Gear & Equipment

At its core, adventure racing does not require a great deal of gear and equipment. All you need to compete in short races (called "sprint races") is a good pair of trail running shoes, a pair of quick-drying socks (not cotton!), a mountain bike, a helmet, and some way to carry water (e.g., Camelbak). As you progress in the sport you will likely decide to undertake longer races. This is where you can really start to accumulate some gear! Below are example gear lists for different levels of races:

Sprint Races (2-6 hours)

• Shoes
• Socks – Your feet will get wet during any adventure race, regardless of the distance. Wear socks that will dry quickly. Cotton is a very bad choice.
• Mountain bike
• Helmet
• Spare bike tube and tools to change a flat tire (pump, tire levers)
• Hydration system – A Camelbak hydration pack that can hold 50-70 ounces will be sufficient for a sprint race.
• Food

Day Races (8-24 hours)

• Shoes – You might consider taking 2 or 3 pairs of shoes.
• Socks – And you’ll probably want a few pairs of extra socks, too.
• Mountain bike
• Helmet
• Spare bike tubes and tools to change a flat tire (pump, tire levers)
• Kayak or canoe (there are several rental locations around the state)
• Paddle
• Personal Floatation Device (PFD -- also known as a "life jacket")
• Hydration system (100 ounces)
• Food
• Headlamp - Your adventure may take you into the night, so you’ll need some light.
• Extra batteries
• Compass – If you choose a race that requires navigation, you will need a compass, the ability to read a map, the ability to plot UTM coordinates on a map, possibly a straight-edge to draw grid lines on your map, and a waterproof map case.
• Knife
• Whistle – in case you get lost
• Duct tape
• Gaiters – Sometimes you will have to bushwhack through some thick brush. You’ll want gaiters to protect your legs.
• Race-specific gear such as climbing harness and shoes, snorkeling gear, etc.
• Team first-aid kit including band-aids, moleskin (for blisters), cortisone cream (for poison ivy), Benedryl, Aleve, Immodium AD, and electrolyte tablets.

Multi-day Races (24 hours and longer)

Come out and try adventure racing, San Antonio style!