Best Gear for Ultra Running 2021

Are you planning to run an ultramarathon this year? You likely have questions about the gear that will help you through the adventure. There are similarities, but the differences might surprise you. In this article we cover all the new gear you need to consider when taking on the challenge of ultrarunning.

Essential Ultra Running Gear for Starters

Shirts and base-layers

When you run long distance, clothing is more important than ever. A wet t-shirt can lead to difficulty regulating temperature. A heavy shirt causes you to use more energy. Choose a mixture of spandex, lycra, nylon and some natural materials like merino wool. Every pound counts, especially uphill. Our top pick is the fourlaps long sleeve tee.

Ultra Running shorts and pants

Meanwhile, for the lower part of your body, we recommend shorts…unless it’s cold of course. As with running shirts, light and breathable material are key in choosing shorts. You work so hard to shed lbs, don’t put that weight back on with heavy clothing. In cold weather tights are the best choice. Tights can offer warmth and compression in cool or colder weather.

A great recommendation for shorts is the Pinkbomb 2 in 1 Running Shorts. As the name suggests, you’re getting two shorts combined at the waist region. The inner shorts have a tight fit to prevent friction. The outer shorts are light and comfortable. Ultra runners will appreciate the phone pocket and a headphone jack on the inner shorts.

Do I need a Hydration Vest?

When you are out running for hours, hydration and electrolyte balance can be a life or death matter. A running vest or hydration pack are a must-have.

The top vest is comfortable, but expensive. Look to a tested product like the Salomon Advanced Skin. You might notice a common theme in ultra-running. When you push your body, your also need to open your wallet a little more.

Calf Sleeves for an Ultra

I strongly recommend training for an ultra with calf sleeves. Calf sleeves serve as a protection from prickly branches and the sun. They also help with recovery trough blood circulation. I have used 2XU compression sleeves for years. You’re better investing in this item, as cheap compression sleeves can lead to injury.

Running cap for Ultra Running

As an ultrarunner, you need to know the unofficial hat is a trucker hat. This was not chosen for comfort or moisture wicking — as it will do neither. This style is simply that, a style. We recommend a lighter trucker hat with a mesh back. Some trucker hats are extremely heavy material, but hey, you’ll look cool.

Best Socks for Ultra Running

When it comes to socks, you need to choose blister prevention, and the material weight for your climate. Thicker socks come with the benefit of heat in cooler climates and less movement in-shoe. When you choose a trusted brand like Balega you’ll be in good company. Check out our full article on how the best running socks this year.

Choosing Shoes for Ultra Running

Chances are, you already have a pair of running shoes but are they right for an ultramarathon? There are many good products out there, hence we can’t recommend one that is best for you, as what works for one person might not work for another. However, ensure whatever shoes you use to run ultra is comfy and isn’t one that will leave you with sore feet in the end.

We recommend investing in a pair of insoles to attenuate over-pronation and even make you run faster. You can find the best insoles for running here.

Which GPS watch lasts longest for Running?

Unlike short-distance running, you won’t be relying on a cellphone battery on your 100 mile run. You need a reliable long lasting GPS watch. In most ultramarathons, the actual distance you’ve run isn’t written out; only the courses are. With a GPS watch on your wrist, you can track in real-time how far you’ve gone. Some like the Garmin Fenix 6 can keep you on a course map too, which could keep you alive in a remote race. Just don’t blindly trust your watch!

Nutrition

Nutrition is extremely important, and I cannot tell you what your body will prefer. It could be almond butter sandwiches or energy gels, or a little of both. You need to test products on your long training runs. One common advice is to adapt your body as much as possible to whole foods and natural foods.

Your body should adapt to using fat-as-fuel over time if training is done correctly. This means the quick-fix of running gels will spike your glycogen levels for short bursts followed by crashes. Think of your body in a slow burn state, not like setting off fireworks.

THE RESEARCH

What Do You Eat During an Ultramarathon?

What you need to eat during an ultra run depends largely on the length of the race, as well as where it’s taking place.

Before setting out on any ultramarathon in a day, try eating mostly unprocessed food — anything that comes as a blend of fat, protein, vitamin, mineral, and, of course, carbohydrates. The aim is to eat as much natural food as possible.

The body cannot process food while in action as it does when resting, which is why energy gels and sports drinks are typically used by runners, given that the body can process them while bring worked. Your body can still process, while hiking, foods such as rice cakes, CLIF bars, sweet potatoes, and salted peanuts. These can re-energize you and fuel your determination.

What Do You Need for Ultramarathon?

In addition to the items listed on our gear list, there are essential or mandatory items required in many races, most of which are clearly outlined for runners to take note of.

At some checkpoints, you’ll be provided the basics such as a first aid kit, food, water, etc. Be that as it may, some entertainment, personal medicine, headlamps, and emergency blanket will come in handy.

You’ll need some music or audiobook to keep your mind on track, some tabs for pain relief, and headlamps to help you navigate through the night.

What Gear Do I Need for Trail Running?

You’ll need pretty much every gear used for running an ultra for trail running, except a few bells and whistles to ease your adventure on those steep gradients and unpaved surfaces. One important gear for trail running is a pole, and, no, you don’t need to carry a straight pole all through your journey; there are various collapsible poles in the market that can fit easily into your backpack. A pole is important for the occasional ascents and descents you will encounter.

What Should I Pack for a 100mile run?

Considering the length of a 100mile run, some organizers may not have a provision for food. Therefore, you might be mandated to carry some food in your backpack. You don’t have to stuff up your bag though; carry only what you deem necessary, so as to prevent fatigue. I also recommend having in your gear a whistle and a pair of sunglasses — the sunnies to protect your eyes from the sun, and the whistle to alert responders just so you find yourself in a dire situation that needs helping.

Don’t Use Anything in Race if You Haven’t Tested It in Training

For your safety, you want to ensure everything you’ll be using to run ultra is properly tested or used in training. I’ve seen cases where one piece of gear or the other failed their owner amid a race. I swear you don’t want to see your Hydration Vest leaking water while on those terrains, leaving you drenched like an albatross beaten by the rain.

Ultra Running Rain Gear

If the weather forecast suggests that the heavens will unleash amid race, you should have in place an ultra running jacket made with waterproofing materials, plus one with a waterproofed hood.

Merino wool clothing will also protect you from the cold.

Ultra Running in Extreme Heat

For races in extreme heat, gossamer light clothing will do just fine, not forgetting your hydration vest. Also, we suggest putting on sunscreen with, at least, 40 SPF protection if you have sensitive skin.

Aid Station Planning

You should plan to spend as little time as possible at the aid station. Go through the things you want to achieve there when you’re close. When you get there, fill your hydration bladder first and proceed to eat. Every other essential goes into your bag, then get out as fast as you can. My ideal time for aid station visits is within 3 to 5 minutes.

Becoming a Race Director

If you’re looking to become a race director, the good news is, getting certified has never been easier. The RRCA, in partnership with Road Races Management (RRM), industry experts, and leading events directors, has set up a program where you can get trained on race events and get certified.

You can check out the RRCA website for more information on the race director certification program.

Planning for Elevation Gain

If your ultras are to include hilly terrain and big climbs, then you need to condition your legs to amass the strength for climbing up and to take the impact of downhill running.

In this case, using a collapsible pole for elevations will attenuate the strain on your legs and help you maintain balance. However, rigorous training prior to the race is equally important.

Thanks for reading and good luck in your Ultra-running adventures.

Call for comments:

If you’re considering an Ultra this year, what distance will you start with?