Ultimate Gear Guide for 50K Training and Racing

Everything You Need (and Nothing You Don’t) to Survive—and Enjoy—Your First Ultra

Let’s get one thing straight: your gear can make or break your 50K. This isn’t your neighborhood 5K. We’re talking about 31 miles of dirt, rocks, roots, and maybe even a thunderstorm or two.

Most 50Ks last 5 to 8 hours—or more—and you’re often out there on your own, far from aid. This isn’t the time to hope your shoes or pack will “probably be fine.” You either come prepared or you suffer. Trust me, I’ve done both.

Some coaches I know say, “Pack like you’re gonna spend a night out there by accident.” That means emergency calories, extra layers, even a mini bivy sack if it’s a remote mountain course.

You won’t need all of it—hopefully—but when the storm rolls in at mile 23, you’ll be damn glad you packed smart. Gear doesn’t make you faster—but it sure helps you keep going when your body starts falling apart.

Why Gear Matters So Much in a 50K

Here’s the thing: trail ultras aren’t just long runs. They’re backcountry adventures. You’re not just running—you’re climbing, sliding, sweating, freezing, overheating, and trying to avoid blisters the size of pancakes.

One bad gear choice can ruin the whole day. I’ve seen it happen. I’ve lived it.

Start a chilly mountain race in a paper-thin singlet and you’ll be an icicle before sunrise. Overdress in the desert? You’ll be a boiled potato by noon.

The right gear isn’t about looking cool—it’s about staying upright, alert, and in the game.

Running on rough ground like sand, roots, or loose rock? Road shoes won’t cut it. You need a trail shoe that grips and protects—your first line of defense. It’s the difference between gliding over roots and kissing the dirt.

Same goes for fuel and fluids. According to data from UNC Health and others, even a 2% drop in body weight from dehydration can tank your performance.

Good gear keeps you in control of those variables, so you don’t spiral mid-course.

Quick story: One of my first 50Ks started in the pitch-black cold of the mountains. I was layered up like a snowman.

By mid-morning, the sun kicked in and I had to stuff fleece and shells into my pack like a Tetris master. I looked ridiculous but stayed dry and sane.

That same day, I handed salt pills and a band-aid to a runner cramping hard at mile 20. He called me a “trail angel.” That moment stuck.

A little extra gear didn’t just save my day—it saved his.

Trail Running Shoes – Your #1 Gear Priority

If you ignore everything else, remember this: your shoes matter most. They’re the first thing between you and 50K worth of jagged rocks, slick roots, and surprise stream crossings.

Trail shoes aren’t just road shoes with attitude—they’re built different.

They’ve got deep, sticky lugs that bite into dirt and gravel. According to REI’s trail guide, those lugs help you hold your footing on mud, rock, and uneven ground.

Road shoes? They slip the second the trail gets tricky.

Trail shoes also have protective features like toe guards and rock plates that shield your foot from jabs and stubs.

Here’s what to look for:

• Grip & Traction: You want aggressive lugs and sticky rubber. Anything less, and you’ll slide your way into a fall.
• Protection & Cushioning: Rock plates, tough toe caps, and a cushy midsole. You want a shoe that softens the trail without turning into a brick.
• Fit & Drop: Your feet swell during an ultra, so a bit more wiggle room is okay. Keep the heel-to-toe drop close to what you normally wear—don’t go experimenting on race day.
• Break Them In: I once tested almost-new road flats in a 50K just to “see what would happen.” I’ll spare you the photos, but let’s just say my toenails didn’t survive. Break your trail shoes in over a few muddy, rocky runs, adjust laces or insoles, and make sure they feel right.

Lesson learned the hard way: I once tried a humid forest 50K in smooth road shoes. Every time I landed, it felt like I was auditioning for America’s Funniest Faceplants.

Next ultra, I wore legit trail shoes, and the difference was like night and day. Stable, secure, no drama.

What Makes a Good 50K Shoe?

Here’s your checklist:

• Comfort with Support – Good arch support and heel lockdown = less fatigue after hour four.
• Serious Grip – Lugged soles that can handle mud, roots, and sand (REI backs this up).
• Foot Protection – Toe bumpers, rock plates… trust me, your toes will thank you.
• Light but Durable – You want protection without feeling like you’ve strapped bricks to your feet. Most ultra runners prefer slightly more cushion than speed shoes for comfort over time.

Pro Tip: When you find a shoe that works, stock up. No joke—buy two or three pairs. I’ve seen brands update a model mid-season and wreck a runner’s training flow. Coaches at TrainRight recommend having enough pairs to last through your build-up and race day.

Road vs. Trail – Why It Matters

Trail shoes aren’t just different—they’re made for battle. According to REI’s guide, trail shoes stand out in three areas: grip, protection, and stiffness. They’re built to dig into soil, protect your feet, and keep your stride stable on uneven ground.

Road shoes? They’re soft, slick, and built for pavement.

I learned this the stupid way. My first trail ultra? I wore road shoes on a desert course. At first it felt fine—until every grain of sand started chewing up my feet. By mile 15, I was limping. My arches were bruised, and my big toe looked like it went through a blender.

Lesson burned into memory: if it’s a trail race, wear trail shoes. Even on dry trails, you’ll run into gravel, roots, or steep descents that punish poor grip. Don’t gamble your 50K on the wrong pair.

Shoe Rotation for Training

If you’re stacking miles on the trail, don’t rely on just one pair of shoes. Rotate them.

I always use one pair for my long trail slogs—something close to my race shoes—then switch to lighter ones for speed work or recovery days.

Some runners even train in slightly heavier, more stable shoes on purpose. Why? So when they lace up their race-day kicks, they feel light and snappy.

Personally, I’ll sometimes swap to a pair with a bit more cushion or a different fit just to give my feet something new. It’s not just comfort—it’s smart training. Your feet get to handle different loads, and you spread the wear and tear across all your shoes.

But here’s the golden rule: never wear new shoes on race day. Ever. Break them in during training.

As TrainRight recommends, once you find the gear that works, “invest in enough shoes and socks to get you through the entire season.” No one wants to panic-buy gear during peak mileage week.

Must-Have Sock Setup for Long Ultras

Next, let’s talk socks. If your feet go down, your race is done. Blisters, soggy socks, friction burns—they’ll destroy your pace and your mindset. So go all-in on your sock game.

Cotton? Throw it out. It holds moisture and will chew your feet up fast.

Stick with moisture-wicking stuff like merino wool or solid synthetic blends. Compression or snug-fit socks also help reduce movement inside the shoe and keep things tight.

Double-Layer or Toe Socks

Some ultra folks swear by double-layer socks—the kind where the inside layer wicks sweat and the outer layer takes the rubbing. It’s like armor for your feet.

I’ve also seen runners swear by toe socks like Injini liners. These keep your toes from rubbing each other raw, especially over long distances. TrainRight backs both styles.

One guy I know finished a full 100K with zero blisters—all because he layered up with toe socks and a smooth-fitting outer. It works.

Changing Socks Mid-Race

You may not need to change socks during a 50K, but if your feet are soaked or starting to burn up with hot spots, it can be a total reset.

If there’s a drop bag zone or aid station, stash a dry pair. I always throw a clean set in mine.

Trust me—pulling on dry socks when your feet feel like they’ve been dunked in cement? Magic.

Lube & Taping

I don’t leave the house without anti-chafe cream—BodyGlide, Squirrel’s Nut Butter, whatever’s handy.

Slap it on your toes, heels, waistband, armpits… anywhere that rubs. Experts say a lot of chafing can be avoided with just a little prep and tape.

I keep a tiny tube and a bit of KT or duct tape rolled on a pencil in my vest. If I feel something heating up, I’ll stop and fix it before it gets worse.

Prevention beats damage control every time.

Your socks and skin? Treat them like gold.

I’ve run blister-free through 50Ks and beyond just by checking my feet mid-run. If that little toe starts whispering, I listen. That habit has saved my race more than once.

Hydration Gear for 50K – Vests, Belts & Bottles

You can’t rely on aid stations to get you through a 50K. Sometimes they’re spaced far apart, especially on trails. So carry your own water—plus electrolytes—and pick the gear that actually fits your style.

Hydration Vest

My go-to is a lightweight hydration vest. These things can carry 1–2 liters and still feel stable. According to gear reviews at Haimont.com, vests carry more water and gear without much bounce.

Look for one with soft flask pockets up front (so you can sip while moving) and a sleeve or compartment for a back bladder. Bonus points for zippered pockets—you’ll want space for snacks, salt tabs, maybe a jacket and some emergency tape.

I won’t use a vest unless it’s got solid storage and adjustable straps to keep the ride snug.

Hydration Belt

Belts are lighter, but they don’t hold much. Two small bottles, a phone, maybe some gels. That’s it.

I only go belt-only on shorter runs. On a 50K? Not unless I’m keeping everything else in a vest or drop bag. Some ultra folks combine both—a belt for water, a vest for gear.

Handheld Bottles

I’ve tried handhelds too. They’re fine for short stuff or shakeout runs. But after a few hours, my hands get tired.

Plus, you can’t use poles or easily eat with your hands full. I might carry one to an aid station and drop it there—but for long trail races, I go hands-free.

How Much to Carry?

Plan on drinking around 16–24 ounces (0.5–0.7 liters) per hour. One coach told me that most runners fall in that range for moderate weather (Run.OutsideOnline.com).

If it’s hotter or you’re sweating buckets, lean toward 2–3 liters total. You can run a sweat test: weigh yourself before and after a long run and calculate how much water weight you lost—then match that in your pack.

Pack Organization

I pack like a neurotic hiker. Gels and salt tabs go up front near the shoulders for quick grabs. Phone’s buried inside so it doesn’t snag. Jacket or first-aid kit goes in the back.

Keep the heavy stuff low and centered, or your pack will bounce around like crazy. If something’s bulky—like a backup shoe or battery—lock it down tight.

Train Like It’s Race Day

Run a full dress rehearsal before race day. Seriously. Load up your vest or belt and run a long trail loop with everything you plan to carry.

One time, I did this before my first ultra and realized one flask had a slow leak. Swapped it out before race day. Crisis averted.

Nutrition Gear – Fuel That Works for You

Hydration’s one thing, but don’t forget food. You’ll burn a mountain of calories in a 50K, so plan to take in about 300–400 calories per hour.

That might sound like a lot, but you’ll need it.

Gels, Chews & Drink Mixes

These are the usual suspects because they’re easy to digest. Experts at Runners Need suggest combining gels with electrolyte drinks to hit your carb goals without blowing up your stomach.

A good number to aim for: 60–90 grams of carbs per hour.

Me? I’ll throw in a few espresso gels (caffeine boost, baby), plus a bottle of sports drink with hydro-tabs and carbs—roughly 20–25g per gel and 200 calories from my bottle.

Keeps it simple and consistent.

Real Food

Gels are great—until your mouth revolts. After a few hours, you’ll crave something salty or solid. That’s where real food comes in.

Try small salty potatoes, sandwiches, candy, or even race staples like grilled cheese or bananas. TrainRight backs this approach.

I remember choking down pea soup at an aid station once—gross, but exactly what my body needed.

Carry What Works

Test it all in training. Don’t gamble on new fuel mid-race.

I stick with what I know and stash extras in drop bags. Sort it by timing—like “gel at mile 5, 10, 15…”—so I don’t forget.

When your energy dips and you’re scraping the bottom, having a familiar snack can lift you up fast—mentally and physically.

Headlamps and Lighting: Don’t Be the Runner Lost in the Dark

If your 50K kicks off before sunrise or drags into the evening, you need a headlamp. Not want—need.

I’m talking at least 300 lumens, long battery life, and light enough that it won’t bounce around like a bobblehead. And listen—don’t just bring one and call it good. Pack spare batteries. Heck, throw a second headlamp in your drop bag just in case. Ultrastrainright.com nails it: this is essential safety gear.

I learned the hard way. One night, around 3 AM, my headlamp died mid-forest. I had to light the trail with my phone. For a mile. Every shadow looked like a bear. Never again.

Look for a beam that fits your terrain. Wide flood beams help on rocky, root-filled trails; narrow beams cut through open spaces. I make sure the headband is tight—no bounce.

I also carry two extra AAs in a Ziplock. On race morning, I check that sucker three times. If it fails, you’re done or lost. No excuses.

Weather-Ready Clothing: Dress Smart or Suffer

Trail ultras throw all kinds of weather at you. Cold starts. Hot middays. Random downpours. Your clothes need to handle it all—keep you dry, regulate your temp, and not turn into a chafing nightmare.

Here’s how I do it:

Base Layers

Start with sweat-wicking gear—synthetic or merino wool. Cotton is your enemy. It traps sweat, rubs you raw, and never dries. Trainright.com flat out says don’t wear it.

I race in a lightweight wool or tech shirt and compression shorts under trail shorts. Keeps things tight and dry.

Mid Layers (Cold)

If it’s chilly, layer up. Thermal long sleeve or light fleece works great. Always pack one extra layer—you’ll thank yourself later.

Trainright.com recommends carrying more than you think you’ll need. I follow that rule. In alpine ultras, I bring a jacket, gloves, and a buff.

Once started a race in a puffy jacket and gloves at dawn—ditched them by mile three when the sun came up. But I was freezing again later, and that jacket saved my night.

Outer Shell (Rain/Wind)

Rain shell or windbreaker? Non-negotiable. A packable jacket in your drop bag can make the difference if the skies turn on you.

Trainright.com backs this. I’ve done desert ultras where the wind was brutal—not a drop of rain, but that shell blocked the sun and kept me sane.

Hot Weather Gear

Flip the script when it’s hot. Go light. Cap, sunglasses, buff around the neck (soaked in water for a cooling trick). I’ll throw ice in my vest pockets on scorcher days or wear a DIY “ice bandana.”

At aid stations, I drench towels or load up with ice. Trainright.com says this cooling strategy can literally keep you in the game.

Don’t forget sunscreen either—SPF 30+, and reapply if you’re out there 6+ hours. Burns can sneak up fast.

Layering isn’t a one-time decision. It’s a game you play all race long.

I’ve started races freezing and ended them sweating bullets. My go-to mindset: dress for the cold start, not the warm finish.

On a Baja 50K, I started in a jacket at 5 AM, knowing I’d be stashing it once the sun hit. And I did—vest swallowed it whole.

First Aid, Blister Fixes & Chafing Armor

Stuff goes wrong. You can’t stop every problem, but you can be ready when it hits. A basic first-aid kit doesn’t need to be a med tent—just the basics.

Here’s my pack checklist:

• Blister Kit
  Compeed, moleskin, scissors, and a couple pins. Hotspots turn to blisters fast if you don’t act.
• Tape
  A wrap or two of athletic or KT tape around a pencil works great. You can slap it on a rub zone or use it to hold down a bandage.
• Lube
  Chafe cream is non-negotiable. I use BodyGlide or SportShield—nipples, thighs, pits, toes. Anywhere skin rubs.
  Trainright.com says tape or lube is your best defense. I’ve had one little tube of chamois butter save my race—no exaggeration.
• Sunscreen & Lip Balm
  SPF stick and lip balm go in the side pouch. Even a short ultra can roast your face if you’re not paying attention.
• Meds
  Whatever works for you. Painkillers, antihistamines, antidiarrheals. Bring what you know helps. I stash ibuprofen for emergencies—only if I’ve used it in training.
• Basic Medical
  A few Band-Aids, antiseptic wipe, maybe some salt pills. Trainright.com lists this exact setup—moleskin, tape, lube, salt—as mission-critical.
  In a desert 50K, I cramped up badly until I took a salt tab. Lifesaver.

Now the golden rule:

Treat the small stuff before it gets bad.

Don’t wait until your blister’s the size of a golf ball. Dry the area, slap on tape or lube, and move on.

I once ignored a hot heel spot on a long trail run—it blew up into a monster blister. Lesson learned. Now I’m aggressive about hotspots: tape first, whine later.

Trekking Poles – The Secret Weapon (If You Use Them Right)

Trekking poles aren’t required for a 50K—but if there are big climbs, they can seriously change the game. Think of them as giving your legs a backup team.

As one coach on trainright.com puts it, poles let you push using four points instead of two. More contact = less leg burnout.

They shift some of the work to your upper body, which helps keep your legs fresher for the final grind. Plus, they help you stay upright on brutal climbs—posture matters when you’re gassed.

But let’s be real—they’re not all upside. They add bulk. Even the collapsible ones are extra gear to carry.

And eating while holding poles? Awkward as hell. I’ve juggled poles and gels mid-race—doesn’t always go well.

That’s why I only use them on races with serious climbs. If it’s rolling or mostly downhill, I leave them home.

If you’re going to use poles, train with them. Don’t just bring them on race day like a new toy.

Learn to fold them, stash them, and sync them with your stride. Power-hike with them. Descend with them. Make sure your grip’s right—your elbow should be around 90 degrees.

And build that arm strength ahead of time. Don’t expect a miracle—poles don’t make hills easy. They just spread out the work so you can survive the later miles.

Bonus Gear Most Runners Forget—Until They Really Need It

There’s always that one thing you didn’t pack that ends up being the thing you wish you had. These aren’t flashy, but they’ve saved my butt more than once:

• Gaiters – Trust me, if you’re racing in sand or gritty trails, a set of low or full gaiters can be the difference between a solid run and a foot full of blisters. I’ve had sand pile up like cement in my shoes before I started using these. Now they’re a non-negotiable.
• Collapsible Cup – Some ultras are cupless now. If that’s the case, pack a foldable mug or cup. It weighs nothing and makes grabbing water at aid stations way easier.
• Trekking Pole Repair Kit – If you’re using poles, don’t be the runner stranded with a snapped tip. A tiny kit with some spare parts can save your race.
• Lip Balm & Sunscreen – I always keep an extra lip balm and a tiny sunscreen packet in my vest. Reapplying mid-race keeps the burn and the regret away.
• Ziplock Bags – These things are gold. Need to stash used gel wrappers? Keep your phone dry? Separate wet socks? Ziplocks do it all.
• Doggie Bags – Sounds weird, but hear me out: if you’ve got a trashed shoe, dirty tape, or a bloody wipe, toss it in one of these until you hit the next aid station. Simple, clean, smart.
• Mini-Towel or Wipes – A quick wipe-down at mile 30 feels like heaven. I’ve used wipes to cool down, dry off, and clean up everything from spilled Tailwind to trail dust in my eyes.
• Backup Sunglasses – Drop bags or your pack should have a spare pair. I once broke mine tripping on a root—running rocky descents half-blind isn’t something I recommend.

Bottom line: think about the little things that bug you when they’re missing. Pack those. If your ultra allows drop bags, stash bigger extras there. But the tiny stuff? Keep it close—vest, belt, pockets. Don’t leave comfort to chance.

GPS Watches, Safety, and Staying Found

We love to hate tech, but it’s saved a lot of runners from getting truly lost—or worse. A few non-negotiables here:

• GPS Watch – Most of us run with a Garmin or Suunto or something similar. It keeps you honest with pace and lets you load course maps. Some watches even vibrate when you stray off-course—which is a game changer in the woods. Just make sure it’s fully charged before the gun goes off.
• Phone – Even if the race has live tracking, bring your phone. Keep it in airplane mode, but download GPS maps like Gaia or Caltopo. Some phones now have SOS satellite features. That’s peace of mind in your pocket.
• Power Bank – If you’re out there for 5, 7, 10 hours… batteries die. Bring a small battery bank for your phone, watch, or headlamp. If something goes wrong at mile 25, and your gear’s dead, that power bank becomes your lifeline.
• Emergency Tracker – Some races require beacons or trackers. Follow the race rules to the letter—strap it on or pack it where required. Don’t guess. And double-check it’s working before race day.

One time, my GPS watch cut out on a canyon switchback—completely dead. My friend ended up guiding me in by yelling directions from her phone app. Not the finish I wanted, but I made it back.

That’s why I always say: charge your stuff. All of it. Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to save juice. And pack a backup. This stuff matters when you’re exhausted and deep in the woods.

Mastering Drop Bags – Your Mini Pit Stop

If the race offers drop bags, you’ve got a mid-race cheat code. Use it like a pro:

• Label It Right – Your name, bib, and the aid station. Use waterproof markers or double-bag it with a trash bag if rain’s in the forecast.
• Pack Smart – Fresh socks, spare shirt, some emergency snacks, maybe your favorite anti-chafe balm or meds. If the weather’s iffy, throw in a light jacket, gloves, or buff.
• Food Setup – I like to bundle my next round of gels or drink mix into one small ziplock and label it. Makes transition way quicker than digging through random bars.
• Keep It Light – This isn’t your garage. Be strategic. I might grab socks and shoes at mile 15, but just an extra jacket and chews at mile 30. Don’t load it with junk you won’t touch.
• Think Ahead – Know the course. Big climb coming after the bag? Pack poles. Muddy downhill? Maybe dry shoes. Treat the bag like it’s your one shot to fix what’s wrong or prep for what’s next.

A race director once told me, “Drop bags are your crew if you don’t have one.” That stuck with me. They’ve saved my race more than once.

But here’s the golden rule: if you don’t plan to use it, don’t pack it. Some races won’t even allow them—don’t break the rules. They will DQ you.

CTS says it well in their ultrarunning checklist: use waterproof bags, label them clearly, and stock each one with food and drink for the next stretch. That’s what being prepared looks like.

Race Day Gear Checklist – Head to Toe

Before the sun’s up, I like to lay out my full kit. No guessing. Just a quick, final sweep:

• No Surprises – Don’t wear anything brand new. That includes socks, shoes, even breakfast. Test everything before race day. Always.
• Fully Charged – Watch, headlamp, phone – charge them all the night before. Don’t leave it for the morning. Hydration flasks and bladder? Clean and filled. Double check.
• Pack Audit – I keep a list for the mandatory stuff (space blanket, whistle, etc.). Then a separate list for food: “Gels (6), chews (4), bars (2), meds – CHECK.”
• Clothing Extras – Layers on your body, extras in the vest. If rain’s possible, don’t guess—have your shell ready. Dry socks? Absolute must.
• Weather Scan – Don’t trust yesterday’s forecast. Look out the window. Adjust your gear if needed. I’ve swapped gear last-minute and thanked myself later.
• Mental Reset – Deep breath. You trained for this. Lube up one last time (thighs, toes, armpits). Then walk to the start like you belong there—because you do.

Ask yourself: “If everything went sideways, would I still finish?” If the answer’s yes, then you’re ready.

Long Runs = Gear Dress Rehearsals

Think of your longest training runs as dry runs for race day. Don’t wing it. Wear the exact gear you’ll race in. Same socks. Same pack. Eat the same way. You’ll find problems early.

One of my training runs—30K on a scorcher of a day—taught me my vest chafes my ribs when I carry a full front flask. I fixed it by moving the bottle to a side pocket and tightening the straps. That little tweak saved me hours of pain on race day.

You’ll also learn what gear fails. CTS says your sock-shoe combo should be tested early in the season. If it rubs at mile 20, it’ll rip you up by mile 40.

Same goes for headlamps—do a full night run and see how long the light lasts. Bring extra batteries and practice using them in the dark.

Nothing should surprise you during the race. That’s the goal.

Taper with gear you know and trust. Fix every bounce, squeak, and chafe during training.

I always say: better to have a breakdown during a test drive than on the highway at night.

CTS says once you find the right combo, “invest in enough shoes and socks to get you through the season.” I’d add: find what works and stick to it. Race day isn’t the time to experiment.

50K Gear Mistakes That’ll Bite You Mid-Race

Even with dialed-in gear, it’s easy to mess up your race with a few avoidable slip-ups. Here are the big ones I’ve seen—and lived through:

• Overpacking – We’ve all done it: thrown in “just in case” stuff that ends up just weighing us down. On a long trail, those extra ounces turn into regret real fast. Only carry what you’ll actually use. Can’t decide? Ask yourself: Have I used this in training? If not, drop it in your drop bag or leave it behind.
• Blowing Off Mandatory Gear – Don’t play games here. If the race says bring a phone, whistle, or space blanket, bring it. Not a lighter version. Not a “close enough.” These aren’t suggestions—they’re safety rules. I once saw a guy disqualified for skipping his required whistle. Don’t be that guy.
• Skipping Blister Prevention – Rookie mistake. You’re busy packing electrolytes, calories, and poles—but forget the basics like lube or tape. Big mistake. A few grams of BodyGlide or a strip of RockTape can literally save your race. I’ve seen blisters take down runners who were otherwise crushing it.
• Trying New Stuff on Race Day – You’d think this one wouldn’t still happen, but it does. That shiny new vest you bought last week? Bad time to test it. Same for socks, shoes, or even that fancy electrolyte powder you’ve never tried. I once saw someone throw away brand-new socks at mile 2—bloody heels. Don’t gamble on race day.
• Half-Charged or Leaky Gear – Nothing kills momentum like a half-dead headlamp or a hydration pack that leaks onto your lower back. Test your zippers, seals, batteries, everything. Even tape up seams if you have to. Catch the issue now, not at mile 17.
• Misjudging the Weather Swing – I’ve started races shivering in the morning chill, then sweating buckets by mile 15. Or worse, gone from sun to freezing fog by nightfall—wearing a tee. Plan for the full range. Layers you can add or ditch are your best friend.

I’ve heard it said—and I’ve felt it myself—ultras don’t really start until the final third of the race.

That’s when every gram on your back and every rub on your skin feels like a brick in your shoe.

That quote from run.outsideonline.com nails it: “Ultras don’t start until the race is two-thirds complete.”

Pack smart, test everything, and trim the fat.

Final Thoughts – Gear Won’t Carry You, But It Can Save You

Here’s the truth: your gear isn’t going to run the race for you. Your legs, your lungs, your willpower—those do the heavy lifting.

But smart gear choices? They’re the support crew that never gets tired.

You can’t gear your way out of undertraining, but the right tools can save you from a race-ending mistake.

Blisters, bad weather, broken straps—those can derail even the fittest runner. Your gear’s job is to keep your engine running smooth.

I think of my gear like trail buddies.

The anti-chafe cream I shared at mile 20? Someone called me an angel for that.

The extra salt tab I gave a stranger who looked ready to quit? That stuff matters.

Good gear helps you—and helps you help others.

So yeah—trust your legs. But trust your pack, too.

Make sure it’s got everything you need, from fuel to first aid to that “just-in-case” backup. That way, when you hit that finish line, it’s not just the miles you’ll be proud of—it’s the way you prepared.

Your turn—what’s one piece of gear you always bring for a 50K? Something others might forget?

Drop it below. Someone out there might just thank you with blister-free feet or a better finish.