Ultimate ultra-trail running stuff checklist

Once every few months, I listen to the mountains call and embark on an ultra-trail run. Knowing that enjoying this kind of experience takes a lot of logistics (as you can discover here - How to Run 100K and Actually Enjoy It), I've decided to write it all down for once. Hope it can be helpful to you, fellow runners 😘

Wearing on the day of the race

• Shoes
• Long-distance cushioned socks
• Compression socks
• Racing shorts
• Warm base layer / t-shirt
• Hat or bandana
• Loaded GPS / heartrate watch
• Sunglasses (in case of 🌞)
• Running poles (in case of ⛰)
• Covid mask (for the start of the race, yup!)

In your bag

Clothes

• Light rain coat
• Spare base layer
• Spare socks
• Lightweight polar layer

Essentials

• Loaded smartphone (with downloaded Spotify playlist & podcasts)
• Loaded sports earphones (in pocket)
• Wallet (cards + €50 note)
• Keys

Accessories

• Loaded battery pack
• USB-to-mini-USB cable
• USB-to-lightning cable
• Mini leatherman knife
• Loaded headlight

Nutrition

• Full flasks
• Plastic glass (for refuels)
• Gels
• Fruit paste
• 1-2 fruits to go

Health & hygiene

• Ibuprofenes
• Survival blanket
• Compeed
• Surgical tape
• Massaging cream
• Tiger balm
• Nok anti-blisters cream
• Solar cream

Taking it lightly

Note that this is all very geeky. If you want to embark on a much lighter journey à la Anton Krupicka, I would encourage you to follow this list:

• Vibram 5 fingers
• Lightweight running shorts

Whichever style you pick, I sincerely wish you a very nice race. Enjoy the ride 🤟