Essential Gear For Ultrarunning: Must-haves For Hitting The Trail

[@runningwithsimon]

What are specific gear you'd like me to test? I've wanted to try Leki poles for a while - unsure how I'd feel about the handle

[@trentwilliamson4021]

Very interested in what you would think about Leki poles.

[@iterato1]

I have the lekis with the snap-in "gloves". Didn't take that much time to get used to. On the plus side, some convenience in attaching/detaching. On the minus side, I've had a bit of chafing around one of those gloves during long and sweaty treks.

[@runningwithsimon]

@@iterato1 Thanks for sharing!!! Curious what's the benefit compared to just...well, normal handles? Those it help with weight or pressure? And how well does it work if you want to wear gloves for warm? Everyone swears by those leki, so I feel I should try - I just don't quite get it until I try

[@iterato1]

@@runningwithsimon so the real benefit might be quicker transition time - just click instead of messing with the straps, but if you have enough experience managing straps, that's not a big deal. When straps are used correctly, you get the same proper force application (without having to clutch the handles) so I don't think it provides significant benefit there. Finally, you are right in your concern about the warm gloves -- you can pull them through the lekis "half-gloves" if they are thin enough, but it would be awkward. The biggest advantage of the lekis for me was the superlight weight. For people who can get black diamond or something in carbon of the same weight with real straps, I'd recommend that instead.

[@iterato1]

A buff is essential IMO. It has so many uses -- wipe sweat, a makeshift hat, a neck warmer in cold weather just to name a few. P.S. the new studio looks very good!

[@runningwithsimon]

True - I basically always have mine!

[@splijter]

more than one!

[@L-dw5sx]

Facts I wear mine on wrist in summer makes a great sweat 😰 swipe

[@timking1283]

I wear two ! Wrist and neck. Great wetting, wearing, wiping, etc.

[@L-dw5sx]

@@timking1283 I wear I head band from Incylence soak it in cold water on a hot day amazing and warm in winter

[@Jameshooperlikesrunning]

Studio is looking great! The little guy squatting in the corner is the icing. 😂

[@runningwithsimon]

It's a catalan tradition - caganer! And when combined with caga tio tradition - I'm convinced catalans invented trail and ultra running!

[@z4m01]

@@runningwithsimon Well, Kilian Jornet is a catalan... so maybe?😂

[@runningwithsimon]

@@z4m01 Touché!

[@splijter]

A not so obvious one that saved me on a 70K beach and dunes trail; gaiters! It was freezing and the socks i chose were too thick. After 5K i felt the first hot spot coming on my toes so i took off the socks and wore my shoes barefeet. Thanks to the gaiters my ankles stayed warm and, like gaiters are supposed to do, my feet were 100% clean after many K's of deep sand!

[@runningwithsimon]

Totally - gaiters in the right context! For me it was snow gaiters when I was fastpacking Iceland!

[@Vegas_Dreaming]

Studio looks great. Can you do a video on what your training is like in the 4 weeks between 100 mile race. Thanks in advance and keep up the funny costumes.

[@Kelly_Ben]

I would love to hear this as well!

[@runningwithsimon]

You know, now that I have a studio, filming is much simpler/faster/more convenient (e.g., I don't have to wait for daylight and/or rain to stop). And because of that, I was thinking of a training vlog every 2 weeks. Just not sure if it'd become boring and repetitive...

[@Ojibwayrunner]

​@runningwithsimon I don't think it would be boring but I also am a bit of a need when it comes to the details behind training. Either way keep up the videos and the studio looks great.

[@tysonreid5863]

Great comments about the perceived cost of nice socks vs the actual value. Totally agree, finding the right pair can solve some significant problems.

[@runningwithsimon]

Exactly! And let's not forget that when looking into the mirror of Erised, Dumbledore - the wisest wizard - sees himself wearing nice socks!

[@tysonreid5863]

Thanks for the great videos!

[@princeleon7846]

Just finished my first ultra (Griffith park 50k) and your videos have been so helpful for me! I just wanna say thank you. These videos definitely gave me some confidence (aside from my training) that I can complete an ultra. Awesome studio btw.

[@runningwithsimon]

Congratulations!!! Glad it was helpful - but hey - that's 100% on you :)

[@ScottC79]

Studio looks great Simon! As someone who has done a few ultras and is trying to move up in distance my main concern is related to nutrition. When it comes to gear I find that one learns pretty quickly. If you’re missing something in an ultra you won’t be missing it on your next one 😊. I did my first 50 miler a few months ago and at the end of that race I wasn’t able to eat. It wasn’t a big deal because at that point I didn’t have much further to go but if the race was longer I think I might have been in trouble. I know nutrition is personal but always looking for ideas and tips.

[@runningwithsimon]

Some times when the race is very long, what you can digest evolves. For me, it starts with a lot of carbs like gels and gummies and sport drink. Later it's more salty fatty warm food like ramen, quesadilla, etc. Trial and error...

[@ScottC79]

@@runningwithsimon thanks for the tip! Does that mean you rely on aid stations? I imagine you can’t put a quesadilla in your pack?

[@runningwithsimon]

@@ScottC79 Oh yes, absolutely. I rely on aid station a lot, especially late in the race when it's night and hard to predict what I'd want anyway. A cup of warm broth and or ramen noodle. Hot grilled cheese. Instant mashed potatoes. I can't really know in advance what will sound appetizing in advance. So I look at what they have available and pick. (that said, you can carry things with you and eat as you walk/hike- quesadilla wrapped in aluminum foil for example - but of course it gets cold really quickly)

[@cindydawn4252]

Love the channel! Love how practical you make it. Makes me feel like I can do it too ❤

[@runningwithsimon]

And you can!

[@simonparent7644]

Love the new studio Simon! I would say bring any item that allows you to carry hysration. A vest is best as you said but you could go for a good belt too, if the "watering holes" are not too far apart. All good suggestions, thank you for the vid. Cheers!

[@runningwithsimon]

Yeah totally agree - I didn't want to dig more but I switch between a belt and a vest depending on context. It's just that if I'd only get 1 of the 2 - I'd recommend starting with a vest because it's more polyvalent. You can always go with an empty vest if you don't need much, whereas the belt is limited when bringing extra layer for high mountain. But I love me some belt - I feel lighter, and it breath a lot more!!!

[@runninrob7922]

Love the new video lab ... and thanks for the essential gear that is needed ... watched this twice. Thank you!!!

[@runningwithsimon]

So glad it's helpful! Next week we'll talk about what to stuff in your bag when hitting the trails vs. racing. You obviously don't want to carry too much useless stuff,...but also, you don't want to miss anything!

[@JoelNads72]

Merci Simon, beaucoup d'informations intéressantes comme d'habitude.

[@runningwithsimon]

Merci Joel!

[@SeeChadRun]

Love the new studio! Great list of gear! I agree that getting a watch is huge. For me, it allowed me to track my activities without draining my phone battery. Many watches today also have some sort of trail and map feature which helps me know if I'm on the right track. These maps have also allowed me to get back on track when I missed a turn and don't want to completely backtrack (e.g. bigger runventures in new areas) or when navigating in areas without formal trails. Having the right shoes based on the trails/conditions is also important (as you mentioned) but I would not suggest "waterproof"/GTX/Gore-Tex shoes unless you run through very wet grass and snow, otherwise, non-gore-tex shoes will do better when getting them occasionally wet (like stream crossings) as they will dry out faster and allow the water to leave the shoe. Great video Simon!!!

[@runningwithsimon]

Totally agree with Gore-tex (and for anyone reading check out chad's channel - he knows a lot lot about shoes). It's funny that a lot of shoe have the option for an upgrade to gore-tex for $10-30...but it feels like a downgrade to me

[@SeeChadRun]

@@runningwithsimon ha! Thanks for the shout out!

[@trentwilliamson4021]

New studio is awesome mate! Well done. Looking forward to your next vid on what you carry.

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks! Already 50% ready - might release sooner than expected. The main reason for the studio was actually that it makes filming so much easier/faster/more convenient. I can film at whatever time of the day, and just need to turn on the rig to get going. I'll be able to make more video

[@rossanoantonini9172]

Cool! Thank you for all the advice ❤ so no chest strap or armband to measure HR better than the watch?

[@runningwithsimon]

Chest band will be more accurate than wrist for sure - no question there. But I don't think it's needed on trail. The real use of having accurate HR is to adjust effort, but on trail you can't really do that anyway. It's much more useful say when you are road cycling. But said another way - I'd rather have the map and course on my wrist with ball park accurate HR, than accurate HR but no map. As for having both, I also don't like have a chest band when wearing a vest (which is really important on trail to carry your stuff)

[@rossanoantonini9172]

@@runningwithsimon thank you. I'm moving from road race to ultra-trail and I'm afraid about the chafing (vest+ strap) and also the feeling of tightness for long hours or days. Anyway you are doing an amazing job,so many races and content. You definitely deserve way more subscribers and if you keep it constant they'll come for sure 🙌🏻❤️

[@runningwithsimon]

@@rossanoantonini9172 I don't think I know anyone wearing chest strap on race day when it's 10-20hrs effort. So it'd be more of a training thing, but still there. I see it with some road runner, and with most cyclist, but not trail.

[@honoraeinhorn5517]

Love the new studio! But I miss hearing the dog in the background...

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks for helping building this :)

[@vacronda]

Nice background! Edit: Nice studio! Congrats on the upgrade. It looks great.

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks :) It was long due!

[@mathiasmandel3744]

Thank you for this video. I started trail running this year and finished a 50k so far and I train for 69k in August. Now I will have a look at my clothes and additional things in detail.🙂 Greets from Germany😉

[@runningwithsimon]

Awesome - congrats and good luck! Where in Germany? I came very close to move to Berlin for work after my PhD. It's mostly if you experience chafing that it's urgent. If you're good, ...you're good. Otherwise it's more 'circumstantial' - so if you run in rainy condition, or up in mountains, than you need the right clothing.

[@leifpederson6678]

Only essential I’m lacking are the poles but that’s a gear item I have already put on the want list for 2024. Thanks for all the information!

[@runningwithsimon]

And then it becomes hard to have a gift list...oh well. I always ask for more socks!

[@JacquesThebeau]

I am training for my 1st 50k in Oct… Tri State in MA…. Your vids have helped so much! Thankyou!

[@runningwithsimon]

Good luck :)

[@christmasjones9183]

You should get a little step display platform for your belts so they can all be seen more easily. Sunglasses are another piece of essential kit for me.

[@runningwithsimon]

Oh yeah! I should get that! I was thinking of nailing them to the back or something, but you wouldn't see them. I migth upgrade to that at some point (especially that I have ~20 buckles that couldn't make it to the background) Sunglasses - solid one. Don't know why I didn't say it...I always have some.

[@RunningUphill]

Love how you're growing the channel!

[@runningwithsimon]

It's nice to see my video helping others :)

[@jenskristensen6460]

Another great video Simon, thank you.

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks! And the follow-up is 50% done. The studio looks nice, but mostly, it makes filming those much easier/faster!

[@lindawilliams6220]

Thanks!

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks :)

[@greenturtle321]

Thank you! Training for first Trail 50K.

[@runningwithsimon]

Awesome, good luck! Plenty more tips on my channel :) Thinking of doing a "first 50k" video although I'm backlog so could take a couple of months

[@manojsurya]

Hey Simon, nice video as always. I am wondering what do you mean by good clothing, dry fit helps I believe? Also can you do a detailed video about chaffing? Thats's something I want to understand better going forward as I am increasing the distances this year.

[@runningwithsimon]

Yeah - and there's definitely some trial and error. But fist is the fabric itself. A 'normal' coton t-shirt vs. tech sport fabric - the tech sport will typically dry faster, and also doesn't rub as much. I like my bike jersey - for me it's a great fabric that dries well and just doesn't rub. But that's the second piece which is hard and depends on your body shape which is good fit. If you struggle with chaffing, you should try different fabric and different size. And of course, the 'duct tape' solution is to lube with body glide like squirrel nut butter. It's impossible sometimes to 100% get rid of chaffing, especially if you sweat a lot, or if it rains. But you can gradually improve until you find the right 'kit' for you. For me, chafing down there, particularly butt, is something I still struggle. And inner tights. But it's 100x better than when I was using lose shorts. I know Courtney uses that - which goes to show it's not a one size fits all. But my short/tights make a big difference. Last thing, if chaffing happen in weird spot like where your running vest is, you may want to play with fitting (how tight/untight it is). ps: actually NOW is the last bit, if it's a really bad spot that you know of (e.g., I had a hiking backpack that would rub bad on my hip), you can also pre-tape it. Similar to how I do my feet. Using leukotape. You need to put it before it hurts, and ideally, even before you hit the trail. Because if your skin is wet, it doesn't stick well. So it's really reserved for last resort situation where you can't seem to find a solution.

[@kstoeb]

Shoes and socks* - those are essential. The rest is optional and highly context-dependent. (*And if you run in sandals, not even the socks ;-)

[@Dr.RundaBomZim]

Yes, it can be expensive. This list was helpful, Simon. Thank you. Do you have any recommendations for a required emergency blank? I am doing the Sedona Canyon 125 and this is a requirement. So many to choose from, I am a little overwhelmed. Lol. Got learn how to use the course setting on my Garmin. This was a helpful suggestion.

[@runningwithsimon]

An emergency blanket for Sedona? Interesting, I don't remember that being required last year...but it did get cold at night (even little bit of snow). In full transparency, I've never actually used one in a survival setting, so hard to say 'what's the best', but here's a link to what I carry. I think it's smart that you have a bunch - it's easy to lose one. And it's a good habit to just leave in your various bag (instead of having to think about bringing) amzn.to/4ambc1T

[@runningwithsimon]

Also thanks about mentioning 'putting course on garmin' - I think I'll go and make a quick video about that to help folks. It's easy when you know how, but not the most straightforward otherwise...

[@pexcii]

Solid video! I just bought the first pair of my trekking poles, which will fill the missing piece for me! However, I gotta look into some more clothes when winter soon approaches in September/October!

[@runningwithsimon]

Can we please not talk about next winter yet :P

[@pexcii]

@@runningwithsimon but the winter is the best part of the running season! x'D (I do like autumn and summer more tho!)

[@runningwithsimon]

@@pexcii haha let's agree to disagree on this one! Well you're right it's fun too, and running in summer in places like phoenix...no thanks!! But my favorite time is the window in mid-july to mid september when the high peaks in colorado open up!

[@pexcii]

@@runningwithsimon Oh, that sounds awesome! I've always wanted to run in the Colorado mountains! Here, late july to early October is a nice time, as well the early snow fall in late October and November! (not a huge fan of trail running in 60cm tall snow, that melted partially in December and January..x'D

[@earthquakemagoon2505]

New studio is sweet! Super Man figure over your right shoulder 'popping-a-squat' is a nice added touch!

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks :)

[@travisgrimm]

Do you have a video on the requirements list for something for Leadville?

[@runningwithsimon]

I don't think Leadville has any "requirement" as in 'mandatory gear'. But I have a video specifically about the gear I used for Leadville here (I also have a tip video about Leadville course): kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGKvcoqaitaVjac

[@LetsGoGregg]

Nice studio! Let's hear the story about all those buckles and the pooper 😂 on a future episode

[@runningwithsimon]

How much time do you have :P ?!?

[@AckerQ.]

I have the Garmin 255, which is great but it doesn’t have full maps. Was wondering for which races a watch with full maps would be worth the upgrade.

[@runningwithsimon]

You mean like upgrading to a fenix line product? Honestly - a fenix 6 xl is all anyone ever need, and they are often on discount because the 7 is out. If I were you, the timing of the purchase would be based on important discount rather than specific need.

[@AckerQ.]

@@runningwithsimon, I was thinking about the 955, I haven’t looked into the Fenix line yet. I probably won’t do any long ultras any time soon, I just want to get into trail running for now.

[@DziennaDawkaDyskomfortu]

Thank You for all the hints. I will be running Zion 100 miles in April. I know you made it several times. Can you give me a tip what material / boxes? do you use to packe drop bags ? Thank You

[@runningwithsimon]

If you haven't seen it, I suggest you have a look at my Zion course + tips video. It goes through the course but also through the specific gear I used. And address details of the course like the water crossing at ~52 and 68 miles. I use a drop bag at virgin BMX for my transition to night gear. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqmZeaiCaLxon7Msi=wKdZvmWyjcl_Ahws I'll be racing again this year - see you out there!

[@DziennaDawkaDyskomfortu]

@@runningwithsimonThank You - I have seen this material - it is of great help. See you in Zion ✌️🙏😃

[@firefromheaven1]

How'd you do on the Hurt 100?! Are you gonna do a short review video over that?

[@runningwithsimon]

If you haven't seen it - I have a full race recap about HURT! Here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZDRXoSOjNiChMU The race went fine - not my best and not my worst. It's a very difficult course, very technical and heat + crazy climb. It's probably one of the hardest I've done, so I'm glad I finished. I probably could have done better - struggled in the last 2 laps, but that's normal. Also I fell down a bunch in training, and even (probably) broke one of my toe. But on race day, I simply took it slower to avoid that.

[@michelleharnett1351]

Love the new studio. Perhaps change the camera angle a bit so that your head comes up to about 2/3 of the height of the frame.

[@runningwithsimon]

Will try - it's tough to adjust because it depends how I sit. I'll try to sit more straight in the next one, maybe it's better?

[@emmarunyeard6832]

Compass in case of tech fail, whistle, foil blanket xxxx

[@runningwithsimon]

My grandpa's work brought him up in the north. He was a forest land prospector (not sure if that's the right term in English) and always having safety gear was something in drilled in our head for sure! I tend to bring less trail running vs. hiking but still - I'd rather carry a little too much and be safe than too little ... When you're out on trail and up high mountains as much as I do, it's a number's game, and something bad is bound to happen someday (and has for me - but obviously always found my way out...)

[@emmarunyeard6832]

@@runningwithsimon I should add that those were my extras not exhaustive list, I have a well stocked vest.. Can't be too careful x

[@memosantoyo]

What are you using to display your belt buckles ? Where can i get some? Thanks Simon

[@runningwithsimon]

I use these from amazon www.amazon.com/Acrylic-Air-Tite-Capsules-Challenge-Baseball/dp/B0B6J3JK29?pd_rd_w=UEFRH&content-id=amzn1.sym.31e6feb6-92ae-4a2f-a304-9771eb62777b&pf_rd_p=31e6feb6-92ae-4a2f-a304-9771eb62777b&pf_rd_r=EEMD6RQJ7FEDPSZ3AM2A&pd_rd_wg=hnmfz&pd_rd_r=eb5bb0e3-0bc2-46b3-8875-2e56d177cd14&psc=1&ref_=pd_bap_d_csi_rtpb_bap_sim_0_nped_t

[@michelleharnett1351]

I'm assuming you will cover essential safety gear in the next video. Under my essential gear I would add a bivvy bag or blanket and a first aid kit (always in my vest) and something warm in case I have to stop for a while as I chill down very fast. Oh, and extra calories. And tissues!!!

[@Kelly_Ben]

You just listed everything in my vest! 😂

[@runningwithsimon]

Yes will do! Thanks for sharing!

[@Dr.RundaBomZim]

Omg, I just asked a similar question. Ty!

[@NickLittle-lt6hg]

Keep it up

[@runningwithsimon]

That's what she said!

[@Kelly_Ben]

Umm... busted!! Is it bad that my first thought was sending you a Borat mankini to test?? 😂😂 Great video, and excellent studio! I really want to get a waist light, or a small clip on. My vest was the best investment ever... so comfortable I forget I'm wearing it. Most of my gear I get on clearance or second hand, which cuts the prices in half. I second the comment about a small lightweight first aid kit and emergency blanket or bivvy.

[@runningwithsimon]

You know, I could go as borat for this year's javelina

[@timking1283]

My advice is to address or invest in the three things that can take you out of a race, Feet, Nutrition, and chaffing !! Spend time and money and practice on these is my opinion.

[@runningwithsimon]

Yup these are key for sure

[@gabinchapuis2612]

nice background

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks - it's kind of interesting to think that any single object up there comes with a crazy story (even squatting superman)

[@z4m01]

The little guy "squatting" in the left is a "caganer" it's a typical figure in the Catalan nativity scenes (yes it is placed near little Jesus 😅) represents the irony of having to shit in the most important moment ( he had to adore Jesus but oh boy...) which is also very applicable to running 😂😂 There are thousands of different caganers and specialized shops and they can be bought online and collected.

[@runningwithsimon]

Yup, exactly! The other catalan custom I learned was caga tio and the song!

[@AckerQ.]

How often did you use your first aid kit? What were the most important pieces from it? Where did you learn how to use it correctly?

[@runningwithsimon]

Relatively frequently - often to help someone else. Never anything major however. The most commonly use would be bandaids, which can be used for minor things like chaffing. The other one is disinfectant to clean scratches you'll get from face planting. How I learned? I got a bunch of wilderness first aid training back in the days. Never had to use any of the more 'hardcore' stuff. But cleaning wounds is probably the most important

[@AckerQ.]

Thanks, Simon!

[@zimmejoc]

Have you seen the price of a good running shoe? Ain’t no cheap hobbies anymore😢😢😢

[@runningwithsimon]

Yeah totally - I think it's partly about the falling for the marketing either and shopping for discount. I typically get my shoes at about 70-80 per pairs and get a bunch all at once. Like just looking now, I often use Altra Lone peak, and sure some are 150, but you can find some (today) on amazon at 70-80. Which isn't cheap cheap, but much more reasonable than some Hoka at $300 (I got some Hoka recently for I believe 120 - so pricier than usual but wanted to try).

[@zimmejoc]

@@runningwithsimon I’m such a chump. I’ve been paying full price.

[@zimmejoc]

A new bikini would be far preferable to race in as opposed to someone sending you some barefoot shoes. I’ve heard of people doing 100 milers in barefoot shoes, and I love my barefoot shoes, but I wouldn’t run a 10k in them let alone an ultra.

[@runningwithsimon]

Alright so what I hear is - I'll run 100 miles with barefoot shoes but you run with a bikini? :P