Our Mission is to increase women’s participation and opportunity in trail running and hiking through inspiration, education and empowerment.
The Commitment
The Trail Sisters Approved standards were developed to recognize and promote races committed to creating a welcoming and equitable race experience for women race participants. These standards were developed by Trail Sisters members and race directors. Many more items can be added to the list of approved standards, but the goal is to start making forward progress in a manageable way for all race events and organizations.
Committing to the five TS Approved Standards should not cause the race director significant added costs or additional planning. See the requirements and details below!
We are hopeful that race directors will understand the significance of these standards and will embrace the accreditation. This is an opportunity for education, as well as celebration for women race participants.
Trail Sisters Approved races offer an equal number of podium spots and equal awards amongst men & women participants.
Trail Sisters Approved races provide women’s specific apparel. If offering race shirts, a women’s fit and sizing option must be included. Unisex is not a substitute for women’s specific.
Trail Sisters Approved races will have menstrual products available and visible on all aid station tables in races that are a half marathon and longer.
Trail Sisters Approved races will invite women to be on the starting line. This can be achieved with a designated area (half the starting line for women), or by a simple announcement welcoming women to the front.
Starting in 2024
Beginning in 2024, Trail Sisters Approved races will offer a Pregnancy & Postpartum Policy. Whether planned or unplanned, expected or unexpected start or end to a pregnancy, healing and recovery time are required for a women’s overall health. Policy details are decided by the race director, but we recommend at least one to two years deferral depending on the race distance, and/or a refund option.
Commit to making these simple steps a part of your event. Race Directors can claim their race listing and easily make their race Race Trail Sisters approved. Runners, please help us by spreading the word to Race Directors you know!
Trail Sisters® is a registered trademark of Trail Sisters LLC | © 2022 Trail Sisters LLC
