Though I've been sticking mostly to the roads in recent years.

My info/preferences are therefore slightly outdated, particularly on shoes. I used to love the Brooks Cascadia. They're on sale right now on RunningWarehouse.com. I know Hoka has been doing good things with their trail shoes, too. I've never liked Nike's trail shoes.

Socks - I've been wearing Feetures for the road in recent months, but I swear by DryMax for trails. I like my trail socks to be above the ankle to avoid rashes and rocks. These are pricey, but I'm still wearing mine that I bought over a decade ago.

https://www.runningwarehouse.com/Drymax_Maximum_Protection_Trail_Run_1_4_Crew_Turndown/...

Hydration packs are a very subjective thing. I generally hate wearing the most common style now - the full vest. They come with bottles or the hose system. But I preferred a belt pack with two bottles, one of which I usually carried water and the other my electrolyte drink.

Feel free to email me if you have any specific questions. csilker (at) gmail DOT com