Running an ultramarathon isn’t just about endurance — it’s about being prepared.
From 50K to 100 miles and beyond, ultrarunning demands more than just physical training. You’ll face unpredictable weather, technical terrain, and long hours on your feet. To conquer these challenges, having the right gear can make or break your race.
This guide is built for every type of runner — whether you’re planning your first ultra or you’re a seasoned mountain goat chasing your next belt buckle.
“Don’t test your gear on race day. Test it in training, or the trail will test you.”
Let’s start with the essentials: the Mandatory Gear most races require — and why you should carry them even if they don’t.
✅ Mandatory Gear (Race-Required Essentials)
In most ultramarathons — especially trail and mountain races — organizers require a specific list of mandatory items. These aren’t just rules for the sake of rules. They’re life-saving essentials for runners facing isolation, exposure, and long hours in unpredictable conditions.
🎯 What’s usually required?
Here’s a list of common mandatory gear found in races like UTMB®, Cappadocia Ultra, and other major trail events:
Gear Item
Why It’s Required
ID or Passport
For emergency identification and medical purposes
Race Bib + Safety Pins
Your official race number and identification
Survival Blanket (140×200 cm)
Prevents hypothermia in case of injury or sudden cold
Whistle
For signaling help if you’re lost or injured
Waterproof Jacket (10,000 mm)
Keeps you dry in rain and prevents cold exposure
Headlamp + Spare Batteries
For night sections or early starts in the dark
Mobile Phone (fully charged)
Emergency contact with race HQ or rescue teams
Minimum 1L Hydration Capacity
Ensures you carry enough water between aid stations
Emergency Food (200–500 kcal)
Backup calories in case you miss a fueling stop or bonk
Elastic Bandage / Medical Wrap
For supporting injuries or stabilizing joints
Reusable Cup
Many races are plastic-free; cups are not provided at aid stations
💡 Tip: Even if your race doesn’t strictly require these items, carrying them is a smart call — especially on remote or mountainous terrain.
🧠 How to Pack It Smart
Store your foil blanket, ID, and whistle in your vest’s back compartment. You won’t need them unless there’s an emergency.
Use ziplocks for emergency food and med kits — keeps everything dry and compact.
Choose a jacket that meets both waterproof and breathability standards — cheap ponchos don’t cut it.
Your running gear isn’t just about comfort — it’s your first defense against blisters, overheating, chafing, and fatigue. Choosing the right clothing and footwear can significantly impact your race performance and mental resilience over ultra distances.
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have running gear and what to look for in each item:
👟 Trail Running Shoes
Your shoes are your foundation. For ultramarathons, you need something that offers grip, durability, drainage, and cushioning.
Skirts/skorts: Great for ventilation and comfort (especially for women)
Look for flat seams and pockets (zip or stretch) to store essentials.
🎽 Running Vest or Backpack
Your ultra vest is your mobile aid station. Look for:
Storage: 5–12L capacity (depending on race length)
Multiple front pockets: for soft flasks, food, phone
Secure fit: no bounce, adjustable chest straps
Ventilated mesh back
Top brands: Salomon, Ultimate Direction, Nathan, NNormal, Instinct.
🛠️ Pro Tip: Try all your gear together on a long training run — socks, shoes, vest, shirt. That’s how you discover pressure points before they cost you your race.
🥤 Nutrition & Hydration for Race Day
You can train like a beast, but if your nutrition and hydration plan fails, so will your race. The key to ultramarathon fueling is consistency, balance, and knowing what your stomach can handle over long hours.
Salt capsule every 45–60 minutes (if not in drink mix)
🧠 Train your gut! Practice your entire race nutrition plan during long runs. Stomach shutdown is one of the biggest DNF reasons in ultrarunning.
🧰 Emergency & Medical Kit
Ultramarathons are unpredictable. From blisters and bee stings to bonking and black toenails, something will eventually go wrong. Having a lightweight, smartly packed medical kit can keep a small issue from turning into a DNF.
Here’s what you should always carry:
🩹 Blister Prevention & Treatment
Feet are everything. Protect them early.
Blister plasters (e.g., Compeed, Leukotape)
Toe separators (optional, for swollen or rubbing toes)
Lubricant (mini container of Body Glide or Vaseline)
🧠 Pro tip: Tape your problem zones before the race. Prevention beats damage control.
💊 Pain, Nausea & Cramp Relief
Even if you never use them, having these can save your race — or someone else’s.
Paracetamol or Ibuprofen (only if your stomach tolerates them — test in training)
Anti-nausea tablets (like Motilium)
Diarrhea medication (Imodium)
Salt or electrolyte tablets (in a small ziplock)
Caffeine pills (optional — for night sections or emergency focus)
🧼 Wound Care
Cuts, scrapes, or stumbles — you’ll want to clean and protect.
Antiseptic wipes
Mini tweezers
Alcohol pads or iodine swap
Small roll of duct tape (wrap around your trekking poles or soft flask)
🩹 Duct tape = emergency shoe repair, vest fix, or wound closure. It’s the MacGyver of ultras.
🆘 Emergency Essentials
Some of these are also required by race rules, but either way — carry them.
Foil survival blanket
Whistle
Basic first-aid instructions (laminated card or sticker inside vest)
📦 How to Pack It
Use a waterproof mini bag or zip pouch
Put it in the back or side pocket of your vest — not in hard-to-reach areas
Keep it under 150g total (unless your race requires more)
🏁 You may never need your med kit. But one day you’ll be glad you had it — or someone nearby will be.
🌧️ Weather Protection Gear
Weather in ultramarathons is like a wildcard — blue skies can turn to thunderstorms in minutes, especially in the mountains. Your ability to adapt depends on what’s in your vest.
Here’s the essential weather protection gear every ultrarunner should consider:
🧥 Waterproof Jacket (Mandatory in Most Races)
This isn’t just for rain — it’s to prevent hypothermia, especially during exposed climbs or nighttime descents.
Must-have features:
Waterproof rating: 10,000 mm+
Fully taped seams (check the tag!)
Adjustable hood that fits over a headlamp
Lightweight and packable
Top picks:
Salomon Bonatti WP
Montane Minimus Lite
Patagonia Storm Racer
RaidLight Responsiv WP
🧠 Test it. Even great jackets can feel like a sauna — train with it to manage heat vs. waterproofing.
🧤 Gloves & 🧣 Buffs
Your hands and neck are heat regulation hubs — keep them covered in cold conditions.
Lightweight thermal gloves for chilly starts
Waterproof gloves for cold rain or snow (check fit with poles)
Buff or neck gaiter: Use as headband, neck cover, or even mask in dusty trails
🧢 Hat or Cap
Protect your head — whether it’s from sunburn or wind chill.
Running cap or visor: Ideal for hot, sunny races
Fleece or merino beanie: Cold mountain ultras
Optional: Cap with neck shade (for desert ultras)
🕶️ Sunglasses
Eye protection is underrated in ultras. You may run 10–15 hours in direct light.
Look for:
Lightweight, wraparound frames
Anti-fog lenses
Polarized and UV400 protection
🧠 Don’t forget sunscreen (SPF 30+), especially for high-altitude or desert races.
🎒 Rain Cover (Optional but Smart)
Some race vests are water-resistant but not waterproof. If you carry spare clothes or electronics, a vest rain cover or ziplock protection is worth it.
🧊 Cold Weather Add-ons (for high-altitude or winter races)
⛅ Weather can DNF you faster than fatigue. Gear up smart, and you’ll keep running when others stop to shiver.
🔋 Tech & Tracking Devices
Modern ultrarunning is part endurance, part logistics — and tech keeps you on course, on time, and out of trouble. From navigation to battery life, here’s the gear that powers smart racing.
⌚ GPS Watch
Your watch isn’t just for splits — it’s your map, pacer, and safety line in remote trails.
Must-have features:
Long battery life (preferably 24–60 hours in GPS mode)
GPX file upload and breadcrumb navigation
Altimeter + barometer for elevation tracking
Heart rate monitoring (optional but helpful for pacing)
Top picks (2025):
Garmin Enduro 2 – 80h+ battery, solar, topo maps
Coros Apex 2 Pro – ultra runner favorite, lightweight
Suunto Vertical – great maps, rugged build
Apple Watch Ultra 2 – powerful, but limited battery unless optimized
🧠 Charge before the race and bring a power bank if you’ll go beyond 20h.
🔌 Power Bank
Used for GPS watches, phones, headlamps, or emergency gear.
Capacity: 5,000–10,000 mAh
Weight: Aim under 200g
USB-C or Micro-USB depending on device
Water-resistant or packed in ziplock
💡 Choose a power bank you’ve tested during training — cheap ones fail when wet or cold.
🗺️ Navigation Tools
Even if the race is well-marked, having your route loaded gives you peace of mind — especially at night or in fog.
Options:
GPX file loaded into GPS watch or mobile app (like Gaia GPS or AllTrails)
Printed route map (laminated or ziplocked)
Compass (basic but sometimes required)
📱 Mobile Phone
Required in most races. Use it for:
Emergency contact
Trail GPS apps (like Komoot or Fatmap)
Race tracker (some races use LiveTrail or RaceOne)
Live tracking (follow friends or let family track you)
Cutoff countdown timer
Weather radar or hourly forecast
🛠️ Tech won’t win your race — but if it breaks, it might end it. Test it, pack it, back it up.
🎯 Race Day Extras (Poles, Anti-Chafe, and More)
These aren’t always on the mandatory list, but they can make or break your ultramarathon. These small, smart extras are race-tested secrets that elevate comfort, control, and performance.
🦯 Trekking Poles
Game-changer for hilly or mountainous ultras. They reduce impact on descents and save quads on long climbs.
What to look for:
Foldable or telescopic for storage
Lightweight (carbon fiber = $$$ but worth it)
Comfortable grips + wrist straps
Quick deployment (especially in technical sections)
Top picks:
Leki Ultratrail FX One Superlite
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
NNormal Race Ultra Poles
🎒 Practice carrying and stowing your poles in your vest on the move — don’t waste time fiddling.
🧴 Anti-Chafe & Skin Care
Long hours = friction. Treat your skin like a delicate engine part.
Body Glide / Squirrel’s Nut Butter for thighs, underarms, chest
Vaseline for feet, toes, and sock lines
Zinc oxide or diaper cream for extreme chafing
Lip balm with SPF for sun + wind
🧠 Reapply mid-race — stash a mini stick or sachet in your vest.
🧦 Spare Socks & Buff
Feet get wet. Conditions change. Having a dry pair of socks or an extra buff can lift your spirits mid-race.
Store in drop bag or vest
Use during long aid station stops
Double as emergency bandage if needed
🕶️ Sunglasses & Sunscreen
You might be out for 10+ hours in direct sun. Shield up.
Polarized sport sunglasses with wide lens
SPF 30+ sunscreen, sweat-resistant
Light gloves or sleeves to avoid sunburn
🧼 Mini Hygiene Kit
For stage races or long ultras (100K+), consider:
Small pack of wipes
Mini hand sanitizer
Tiny microfiber towel
Spare shirt or shorts for drop bag
🧠 Mental Boost Items
These are purely personal, but they help when the darkness hits — figuratively or literally.
Small mantra card
Music playlist (if race allows earbuds)
A photo or quote tucked into vest
Chewing gum, menthol drops for freshness
⚙️ These extras don’t weigh much — but their impact is massive. Dial in the little things, and you’ll finish stronger, happier, and blister-free.
📥 Printable PDF Gear Checklist
You’ve got the full gear breakdown — now it’s time to simplify and organize. Whether you’re packing for a 50K trail run or a 100-mile mountain ultra, this one-page printable checklist keeps you race-ready and panic-free.
✅ Tip: Print this sheet, laminate it, and use a dry-erase marker to check items off as you pack before race day or drop bag prep.
✅ What gear is mandatory for most ultramarathons?
Most races require a waterproof jacket, headlamp, foil blanket, hydration system, whistle, and a phone. Always check your specific race rules.
👟 What kind of shoes should I wear for a trail ultra?Trail shoes with solid grip, rock protection, drainage, and long-distance cushioning. Popular models include Altra Lone Peak and Hoka Speedgoat.
🥤 How much water should I carry?
At least 1 liter is usually required. Adjust based on aid station spacing, weather, and sweat rate.
🧴 What’s the best way to prevent chafing?
Use Body Glide, Vaseline, or anti-chafe balms. Apply before the race and reapply mid-race if needed.
⚡ What’s a good fueling strategy for an ultra?
Eat every 30–45 minutes: mix gels, real food, and electrolyte drinks. Train with your race-day nutrition.
📱 Do I need to carry my phone?
Yes, most races require it for emergency communication and GPS navigation.
🕶️ Are sunglasses really necessary?
Yes — long exposure to sun can fatigue your eyes and affect vision on technical terrain. Choose UV-protected models.
📦 Should I bring a drop bag?
If allowed, yes — pack extra food, socks, anti-chafe cream, and a spare shirt for mid-race reset.
🔋 How long should my GPS watch battery last?
Ideally 20+ hours in GPS mode for longer ultras. Use low-power settings or carry a small power bank.
🥶 What gear helps in cold mountain races?
Thermal layers, gloves, beanie, windproof pants, and chemical hand warmers. Layering is key.
🧰 What’s in a minimalist medical kit?
Blister pads, antiseptic wipes, tape, pain meds, nausea tablets, and a small roll of duct tape.
🦯 Should I use poles during an ultra?
Yes — especially in hilly or mountainous races. Poles reduce strain and help with technical ascents/descents.
🎽 What should I wear for a hot weather ultra?
Breathable tops, light-colored cap, arm sleeves, sunglasses, and plenty of SPF protection.
📉 Can I go without gels?
Yes, but practice alternative fueling (bars, fruits, rice balls). Test digestion during training.
🧦 How many pairs of socks should I bring?
At least one spare pair — especially for wet or long races. Change at a drop bag or key aid station.
🎒 How do I choose the right running vest?
Fit is critical — look for 5–12L capacity, breathable mesh, and front storage for flasks and snacks.
⛺ Do I need all this gear for a flat 50K?
Not all — but water, nutrition, anti-chafe, phone, and proper shoes are always non-negotiable.
📥 Where can I get the checklist as a PDF?
The full PDF checklist is available for download in the article above. It’s printable and mobile-friendly.
🔧 What gear fails most often in ultras?
Cheap headlamps, untaped jackets, overfilled packs, and new shoes. Always test in training.
📚 How can I learn more about ultra gear?
See the “Further Reading” section below — it includes gear guides, reviews, and runner blogs.
✅ Are You Ready for Race Day?
Test your ultramarathon gear knowledge. Choose the best answer:
What’s the minimum hydration requirement for most ultra races?
A) 250 ml B) 500 ml C) 1 liter
Which item is usually not part of the mandatory gear?
A) Whistle B) Towel C) Waterproof jacket
Which shoes are best for trail ultramarathons?
A) Road flats B) Racing spikes C) Trail shoes with grip
What helps prevent foot blisters?
A) Cotton socks B) Technical socks C) Flip-flops
What’s the ideal fueling frequency during an ultra?
A) Once per hour B) Every 90 minutes C) Every 30–45 minutes
To deepen your understanding and preparation for ultramarathons, here are some valuable resources:
🧭 Gear & Packing Guides
Check Your Pre-Race Checklist – A comprehensive guide on gear preparation, emphasizing the importance of familiarizing yourself with the course and weather conditions. Ultra Running Magazine
Marathon des Sables Gear/Kit List – Insights into gear selection for desert stage races, highlighting the significance of lightweight and tested equipment. iRunFar
5-Point Training Checklist for (Almost) Any Ultra – Essential training considerations to prepare for ultramarathons, covering physical and mental aspects.
50+ Tips for Your First 50 Miler – A collection of advice from experienced runners to help you navigate your first 50-mile race. Trail Runner Magazine+1iRunFar+1
🦶 Foot Care & Injury Prevention
An Introductory Guide to Foot Care for Running – Tips on shoe fitting, sock selection, and lacing techniques to prevent foot issues during long runs. iRunFar
How to Prepare for Injuries on the Trail – Recommendations for assembling a trail-ready first aid kit and handling common injuries. Ultra Running Magazine
Feel free to explore these resources to enhance your ultramarathon experience. If you need further assistance or information, don’t hesitate to ask!
🎥 Ultramarathon Gear Videos
1. Pack The Essential Gear For Trail Running Ultra Marathon
2. Ultra Running Essentials for Races like the 5 Valleys Ultra 2024
3. Preparing For Your First 100 Mile Ultra Marathon | Gear I Pack
4. Beginner’s FIRST 50K Ultra Marathon 2025 Challenge Kit List
5. Hardrock 100 Ultra Marathon Gear List
6. Ultramarathon Checklist: First Backyard Ultra
7. My Gear + Nutrition Strategy for a 200+ Mile Ultramarathon
8. Essential Gear For Ultrarunning: Must-haves For Hitting The Trail
About the Author Lost Pace is an ultramarathon runner, shoe-tester and the founder of umit.net. Based year-round in Türkiye’s rugged Kaçkar Mountains, he has logged 10,000 + km of technical trail running and completed multiple 50 K–100 K ultras.
Blending mountain grit with data, Lost analyses power (CP 300 W), HRV and nutrition to craft evidence-backed training plans. He has co-written 260 + long-form guides on footwear science, recovery and endurance nutrition, and is a regular beta-tester of AI-driven coaching tools.
When he isn’t chasing PRs or testing midsoles, you’ll find him sharing peer-reviewed research in plain English to help runners train smarter, stay healthier and finish stronger.
Ultrarunner · Data geek · Vegan athlete
