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Mandatory Gear Guide: Everything You Need To Run An Ultramarathon

by Sportitude

Planning to run an ultramarathon? In this mandatory gear guide, we dive into the nitty-gritty details of what you need to run an ultramarathon and why - ensuring you're prepared for any eventuality under Australian conditions.

This ultramarathon kit checklist focuses purely on gear - and that includes everything from your trail running shoes and running clothing to your GPS sports watch and skin care. There's a lot to cover, so we'll talk about your ultramarathon nutrition needs in a blog later down the track.

Beyond the challenge of duration itself - with standard ultramarathon distances covering 50km, 80.5km (50 mile), 100km and 160.9km (100 mile) events, ultramarathons test your ability to perform through severe weather. The running clothing you wear and the ultramarathon equipment you carry can make a fundamental difference between helping build your resilience in challenging environments, or not completing the event due to compromises to your safety and wellbeing.

This is why ultramarathon events have mandatory gear lists. Wearing or carrying these items is compulsory for all participants and in fact, they are considered the very minimum you need to survive if you need to be rescued. Cold, windy and wet conditions can be life-threatening - so it's critical you arrive prepared.

Alongside adverse weather, the terrain itself is a challenge as most ultramarathons trade the consistent, smooth nature of the road for the real wild – a variety of surfaces that can include anything from pavement, gravel, loose or densely-packed dirt tracks, snow or slick surfaces and rugged, rocky or mountainous trails. Wearing the right running gear can inspire confidence and boost your comfort for the long kilometres ahead - supporting your running journey and ultramarathon goals.

Please note that this is an ultramarathon gear guide and the mandatory gear listed below may vary from your event. Be sure to thoroughly check the specific details of the ultramarathon you're running to ensure the gear you select meets its criteria.

Mandatory Ultramarathon Gear

Trail Running Shoes

Your feet are the natural tools you were born with – and it’s no secret that ultramarathon running puts them to the test as they cover ground exceeding the 42.195km marathon distance, and in some cases even endure multi-day events. Your trail running shoes are the vessel to help protect and support your feet as they conquer these epic distances.

The difference between trail running shoes and road running shoes is that trail running shoes are engineered to cater to the increased challenge of off-road environments. Trail running shoes feature more durable upper materials compared to road running shoes to protect against punctures from natural debris while maintaining breathability. In some situations, you may prefer to trade breathability for waterproof materials, like a Gore-Tex upper to keep your feet protected from the elements.

In terms of cushioning, there is a wide spectrum of trail running shoes on offer, from max cushioned like the Brooks Caldera 6 (above) to barefoot trail running shoes that increase your proprioception like Vivobarefoot. The cushioning characteristics, heel-to-toe drop and stack height can significantly influence the feel of your footwear.

Although your personal preference matters first and foremost, in the case of ultramarathon running, we recommend choosing a trail running shoe that prioritises protection to help your feet survive the terrain and distance. With protection comes comfort which is key to conquering endurance racing. Within today’s marketplace, running brands are developing innovative midsole technologies - translating to less sacrifice in lightness and speed even when the cushioning shifts up a gear.

Increased levels of cushioning help reduce the effect of repetitive impact stresses on your body and create a protective barrier against any sharp debris or rugged terrain underfoot. To cater to the contemporary, speed-focused ultramarathoner, some trail running shoes like the Hoka Tecton X 2 feature a carbon fibre plate to pair shock-absorbing cushioning with a more propulsive feel.

When comparing the outsole of a trail running shoe between a different model or brand, you’ll potentially notice dramatic differences in the lug pattern – especially if they're specialising in a particular terrain. Smaller, more closely packed lugs provide versatile grip in most conditions, biting into a variety of firm trail surfaces.

However, deep, spaced-out lugs are ideal for wet conditions, allowing mud to shed easily rather than forming a ‘mud pancake’ underneath your trail shoe that can impair traction. It’s important to do your research on the specific ultramarathon you're running, to ensure your trail running shoes cater to that environment.

Here’s a quick look at our top trail running shoes for ultramarathon running:

Hoka Tecton X 2 Trail Running Shoes: Carbon plated for propulsive speed

  • Responsiveness and protection in a lightweight and fast package
  • Hydrophobic Matryx upper for lightweight breathability and quick-drying comfort
  • Propulsive carbon fibre plate couples with firm, snappy cushioning 
  • Shock-absorbing PROFLY-X construction
  • Vibram Megagrip with Litebase for traction and control at high speeds

Altra Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoes: Balanced cushioning on a zero-drop midsole

  • Newest evolution of Altra's most popular trail running shoe
  • Ultra-breathable and fast-drying air mesh upper
  • Balanced cushioning creates a natural posture from heel-to-toe
  • Altra EGO foam provides snappy energy return
  • MaxTrac outsole for durability and adaptable traction

Saucony Peregrine 13 Trail Running Shoes: Ever-reliable workhorse meets lightweight speed

  • Engineered for lightweight protection during long trail runs
  • Also available in a GTX (Gore-Tex) upper option for waterproof protection
  • Resilient and responsive PWRRUN foam midsole transfers the tech of Saucony’s most popular road running shoes into an adventure-ready ride
  •  Durable PWRTRAC outsole for traction on challenging terrain

Brooks Caldera 6 Trail Running Shoes: Ultra-forgiving cushioning on a stable platform

  • Breathable and fast-drying air mesh upper
  • Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 packs the softest cushioning from Brooks into a trail-focused shoe
  • Midsole and outsole create a wide base underfoot for stability on rugged terrain
  • Wet and dry traction with confidence-inspiring Sticky TrailTack rubber outsole

Thermal Long Sleeve Top & Thermal Full-Length Tights/Pants

Ultramarathons challenge your body to endure extreme conditions, with severe cold having a major impact on your performance and potentially even your wellbeing. Elevation changes and night running may result in drops in temperature that can be potentially dangerous if not fitted with the correct thermal running apparel.

To be prepared for these temperature changes, carrying thermal coverage from neck to ankle is often mandatory in the form of a long sleeve top and pants/tights when competing in ultramarathon events.

Your choice in thermal layers must meet certain criteria – being made of sweat-wicking, high performance technical yarns. Cotton fabrics are prohibited and not appropriate for ultrarunning as they can trap sweat against your skin, soak through your baselayer to your exterior layers, and swiftly decrease your core temperature, putting you at risk of hypothermia. 

Thermal long sleeve running tops and thermal running tights may also offer the additional advantage of compression. Compression garments provide support to your active and recovering muscles – increasing the transport of oxygen-rich blood and decreasing muscle vibrations experienced during the repetitive impact stresses of running. 

2XU Ignition Thermal Mid-Rise Compression Top & Compression Tights

  • Brushed PWX Thermal fabric captures body heat in small air pockets for warmth
  • Firm graduated compression increases the oxygenation of muscles to elevate performance and speed up recovery
  • 360-degree stretch for natural movement
  • Sweat-wicking and fast-drying
  • Full-length coverage keeps you primed for your next ultramarathon

For Him:

For Her:

Skins Series-3 Compression Thermal Top & Thermal Tights

  • Lightly brushed thermal fabric keeps you warm and protected in cold environments without resulting in overheating
  • Compression properties increase blood circulation, reduce muscle vibrations and aid in the removal of lactic acid build-up
  • Moisture-managing fibres for sweat control
  • Full coverage for challenging conditions

For Him:

For Her:

Waterproof Running Jacket

Preparation is everything when ultrarunning. Even light rain can be a heavy hindrance if it soaks through your layers over long distances, holding the chill against your skin. Wearing a lightweight, waterproof membrane as an exterior layer is essential when less-than-ideal weather strikes.

The purpose of this ‘shell’ is to keep you dry and therefore warm without restricting movement or weighing you down. In outdoor environments, protection from the cold can be a matter of not only your performance, but your health, safety and ability to endure the entire distance.

Understanding the materials and features of a running jacket is critical to make an informed purchase to keep you protected against the elements. Waterproofing, sealed seems and hooded designs are a must to provide adequate coverage and protection during your next ultramarathon. Mandatory gear guidelines are very specific when it comes to this.

Water-resistant or water-repellent running jackets may be ideal for everyday runs in rainy weather, but to meet the mandatory gear criteria, waterproof is the only way to go – offering fully sealed seams with an impermeable membrane. Although these waterproof running jackets tend to hold in warmth and sweat more than the water-resistant or water-repellent designs, strategically placed internal mesh membranes can solve this problem when engineered by reputable running brands.

Your ultramarathon running jacket must tick off the following criteria at a minimum:

  • Waterproof
  • Sealed seams
  • Hooded
  • Breathable

Running Beanie / Headwear For Cold Weather

A running beanie can help aid in your body’s natural temperature regulation in cold climates. When you’re less burdened by the cold, you’re more comfortable and have a greater capacity to focus on your performance.

Materials of running beanies vary from naturally thermoregulating Merino wool to technical yarns like polyester that can influence their feel and thickness. No matter what your beanie is made of, it should be lightweight, breathable and sweat-wicking – offering effective insulation without causing you to overheat. Leave your cotton beanie at home for when you’re off-duty and focus on performance materials for ultrarunning.

2XU Ignition Beanie

  • Double-knit waffle construction for a balance of breathability and warmth
  • Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
  • Sleek look and smooth feel
  • Made with 94% recycled polyester and 6% spandex for more planet-friendly performance

On Running Merino Beanie

  • Luxurious, cosy feel from 100% organic Merino wool
  • Provides lightweight warmth even in wet conditions
  • Naturally thermoregulating, moisture-wicking and odour-resistant
  • Quick-drying

Running Gloves

Warmth can be lost through your extremities, so it pays to keep your hands protected from the chill. Consider running gloves that are resistant against both water and wind to handle the spectrum of weather conditions you may face when ultrarunning. They should be full-fingered and in some cases thermal properties may be mandatory.

Your running gloves should block out the cold while remaining breathable to allow sweat to escape – keeping your hands in healthy conditions and preventing your skin from feeling hot and clammy. 

ANTU Wateproof Running Gloves

  • Ideal for changing weather conditions all-year round
  • Waterproof and windproof
  • Doesn’t impede the natural dexterity of your hands
  • Breathable knitted material
  • Combination of natural and synthetic materials (Inner contains 43% Merino wool)

Ronhill Classic Running Gloves

  • Thermal protection for warmth in cold environments
  • Regulite fabric for lightweight breathability
  • Moisture-wicking

Running Hydration Packs/Vests

You must be able to carry a minimum of 1L of water to meet regulations on race day or typically 2L minimum in hot weather as recommended by race officials. Although there is flexibility in the method you carry this water – running hydration pack, waist pack or drink bottle – realistically only a hydration pack/ultramarathon hydration vest can offer the carrying capacity to hold the gear you need comfortably.

The secret is wearable hydration – sleek, bounce-free and body-conforming designs that keep your hands free and don’t interfere with your proper running form. 

Keep in mind that not only does your hydration pack need to carry water, but also all your other mandatory gear that you’re not already wearing, such as your waterproof running jacket, as well as any running nutrition, emergency equipment or bits and pieces (e.g. anti-chafe cream) to make your ultramarathon experience run more smoothly.

In terms of hydration, you must also pack a lid-free cup (minimum 150ml capacity) to be used at aid stations.

Salomon Advance Skin 12 Set Running Vest

  • SensiFit system for a balance of stretch and stabilisation
  • Breathable, adaptable and lightweight
  • Multiple pockets to accommodate and organise your gear, including expandable main compartment
  • Easy-to-adjust Quicklink sternum strap for a locked-in fit
  • 2 x 500ml flasks included for quick front access to hydration
  • Female-specific option available
  • Compatible with bladder (not included)

1000 Mile Ultimate Performance Tarn Hydration Pack

  • Heavy-duty rip stop nylon for ultramarathon-ready durability
  • Includes 1.5L bladder with soft bite valve
  • Breathable air mesh back and shoulder straps
  • Stabilising and adjustable chest and waist fastening straps
  • Quick-access pocket and inner pocket

Running Headlamp

Considering you may be running through the night, it's essential to keep a running headlamp close at hand during your ultramarathon. It's no secret that bright, clear vision is necessary on the trail to not only avoid trip hazards and the potential for injury, but to allow the course markings to guide you so you don't lose sight of the track. Ideally your running headlamp should offer a minimum of 300 lumens brightness.

Alongside a fully charged headlight with enough illumination to keep the track visible, you'll require spare batteries and a secondary backup headlamp as a precautionary measure.

Emergency Gear

On the trail, the weather is one of the most serious challenges you'll face. It's critical to be prepared, with unexpected threats often the most immediately pressing on your safety.

Ultramarathoners must carry the following at all times to be ready for any eventuality.

  • Fully charged mobile phone with emergency numbers and international roaming capability
  • Whistle
  • Compression bandage (self-adhesive, at least 2.5m x 7.5cm)
  • Passport or ID card as a form of identification
  • Emergency space blanket
  • Compass (can be included as part of your sports watch)
  • Hi-vis safety vest that meets Australian standards
  • Electronic and printed course map (typically provided)
  • Race number (visible on your person at all times)

It's also recommended having your mobile phone ready to go with the Emergency Plus app - providing quick access to emergency contact numbers and providing emergency services with your latitude/longitude position if you need immediate assistance.

For Australian trail runners, a snake bandage can also be an investment in your survival. The SMART Snake bandage below features a pictogram to visually determine when the correct tension has been achieved and is also capable for use as a compression bandage for other injury such as wounds, strains and sprains.

Check out Australian Snake Bite Prevention & Treatment On The Trail for more information.

Recommended Ultramarathon Essentials

Sports Watch

A sports watch, particularly those designed with endurance running features like a long battery life and GPS can be game-changing when it comes to staying on track in wild environments. Many 'adventure' multi-sports watches also feature compass functionality which can be a mandatory requirement of your ultramarathon gear.

Alongside advanced training features like heart rate monitoring to help guide the intensity, recovery periods and give you a greater understanding of your training load, wearing a sports watch with 'adventure tech' can give you a better understanding of the environment around you.

With the convenience of user-friendly navigation and a personal trainer at your fingertips, the right sports watch is a worthwhile investment for both beginner and experienced ultramarathoners.

Coros Apex 2 Pro Premium Multi-Sports Watch

  • Adventure-ready tech
  • Durable titanium alloy
  • Colour touchscreen display protected by sapphire glass
  • Heart rate zones
  • Compass
  • Dual-frequency GNSS system
  • Global offline maps
  • Nutrition/hydration alert
  • Long battery life

Trail Running Socks

Like your trail running shoes, your running socks can make a fundamental difference to your comfort and protection. Trail running socks tend to be thicker, longer and/or more durable than technical running socks designed purely for road running. Trail running socks help protect your feet, ankles and calves from natural debris on the trail – preventing potential skin abrasions from sharp rocks, sticks and roots, and even help shield your skin from Australia’s little hitchhikers like ticks and leeches.

Although there is a trend for runners to choose no-show socks to complete their running wardrobe, when it comes to ultramarathon racing it’s best to leave these for the road in preference for trail-specific running socks depending on the conditions and the environment. Shorter styles like the Lightweight Evolution mini crew trail running socks may be ideal for warmer weather, while styles with greater coverage may help take off the chill.

Trail running socks often provide element-fighting protection in the form of waterproof and windproof materials while also offering anti-blister protection. This means preventing blisters through minimising the friction between skin and fabric to eliminate hot spots and rubbing, and offering breathable design to allow sweat and heat to escape.

It’s also key to consider the cushioning properties and how these will work in harmony with your trail running shoes. Seek more cushioning if you want enhanced protection or less cushioning out of your trail running socks for a more proprioceptive feel.

Fabric choice makes a difference. For example, bamboo or Merino wool performance running sock blends are naturally lightweight and antibacterial, whereas an all-cotton sock may absorb and lock-in sweat.

ANTU Bamboo Waterproof Socks

  • 100% Waterproof and windproof sock
  • Breathable and lightweight membrane promotes cool conditions and natural movement
  • Naturally anti-bacterial bamboo fabric blend

Lightfeet Evolution Trail Running Socks

  • Trail-ready edition of the best-selling Lightweight Evolution mini running sock
  • Targeted ventilation to allow sweat-prone zones of the toes and forefoot to breathe
  • Moisture-managing Coolmax system
  • Seamless Technology for anti-blister protection
  • Anti-odour and anti-fungal properties with X-Static fibres
  • Available in a mini crew or half crew length

1000 Mile Trek Repreve Trail Running Socks

  • Contains Repreve recycled yarns to run lighter on your feet and on the environment
  • Combination of recycled, natural (wool) and technical yarns for immediate comfort
  • Zonal padding at toes, ball of foot, heel and Achilles tendon
  • Ventilation mesh allows cool air to circulate
  • Arch bracing for a stay-put fit
  • Irritation-free flat toe seam

Running Cap For Warm Weather

A running cap is your lightweight, on-the-go shade. Remember that even in cool conditions, the UV rating on the day can be high, so topping off your running clothing with some form of headwear for sun protection is advised.

Running caps in preference to running visors are ideal for long-distance running to provide full coverage of your head, while allowing heat and perspiration to escape with sweat-wicking yarns and strategically placed ventilation.

2XU Running Cap

  • Best-selling running cap on Sportitude Running
  • Performance-focused design
  • Lightweight, sweat-wicking and quick-drying materials
  • Mesh ventilation for on-the-go-cooling
  • Glare-reducing curved bill
  • UV protection
  • Adjustable Velcro strap for a personalised fit

Neck Gaiter For Cold Weather

Your head and torso aren't the only thing that benefits from being covered when you encounter cold weather. A neck gaiter is a worthwhile addition to your cold weather trail running kit – helping hold your body heat close to your skin. Many neck gaiters are also long enough to shield your mouth and nose from the bitter chill and are made of sweat-wicking fabrics.

Ronhill Seamless Neck Gaiter

  • Seamless knit design
  • Lightweight warmth and coverage
  • Recycled performance yarn gears you up with an environmentally preferable material

Running Sunglasses

In rain or shine, it’s important to protect your eyes from not only the sun – but in the case of ultramarathoners, the wind and natural debris like dirt and sand which can cause discomfort and obscure your vision.

Running sunglasses with polarised lenses are beneficial to not only shield against UV rays, but filter out UV glare that’s reflected off surfaces – everything from the road to water and snow for enhanced protection and clearer vision.

Running sunglasses with interchangeable polycarbonate lens let you to adjust the sunglasses to suit the conditions – low, medium or high light levels. If you have a larger budget, photochromic lenses automatically adapt to the light levels for distraction-free running.

Additional features like water repellent designs, impact resistance and anti-fog technology may be valuable based on the level of protection you desire. The shape of your sunglasses also makes a difference, with some runners prefer wrap-around styles that offer a closer, more natural fit to your face and others prefer classic style-focused designs without compromise to the running tech.

Goodr The OG Polarised Sports Sunglasses

  • Run-ready design with a non-slip, bounce-free fit – even when sweating
  • Classic look (not wrap-around)
  • Lightweight and durable design
  • Budget-friendly
  • Polarised lenses for a glare-reducing comfort
  • 100% Protection from damaging UVA and UVB rays

Sunwise Equinox Sports Sunglasses & Sunwise Waterloo Photochromic Sunglasses

  • Outdoor and adventure-ready lineup
  • Wrap-around style for wide coverage and protection
  • Flexible nose pads
  • Flat, secure-fitting arms fit smoothly underneath your running cap
  • Half-frame design for clear peripheral vision
  • 100% UVA and UVB protection
  • Equinox only: 3 interchangeable set of lightweight, shatter-proof polycarbonate lens
  • Waterloo only: Light-reacting technology adapts to changing conditions – so you don’t have to slow down to switch your lenses

Skin Care: Anti-Chafe Cream

What starts out as ‘niggles’ can turn into a painful distraction deep into your ultramarathon. The repetitive motion of running can be mentally rejuvenating, allowing you to flow into your stride and a tranquil mindset – but this physical motion also can be devasting on your skin.

Repetitive skin-on-skin and skin-on-fabric chafing can cause friction-prone areas like your underarms, thighs, heels and in between your toes to become raw and irritated, or create an environment that’s welcoming to blisters.

Anti-friction balms are the answer – containing nourishing ingredients to support the health and protection of your skin during intense activity. It’s a small investment with a big impact – allowing you to focus on the trail free of unnecessary pain, blisters and abrasions.

Prevention is the best way to care for your skin and prepare for the challenges ahead. Many anti-friction balms for athletes come in easy-to-carry tubes to stash in your running hydration pack.

Also, don't forget to apply sunscreen (minimum 50 SPF) to any exposed skin.

Premax Men's Anti-Friction Balm & Premax Women's Anti-Friction Balm

  • Engineered for endurance sports and intense training
  • Female and male specific formulas
  • Smooth and non-greasy
  • Long-lasting protection against chafing and blisters
  • Includes nourishing, natural and anti-bacterial ingredients (tea tree oil, aloe vera) 

Body Glide Original Anti-Chafing Balm

  • Glides on smoothly like a deodorant tube
  • Waterproof and sweatproof invisible barrier – making it suitable for all weather
  • Won’t clog pores or inhibit your ability to sweat - your natural cooling mechanism
  • Plant-derived, allergen-free ingredients
  • Safe for sensitive skin types
  • Vegan-friendly

Happy ultrarunning!


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