A new pair costs less than a visit to a podiatrist or orthopedist. It's tempting to drink from a clear mountain stream on long trail runs-but don't do it. These days, even the most sparkling stream probably harbors giardia, a bacteria that can cause serious intestinal disorders. Carry enough water to last the run or pack along a good water filter to fill your bottles. If you're running downhill on rough trails, consider wearing gloves to protect your hands in the event of a fall.
Most people break falls with an outstretched hand and deep palm abrasions can result.
Leather work gloves provide the most protection. Cycling gloves with a padded palm work well, too. Don't Stumble Many running injuries are the result of tripping over rocks or roots. Stay upright by working on some simple agility drills like football players use.