on digital devices, including smartphones.
TRAIL 36
TRAIL's first digital-only issue (Jul/Aug/Sep 2020). Rebuild your trail skills and fitness with 188 pages of trail running nirvana! Ultra athlete René Vollgraaff is on the cover, photographed by her husband, Lourens Reyneke.
TRAIL 35
TRAIL 35 is packed with training insights, stories from the trail community, and new gear for you. Strengthen your glutes and quads with five challenging stair runs, improve your strength and mobility, and protect your toes on the trail.
