Your buddies have spent relentless hours persuading and challenging your toughness as an athlete and now you have finally been talked into running your first mud run. The date is set in stone and you have a few months to train, what else is there? Gear.
There are three types of gear that need to be on your radar. By incorporating these items along with proper nutrition and a fitness training regime, you will have everything you need to be at your best on the day of your race.
Just knowing what type gear is needed is not enough. Buying or showing up at the mud run with the wrong equipment is a crucial mistake that a lot of first timers make. You want to make sure that your first mud run experience is the absolute best and in order to avoid major discomfort take time to get the proper gear.
The first rule for buying any gear for your mud run is to make sure that none of the clothing is made of cotton. Cotton is not and will not be your friend come race day. Buy shirts, shorts, socks, and underwear (yes, underwear) that are Dri-Fit. All major types of sports retailers and online stores carry this type of clothing. Cotton is excellent at absorbing water which translates into extra weight that you will have to carry around with you. Dri-fit clothing is able to repel water and will keep warmer. All of the shirts handed out, after every mud run, are now Dri-Fit. If the race organizers are on board, you need to be as well.
Shoes are another extremely important, vital element for any mud run. First and foremost, whatever you do, do not use duct tape to secure your shoes to your ankles. Duct tape will reduce the traction and grip of your shoes’ sole, which you will need every last bit for running, climbing, stepping, and jumping. If you are buying new shoes, prior to the race, make sure you are using them at least 3 weeks prior to the race so that they are broken in. Any type of trail running shoes will do the trick and make you mud run experience the best.
Finally, depending on whom you ask, gloves, are another piece of gear you should consider bringing to your first mud run. By the time you start your wave, a lot of the obstacles will be wet and slimy. Getting yourself a good pair of utility gloves will help you grip and pull yourself up and over all of the obstacles.
Bottom line is that all the gear you really need will come down to two things: dri-fit clothing and a good pair of sneakers. Make sure you do your research and get only what you feel you need. Happy mud running!