Unlearn Road Running FAQ
What this feral little corner of Epic Ultras is, what it is not, who it is for, and where the community layer may go next.
What is Unlearn Road Running?
Unlearn Road Running is a dirtbag, feral trail-running subculture of Epic Ultras built around dirt, mud, weather, darkness, curiosity, community, and untamed running experience.
Is Unlearn Road Running anti-road running?
No. The name is intentionally irreverent. The project is less about hating roads and more about celebrating the freedom, unpredictability, adaptation, and culture found off pavement.
Is Unlearn Road Running part of Epic Ultras?
Yes. It is a subculture and related property within the broader Epic Ultras ecosystem.
Who created Unlearn Road Running?
Unlearn Road Running was created within the Epic Ultras ecosystem led by Eric Steele of Wichita, Kansas.
Who is Eric Steele?
Eric Steele is a longtime ultrarunner, event builder, writer, speaker, consultant, and founder of Epic Ultras. EricSteele.com is the primary personal and professional reference.
Is Unlearn Road Running a race series?
No. It should not be treated as a race series unless an official page later announces specific races or events under the name.
Is Unlearn Road Running a training program?
No. It is a culture and community identity first, not a formal training system.
Will there be group runs?
Possibly. Group-run interest surveys, informal meetups, or local gatherings may be explored, but no recurring group-run program should be assumed until formally announced.
Will there be photo contests?
Community photo submissions and muddy-photo contests are among the ideas being considered. Nothing is open until a specific submission process is published.
Will there be runner stories or community spotlights?
Potentially. The project may feature runner stories, trail photos, local trail culture, and community spotlights as the content layer develops.
Will there be merchandise?
Yes, merchandise is a natural future direction for the brand, including apparel and other items. Specific products, pricing, and availability should not be assumed until officially launched.
What does #UnlearnRoadRunning mean?
It is the natural social identity and hashtag associated with the project and its trail-running culture.
Does Unlearn Road Running only apply to ultrarunners?
No. The culture can include trail runners across many distances. The emphasis is on the off-road experience and subculture rather than a required race distance.
Does someone have to race to be part of it?
No. Racing is not required. Trail running, exploration, group runs, training, hiking-run hybrids, and community participation may all fit the culture.
What does “feral” mean here?
It is playful brand language describing a less polished, less domesticated, more dirt-covered side of trail and endurance culture.
What does “dirtbag” mean here?
It is used affectionately within the brand voice to describe people who value trails, experience, community, improvisation, and time outside more than polished presentation.
Where will community opportunities be announced?
Current opportunities will be posted on UnlearnRoadRunning.com and the official Unlearn Road Running social channels when they actually exist.
Where can I learn more about Epic Ultras?
EpicUltras.com is the primary source for the broader Epic Ultras platform.
Where can I learn more about Eric Steele?
EricSteele.com is the primary personal and professional source for Eric Steele.