Reaching the Sky with Brooks’ High Point Trail Collection

Brooks Running has been around for over 100 years. In their early days they made ballet slippers, bath shoes and baseball cleats. But in the 70’s everything changed, as Brooks began making running shoes. By 2001 the only thing Brooks was focused on was running. Today, Brooks makes award winning running shoes, along with high quality running gear.

A trail gear collection from Brooks, called High Point, is designed “for rugged wear and won’t blink at being caught briefly on a branch or thorn.” I’m not sure how much I want to test that theory, but here goes.

Recently we were sent:

• High Point Waterproof Jacket
• High Point 5″ 2-in-1 short 2.0
• High Point Short Sleeve
• High Point Waterproof Pant

TheHigh Point Waterproof Jacket has an almost rubbery feel, like a good rain jacket should. But unlike those goofy rain coats our moms made us wear, this one moves when you do, is super lightweight, fits perfectly, and comes in a cool color-way!

It has a ton of great features embedded in a seemingly simple visual design. The hood has slight brim to it – allowing it to keep rain out of your face while still allowing for a headlamp and for your peripheral vision to not be impacted. There are no pockets in an effort to allow it to pack up super small. It’s rainproof – down to the zipper, and also uses a neat inner snap feature so you can unzip the jacket all the way without it slipping off your shoulders. This is super handy when you start to warm up and the rain stops falling.

The High Point Short Sleeve Shirt looks and performs like a running shirt should. It embodies both the aesthetics and functionality expected of a premium running shirt. Available in two vibrant colors—a striking lemon and a versatile black—it offers a slightly snug fit that may prompt sizing up for those seeking extra room. However, this tailored fit lends itself well to layering during dynamic trail running sessions.

Despite its lightweight construction, it doesn’t compromise on performance, boasting sweat-wicking, quick-drying properties, and 4-way stretch capabilities, ensuring comfort and freedom of movement on the go.

The High Point 5″ 2-in-1 Short 2.0 are great for trail running. They strike a nice balance between durability and agility. Despite their lightweight feel, these shorts boast a substantial build, with ripstop outer fabric ensuring resilience against snagging on challenging terrain. Featuring multiple storage options, including two slip-style pockets on the hips and a zippered back pocket, they cater to longer excursions on the trail.

The extended liner, sitting at or below the 5″ outer shell, offers ample coverage, catering to personal preferences for those who prefer slightly longer shorts. With additional longer options available, these shorts accommodate a range of preferences while ensuring comfort and functionality on the trails.

Living in the PNW means an item like the High Point Waterproof Pant are a must. These versatile black pants seamlessly transition between running and casual wear, offering the moisture-wicking capabilities essential for any setting.

Despite their rain-resistant design, they maintain a comfortable temperature balance, thanks to their breathable fabric. The inclusion of zippered ankles provides ventilation options for when temperatures rise.

Additionally, their packable nature ensures practicality on unpredictable outings. Whether layered over running shorts or worn alone, these pants can be conveniently stowed in their internal pocket, allowing for easy portability without adding unnecessary bulk, perfect for adapting to Oregon’s unpredictable weather patterns.