running

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim in Winter: The Gear I Used

January 9, 2019 By Will Robins Leave a Comment

I ran 51 miles of steep and dusty Grand Canyon trails to run the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim in the winter. And I used this gear to do it.

We were 13 miles into the run when the sun first peeked above the canyon wall. Halfway up the climb from the Colorado River toward Cottonwood Campground, we stopped for a snack.

A few hours earlier, the five of us had rolled out of bed, stomached half a bagel and peanut butter, and drove silently to the park visitor center. By 4 a.m. we were running, headlamps illuminating the small stretch of ground in front of us. Our long march across the big ditch — and back — began unceremoniously.

Photos by Andy Cochrane

The route is, for better or worse, a standard out-and-back. During the summer, you can bail halfway if needed. But that wasn’t an option for this time of year: The North Rim is closed to cars in the winter due to snow. Further, park officials turn off many of the water faucets to avoid freezing. So a little extra planning — and 3.6 liters in each of our packs — kept us hydrated throughout.

Still, we were excited about our prospects. Forecasters called for temps projected in the 50s during the day. The trail was relatively empty. And we had 11 hours of sunlight to work with.

Not much of a runner? Another option is to backpack the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim-to-rim in the winter!

Of course, completing a 50-mile run with 23,000 feet of elevation takes a lot of training. Although most of us were ramping up for months, we were still wrecked by the end of the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim.

Completing a run like this also takes the right gear. Below are the key items that helped us get from A to B, and back to A, just in time for dinner!

Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Race Gear
Hydration Vest: Nathan VaporKrar 12L

I’ve used about a half dozen vests during my decade of consistent trail running, and nothing has fit as snugly or reduced bounce quite like the VaporKrar. Two of my friends, who range in heights from 5’5” to 6’3”, wore the same vest. During training, I would run with minimal gear — a 1.8L bladder and a couple gels — and it functions just like any small-volume pack.

That said, it excels when full. During our Grand Canyon ultra, I loaded it with two water bladders, 2,500 calories’ worth of nutrition, and a spare set of layers and still ran comfortably. Good alternatives to the VaporKrar are the Ultimate Direction Mountain 4.0 or the Salomon S-Lab Sense Ultra 8L.

Headlamp: Nathan Halo Fire

I find most LED headlamps to be basically the same, with minor differences in fit, brightness, comfort, and glove usability. The Halo Fire is on par with most top-tier headlamps — it’s comfortable, water resistant, quite easy to use, and provides over 300 lumens on its brightest setting.

I ran with the Halo Fire on the middle brightness setting, a good balance of light and battery, and had no issues for five-plus hours of use. While I like that it uses a rechargeable battery, I do wish this could be taken out and swapped. Bringing a spare headlamp battery would feel a bit safer to me. To mitigate the risk of lights dying, we carried a separate battery pack and charging cables.

Other high-quality running headlamps include the Petzl Reactik and BioLite HeadLamp.

Trail Shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Torrent

While I typically train in running shoes with more cushion, I decided to use the Torrent, a lighter shoe with a more aggressive tread for this run. This wasn’t an easy call — I nearly went with the Speedgoat 2s, which probably would have helped on the brutal downhills.

‘Goldilocks’ Trail Shoe: HOKA ONE ONE Torrent First Look

Chug uphill, glide down, and cut through rocky switchbacks – the HOKA ONE ONE Torrent touts the best of everything a trail runner wants: agility, ground feel, cushion, breathability, and minimal weight. We tested them for a month on Colorado trails. Read more…

But, predicting that we’d get a mix of snow, ice, mud, and dusty trails, I wanted a shoe with great grip and felt fast on my foot — because, I figured, if I couldn’t run 50 miles very fast, I might as well feel like I can. Thus, a compromise was struck, and I laced up the Torrents for this mega run. Other options I mulled over include the HOKA Speedgoat 3 and Altra Lone Peak 4.

Apparel: Janji Uganda 5” Shorts & Latitude ¼ Zip Long Sleeve

Janji, a small Boston-based brand, makes some of my favorite running layers — and the Uganda shorts and Latitude shirt are two of them. The shorts fit and breathe well. The top I only used for the first handful of miles and the last couple, but it was well worth dragging it across the other 40 miles.

It’s warm, soft, and light, making it perfect for running in cool weather. I also love that the brand is dedicated to giving back, giving 5 percent of its revenue to water projects in developing countries. If I’m not wearing Janji, you’ll typically find me on trails with Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts and a Peak Mission Jacket.

Socks: Stance Ht Crew

Comfortable, light, and quick drying, the Ht socks are made with a synthetic fiber that’s great for all kinds of sweaty training, including running across the Grand Canyon. It’s reinforced in the right places and high enough to keep dirt, sand, and dust out of your shoes. Style points, too. My other sock options included Darn Tough and Patagonia Merino Crew.

Nutrition: GU Energy Stroopwafels, Gels, Tabs, and Blocks

One of the biggest challenges of running this far is nutrition. Staying fueled and hydrated isn’t easy because complex fats, proteins, and carbs are hard to digest on the go. Most of our diet for the day was some form of sugar or quick-burning carbohydrate. We relied heavily on the full gamut of products from GU, adding hydration tabs to our water bladders, steadily snacking on gels and blocks every hour, and frequently stopping for communal stroopwafel breaks.

Winter Trip: Backpacking Grand Canyon, Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim

Winter offers an epic natural stage to complete a Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim backpacking trip. Here’s how… Read more…

Combined, this gave us the energy to keep moving forward, the amino acids to prevent fatigue, and the electrolytes to replenish what we were sweating out. If GU doesn’t sit well in your stomach, Nuun also makes hydration tabs and Clif makes similar gummy blocks — both great alternatives.

So those are the core pieces of gear that supported my trip. Winter in the Grand Canyon is a special time. If you’re willing to invest in preparation, it’s an incredible adventure that leaves the crowds behind.

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Vague Path: Your Almost Official Guide to Fell Running

December 6, 2018 By Will Robins Leave a Comment

Americans don’t really get Britain’s fell running. Is it mountain running? Is it trail running? Why does it get its own designation? So we asked a fell running expert to break it down in all its mud and glory.

Ben Mounsey is one of the best fell runners on record, even though he said he “fell into” the sport. He was hooked from his first race.

“It began with a steep uphill and finished with a wild and crazy descent. My body was working at its full capacity during the entire race, my lungs were on fire, and my heart rate was off the scale,” he said.

“But despite the pain, the hurt, and the jelly legs, it was a feeling I’ll never forget. I felt alive and free, enjoying the finest natural high in the world.”

Ben Mounsey trails in the fells; photo by Andy Jackson

Mounsey was nice enough to expound on this quirky tradition. Fell (that’s another word for “mountain” or “hill” in Northern England) running shares many of the same characteristics as trail running. But the moorland sport stands apart with an undeniable mystique. Running the fells dates back to 11th century, for one.

Interview: Fell Running With Ben Mounsey

GearJunkie: For us Americans, please describe what fell running actually is.

Mounsey: Fell running has existed for centuries, and the longstanding traditions of the sport have never really changed. Many fell races annually take place as a part of community fairs or traditional sporting/farming shows. They are extremely important events for small villages and communities who enjoy and thrive on their existence.

The sport is pure, honest, and simple. It’s based entirely around traditional values — a respect for both competitors and the environment. The fact that competitors are driven by intrinsic reward has helped it to protect these values.

Photo courtesy of inov-8

It’s unique from cross-country, trail, or mountain running in that races are so unpredictable in terms of the weather and terrain. You have to be a much stronger and hardier athlete to cope with the challenging environment. Speed isn’t necessarily the key, but rather strength and resilience.

Experience and mountain-craft also play a huge part. You need to be able to find the best lines because often you are running on a vague path (or no path at all) between two checkpoints. There isn’t always an obvious route, and it’s usually safer to trust a compass rather than other people in a race. Fell running is extremely tactical and unlike other sport. It pays to run smart.

Isn’t that just trail or mountain running?

In the United Kingdom, trail running is similar to fell running. But again, there is significantly less climbing, and the trails or paths are more obvious to navigate and easier to run on.

Photo courtesy of inov-8

Mountain running is perhaps the closest discipline to fell running. Both have similar types of gradients (up and down), with the only difference being the terrain — lots of the time, fell runners are on soft and muddy ground.

The fells are more difficult to navigate during a race, with fewer obvious paths and tracks to follow. I would also say that mountain runners are typically faster athletes than fell runners, as pace plays a more crucial role in races.

What are some misconceptions about the sport?

1) The fastest athlete always wins.

That’s the beautiful thing about fell running: Having experience and craft, rather than just out-and-out pace, helps to make you a better fell runner.

You need to know how to race, judge your efforts correctly, know which lines to take, and, most importantly, learn how to navigate safely across dangerous and challenging terrain.

Photo courtesy of inov-8

2) It’s a glamorous sport.

During a race, you’re not just competing against other runners, you’re battling against the conditions and terrain. It’s seriously hard, both physically and mentally. There are no shortcuts and no easy races.

You have to learn to embrace the pain and push your body to the extreme. Your legs need to be strong enough to cope with the steep, challenging climbs and handle hair-raising descents at breakneck speed. It’s one hell of a tough sport but extremely rewarding.

3) Fell running is a closed community.

One thing that I love most about fell running is that it’s all-inclusive. The “superstars” are a different breed of elite; there’s no arrogance or bravado. It makes a refreshing change given what you see happening in other sports.

It accepts athletes of all abilities and encourages them to take part and enjoy themselves. The fact that it’s not elitist means you’re just as likely to share a post-race pint of beer with the winner as you are with the person who finishes last.

What gear do first-time fell runners need to compete?

Shoes are the most important kit you’ll need in order to perform well. Grip, comfort, and light weight are essential when choosing the right footwear.

My go-to shoes are the inov-8 X-TALON 230 for training and the lighter X-TALON 210 for racing. Both have aggressive studs on the bottom and utilize a special rubber for brilliant traction.

Photo courtesy of inov-8

During the winter months or in especially tough conditions, I usually switch to the new inov-8 MUDCLAW G 260. So far, I’ve managed to run over 800 miles in my pair, and there’s still plenty of life left in them yet! [Mousey is sponsored by inov-8.]

A long-sleeve zipped merino mid layer is another important piece of apparel. I can wax lyrical about the superpowers of merino all day long. In my opinion, there’s no better alternative.

I also have to mention the inov-8 AT/C Thermoshell insulated lightweight jacket. During the winter months, I wear it more than anything else. It’s super-lightweight, well-insulated, and perfectly complements my favorite merino mid layer on especially cold days.

It’s extremely important to remember that fell races are held on the fells, hills, and mountains of Great Britain. Both the weather and terrain are usually challenging. It’s compulsory to carry emergency kit, and without it, you could put your safety (and that of others) at risk.

Photo courtesy of inov-8

What’s the best fell race to start with?

Check out the Fellrunner website for the full fixture list. It’s important to understand that all races are categorized by severity and length. There are two letters describing each race.

The first is A, B, or C. This represents the severity of the race (terrain, ascent, technical difficulty):

A = The most challenging
B = Challenging
C = Least challenging

The second letter represents the length of the race:

S = Short (10K or less)
M = Medium (between 10K and 20K)
L = Long (over 20K)

Other abbreviations:

ER = Experience required
LK = Local knowledge an advantage
NS = Navigational skills required
PM = Course partially marked

I would recommend trying one of the less challenging fell races to begin with and try to be honest about your level of ability. You can aim to run an AL once you’ve mastered a CS.

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From Skis to Trail Shoes: Julian Carr’s Cross-Training Gear

December 6, 2018 By Will Robins Leave a Comment

Julian Carr isn’t just a big name in big air. He loves running up mountains as much as skiing down them. Here, we dig into his favorite gear choices for pounding the trail.

Pro skier Julian Carr caught the running bug a couple years ago after he began hiking mountains in the offseason. It didn’t take long for him to realize that getting to the top faster was more fun.

That’s why he launched the Cirque Series. A circuit of mountain foot races, Cirque Series focuses on short and fast courses instead of the usual combination of ultrarunning and mountain running. Fortunately for us, this pastime is nearly as gear-intensive as skiing (almost).

We spoke with Carr directly to find out what he uses for cross training.

Note: Julian Carr is a sponsored athlete, and some of the products may be from his sponsors. Check out his recommendations below.

Apparel
Spyder Men’s Alps / Women’s Blytz Long Sleeve Tech Tee: $27-52

“I really like the long sleeve because it’s this stretchy, awesome material, and I like that it’s long-sleeve but not super thick. I can pull the sleeves down when it’s chilly but push the sleeves up when it’s warming up,” Carr said. “There’s also a great short-sleeve with a full mesh back — Spyder does a great job with those top layers.”

Plus, as Carr noted, Spyder’s gear tends to be mostly black. That’s great for those who are a little wary of the vibrant hues running gear can have.

On Running Cloudventure Peak (women’s / men’s): $150

This Swiss brand is “blowing up,” according to Carr. The Cloudventure Peak is a “lightweight trail competition shoe” created by mountain runners who grew up running around the Matterhorn.

“They’re lightweight but still comfortable, and I love these shoes,” Carr said. The soles of the shoes are different than any other running shoe on the market and have been sneaking their way into the U.S. running scene.

Designed for traction on the trails, plus a “springboard” effect to help you bounce from rock to rock, the shoes make you feel almost like a mountain goat. And the uppers are soft and stretchy enough that it feels like you’re running on — ahem — a cloud.

Gordini Stash Lite Touch Gloves (women’s / men’s): $12-38

“Gordini makes great winter gloves, but what I really like is their super-light daywear glove,” said Carr.

With silk insulation, silicone grips, and touchscreen-compatible fingertips, the gloves are perfect for days that start chilly and warm up, or for mountain runs during warm days on scrambling terrain.

“In the Brighton race this year, there was a lot of scrambling up rocks,” added Carr. “Most of the hikes I do are high alpine, and you end up needing your hands a lot. I wore them in almost every race this year. They just give you a bit of extra grip, and if it gets chilly later in the day, they’re perfect.”

On Running Pants (women’s / men’s): $170

Like On Running’s running shoes, the run pants from the Swiss brand are just a little different than your average running tights or pants. Mesh knee inserts make them super mobile and a bit more stylish. And thoughtful details like zip pockets make them ideal for daylong mountain adventures.

“These running pants are amazing,” Carr told us. “They’re so lightweight in the upper, and the bottom is a bit stretchier, so I can pull them up so they end up being more like athletic capris. But if it’s cold and raining, I can pull them back down. I wear them for everything now, from mountains to errands. They kick major ass.”

Spyder Pryme 2.5L Waterproof Rain Jacket (women’s / men’s): $26-150

A lightweight raincoat is key for mountain running, Carr explained, because the weather on the way up may be completely different than on the way down. This raincoat from Spyder is comfortable, breathable, and can be stuffed into his Black Diamond backpack when the rain stops. He carries it on every adventure, as it’s best to have an extra layer in case an adventure runs a little longer than you expected.

This rain jacket comes in four color schemes: black/black, cirrus/black, deep lichen green/fresh, and French blue/black.

Discrete Beanie: $18-32

Discrete is one of Carr’s many side projects. He created this simple fashion line because he was sick of trying to find the perfect basic beanie that worked well on the ski hill but didn’t stand out with neon colors or ugly patterns. (Hence the name Discrete.)

The beanies are all cozy as hell and bombproof but come in colors that are tastefully neutral — and Carr wears his products proudly. If you really love the neutral vibe from Discrete, it also has neck buffs in matching colors.

Nutrition
SP2 Spirulina Cubes: $90 per month

Fresh, frozen spirulina cubes delivered monthly to your door: That’s SP2.

“It’s hard with my active lifestyle to find time to eat lots of good greens. But it’s really easy to make two smoothies a day with cubes of SP2 in it,” Carr said. “It’s packed with amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. And I found that my soreness level has gone way down after training, and I can do more big days in a row.”

Gnarly Nutrition BCAA Workout Supplement: $37

Carr said he got into BCAAs in high school playing soccer.

“So it’s been on my radar for a long time, though it’s just now getting more popular in endurance sports. It’s great for recovery, and Gnarly has been a great brand with clean, organic options.”

Hiball Energy Cold Brew Coffee Beverage: $45 per 12 8-ounce cans

“An all-organic, fair trade energy drink: Sounds crazy, but it’s so good,” Carr told us. “The guy who founded it was so sick of making Red Bull cocktails in bars because it was so bad for people. He wanted to make a healthier energy drink pairing. So he started Hiball, and it’s become really big in the endurance sport world as cleaner fuel and energy.”

The cold brew provides caffeine, of course, but also 140 calories thanks to the combination of 100 percent Arabica organic fair trade cold brew coffee, milk, and sugar. It’s a great option for hikers and mountain runners who don’t want to handle another sip of sweet sports drink and want a more relaxing experience while still getting hydrated and energized.

Pressed by KIND Fruit Bars: $15 per 12-pack

In a world packed with on-the-go nutrition options, Carr called the Pressed bars from KIND his favorite. Made with only a few all-natural ingredients, the bars are “easy on the system and taste great.” He recommends mango and banana.

Essentials
LEKI Micro Vario Ti COR-TEC Trekking Poles: $105

These trail-specific trekking poles are Carr’s favorite for trail running. “I mainly use them on uphills, but I’m starting to use them more on technical downhills so I can pivot by planting them and putting my weight on them,” he explained. “It’s more like downhill skiing. I think if I didn’t ski, there would be a huge learning curve to use poles for climbing.”

These LEKI poles collapse small enough to squeeze into a pack, so you can start a run with them and put them away if the trail gets less frantic. And at just over 2 pounds for the set, you’ll barely notice you’re carrying them.

Silva Ranger S Compass: $50

“This is just an old-school compass. Silva is this cool heritage brand in Sweden that makes amazing compasses, and I like having one in my pack just in case — I keep it with my medical gear,” Carr said.

“I think a compass is a crucial emergency supply. I think having a compass is really important: If you’re out on a mountain you don’t know very well on this big adventure, it should be easy to navigate. But you never know what weather could roll in, or if your phone could die, so having a compass can save your life.”

Black Diamond Bbee 11 Backpack: $50

When you’re out for a few hours of mountain run adventuring, having a bag for all of your supplies is key. Carr said he likes the lightweight Bbee 11 from Black Diamond along with water bottles so he can stash hydration, snacks, emergency supplies, extra layers, and his trekking poles all in his pack before hitting the trails.

Naawk SPF 50 Sunscreen: $11 per 6 ounces

Carr is based in Salt Lake City, so when he can buy local, he prefers that. And NAAWK sunscreen spray is both locally made and the ideal product for Carr, with water-resistant UVA/UVB protection.

Goal Zero Venture 70 17,700mAh Waterproof Power Bank: $150

“This portable charger is the size of a lighter. It’s perfect for when I’m out marking a course for one of the Cirque Series mountain run races and I have to answer a billion emails while I’m on the mountain,” Carr said.

A single charge of the Venture can actually recharge a phone five times, so even if you’re out for an overnight adventure, you’ll be able to keep your phone running the whole time.

Spy Optic Helm: $120

It gets sunny on top of mountains, so Carr never leaves home without Spy Optic glasses. Right now he’s into the Helm style, which features a more retro feel while still using Spy Optic’s Happy Lens technology and polarization. They’re not your dad’s 1970s glasses — but even he would give you style points for these.

Extras
Traeger Grills Bronson 20 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker: $450

“Post-run, I love a burger and a beer,” Carr said. He has a Traeger wood pellet grill on his back porch and regularly slaps a burger on the barbecue when he gets back from a full day on the road. Because it’s a wood pellet grill, there’s no open flame and it doubles as a smoker, it’s a do-it-all backyard machine. Sure, it’s not essential for every athlete, but we’ve also tried ’em out and agree they’re great for gourmet meals when you have the time.

YETI Rambler 18oz Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Bottle: $30

Keeping drinks cold on the road or up the mountain is key in the summer. Just as important is keeping your coffee hot on the way up to the top of the mountain for skiing. Because Carr balances his time between summer and winter adventures, a cup like the YETI Rambler that can do both is the perfect accessory.

“The crazy screw on top makes it completely spillproof. That’s why I like it so much!” he said.

Bonus: The no-sweat design means you can keep it in your pack without stressing about getting your spare gear wet.

Molly Hurford is a coach and journalist in love with all things cycling, running, yoga, nutrition, and all else movement-related. She’s a USA Cycling and PMBI-certified coach and a registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance. She’s raced cyclocross, road, and mountain bikes, as well as triathlons from sprint distance to Ironman and running races from 5Ks to 50Ks in the mountains. Molly is obsessed with getting more women psyched on adventure and wellness, and hosts talks and coaches clinics and camps for cyclists. She’s also the author of multiple books on cycling and nutrition, runs TheOutdoorEdit.com, and co-hosts The Consummate Athlete Podcast. Her most recent project, Shred Girls, is a young adult fiction series focused on getting girls excited about bikes.

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The Best Deals on Fitness Gear at REI’s Sale

November 14, 2018 By Will Robins Leave a Comment

REI’s Gear Up Get Out sale is happening now through November 19, and there are many deals to be had on workout gear. We’ve picked out our favorites so you can spend less time sifting through the deals and more time out on the trails.

Looking for additional sale coverage? Check out our favorite overall deals, 12 great deals under $30, and the gear our editors are most excited to purchase from the sale.

About Our Deals Coverage

We work with top retailers and brands to find the best deals on outdoor gear. Then our editors and writers carefully review the sales to select the products we’ve used and trust. When you click a Buy Now button in this story, it will take you to the brand whose sale we’re covering.

Review our affiliate link policy→

Patagonia Women’s Nine Trails Long-Sleeve Shirt ($38; 30 percent off)

(Courtesy REI Co-op)

The polyester jersey material of the Nine Trails shirt feels like cotton but performs like a synthetic. The shirt is also coated with a permanent odor-control treatment to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

Buy Now

Brooks Men’s Sherpa Shorts ($33; 30 percent off)

(Courtesy REI Co-op)

These running shorts have a five-inch inseam and a sweat-resistant, mesh boxer-brief lining that’s equipped with a hidden security pocket, so you can carry small essentials without worry.

Buy Now

Smartwool PhD Seamless Strappy Sports Bra ($35; 30 percent off)

(Smartwool)

The Smartwool PhD Seamless Strappy sports bra has been a staff favorite since this summer, thanks to its breathability and its ability to be worn for weeks on end without gathering stink. The material is a perfect blend of 38 percent nylon, 30 percent merino wool, 20 percent polyester, and 12 percent elastane, so it doesn’t itch and won’t stretch out over time.

Buy Now

Outdoor Research Surge Running Gaiters ($21; 25 percent off)

(Courtesy REI Co-op)

Keep snow and small rocks out of your shoes on your next run with the Surge running gaiters. These gaiters have a bungee tensioning system to grip the heels of your shoes, so they won’t be sliding around by mile five.

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Prana Verana Tank Top ($45; 30 percent off)

(Courtesy REI Co-op)

This no-frills tank top is guaranteed to stay out your way so you can focus on getting in a good workout. The shirt is made from 93 percent nylon and 7 percent Lycra, and a built-in bra offers extra support.

Buy Now

Garmin Fenix 5 GPS Watch ($400; 27 percent off)

(Courtesy REI Co-op)

The Garmin Fenix 5 is destined to perfect your training game. If you like staring at numbers and working on incremental improvements, this is the watch for you. Its wrist-based technology tracks your heart rate so you don’t have to worry about a chest strap, and the integrated GPS gives you accurate readings every time.

Buy Now

DryGuy Force Dry Boot, Shoe, and Glove Dryer ($37; 25 percent off)

(Courtesy REI Co-op)

Running and training in the winter can be hard on your gear because it can be more difficult to dry things properly in the chilly air. Set up your wet shoes and gloves on the DryGuy dryer and come back to dry gear in about an hour.

Buy Now

Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Soft-Shell Lite Bike Gloves ($41; 25 percent off)

(Courtesy REI Co-op)

If you’re a winter commuter, a good pair of insulated bike gloves is essential. The P.R.O. Soft-Shell gloves have conductive synthetic leather on both index fingers and thumbs to work with touch-screen devices in case you need to answer urgent calls on the road. Interiors are lined with fleece, and the gloves’ palms are designed with silicone stripping for extra grip.

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The Leadville 100 Trail Run Is Brutal: How I Finished

October 13, 2018 By Will Robins Leave a Comment

The iconic ‘race across the sky’ was one tough run, but I finished in 2018. In doing so, I came away with a few thoughts that may help out other Leadville 100 runners toeing the line for the first time.

A man shivers uncontrollably to my left. His friends and what I assume are paramedics work quickly to wrap him in heavy coats and blankets and blast him with a propane heater. His face contorts, eyes closed, as he lets out a soft moan.

To my right, my wife tries to distract me from the horror show the next stool over at the aid station. Focus on the task at hand: Eat a small cup of salty broth laced with mushy noodles. It’s 2 o’clock in the morning, and I’ve been running for 21 hours through the Rocky Mountains. A cold, wind-driven rain has been pounding from the sky for two hours.

Welcome to Leadville.

Leadville 100: Buckle Down

Having already completed a couple 100-kilometer races, plus the Grand Canyon 100-miler and multiple TransRockies Runs, I knew a little of what to expect before I accepted an invite to run Leadville.

But the monster officially dubbed the CenturyLink Leadville Trail 100 Run is a different beast altogether. It’s been a month since I crossed the finish line in 28 hours, 36 minutes, 51 seconds. While I’ve wanted to share the experience, it’s been really hard to process mentally. So I’ve procrastinated, pondered, and watched toenails fall off (only two so far) while ruminating on it.

For those considering the burly Colorado run, here are a few things I learned that might help you along the way.

Leadville 100 Gear That Worked

I honed my kit to fit my style of running. That means gear that can keep a modest finisher moving hour after hour.

I finished Leadville with very few problems other than serious exhaustion and some sore joints. I had no chafing! No stomach problems (well, I puked twice, but to me, that’s a win)! And I lost only two toenails (way better than average)!

Below is all the gear I used.

Salomon vest: The Skin Pro 10 vest carried all my gear (jacket, food, phone, etc). It was comfortable with minimal bouncing. It also carried a hydration bladder, which I prefer over water bottles. I used a pre-release version of one coming to market in 2019 and loved it. Look for a full review soon.

HOKA ONE ONE Torrent and EVO Mafate shoes: I used shoes from several brands during training, but when it came to race day, I settled into HOKAs. I used the Torrent over the more technical Hope Pass section of the race and relied on the EVO Mafate for big miles. They were great.

Older Salomon shorts: I don’t think Salomon makes the shorts I wore anymore, but they have a snug liner inside a looser-fitting exterior. No underwear. No chafing. I didn’t change them throughout the race but did switch to underwear and tights late at night when it got cold.

Altra Performance 2.0 T-Shirt: This shirt is light. It has perforations that allow it to breathe really well. I wore it for 100 miles and had zero chafing. It’s my favorite running shirt yet!

Revant S1L sunglasses: Comfortable and light, the S1L shades kept my eyes happy during sunny portions of the day. A very cool note on these glasses is they can be repaired and are meant to be worn for a lifetime. They’re 100 miles in and still rolling.

Fjällräven Abisko Eco-Shell Jacket: This jacket saved my ass, but it’s not a running jacket. Instead, this is a full-on waterproof-breathable shell. I wore it during a gnarly rainstorm at night. Without it, I would have frozen. It kept me warm enough to keep running when things got very cold.

Headlamp: I had a bunch of headlamps in a bag and grabbed one. And honestly, I’m not sure which I used. I’m pretty sure the Petzl Tikka made most of the trip with me, although I may have switched to a Princeton Tec Sync at some point. The late-night slog is a hazy memory.

Merino socks: I wore about four pairs of various merino wool socks through the run. That’s what I recommend. I used pairs by Smartwool and Darned Tough. I like higher socks because I tend to kick my calves from time to time and it protects them from the sharp corners of running shoes. To me, a good light merino sock is critical. Find some for hiking or every day, and they’ll translate great into running.

Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z poles: This was a tough choice, as I also had a new model from Ultimate Direction that’s really nice. But I ultimately decided to use the Distance Carbon Z poles because they fold down small. I didn’t start using poles until Hope Pass and wasn’t sure I’d want them on the descent. But I ended up using them for the entire last 60 miles of the race.

Bodyglide: This stuff is clutch. At one point, I noticed the very early sensation of chafing in my groin and hit it immediately with Bodyglide. It never got worse. I used this stuff about 10 times through the run, and it kept chafing to a minimum.

SaltStick: I can’t over-recommend this one. But of course, you need to know your own body. I took probably 20 or so SaltStick tabs over the race. They replenish electrolytes lost through sweat. Given that I drank gallons upon gallons of water during the run, SaltStick was absolutely key to avoiding some really nasty health problems. Use them.

Bumkins Reusable Snack Bags: Ok, ok, I know this is goofy. But I freaking love these things. I used the Bumkins Reusable Snack Bag to store my SaltStick along with a few Gin Gins and Tylenol tabs. I also use them to carry sandwiches to work, but that’s a whole other story.

Start Slow (No, Really, Start Slow!)

Leadville is a lot bigger than most ultramarathons. With about 750 people toeing the starting line, it’s a real pack at the beginning. I rarely found myself alone on the trail.

And while it was fun and surreal, that pack really sucks you along. I’d spoken with a few finishers who all cautioned over and again to start really slow. The beginning also happens to be mostly downhill, so it would be easy to look down and see yourself ticking off eight-minute miles.

I resisted the urge reasonably well and rolled into the first aid station averaging 11:12 per mile. Slower would probably have been better, but with fresh legs, there’s only so much I could do to push back my pace.

Run Fast Downhill (When You Can)

I guess this one could be controversial, but it worked for me. I ran the downhills fast, especially early in the race.

For example, the extremely steep descent known as Powerline is a real leg burner whether you go fast or not. Take a look at this video shot by a participant in 2017 and you’ll get an idea of the energy runners use to slow down.

So as I rolled down the first section, I decided to let my legs roll a little and wound up flying down it, averaging (I’m guessing) seven-minute miles. It burned a little, but probably not much more than going slow, and it got me out of the steep descent faster. It also pushed me past dozens of other runners.

I used fast descents as much as I could through the race, although it got harder and harder in later miles to push much pace.

Respect the Weather (And Carry a Rain Jacket)

Leadville is high in the Rocky Mountains, and the weather is fickle. During the 2018 race, weather ranged from sunny skies and cool mountain air to lashing rain and wind in the near-freezing dark.

Maybe I was naive going in. Maybe summer lulled me into a false sense of security. Whatever the reason, I expected more sunburn than shivering. And I was wrong.

Rain fell during two long spells in this edition of the Leadville 100, and I was lucky my crew had my back. I carried a light windbreaker on the course, but as evening fell about 18 hours into the race, the weather turned stormy. My crew and pacer convinced me to don the burly three-layer Fjällräven Abisko Eco-Shell rain jacket just as the storm struck, and it saved my ass.

Running about 6 miles through rain, gale winds, and cold temps on a tired body is downright risky. A real rain jacket kept me warm and moving.

Ultra-Marathons: The 15 Stages Of Suffering

Each ultra-marathon is a unique journey into an abyss of pain and uncertainty. But when running more than 26 miles in one go, you can expect to touch on these ‘stages of suffering.’ Read more…

Communicate Clearly With Crew

For a lot of people (like me), running 100 miles alone would be pretty much impossible. Thanks to the sacrifice of others, it’s still tough, but possible.

For those unfamiliar with ultramarathons, most allow crews to meet up with runners at regular intervals to supply gear, food, and encouragement. It makes a world of difference. (See the rain jacket example above.)

I was really lucky to have my parents, wife, sister, brother-in-law, niece, and a good friend all there as support.

I tried to communicate clearly and positively with my crew at aid stations. Their job is arguably harder than mine (which is simply running), and they were able to hit my timing well — at least early in the race.

My wife/crew chief had the foresight to give everyone really clear instructions to keep all conversation positive. There was no talk of stopping. No talk about pain or discomfort. Every word was about getting to the end or specific tasks.

And this, among other things, helped me with one of the biggest hurdles I’ve faced in ultramarathons: the pain cave.

Control Your Mind: Keep Out of the Dark

As with any ultra, the pain cave will come. You will have to buckle down and get the work done. But for the first time in my running career, I was able to navigate the pain cave without negativity, and it made the race so much more fun.

I realize that every run is a bit of an adventure of the mind. But for Leadville, I continually reminded myself of the incredible privilege of running through the spectacular Rockies. I distracted myself with fun thoughts from adventures past. I reminded myself to embrace the pain, and that eventually, it would end.

When the pain ended, did I look back at success or failure? The answer was very clear, even when every footstep recoiled with the horror of thousands of angry nerve endings.

Friends and family shine through in hard times. It reminded me just how lucky I am. But I certainly wasn’t alone. Watching others finish while limping back to the car after the finish line, I saw group after group of supporters hugging finishers. Leadville burst with energy as an entire community came out to support people doing something both enviable and idiotic.

More than anything, Leadville is tough as hell. It brings people together. And while it hurt like crazy, I’m incredibly glad to have run it and finished. For runners, it’s a bucket list race worth pursuing.

The post The Leadville 100 Trail Run Is Brutal: How I Finished appeared first on GearJunkie.

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