My Favorite Things

Sharing all my favorite gear, fuel, hydration, and more!

• Shoes: Trail Shoes - Saucony Peregrine. They aren’t perfect, but better than the 4 other brands and models I have tried. Road shoes - New Balance Beacon. (but they are discontinuing them! why??? Now what?!?)

• Bras: New Balance Fuel and Pace bras. Comfortable, affordable and no frills. BOA Sports bras because who doesn’t want cats or fruit or a texas flag on your bra?

• Socks: Injinji or XOSkin toe socks. I know, I know. But they are awesome and worth every cent.

• GPS Watch: Garmin Solar Instinct. Practically perfect in every way.

• Hydration Vest: Nathan VaporAiress. (2019) Hands down the best pack I have ever had. All the features and pockets; perfect for 10 miles or 100. I also use the Nathan Pinnacle hip belt for shorter runs. Both of these use soft flasks, which I love. Bonus facts on Nathan bottles and bladders - they are really nice when you are on the volunteer side of the aid station. Easy open and wider mouths than some other brands for scooping ice into and easier refilling.

• Fuel and Hydration: I use GU Energy products. I love their Liquid Energy! It’s so easy to get down, especially in those later miles when you don’t want anything but need to have some calories. I also like their electrolyte capsules and hydration drink tablets for replenishing all that’s lost in sweat! As far as real food for ultras - boiled salted potatoes or mashed potatoes with some broth to thin them out. Also, a grilled cheese at mile 60 is pretty darn tasty. Especially with bacon on it.

• Anti-Chafe: Vaseline, for cheap and available anywhere. I do like a deodorant-type stick of something for ease of application. Squirrels Nut Butter is good, but melts too easily in a drop bag. Body Glide is ok, but not great. So sometimes I just use deodorant. If I do end up chaffing, any diaper rash cream works well for aftercare.