A new initiative from Harvey and TrailFest aims to create a range of maps for the unique needs of trailrunners
Most off-the-shelf outdoor maps are aimed at walkers. However, if you run in the hills or the countryside you’ll know that the pace is completely different – rarely do you have time to stop and examine the map in detail. You need essential navigational information in the clearest possible form to aid interpretation on the move.
The Maps for Trailrunners Project is breaking new ground in its approach to mapping. The project is recruiting a team of runners of varying abilities to test current maps over mixed terrain. Over several months, the team will identify elements of the map needed by runners, and this information will form the basis for the new range of maps. TrailFest will be recruiting a team of 10 ‘Map Makers’ to be part of the project.
With the steady rise in trailrunning, the new maps will be the most trailrunner-friendly on the market in the UK. The new maps will contain all of the information required for route selection, making them just as safe as current maps. It’s expected that the first prototype will be tested in early 2018.
Ryan Scott, co-founder of TrailFest, said “This is a really exciting and innovative project to be involved with. Runners often have two choices when it comes to mapping: your classic paper-based map or a watch-based map. Personally, I’ve never enjoyed either. Conventional maps are too big and heavy for travelling fast and light and a watch-based map restricts the information I can access quickly.”
Sue Harvey, co-founder of Harvey Maps, added “Harvey Maps broke new ground with the introduction of the small, light, waterproof Ultramaps, and the Maps for Trailrunners Project in conjunction with TrailFest demonstrates our commitment to producing innovative products in the mapping industry.”
Here at The Great Outdoors, we have long recommended Harvey maps for walkers, and it’s great to see this new development for runners too. Our Gear Editor Chris Townsend reviewed Harvey British Mountain Maps and Harvey Ultramaps in 2016.
Runners interested in the Maps for Trailrunners Project can apply to join via the TrailFest website: https://trailfestscotland.com/maps-for-trailrunners-project/. Applications will close on 22 September 2017.
You can follow the project on social media with the hashtag #MapsForTrailrunners.