May is one of the best times to make a few smart gear updates before summer really settles in. The days are getting longer, race calendars are filling up, weekend hikes are becoming more frequent, and rising temperatures mean your spring setup may not feel so comfortable much longer.
This is the sweet spot: warm enough to know what you will actually use, but early enough to upgrade before the hottest, most humid stretch of the season.
1. Swap into a shoe that matches your current miles
If you have been building mileage this spring, May is a good time to reassess your footwear.
The On Cloudrunner 3 is a strong option for runners who want everyday comfort with a supportive feel.
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Cushioned ride for daily training and long days on your feet
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Supportive platform for runners who want a stable feel
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Smooth transitions that work well for road miles and mixed daily use
The Brooks Ghost Trail is another great pick for runners who want a smooth, cushioned ride with added versatility.
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Balanced cushioning for everyday mileage
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Reliable traction for light trails and mixed terrain
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Comfortable fit that works well for longer efforts
2. Upgrade your socks before the humidity does it for you
When the weather gets warmer, small comfort details matter more. Darn Tough socks are a simple upgrade that can help your feet stay more comfortable as temperatures rise.
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Merino wool performance across changing temperatures
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Excellent moisture management to reduce that damp feel
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Durable construction with targeted cushioning for longer efforts
3. Keep one lightweight layer for early starts and sudden weather changes
Even in May, mornings can start cool and afternoon weather can shift fast. The Patagonia Light and Variable Jacket is the kind of layer that earns a permanent spot in your bag.
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Lightweight wind protection for breezy starts
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Highly packable design that is easy to stash
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Simple layering piece for runs, walks, and hikes
If your plans depend on the forecast, The North Face Alta Vista Jacket is a smart backup.
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Reliable rain protection for pop-up showers
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Breathable and lightweight for active use
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Easy to pack and carry when conditions are uncertain
4. Move to a smaller, smarter pack setup
As the season gets busier, a lightweight pack becomes more useful for hikes, day trips, and longer outdoor sessions. The North Face Jester is a great option for simple warm-weather carry.
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Comfortable, structured design for all-day use
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Enough room for water, snacks, and an extra layer
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Versatile for everyday carry beyond the trail
For runners, consider options like the Salomon Active Skin series or Osprey Duro/Dyna packs, which offer a similar feel to lightweight run vests.
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Secure, run-friendly fit that stays in place
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Smart storage for hydration and essentials
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Ideal for training, race prep, and longer warm-weather miles
5. Refresh your warm-weather apparel before summer arrives
The right top can make a big difference once the heat and humidity pick up. A performance tee like the New Balance R.W. Tech Tee is a smart move heading into summer training.
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Breathable, lightweight fabric for hot conditions
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Great outdoor versatility
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Built with technical fabric that moves with your body during your workouts and active days
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Versatile for running, hiking, and travel
Why May is the right time to do this
Waiting until peak summer usually means you are reacting to discomfort instead of getting ahead of it. May gives you time to test new shoes, dial in your layers, and build a setup that feels better before the hottest stretch of the year.
Ready to upgrade?
If you want help finding the right fit for shoes, socks, layers, or packs, our team can help you sort through what makes sense for your goals. Grivet Outdoors is the best one-stop-shop! With our 8 convenient locations across Tennessee, we can make it easy for you to get geared up close to home.
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Memphis Area: 4 locations including our flagship Cooper-Young store
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Nashville Area: 3 Bink's Outfitters locations and 1 Cumberland Transit store
