How I Pack for Trail Running

[@mxm5783]

Your recent videos have been really well edited. It would've been easy to just sit at that table and go through your gear, by the way you broke it up made it much more interesting. Well done!

[@sallymcraestrength]

Really appreciate that feedback!🙏

[@dan-zo4eb]

​@@sallymcraestrength Great video and your Cocodona film is outstanding. Please tell me the brand of the legionnaire hat you used in the Cocodona race as it looks really good.

[@mrpenguin9107]

When she says she doesn’t get many blisters, I died. She certainly can’t say that anymore.

[@SergiuSalcau00]

Well if she didnt, before, the fk did you expect her to say. Wtf

[@mauritaedwards9707]

Thanks for always supplying very helpful information. I'm 58 years young and decided to return to distance running 🏃‍♂️ I'm excited ❤

[@Paulaserenity]

I live in Hawaii and run very hot. So on the night before a long trail or road run, I’ll half fill my bladder with water laying flat. Then on the morning of, I’ll fill up the rest and add electrolytes so that when I run, the ice will cool my back as I’m running. I also carry a knife at all times. You never know when you’ll need it! Mahalo for your wonderful useful tips! Aloha

[@markbphilip]

Great video and agree, be prepared for what might happen, especially when self-sufficient and in changeable environments such as mountains. One thing I do with things like spare clothing is put it into a drybag that then goes into my pack. Even if it doesn't rain, if I'm sweating a lot in the heat my pack can be wet, but my kit is protected.

[@chandaharkins4418]

I admire that you run "heavy" because being prepared is so important. I have watched videos of what other folks carry and think about the what-ifs - sometimes they have so few items with them. Thanks for being responsible and sharing this with us!

[@Dendrolycopodiumd]

I keep a little bathroom kit in a small dry bag containing - a wag bag (folded down and held with a rubber band), some TP, and a Kula cloth. Goes from my running vest to my hiking daypack. Still haven't needed the wag bag, but I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it! And I love my Kula cloth

[@sallymcraestrength]

smart!

[@andrewshughart4353]

Sally, I love all of the content you and Eddie put out. As far as lighting for night trail running, I love my ultraspire lumen 800 waist light in combo with a head lamp. I recently ran my first 50 mile race (with the help of your 16 week training plan) and it had a midnight start. I used my lumen 800 on the medium setting and it lasted over 6 hours on one charge. A simple battery swap and I was good to go again until daylight. The 3D lighting you get from the headlamp/waist light combo is unrivaled on the trails. There is no need to have to slow down to run in the dark with them.

[@sallymcraestrength]

awesome!

[@makingmajorprofits1017]

The McRaes went to Cocodona and Showed out. Great Race! Amazing Effort! Amazing Team! I can't wait until ya'll post the new video!

[@katiestroud400]

First Aid!! In Australia a snake compression bandage is a must, I always take wet wipes (great for getting dirt/gravel off a graze or cut), some dressings and I always have poles too when I’m out remote. I did an ankle in and they were essential for getting back to the car. Loved the video ❤

[@nigeljohnwilson4549]

Great, no-nonsense advice on packing from a seasoned campaigner like Sally. It doesn't get much better ! 😀

[@davidmorgan9138]

Fantastic video!!! This is a must watch for all that do endurance sports - great tips - thank you for sharing

[@ohaiitsarielle]

Ooh here my go-tos for gear and hydration!! Pack: Salomon Advanced Skin 12. It’s my workhorse and can hold a LOT of stuff. I took for the overnight section of my first 100 miler, Oregon Cascades 100, last August! Nutrition/hydration: Spring Energy in Awesome Sauce & GU Roctane Energy Drink Mix. My soft flask of choice: Hydrapak Ultraflask Speed 600ml. I use this for my GU Roctane cause it’s just 2 scoops. I use these flasks for my GU and the Salomon flasks for plain water! Illumination: Black Diamond Sprinter 500! It has the lamp on the front and the battery on the back! It’s super lightweight. My backup for OC100 was the Black Diamond Storm 500 because it was battery powered. Thanks for giving an insight into your gear! I want to do some fun longer adventure runs this summer, so this is perfect!

[@sallymcraestrength]

good stuff!

[@aksasquatch49th]

Sally I consider myself an experienced ultra runner and have figured out my gear but wow this was delightful and full of great ideas. You have been super motivational during this training block for Cruel Jewel. I have loved your Instagram workouts!

[@nc139]

Oh man, that tip about keeping the pockets the same is super helpful. Love your videos❤

[@Battlemaiden4]

I have a similar pack camel 18 octane and LOVE it! Holds tight on the body packs a lot for a long day.

[@makingmajorprofits1017]

Thanks for doing this layout, Summertime is around the corner and I can use some pointers. Your the best Sally.

[@emjaysankofa]

You should look at the nitecore headlamp. It’s SUPER lightweight, rechargeable, and has a little tiny piece of plastic over the on off button for exact purpose of preventing accidental battery drain.

[@ervinslens]

This was edited so professionally my friend, shots and narration are phenomenal here. Love it! 🔥🔥

[@starwarsvet3209]

Learned about you watching nick bare and your officially my favorite ultra runner. Thanks for all the awesome content!

[@simonhodgson4941]

Hi Sally from the UK. Just found your channel. Half marathon is my current distance but think in finally going to plan for a full marathon next year. Love your content and the bonkers mindset of a ultra marathoner. I'm fully subscribed, Good luck ❤

[@sallymcraestrength]

awesome, good luck! And thanks for watching

[@MrBootsElectrik]

Gosh. Just another straight fire episode.

[@sallymcraestrength]

thanks for watching Larry!

[@belwynne1386]

That clip on light will be the perfect stocking stuffer. Thanks!

[@markmarkley8259]

The BEST aid station food from my Ironman days was flat coke and chicken soup. Dump one in the other and down it goes. I also love Ruffles Queso chips for long mountain hikes.

[@FSUvinny]

The damn blister jinx! Loved watching your Cocodona video, Sally. New fan here. New runner here. Trying to take my learned misery from CrossFit and apply it to running.

[@andreasmashias6078]

Great vid. Thanks 🙏 Favorite fuel: banana smoothie, with peanut butter, rice flour, cocoa, maple syrup, salt, cinnamon, pea protein and coconut milk.

[@leslicarmical6052]

Sally, this is an amazing video and I really appreciate the gear and nutrition advice!! I really love the maple syrups that are coming out and I've really found that they are great for that surge of sugar and even savory waffles made at home for extra carbs and protein!! Might be beneficial if you can stomach whole foods and the great thing about waffles is that you can control what goes into them!!

[@skiwithdenny]

Two things I also carry in my pack. I run alone most of the time. I take an emergency bivouac sack this is because I have been caught out overnight unexpectedly while hunting and it was cold. I also cart a garmin inreach mini because of where I live in the mountains I am often not in cell service (and I promised my mother I would carry it) just a life line in case something bad happens.

[@jeffmoffat6967]

Great info from one of the best!

[@KelseyDawn]

This was so helpful! I am running my first trail race tomorrow and kind of feel unprepared, but just have to start somewhere! Sometimes all the options of packs and accessories feels really overwhelming, but I’m trusting I will learn so much as I go.

[@sallymcraestrength]

hope it went well Kelsey!

[@bmd6343]

Hugely informative and entertaining. Keep up the great work!

[@HoffAppFarm]

So awesome...thanks! What is the little pack you use for your collapsible poles? My one back has a sling for them, but it can be hard to access without taking off my pack...I like that single around the waist pack I've seen you use in your various ultras...thanks!

[@kathrinivanovic8247]

Love your videos! Your Cocodona 250 was my distraction for my last shake out run. Incredible!

[@msmary126]

Sally you are my favorite! ❤ I just had our sixth baby. You keep me inspired and motivated! Love from Maine ❤

[@sallymcraestrength]

Thank you for the kind words and huge congrats on your 6th baby!! What a gift!🙌💛

[@thorshiddengym]

Well I now know some new things to add to my pack. Good show.

[@kellybaker6353]

Might have to check out the Camelbak when it’s available. I could use a pack with some deeper pockets up front, and my current pack does bounce more than I’d like when it’s loaded. Stoked for your Cocodona 250 journey!

[@thanxforliving]

When is this backpack available?

[@karenbhawkins]

Came to the comments to ask if it's available yet. If it is, do you have a link where you would get affiliate credit if we buy it? Thanks.

[@reknirbecurb]

I don’t see this pak anywhere online right now 😢

[@fp1716]

You should try racing with elastic laces on your shoes. It makes it super quick to empty a shoe of a rock or change socks. It also helps when your fingers are numb from the cold or muddy. You just slip them on and off

[@christinawarren1187]

Great video, first trail race tomorrow, very helpful!

[@matthewvanleeuwen9086]

Thanks for another very informative video. I truly appreciate the behind the scenes look into your training/race preparation.

[@sallymcraestrength]

You're welcome - thanks for watching!

[@westongrilloruns]

Thanx for the lead on the clip lights!

[@violetpurple6191]

More gear videos please! 😍

[@IanRamon]

Thanks for sharing ❤. Loved the idea of kitchen > vest pockets. I will apply that for sure. All the best!

[@reknirbecurb]

I watched the Moab video and I thought HOLY COW! That’s a lot of gear!! Thanks for posting, hopefully be able to snag one of those camelbak packs in ‘24 🤙🏃💛

[@allisonlikesyellow]

Whenever I see a video has been posted, your intro song starts playing in my head immediately ;)

[@sallymcraestrength]

Ha ha love it! Thank you for watching!

[@andycleary]

So much helpful information in this video, thank you.

[@N8TRONOUS]

Thank you for helping us. I love the video and the knowledge. Well done!

[@sallymcraestrength]

Youre welcome 💪🏽

[@ThanatosWings]

You need an Nitecore NU25 360 lumin, that has a lock to keep it turned off (by pressing the red and white light buttons at the same time). It's also super light.

[@OliviaCoetzee-b9k]

Love the pack! When will that be available for normal people? :)

[@PsychoFisho]

Shoe horn. While I do loosen laces for uphill and tighten them for downhill, I won't untie them for dismount. I'll use a shoe horn to put on shoes and then decide if I need to loosen or leave the laces as is.

[@kallienettleton1916]

Great topic! Thank you for sharing ❤️

[@staciawarwick2499]

Yes to slides pre and post!

[@kelbybosshoss]

Hey Sally I love gear too….The best headlamp I’ve found for hunting that lasts up to 69 hrs is the Peax Backcountry duo headlamp. The battery is rechargeable. It’s super bright. Best headlamp on the market in my opinion. 😊

[@yvonnemorson3878]

Wow what a fantastic and informative video...thank you so much. I especially like the tip on ordering the pack at the end - same items same pocket always...this will help me out a lot as i always seem to not be able to find what i need easily ❤

[@AR9ify]

Try full length side zipper Gore-Tex pants. Then you can easily put them on or off without taking the shoes off and you can keep them at your regular size. Several brands have ultralight versions (Arc'teryx, Norrøna etc.).

[@ivanpaganCHAMP]

Thanks for all these kickass tips and tricks hahhaaaa, optimizing the game one step at a time thanks 🤟🏽💜

[@Trece_Ocho]

Is City On A Hill Coffee & Roastery aware that they are about to get a purchase from Costa Rica because of this video? Nice to geek out a bit with you Sally. Loving this vids!

[@sallymcraestrength]

haha love it. That place is great & has some great coffee.

[@Sazzae95]

This was super helpful !! Thanks Sally

[@ludovicpiejos4379]

Awesome video. So happy I found your training journey as it really helps some of us training as well. Good luck

[@sallymcraestrength]

thanks for watching!

[@TheWillowBookshelf]

What socks do you recommend, especially after cocodona 😬?

[@wingmansq12]

Recently watched your triple crown. AMAZING!!!! This has been a great video on gear! I noticed you had 2 running belts that are your go-to. Are you able to share the details on what they are?

[@NitrousMiike]

Great advice! Thank you.

[@jseales86]

This is an awesome video. Definitely got some new ideas. Thanks for sharing. When's the pack coming out?

[@katesommerville5786]

The best! Thank you, I wanted this!!!

[@Calbinosaurusrex]

Great video! Love this series. Do have any idea when that pack is going to be released?

[@sallymcraestrength]

early 2024

[@Calbinosaurusrex]

Right on thank-you for replying! Here I was hoping you'd say next month lol

[@Thelazypandadesign]

Love your channel so much!

[@sallymcraestrength]

thanks for watching!

[@ImTriily]

Great video!! Was wondering if you know when that Camelbak pack might come out :)

[@sallymcraestrength]

early 2024

[@earthquakemagoon2505]

I pack a pair of rubber Nitrile gloves and a full size folded paper towel along with antiseptic wipes (2), all in a zip lock bag. Bloody and other nasty things happen out there! Plus they're lightweight.

[@LoveLink86]

Where did you get your waterpack, Miss Sally?? I def want to invest in one!! Thank you for sharing and helping us out ❤

[@MsRLWalker]

This was perfect! I am doing my first 50K next Saturday and this video was very informative. Thank you for sharing 😊

[@sallymcraestrength]

Good luck!

[@MsRLWalker]

@@sallymcraestrength thank you so much! I am starting to have doubts about being ready for it. Is that normal for a first time doing something like this? I am like nervous/anxious/and excited all in one! It is at one of my favorite hiking spots so I will be in my happy place 😁 I downloaded your app to help me train for future races too. I really like your workout style. I wish I would have found you on KZbin months ago when I was training. You are inspiring and have a great energy! Keep it up!

[@jasonklussman9087]

Sally, what water bottles are those? I use hydro flask 500ml but not in love with them. Looking for different ones. That camel pack was nice, I will definitely look at it when it’s out

[@sallymcraestrength]

they are Camelbak soft flasks. The 17oz & 21 oz fit nice in the pack.

[@ericdewaard1654]

Thank you for this video; very interesting! I am running with a Salomon pack. During long runs, my phone started chafing in my chest pocket. From that moment, I run with a pack and a waistband, where I have my phone. Chafing issue solved :)

[@austin5936]

Great, helpful video! Do we know when CamelBak will release the Apex Pro for sale to the public?

[@sallymcraestrength]

early 2024

[@taylorrohan3351]

Great tips, and some new ideas I can’t wait to put to the test. Ordered those lights from Amazon 🙏 love my Kogalla but can get complicated with the wires and how to hook up to gear

[@mandy4887]

Do you have a link for the waist lamp on Amazon?

[@steezemeister]

I tried to love the Pegasus but the wild horse is the best trail shoe Nike makes

[@AngelaRumer]

Can you share the link for that waist Amazon light?! Definitely want that for the Insomniac Night Runs!!

[@sallymcraestrength]

Yes I put it in the description for you! All the STRENGTH to you in your race! 💪

[@dufferkinney]

Sally thanks.

[@magdavelas]

Try getting a FlipBelt with the Running Light.

[@irisrainbirdxox]

Great video! What type of watch/tracker do you use? Merci!

[@sallymcraestrength]

The watch is the Coros Vertix

[@shelbylovescats]

Hey Sally! I found you through BPN. I love your mindset and story. We have similar upbringings so I find you very relatable. One question though: I just started trail running, do you recommend high-top trail running shoes over a regular pair? I started saving up for a pair, and want to get something that protects my ankles. You’re amazing and a huge inspiration to me. Thanks!

[@sallymcraestrength]

Hey Shelby! Thank you for reaching out- stoked you’re diving into the trail running scene- it’s such a rad community! I prefer low top trail shoes with a GOOD sock….you can protect your ankles with tall socks or shoe gaiters. For ankle strengthening I’d definitely implement mobility and single leg strengthening exercises to keep ankles strong 💪

[@adamtyson1257]

Alway love hearing what you have to say, great video's especially this one, alway curious.

[@sallymcraestrength]

thanks for watching Adam!

[@lizusedon9237]

Really informative thank you 🇬🇧🙌

[@sallymcraestrength]

thanks for watching!

[@tritondriver1]

Great INFO

[@adventureblondie]

Love watching your videos. I feel we are very similar except of course you have been running way longer than me. I am fairly new and I am 49 years old but very active and love the whole ultra run scene. I just finished my longest so far which was a 60K and you are a big inspiration. I would love to accomplish a 100-miler one day. My big thing is my tendons, knees, and hips over the long haul. I have the mental and cardio part done pretty good but my "bones start to ache" over time. Is there anything you could suggest to help with this? I definitely think I need to train more with weights and also stretch a lot more as well.

[@radicalvox8770]

Hi Sally, do you know when the Apex Pro will be on the market?

[@sallymcraestrength]

Early 2024

[@christyjackson8954]

I never untie my shoes!! And now my three yr old tries to take hers off without undoing the fasteners 🤣. Can you do a vlog about haircare and skincare - I know that’s froo froo but my hair gets in my way so much!!

[@speedworkendurance2091]

Pro Bar they are moist not dry packs a tone of calories easy to eat while on the run

[@sallymcraestrength]

that is one of my favorite bars & I often eat it as part of my pre-race meals.

[@thirtytwoblue3706]

Hi. Super insightful. Thanks for sharing. One question… you’ve worn a white hat with a sun protector that wraps around to the front- what is the brand of that hat? I’ve picked up one from Outdoor Research but wondered what your preference was. Thanks.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great video. New follower here. Nice gear choices for trail running. Crow✌️

[@marcaukerman4187]

could you provide a link for the waterproof jacket and pants??

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Great topic and well thought out, what are your thoughts on pre race “breakfast food” and how long prior to race? Thanks in advance 🤙🏽 Say a distance of 50k

[@lorim2000]

Hey which jacket is the light blue goretex one? Love it ❤

[@SiriusScientist]

Anyone know the brand of the waterproof shell she showed?

[@sallymcraestrength]

It’s Nike….all clothing is nike (they are my sponsor)

[@SiriusScientist]

@@sallymcraestrength thank you for the reply! I just found your channel and sub’d

[@lindal986]

I read recently in Lydiards Running to the Top, that salt is a stimulant, and can be easy over done, with the possibility of adverse effects, I'm not an ultra distance runner but would like more info for distance running.

[@melissaheaton1789]

If your carb drink has electrolytes why do you have separate electrolytes drink? I would normally have water in my 2nd container. I like the idea of having a buff and a cotton bandana (I use cotton handkerchief).

[@mariongrubenwolf6041]

Hello Sally, greetings from Bavaria Germany

[@michellelawrence1775]

When’s that vest getting released???

[@FabledFinds]

So when’s the Apex coming out? 👀

[@LetsGoGregg]

Great video Any idea on when the new Camelback will be out? Apex Pro

[@sallymcraestrength]

Hey Gregg...it will be out early 2024

[@alesiabock9305]

Slides all the way!

[@sallymcraestrength]

Yaaaasss!!🙌

[@jamesabbott8621]

Saw you have Leki poles. I've got a race next week but haven't used poles yet what elevation would you say they are essential?

[@KidCodyRunning]

Sally, do you race with trekking poles?

[@sallymcraestrength]

Yes, depending on the race.