In 35 hours time I’ll be running the inaugural SVP100. See www.svp.co.uk for more info.
Here’s the kit I’ll be taking.
Trainers
The most important item – trainers. Merrell Barefoot Trail Gloves, I’ve worn these for my past ultras, I did get blisters at Race to the Stones, but I think that was due to the Ininji Trail socks I was wearing (untested prior to the event)
Hi Gear Poncho
It’s been raining a lot this week and more rain is forecast for the day. I can’t afford a decent waterproof, my Montane smock is only windproof. This poncho is only £3 at gooutdoors, it’s not that light (~300g) but it’ll keep me dry.
I’ll have to save up for something better.
http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/hi-gear-waterproof-poncho-p205723
BodyGlide
Merino Buff
This is probably the 2nd most important piece of kit. Very versatile.
Petzl Tikka XP2 Headtorch
First Aid Kit
Very basic… just a few plasters and super glue (for blisters)
Ultimate Direction Drinks Bottles
Pills
Scaps! and Ibuprofen. I’m factoring on taking 1 scap! per hour. The ibuprofen is for emergency use only…honest.
Pebble
This smart little device contains backup power to charge my iphone or watch.
£20 at gooutdoors http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/pebble-smartstick-batt-charger-p261707
Emergency Blanket
This is part of the mandatory kit
Spare socks
I’m going to wear waterproof socks (see below) but I’m going to carry a spare pair. At Race to the Stones I could have done with spares, so I’m not going to make that mistake again. Feet must be looked after!
These were bought at Wickes, and I’ve worn then at a few ultras with no blisters – so tried and tested.
iPhone
I’ll be carrying this in a sealable plastic bag, to keep the rain out.
“Food”
3 Clif Shot Turbo Double Expresso gels. These taste really good and I’m going to use these when there’s 10 miles or so to go. I used this tactic at RTTS to good effect.
Garmin 310xt
I have to log the run and upload to strava afterwards.
SJ Ultra Vest
And to carry the kit I’ll be using the SJ Ultra Vest.
Shorts, T-Shirt and Socks
I’ll be wearing my IceBreaker Merino t-shirt. It’s lightweight (150g), good in all weathers and I’ve worn it for my past ultras. Currently on offer at Cotswold Outdoor (£35) http://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/icebreaker-mens-tech-t-lite-19210102?id_colour=90
Shorts… I’ve not quite decided what pair yet. But for socks I’m going to wear my waterproof sealskinz, I’ve only worn them once for a trail half marathon so they’re I’m not 100% confident – hence the spare pair as backup.
I volunteered at CP5 this year. I’ve ran marathons but SVP100 will be my first long Ultra next year. Can I ask how you got on with this kit? Was the Tikka XP2 bright enough? What is a SCAP, I googled it but presume it’s not Supreme Commander of Allied Powers…and any advice on socks is always welcome! Thanks
Hi Justin,
I didn’t use the poncho in the end as it was far too hot. I took a disposable plastic one (about £1 on ebay).
The Tikka xp2 is pretty good, it did struggle on the Norfolk Ultra when I was trying to locate a landmark on a beach at night – but apart from that I’d recommend it as a moderately priced headtorch.
S!caps are electrolyte capsules, you can get them here http://www.centurionrunning.com/store/product/succeed-scaps/ I try and remember to take 1 per hour.
Socks… I haven’t settled on a good pair yet, I haven’t got on with injinji socks. I bought some Drymax socks, which are really good, but after only 4 runs I’ve managed to put holes in them!
Good luck at SVP next year