Ultra Marathon Running Gear #1: Running Shoes

Trail Running Shoes

Ultra marathons often take place on rugged trails. Choose shoes with excellent grip, durability, and comfort. Trail running shoes need to provide stability and protection on uneven surfaces.

• Salomon Speedcross 5: Known for its aggressive grip and protective features, ideal for muddy and technical trails. The Speedcross 5 offers a snug fit and excellent cushioning, making it perfect for long trail runs.
• Hoka One One Speedgoat 4: Offers superior cushioning and stability, perfect for long distances on rough terrain. The Speedgoat 4 features a wider forefoot for a more stable ride, along with a Vibram Megagrip outsole for unbeatable traction.
• Budget Option: Saucony Peregrine 10: Durable and versatile trail shoes with good traction, available at a lower price point. The Peregrine 10 is lightweight, with a rock plate for protection and PWRTRAC rubber for optimal grip.

Road Running Shoes

For road ultras, consider cushioned shoes that provide comfort over long distances. Road running shoes should offer good support and shock absorption to handle the repetitive pounding on pavement.

• Brooks Glycerin 19: Features plush cushioning and a seamless fit, great for road running. The Glycerin 19 uses DNA LOFT cushioning for a soft, smooth ride, and an Ortholite sockliner for premium comfort.
• Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%: Offers exceptional energy return and comfort, popular among elite marathon runners. The Vaporfly Next% features a full-length carbon fiber plate for propulsion and ZoomX foam for unmatched energy return.
• Budget Option: Asics Gel-Venture 7: Affordable and reliable road running shoes with good cushioning and support. The Gel-Venture 7 uses GEL technology for shock absorption and an EVA midsole for added comfort.

Ultra Marathon Running Gear #2: Hydration Packs and Bottles

Staying hydrated is crucial during an ultra marathon. Hydration packs and bottles allow you to carry enough fluids and stay hydrated throughout the race.

Hydration Packs

A good hydration pack is crucial for carrying water, snacks, and other essentials. Look for packs with adjustable straps and multiple pockets for convenience.

• CamelBak Ultra Pro Vest: Lightweight and breathable, with plenty of storage and a 1L reservoir. The Ultra Pro Vest is designed for long-distance running, featuring 3D vent mesh for airflow and dual adjustable sternum straps for stability.
• Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set: Provides a snug fit and multiple pockets, holding up to 1.5L of water. The Advanced Skin 12 Set offers a custom fit with Sensifit construction and MotionFit technology for ease of movement.
• Budget Option: Teton Sports TrailRunner 2.0 Hydration Pack: Affordable, lightweight, and comes with a 2L bladder. The TrailRunner 2.0 is designed for comfort with adjustable straps and a mesh back panel for ventilation.

Handheld Bottles

Handheld bottles are handy for shorter distances or as a complement to a hydration pack. They allow you to hydrate on the go without the need to stop.

• Nathan SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Flask: Ergonomic design with an insulated bottle to keep your drink cool. The SpeedDraw Plus features a zippered pocket for essentials and a hand strap for easy carrying.
• Ultimate Direction Fastdraw 500: Lightweight with a comfortable hand strap and easy-squeeze bottle. The Fastdraw 500 has a design suitable for quick hydration with a secure hand strap and a convenient thumbhole.
• Budget Option: Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Water Bottle: Affordable and ergonomic, with an easy-to-hold design. The Hydraform bottle is shaped to fit comfortably in your h, with a hand strap and a thumbhole for stability.

Ultra Marathon Running Gear #3: Nutrition and Fueling

Proper nutrition and fueling are vital for maintaining energy levels during an ultra-marathon. Electrolyte tablets, chews, and energy gels provide quick energy and essential nutrients.

Energy Gels and Chews

Energy gels and chews provide quick energy during long runs. They are easy to carry and consume, making them ideal for refueling on the go.

• GU Energy Gels: Available in a variety of flavors, offering a mix of carbohydrates and electrolytes. GU Energy Gels are designed for quick absorption and sustained energy, with added amino acids for muscle support.
• Clif Shot Bloks: Easy-to-eat chews that provide sustained energy and electrolytes. Clif Shot Bloks come in convenient, bite-sized pieces and offer a balance of carbohydrates and electrolytes.
• Budget Option: Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews: Affordable and made with natural ingredients for a quick energy boost. Honey Stinger chews are made with organic honey and tapioca syrup, providing a natural source of energy.

Electrolyte Tablets

Electrolyte tablets help maintain electrolyte balance and prevent cramping. They are easy to dissolve in water and provide essential minerals.

• Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets: Dissolve in water to provide essential electrolytes without added sugars. Nuun tablets are convenient and come in a variety of flavors, making it easy to stay hydrated and replenished.
• SaltStick Caps: Convenient capsules that help maintain electrolyte levels during long endurance events. SaltStick Caps provide a balanced mix of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
• Budget Option: Hi-Lyte Electrolyte Tablets: Affordable and effective electrolyte replacement in tablet form. Hi-Lyte tablets are designed to support hydration and muscle function, with no added sugars or artificial ingredients.

Ultra Marathon Running Gear #4: Apparel

Choosing the right apparel is essential for comfort and performance during an ultra marathon. Look for moisture-wicking, breathable, and durable clothing.

Moisture-Wicking Clothing

Moisture-wicking clothing helps prevent chafing and keeps you dry. Look for materials that are lightweight and breathable.

• Under Armour Tech 2.0 Shirt: Lightweight and quick-drying, perfect for long runs. The Tech 2.0 shirt features UA Tech fabric that is quick-drying, ultra-soft, and has a more natural feel.
• Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts: Feature multiple pockets and a comfortable fit. The Strider Pro Shorts are made with lightweight, quick-drying material and have a DWR finish for added protection.
• Budget Option: Baleaf Quick-Dry Running Shorts: Affordable, moisture-wicking, and come with multiple pockets. Baleaf shorts are made with breathable, quick-dry fabric and have an elastic waistband for comfort.

Compression Gear

Compression gear aids in muscle recovery and reduces fatigue. Look for high-quality compression socks and sleeves.

• CEP Compression Socks: Provide support and improve circulation. CEP socks are designed to reduce muscle vibration, increase circulation, and provide targeted compression.
• 2XU Compression Calf Sleeves: Help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue. 2XU sleeves offer graduated compression to promote circulation and support muscle performance.
• Budget Option: Sporteer Compression Socks: Affordable compression socks that offer good support and recovery benefits. Sporteer socks provide compression to improve circulation and reduce muscle fatigue.

Ultra Marathon Running Gear #5: Accessories

The right accessories can enhance your running experience and protect you from the elements.

Running Hat and Sunglasses

Protect yourself from the sun with a lightweight, breathable hat and UV-protective sunglasses.

• Nike Dri-FIT Running Hat: Lightweight and moisture-wicking. The Dri-FIT hat is designed to keep you cool and dry with breathable fabric and a sweat-wicking band.
• Goodr Running Sunglasses: Affordable, stylish, and provide UV protection. Goodr sunglasses are designed to stay in place, offer UV400 protection, and come in a variety of fun styles.
• Budget Option: TrailHeads Race Day Cap: Budget-friendly and moisture-wicking running hat. The TrailHeads cap is lightweight, breathable, and has an adjustable strap for a secure fit.

Headlamp

A reliable headlamp is a must for night runs. Look for a headlamp with adjustable brightness and long battery life.

• Petzl Actik Core: Offers multiple lighting modes and is rechargeable. The Actik Core headlamp provides 450 lumens of brightness, with a rechargeable battery and hybrid compatibility.
• Budget Option: EverBrite Headlamp: Affordable, with adjustable brightness and multiple modes. The EverBrite headlamp offers 300 lumens of brightness, with multiple lighting modes and a comfortable head strap.

Running Poles

Running poles provide extra stability on technical trails. Look for lightweight, durable poles that are easy to carry.

• Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z: Lightweight and foldable, ideal for steep terrains. The Distance Carbon Z poles are made with 100% carbon fiber, offering strength and lightweight performance.
• Budget Option: Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles: Durable and budget-friendly, great for extra stability on trails. Montem poles are made with aluminum and feature quick-lock mechanisms for easy adjustment.

Ultra Marathon Running Gear #6: Safety and First Aid

Carrying a first aid kit and having a GPS watch can ensure your safety during long runs.

First Aid Kit

A compact first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries. Look for kits that are lightweight and waterproof.

• Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .5: Compact and waterproof, perfect for long runs. The Ultralight/Watertight kit contains essential items for treating cuts, scrapes, and blisters.
• Budget Option: Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit: Affordable and comprehensive, with essentials for minor injuries. The Swiss Safe kit includes a variety of medical supplies in a compact, durable case.

GPS Watch

A GPS watch tracks your distance, pace, and elevation. Look for watches with long battery life and detailed metrics.

• Garmin Forerunner 945: Long battery life, detailed metrics, and navigation features. The Forerunner 945 offers advanced performance tracking, built-in maps, and music storage.
• Budget Option: Coros Pace 2: Affordable GPS watch with excellent battery life and performance tracking. The Pace 2 features a lightweight design, long battery life, and detailed performance metrics.

Ultra Marathon Running Gear #7: Foot Care

Taking care of your feet is crucial during an ultra marathon. Toe socks and anti-chafe balms can help prevent blisters and chafing.

Anti-Chafe Balm

Anti-chafe balm helps prevent blisters and chafing by reducing friction. Look for balms that are easy to apply and long-lasting.

• BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm: Easy to apply and effective at reducing friction. BodyGlide balm is made with natural ingredients and provides long-lasting protection against chafing.
• Budget Option: Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick: Affordable and effective at preventing chafing. The Gold Bond stick is easy to apply and provides a protective barrier against friction.

Toe Socks

Toe socks help prevent blisters between toes by reducing friction. Look for socks that are comfortable and moisture-wicking.

• Injinji Trail Midweight Crew Socks: Provide excellent protection and comfort for long distances. Injinji socks feature individual toe sleeves and are made with moisture-wicking fabric.
• Budget Option: ToeSox Lightweight Toe Socks: Budget-friendly and effective at preventing blisters. ToeSox socks are designed to reduce friction and keep your feet dry.

Ultra Marathon Running Gear #8: Training and Preparation

Proper training and preparation are essential for a successful ultra marathon. Incorporate strength training and follow a structured training plan.

Training Plan

A well-structured training plan tailored to ultra marathons is essential. Consider consulting a coach or using an app like TrainingPeaks to create a personalized plan.

Strength Training

Incorporate strength training exercises to build endurance and prevent injuries. Focus on exercises that strengthen your core, legs, and upper body.

• Core Exercises: Planks, Russian twists, and leg raises.
• Leg Exercises: Squats, lunges, and calf raises.
• Upper Body Exercises: Push-ups, pull-ups, and dumbbell rows.

Mental Preparation

Mental preparation is as important as physical training. Practice visualization techniques, set achievable goals, and develop a positive mindset to overcome challenges during the race.

Conclusion

Preparing for an ultra-marathon requires more than just physical training; having the right gear is critical to your success. From running shoes to hydration packs, nutrition to safety accessories, each piece of gear plays a vital role in your endurance and performance. Equip yourself with the best ultra marathon running gear to ensure you’re ready to tackle the challenging miles ahead.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your next ultra marathon adventure. Remember, the key to a successful ultra marathon is not just about the distance you cover but also about the quality of your preparation and the gear you choose. Happy running!