Scott’s tips for the Ultratrail
Ultra Trail races are certainly among the most physically and mentally demanding and intense sporting events. Let’s say you’re ready for an ultra. Do you know what equipment you need? Scott gave us some advice.
Shoes
The choice of shoe must ensure reliability, durability, comfort and coolness. You need a shoe that is efficient in every respect, offering traction in acceleration and braking suitable for different types of mountain terrain. One piece of advice? Study the route, that way you can easily understand what needs you are facing.
Backpack
Besides shoes, it is definitely the most important item for tackling an Ultra. People often use the trail vest backpack, which can range from 2L to 15L in capacity. For very long races it is recommended to go from 10L and up, choosing models with many external pockets so as to make it easier to carry energy bars, water bottles, cell phone and the most important personal items. Speaking of such items: water bottles are recommended to be a minimum of one liter; energy bars should all have already been sampled during training and thus be to one’s taste; and the cell phone is most important that it always be within reach, accessible and with a spare charge or powerbank to fit in the pockets.
Clothing
Very important to always bring spares such as: socks, warm jacket, some pants, gloves, scarf and beanie especially in colder seasons. Clearly, it is indicated to use clothing suitable for outdoor sports, so with characteristics such as waterproofness equal to 10000 water columns and perhaps also with breathability RET > 6, preferably with heat-sealed seams. It is also good to have a warming towel with you.
First Aid Kit
Last but not least: it is always good to have a first aid kit with you for any problems that might occur during the race.
