The Ultimate 100-Mile Gear Guide

Pierce S • July 12, 2023

Introduction

Hey there, fellow endurance enthusiasts! If there's one thing I've learned on my journey to conquer the 100-mile ultramarathon distance, it's that gear can make all the difference. Through countless races and rigorous trial and error, I've gained a wealth of knowledge on what it takes to not just survive but thrive in these epic challenges. And now, I'm excited to share that knowledge with you in "The Ultimate Gear Guide for Conquering the 100-Mile Race."


In this guide, I've poured my heart and soul into curating a comprehensive collection of gear essentials that will propel you towards the finish line. Each item has been meticulously tested and fine-tuned through personal victories and hard-earned lessons. I've been through the highs and lows, experiencing firsthand the consequences of inadequate gear choices. I'll candidly share with you the areas where I've fallen short, like the Keys 100 where I struggled to cool myself down because I didn't have a bandana that could hold ice, or the Brazos Bend 100 where wearing old shoes without changing them resulted in a painful walk for the last 26 miles, dropping me from 10th place to 33rd place.


But fear not! Through these setbacks, I've gained invaluable insights that will prevent you from making the same mistakes. You'll learn the importance of proper heat management, footwear selection, hydration strategies, and much more. I'll guide you through the gear choices that will keep you comfortable, supported, and ready to tackle any obstacle that comes your way.


Consider me your trusted companion, sharing the secrets that will empower you to confidently tackle the twists and turns of your own ultramarathon adventure. With "The Ultimate Gear Guide for Conquering the 100-Mile Race" in your hands, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and experience of a seasoned 100-mile warrior. Together, we'll ensure that you're prepared for anything that the race throws at you.


So, lace up your shoes and join me on this exhilarating journey. Let's optimize your gear selection and arm you with the wisdom of lessons learned. With the right gear, you can conquer the impossible and rewrite your own ultramarathon story. Let's gear up and make history together!


"For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers." 

- Proverbs 11:14 (NIV)


In Your Corner,
Pierce Showe


Factors To Consider

When preparing for a 100-mile race, it's essential to consider various factors that can influence the gear you do or don't need. Temperature, humidity, elevation gain, and the terrain are all crucial elements to think through. For example, in scorching hot conditions, having a special bandana that can hold ice becomes essential for staying cool and preventing overheating. High humidity levels may necessitate choosing clothes that offer excellent moisture-wicking properties to avoid discomfort and the added weight of soaked clothing. Elevation gain plays a significant role in deciding whether to use hiking poles to aid stability and reduce strain on the body during steep ascents and descents. Additionally, the type of terrain, whether road or trail, impacts the choice of footwear, as trail-specific shoes provide superior traction and stability for uneven surfaces. By carefully considering these factors, you can make informed gear choices tailored to the unique demands of your 100-mile race.


Essentials Gear List

Running Hat

Headlamp

Sunglasses

Headphones (If You Use Them)

Running Watch (My Favorite Gear Investment But You Can Get By With Something Cheaper)

Running Vest

Running Belt (I Prefer A Vest)

Extra Shirts

Extra Shorts

2 Pairs of Shoes (Road Or Trail Shoes) – Change Shoes 50 Miles In To Prevent Feet Issues

Extra Socks – Change Socks 50 Miles In To Prevent Blister Issues

Chafing Ointment

Dude Wipes – In Case Duty Calls When There’s No Bathroom Nearby (THIS HAPPENS 

Portable Phone Charger

Sunscreen

Foldable Chair - So You Can Sit Every Couple Of Hours While Fueling If You Want

Extra Nutrition - In Case A Section Takes Longer Than Expected


Condition Dependent Gear

Hiking Poles - These Are The Ones I Use But You Can Find Ones That Are Cheaper


Cooling Neck Gaiter - To Help You Stay Cool Through High Temperatures


Trail Gaiter - To Help Prevent Small Rocks From Getting In Your Shoes

3 Tips To Make Your Runs Less Boring And More Exciting! 🏃‍♂️🌟

By Pierce S • July 13, 2023
As runners, we know that consistency is key to achieving our goals, but sometimes the monotony of repetitive runs can leave us feeling unmotivated. The good news is that there are simple yet effective ways to inject excitement into your running routine and keep the passion burning strong. In this blog post, we'll explore three surefire methods to make your runs less boring and more enjoyable, helping you stay on track and reach new heights in your running journey! 🚀 1. Run With Friends 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️ There's nothing quite like sharing the joy of running with friends. Not only does running with company provide a wonderful opportunity for socializing, but it can also make your runs more fun and engaging. You can exchange stories, share running tips, and motivate each other to push your limits. Whether it's a leisurely jog or an intense training session, having a running buddy by your side can turn even the most mundane run into an exciting adventure. Plus, a little friendly competition never hurts! So, grab your running shoes and invite a friend to join you on your next run—it's bound to be a memorable experience! 2. Run Different Routes 🗺️🧭 Repeating the same route day after day can quickly lead to boredom. So, why not explore new paths and discover fresh scenery? Running different routes not only breaks the monotony but also keeps you mentally engaged. Explore nearby parks, trails, or urban neighborhoods you haven't ventured into before. You'll be amazed at how a change of scenery can reinvigorate your running spirit. Consider creating a list of new routes to try, and each week, pick a different one to add variety to your training. The excitement of discovering new places will fuel your passion for running, making it an adventure that never gets old. 3. Have a Goal You're Training For 🏆 Nothing ignites motivation quite like having a specific goal to work towards. Whether it's completing your first 5K, conquering a challenging trail race, or achieving a personal best in a marathon, having a goal provides a sense of purpose and direction in your running journey. Break your goal down into smaller milestones and celebrate each achievement along the way. As you progress, you'll find a renewed sense of focus and determination in every step you take. Having a goal adds purpose to your runs, turning each training session into a stepping stone towards success. So, set your sights on a running goal, and let it propel you forward with unwavering enthusiasm!  Running doesn't have to be a repetitive and mundane activity. By incorporating these three simple strategies into your routine, you can infuse excitement, motivation, and joy into every run. Running with friends fosters camaraderie and support, while exploring different routes opens up a world of possibilities. Most importantly, having a clear goal in mind keeps you on track and gives your running journey a sense of purpose. So, lace up your running shoes, gather your friends, explore new routes, and embrace your running goals with enthusiasm. Each step you take is an opportunity for adventure, growth, and achievement. Happy running! 🏃‍♂️🌟

The Biggest Thing I Learned From The 2x Fittest Man In The NFL

July 12, 2023
Over the past 14 months, I've had the incredible opportunity to train with Steve Weatherford, a true powerhouse in the NFL, named the Fittest Man not just once, but twice. During this time, I've gained invaluable insights, but there's one lesson that stands out above all else. Steve's unwavering focus on stretching and mobility work has not only elevated his own performance but also taught me the importance of prioritizing flexibility in my training. At 40 years old, Steve's ability to do the splits and complete an Ironman with minimal training is a testament to the power of mobility. Today, I'm excited to share with you the dynamic warm-up routine we follow daily before lifting, a routine that can transform your training and help prevent injuries. Steve's Dynamic Warmup Routine: Start with 100 bodyweight lunges, 50 for each leg, to activate and strengthen your lower body. Continue with these essential stretches: Hamstring Scoops (7 reps) to increase hamstring flexibility. Quad Pulls (7 reps) to engage and prepare your quadriceps for the workout ahead. Single Leg Walking Hamstring Stretch (7 reps) to enhance hamstring mobility. The Hip Rotator Chair Stretch (7 reps) to open up your hip rotators and improve flexibility. Lunges With Rotation (7 reps) to boost core strength and rotational stability. The Hip Flexor Crawl With Rotation (7 reps) to release tension in your hip flexors and enhance hip mobility. Hamstring High Kicks (7 reps) to dynamically stretch your hamstrings and prepare them for activity. Finish the warmup with two variations of leg swings for each leg, a dynamic stretch that enhances hip mobility and warms up the hip and leg muscles. The lessons learned from training with Steve Weatherford go beyond the football field. His focus on stretching and mobility has taught me the importance of flexibility in achieving peak performance and preventing injuries. Incorporating Steve's Dynamic Warmup into your routine can be a game-changer for your training, whether you're gearing up for your first marathon or eyeing your next ultramarathon challenge. Many of you commented on my Instagram post, expressing concern about not having enough time for this warm-up routine. I want to assure you that the entire warmup takes just 10-15 minutes. It's a small investment that will pay off immensely in the long run, allowing you to perform at your best and stay injury-free. If you want to watch the routine via video, check it out on my Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/p/CuUcmujLLEO/ . So, embrace the power of mobility, and run your race with renewed strength, endurance, and resilience. Start your journey towards greatness today with Steve's Dynamic Warmup! 👊🏽