Kit Requirements

Each race that you enter may have it's own specific requirements and in some cases can choose to waive these based on their judgements of conditions on the day, however it is always best practice if you are reccy-ing a route and racing to take what you think you need in the worst case scenario, getting benighted, getting injured or just generally not having a fun time!

The Fell Runners' Assocation (FRA) website reccomends this:

For some short fell races you need nothing more than a pair of suitable shoes (usually “fell shoes”, with an aggressive rubber stud pattern), basic running clothing and a couple of quid for the entry fee.

For longer races you will be required to carry mandatory kit:

• full waterproofs (with taped seams)

• hat and gloves

• a map of the course

• a compass

• a whistle

• some food

For some races, especially in winter, the Race Organiser may stipulate additional requirements such as an emergency “bivvy bag” or extra thermal top. This equipment is for your safety: the weather in the hills can change rapidly, and it is vital that you are properly prepared for a situation in which you become lost, heavily fatigued or incapacitated owing to illness or injury. 

The mandatory kit is the bare minimum, and runners are encouraged to carry additional kit depending upon the conditions and their experience.