Getting in Gear

Having the right stuff is half the battle.

The most comprehensive and time-consuming aspect of adventure racing isn't the training or the racing. It's the preparation to get to the race. Every race has a different mandatory gear list. Like shopping for school supplies, every competitor is responsible for having the required gear. First aid, packs, shoes, helmets, lights, clothing, the list can go on for pages. It takes time, money and thought.

In my case it took several races before I knew what worked for me. Not only did I research and plan the gear but I trained and practiced with it. The last thing you want is to get out in the middle of the great outdoors and find your shoes are causing blisters and your bladder doesn't work. I highly recommend taking the time to research gear, purchase it early and then practice, practice, practice.

On a note of caution, most of your gear will be trashed in the race. I try to go cheap or disposable when possible knowing it will be destroyed by the end of the race.

One of the most important things to consider when buying gear is the weight. I learned this early on in my racing experience when I packed too much food and gear. I wasted precious energy in the race only to realize at the finish line I had a ton of food left over and gear untouched. From clothes to lights to batteries, think lightweight and simple. Adventuring means suffering and going without. If you are comfortable, you will soon realize the weight of your luxury.

PACKS

In adventure racing, your pack is almost as important as your shoes. When selecting a pack it is best to consider the following. A stable, practical pack to carry your gear makes all the difference. My personal favorite for multi-day races is the Salomon Raid 30L.

It is light, drains well, and versatile. It has a variety of pockets and compression straps to hold the load. It also forms to your body quite well. There are a variety of sized packs. Camelback makes a number of packs that suit various race distances, from sprint to multi-day. Go with a pack that will hold everything you NEED for the race but not too much room to avoid over packing. If you have a large pack and don't need the space, you will fill it. It is similar to packing a large suitcase when traveling. If you have the space, you will fill it. And.it will cost tons of energy.

Once you have found the perfect pack, get to know it well. Practice packing and train with the required gear. Figure out where you want the frequently needed items like food and the things you may never touch like mandatory first aid. Buddy up your teammates. Each buddy should know wears their teammates gear is in their packs. That way you can get into them without stopping in the race. It is also helpful to pack your food in your teammate's pack. It is easier to get to when moving.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PACK

Adjustable chest strap - essential for stability
Compression straps - stability for load
Hip pockets - for easy access items - compass, food etc.
Draw cord closure rather than a zipper - it's easier to pack and it won't break
Bladder pouch, bottle pockets, or bungee cords for bottles on shoulder straps - bladders are best for large volumes of water; bottles are best if you can guarantee easy filling (streams in mountains.); bottle bungees are more convenient and you can add them yourself if necessary.

SHOES

Pick your shoes wisely. They are the most important piece of gear in your adventure wardrobe. Because adventure racing is such a varied sport there is no one shoe that will fit for every person or race. A variety of shoes can be used depending on the distance of the race.

HOW TO CHOOSE SHOES

Sprint Distance/One day races

Use one shoe for the entire race
Trail shoes with good traction are the best as they provide traction and stability and are lightweight. (e.g. Nike Air-Dri-Goat, Adidas Brahma)

Multi-day races

The key to finding the right shoe for multi-day races is to go with a sturdy shoe that is light enough for a fast trot, but supportive enough to carry a heavy pack. Look for good ankle support, protective outsole for sharp, stony surfaces and a tough abrasion-resistant upper. (e.g. Salomon Raid Raceor SuperRaid, Merrell Red Desert, Montrail Vitesse).

Most racers go with a couple sets of shoes that are a half to a full size larger than normal to allow for swelling which occurs during the long races. This is one way to prevent blisters and foot problems.
Look for open-mesh upper to let water drain or a Gortex shoe in the colder races.

CLOTHING

Socks:
Smartwool or other Coolmax or wicking materials.
Thin-layered socks work well.
Seal Skins to protect your feet in cold or very wet elements.
Pants:
Wicking tights (DRI FIT, Dryline) or convertible pants to protect your legs while bushwhacking.
Compression shorts are the most versatile and can serve as underwear.
Tops:
Coolmax or wicking layer. Waterproof, windproof shell is typically mandatory.
Hats:
Protect your face and head from the sun by wearing a vented, large billed hat.
Gloves:
They will protect your hands while on the ropes, navigating and paddling and cycling.

OTHER ADVENTURE TOYS

Compass:
There are a variety of compasses from which to choose. Go with one you can change the declination.
Map protector to keep the maps dry.
Food:
Less is more. Bars, gels, nuts and fluids should do it. Food weighs, plan every ounce.
Practice and calculate who needs what for calories.
Everyone's caloric needs vary.
Headlamps:
I prefer a lamp with two levels of light like the Petzel Duo.
You can preserve battery life when a bright light is not needed (trekking, paddling).
Glasses:
It is recommended but not required to wear a clear or light colored lens to protect your eyes from tree branches while bushwacking. Smith and Nike both have glasses that come with a variety of removable lenses for just this purpose.
Duct tape

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