Essentials for Your Next Mud Run

Written by
Taylor Danser
So, you've signed up for a mud run. You and your friends have planned who's driving, where you're meeting and where you're going to lunch afterward. As for your gear... Where do you even start? You can forget those running shoes you used for your last 5K. You're going to need a little bit more than that to slop through the mud and obstacles. Here are the essentials you'll need for mud run success:
1. Clothes
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You read that right: We are recommending that you cover yourself for the race. But more specifically, you're going to want anything but cotton. You'll get dirty and wet in this race, and cotton will only slow you down and make you less comfortable. (Trust us, you don't want to experience chaffing.) Opt for wicking T-shirts, compression shorts and spandex, as long as you don't mind them having a little bit of character at the end of the race (aka, dirty and potentially damaged).
2. Protection
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You'll want to arm yourself against potential injuries. Not only will obstacles slow you down, they can hurt. We're not talking about anything major, but a few scratches and bruises can put a damper on you the next day if you're not ready. Nylon running tights are a great way to keep your legs safe. As an added bonus: mud easily slides off Nylon.
3. Shoes
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Quality shoes can make or break your whole race. Your regular running shoes probably won't do. For one, they'll get really dirty. But, perhaps more importantly, these won't help you move forward, sideways or really any direction at all in the mud. Find the right shoe, then make sure you double knot those laces.
Find mud running shoes
4. Costume
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Mud runs are all about camaraderie. Costumes are not only allowed, but encouraged. Feel free to play it up by dressing up together. Superheroes anyone?
5. Towel and extra clothes
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Because mud belongs outside of your car and home. And dry clothes just feel a million times better.
6. Water
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And lots of it. You'll need to stay hydrated, but you'll also want to bring extra water to rinse off post-race. Most mud runs offer a place to hose down, but these spots also mean waiting in very long lines while covered in mud.
7. Gloves
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The verdict is still out on gloves. Some mud run participants wear them the whole race. Others wear them only when needed and throw them in a pocket while not in use. Many people, however, don't wear gloves at all. But you can let us know how your hands feel after lifting logs, carrying cinder blocks and climbing ropes.
8. Pads
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Here's your chance to dress like a badass roller derby team member. Knee and elbow pads will help out when you're climbing over, under, around and through some really gnarly obstacles.
9. Ear Plugs
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If you don't make a barrier for your precious ear canals, be prepared to get good use of that box of Q-tips for quite some time afterward.
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