

Each race has 3 heats (or waves) that are all released at different times: Elite Heat, Age-Group, and Open. Generally speaking, there are three levels of difficulty. The first thing you need to understand is how Spartan Race is structured. Don’t let your gear choices hold you back from dominating the field.Ready to take the leap and become a Spartan Finisher? Here are your gear list and guide to get started. While it might seem like a lot of equipment to bring to a race, these gear tips could help make a big difference in your overall obstacle course racing experience. A garbage bag is great to transport your race apparel, too. Bring a gym bag filled with a change of clean clothes and shoes, as well as some band aids and athletic wraps, in case you need them. You could also use cotton swabs to help get some mud cleared from smaller areas of your body. Your race might not always offer a shower area, so pack a gallon (or two) of water, soap and towels to clean yourself up a bit. Before getting in your car to head home, you may want to wash the grime off your course-conquering body. When you cross the finish line, you are tired, soaked and coated in dirt.

If you want to monitor your time, make sure to bring your mud-resistant watch and an action camera to document the experience.ĭon’t think that your work is done when you complete the course. You may also want to bring your own hydration belt or pack filled with water for quick access.

Another accessory you may want to bring is a pair of good-gripping gloves for rope structures and other climbing obstacles as well as athletic tape. These could come in handy when climbing and crawling. To help add some protection for your joints, look for low-profile neoprene sleeves that will help protect your knees and elbows. Apply sport-performance sunscreen and bug/tick repellent prior to taking the field.

With your apparel ready to go, it’s now time to focus on accessories. Remember, though, that these kicks will get completely covered in mud, so don’t tackle an obstacle course race in a pair of shoes you want to keep in pristine condition. A thin, slick upper that won’t retain moisture is also a good feature to look for. They should also have an aggressive tread that can hold its own through mud and loose terrain. Knee-high socks could add a slight protective layer to your calves and shins, which could be helpful during crawling events.įor footwear, look for shoes designed for trail running that are light, well-fitting and offer ample support. Instead of cotton socks and underwear, choose a pair of compression shorts and look for knee-high moisture-wicking socks. Your shorts should not have pockets, because these can easily fill up with mud or dirt and could slow down your pace on the challenges.ĭon’t forget your undergarments, either. Loose apparel can get caught on certain obstacles, especially those featuring barbed wire. You can also opt for compression leggings.ĭesign and fit-wise, you want your clothing to be as close to your body as possible. Instead, look for compression tops that have moisture-wicking materials and pair these with some lightweight shorts. Wearing cotton could also lead to the development of blisters, especially cotton socks. Cotton absorbs moisture and can become extremely heavy.
#SPARTAN RACE GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS PRO#
PRO TIP: Avoid cotton materials during these races. Because of that, look for clothing that offers moisture-wicking capabilities to help keep yourself comfortable and competitive. Many tasks call for you to trudge through mud and water to reach the end, and combining these elements with your already-sweaty self can result in some dense apparel. If there is one thing to know before participating in an obstacle course race, it’s this: You will get dirty. Get prepared for your next race by following these tips and suggestions. Being improperly equipped for an obstacle course race can affect your time and ability to complete tasks. These races are very demanding of your physical abilities, and even more demanding of your gear. During an event, you try to complete the course by climbing, crawling, swinging, running and maneuvering your way to the finish line. Obstacle course races are unlike any other competition.
