Here is an assortment of gear I used in preparation and race day.
Shoes
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 5
These shoes were great on race day. Strangely they took about 100km to break in.
In general, my go-to running shoes were Saucony Kinvara, Nike Pegasus and Asics DS Trainers. In anticipation, I knew I would need an off-road shoe for conditions. Also, the shoes should look after my feet for the 100km stint. For the latter, I imagined the analogy of running, that it is feet boxing with the ground. So I thought I would try out Hoka One One. I ended up with the Challenger ATR 5, which was one of their few models that run in 4E width. I was wary of the stack height on off-road.
Socks
Thorlo Edge Running socks
Thorlo Outdoor Fanatic socks
These socks have a similar feel, with the main difference being the Fanatic socks being mid-calf length. They are the best running socks I have owned.
Bottoms
Nike Dri-Fit 1/2 length running tights
Without underwear and combined with Vaseline, no chaffing!
Ice Breaker Oasis 200 Merino Thermal leggings
Got these as they had the potential of being mandatory gear. Never ran in them. Ice Breaker is a top brand for quality and environmentally responsibility.
Tops
Asics Short Sleeve Running Tee (Auckland Marathon version)
The tee that was the most comfortable and never made any hotspots on long runs. (Funnily, at about 85km during the TUM, one hot spot cropped up on the inside of my bicep – it was a small but nice relief to have a band-aid on hand (see below).)
Ice Breaker Oasis 200 Merino Long Sleeve Thermal
Love running in this in winter. Mandatory gear, but didn’t use it during the race.
Salomon Bonatti Waterproof Shell
One of my favourite pieces of running gear. Light, durable and high quality. Folds into pocket, which makes it very packable and portable. Mandatory gear, but didn’t use it during the race.
Head
Buff R-O-2 Multi Run Cap
Very comfortable.
Ice Breaker Merino Chase Beanie
Very comfortable for running in winter. Mandatory gear, but didn’t use it during the race.
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
Highly recommended and becoming one of my favourite pieces of running gear. Adjustable angles, strap and lumens (up to 400 lumens), including red light. Mandatory gear, used for last 20km.
Adidas Zonyk Aero Pro Orange Lens Sunglasses
Most of the race is under tree cover. So opted for a bit of eye protection while maintaining visibility for technical terrain.
Packs
Adidas Running Hydration Backpack 2L
Useful to have the 2L fluid capacity. I inherited this pack and used it on long runs. This didn’t have any front access pockets, which I would recommend if you are looking to buy a hydration pack or vest.
Salomon Agile 250 Set Belt
One of my favourite pieces of running gear. Very comfortable even when loaded. Takes iPhone 11, comes with a 250ml bladder. I used this to offset the lack of front access pockets in my backpack. Even with front access, could be a useful addition.
Other Items
A few spare band-aids
Just in case. I ended up using one late in the race for a bicep hotspot. A small, but welcome relief.
HydraPak Speed Cup
Cupless event. Very useful and portable. Also, it turns out they make for a good sandwich holder to stuff a couple of extra Marmite sandwiches between stations.