Kit & Gear

What to wear for the Montane Spine Race

Get ready for a week of dot watching, because it's almost time for the Montane Winter Spine Race!

In preparation for 'Britain's Most Brutal' trail race, we asked some of the UK's toughest ultra-distance trail runners what shoes, kit and equipment they recommend for tackling 268-miles of the Pennine Way.

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DAMIAN HALL

First up, a man who needs no introduction, INOV8's Damian Hall.

Last year's winner of the Spine race and the current men’s record holder in 84:36:24, gives us his 3 of his top kit recommendations;

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1. PETZL NAO® RL HEADTORCH

The iconic choice for trails and ultra-running! The Petzl NAO RL rechargeable headlamp provides 1500 lumens of brightness and weighs just 145 grams.

Comfortably balanced, the headband is easily adjustable and maintains excellent support throughout long and committing races. With REACTIVE LIGHTING® technology, the brightness automatically adapts to the ambient light. Manual operations are reduced and burn time is optimized. Additionally, red lighting at the rear of the headlamp allows you to remain visible at night.

Want to know more about headtorches? Then check out our Petzl Guide to Choosing the right Headtorch

SHOP ALL PETZL HEADTORCHES HERE

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2. LEKI ULTRATRAIL FX.ONE TRAIL RUNNING POLES

Supporting you in your quest for the kilometres and the altitude, the Ultratrail FX.One Superlite is the perfect trail companion. Equipped with a range of technical assistance, the Superlite is an exceptional trail running pole.

Optimising your performance on the trail, the Ultratrail FX.One Superlite Trail Running Pole utilises an array of technologies to keep you on top form, including impressive Carbon HRC.

Equipped with the new Trail Shark System, the pole offers you an optimal power transfer, thanks to a direct connection supplied between the hand and the pole. The gripping system has a safety release to keep you protected from injuries, whilst also allowing you rapid clicking in and out. Additionally, a shark grip system has been specifically developed for trail running and offers you minimal weight, yet maximum stability thanks to the impressive Air Channel Construction. The Shark System makes clicking in and out possible with just one finger. The Shark Fram Strap Mesh fits like a glove and transfers power directly to the centre of the pole. The slim shape of the Shark mandrel allows the strap to be clicked in, and off, extremely easily and can be easily folded to carry in your hands or stored in a pack. All Shark straps and gloves are also compatible with this pole. The Ultratrail FX.One Superlite is an indispensable companion for your next race!

Unsure of how to use poles? Then check out our Beginner's Guide to using Trail Running Poles

SHOP ALL LEKI ULTRATRAIL RUNNING POLES HERE

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3. INOV8 THERMOSHELL PRO FULL ZIP JACKET

An insulated packable jacket, perfect for mountain marathon use. The INOV8 Thermoshell Pro utilises PrimaLoft Black Insulation ThermoPlume to deliver the softness and compressibility of natural goose down and the water-resistant proprietary finish ensures warmth even in wet conditions.

Constructed using PrimaLoft ThermoPlume black insulation, the Thermoshell Pro Jacket delivers thermal properties equivalent to 550 fill power down. Keeping you warm and toasty in even the harshest of conditions. ThermoPlume is also completely hydrophobic meaning it repels water keeping you damp-free at all times. Additionally, ultralight shell fabrics are windproof as well as water-resistant for complete weather protection all year round. Narrow quilting and 4-way stretch fabric allow for unrestricted movement allowing you to achieve a full range of motion whilst an adjustable hood with a shaped peak keeps the wind out and the hood in position. A soft inner cuff prevents drafts and a full-length zip allows for quick on and off. Lastly, 2 secure front pockets and two internal zip pockets provide ample storage of your essential items whilst the jacket can also be packed into its own integrated pocket.

SHOP ALL INOV8 THERMOSHELL PRO FULL ZIP JACKETS HERE

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DOUGIE ZINIS

Dougie Zinis, joint runner-up in the Spine Race 2022 and current record holder of the double Bob Graham Round, is no stranger to ultra-distance trail running.

Photo credit: The Montane Spine Race

Here are 3 of his top kit recommendations for the Spine Race;

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1. MONTANE FIREBALL HOODED JACKET

An ultra versatile and highly breathable synthetic insulated hoodie.

Featuring a combination of exceptional materials, the Fireball Jacket utilises Featherlite Air, an air-permeable fabric which has been built to maximise breathability and moisture management, allowing you to work hard and move fast in complete comfort.

The materials have a two-way stretch construction, to provide increased freedom of movement, whilst a DWR finish protects you from light rain. Essential thermal insulation comes from Dynamic Eco which keeps you warm, cosy, and able to perform. The jacket has various features to allow comfort and protection when you're out on adventures. This includes articulated sleeves for added comfort during dynamic movements and elasticated cuffs for added safety and reduced heat loss. The garment has a YKK full-length front zip to provide airflow control and an easy way to take the jacket off and put it on. A YKK reverse coil chest pocket is easy to reach for secure storage.

Dougie says: "Lightweight and super warm, this jacket kept me toasty in -10 winds on Cross Fell".

SHOP ALL MONTANE FIREBALL JACKETS HERE

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2. SCARPA SPIN INFINITY TRAIL RUNNING SHOES

Spin Infinity is a trail shoe dedicated to long distance and exceptional cushioning, stability and control features make it perfect for those who require stability and comfort.

Developed using a Vibram Megagrip outsole, the Scarpa Spin provides extreme grip and traction for all surface wear. Developed for extremely slippery terrain, the extremely durable rubber can form a solid bond with the ground to anchor you in place.

Dougie says: "This long distance trail shoe is ideal for the slabs and trails of the Pennine Way"

SHOP ALL SCARPA SPIN INFINITY TRAIL RUNNING SHOES NOW

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3. SCARPA RIBELLE RUN KALIBRA ST TRAIL RUNNING SHOES

The Ribelle Run Kalibra ST is the perfect trail shoe for runners who are looking for maximum precision and stability on the softest and most technical terrain, designed for short or medium distances and skyrunning.

Alternatively, the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra G is a trail running shoe for mixed terrain and extreme conditions, when cold, snow and mud demand greater protection and enhanced reliability. Suitable for medium-distance training, in winter or in summer on softer, more technical mountain terrain.

Dougie says: "For shoes in my drop bag I have these which are designed for soft terrain, so I will breeze through the bogs on the way to Hadrian's wall".

SHOP THE SCARPA RIBELLE RUN KALIBRA TRAIL SHOE RANGE NOW

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SIMON ROBERTS

Former winner of the Montane Dragon's Back Race and the Spine Challenger North, Simon Roberts is one of UK's finest ultra-distance athletes and amongst the favourites to win this year's Montane Spine Race.

Photo credit: Steve Ashworth/Montane

Here are 3 of his top kit recommendations for the Spine Race;

1. MONTANE PHASE NANO GORE-TEX WATERPROOF JACKET

Everything you need with no excess, the Phase Nano Jacket has been expertly crafted to provide weatherproof performance in a lightweight minimalist package. Montane's lightest and most breathable GORE-TEX waterproof shell, the Phase Nano packs down incredibly small so it can always be ready in your running pack.

Featuring a slim fit, the Montane Phase Nano Waterproof Jacket has been specifically engineered for fast and light mountain-goers. This lightweight waterproof jacket for men has been made using a 13 Denier GORE-TEX Active Shell fabric and finished with a fully seam-taped construction to provide you with a reliable waterproof jacket that offers GORE-TEX's guaranteed-to-keep-you-dry promise. Created to be lightweight and breathable without compromise, the Phase Nano offers maximum protection with minimum weight whilst remaining breathable throughout wear, ideal for trail running. This waterproof layer is perfect for serious runners looking to push themselves further on the trail this season, allowing you to train no matter the weather. A fully adjustable hood is complete with 3 point 'quick release' adjustments for a customisable fit and a stiffened peak for better visibility and enhanced protection. The full-length YKK AQUAGUARD front zip allows you to control ventilation whilst ensuring easy on/off. It is finished with a storm flap also for added protection in rainy conditions. An adjustable rear hem and part-elasticated, shaped cuffs further enhance coverage and protection whilst two hand pockets, complete with YKK AQUAGUARD zips, provide secure, dry storage for small essentials.

SHOP ALL MONTANE PHASE NANO GORE-TEX WATERPROOF JACKETS NOW

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2. SILVA FREE 2000M HEADTORCH

The Silva Free 2000 M Headlamp gives you more light in a smaller, smoother, and more versatile headlamp - all thanks to several innovative features. It's got all the cables integrated into the headband for a better experience and optimal cooling for higher performance.

The Free 2000 M Headlamp from Silva is perfect for runs and speed activities in technical terrain when a lot of light is required. The power cord has been integrated into the headband so distracting cords are a thing of the past and leave you to fully focus on the terrain ahead. The Free Airflow technology provides maximum ventilation and cooling, even when standing still. The result is high quality regardless of the activity, even when the airflow or cooling is not optimal. Silva Intelligent Light is a double beam technology with a combination of a long-reach spot light and a close flood light so visibility is never impaired and also features a three brightness level ranging from 80 to 2000 lumen so you can adjust the level of brightness when required. The headband has a compartment where you can store the battery safely and an indicator on the battery itself lets you know how much battery life is remaining and can be simply charged using a USB-C cable. All parts and accessories are interchangeable which means that you can upgrade your headlamp with a different battery, lamp head unit or mount kit. The lamp unit and battery can easily be disconnected from the headband to be mounted on your helmet or bike. Lastly, the headlamp is water-resistant and meets IPX5 standards.

SHOP THE SILVA FREE 2000M HEADTORCH NOW

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3. MONTANE PROTIUM LITE HOODED PULL-ON FLEECE JACKET

The Montane Protium Lite Pull-On serves as a great baselayer or mid-layer for any adventure. It's a super lightweight, warm and cosy fleece.

Utilising exceptional Thermo Grid fleece fabrics, the Pull-On fleece features a brushed grid back construction, to keep you warm and cosy. It will also provide moisture-wicking comfort to ensure you remain dry and comfortable during intense conditions. The fabrications have excellent stretch properties, which allow you to move freely and flexibly, as well as a Polygiene permanent odour control to keep you feeling and smelling fresh even when things heat up. An under-helmet hood has a snug fit for keeping you well-protected and provides coverage when out in the hills. A 1/3-length YKK front zip, allows you to control airflow well and provides you with easy access to and from the garment. Additionally, low-profile hem and cuffs are comfortable and well-fitting, particularly when worn under more layers. The fleece also has flatlock seams to provide you with a comfortable, soft fit, preventing irritation or chafing from occurring when wearing.

SHOP ALL MONTANE PROTIUM LITE HOODED PULL-ON FLEECE JACKETS NOW

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MEL SYKES

Ultra-runner Mel took part in the 110 mile Summer Challenger South event last year, part of the Spine series, from Edale to Hardraw. 

Photo credit: The Montane Spine Race

Here are 3 of her top kit recommendations for the Spine Race;

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1. MONTANE SPIRIT GORE-TEX WOMEN'S JACKET

The Montane Spirit Jacket is a lightweight, durable jacket which has been designed to provide weather protection in rain and heavy showers.

Equipped with GORE-TEX the Montane Spirit is made with fabric which is durably waterproof, windproof and extremely breathable. They combine comfort with reliable weather protection, even during extended activities in extreme weather. The fabric's construction keeps your body dry by reducing the accumulation of sweat, so you remain cool during aerobic activities and warm during cool-down. Made to meet the high demands of numerous outdoor activities, garments made with GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric have been engineered with added durability to withstand abrasion in rugged environments while protecting against extreme and unpredictable conditions with frequent work-rest cycles. Featuring a full-length YKK AquaGuard VisLon front zip which provides high water resistance and an internal storm flap behind the centre front zip together with press studs to secure the hem and prevent further weather entry. The use of ergonomic zip pullers makes them easier to use when wearing gloves or mitts. Adjustable hems with cinchable drawcord help to minimise heat loss while the hood is fully adjustable and has a three-point adjustment to find the perfect fit. Two map-sized hand pockets with YKK AQUAGUARD zips help to safely store your essential items and a reverse hang loop on the back of the neck to easily hang your jacket without damaging the fabric.

Mel says: "I was grateful for this jacket when the thunderstorm hit overnight during the Spine Challenger race. It's a great piece of fully waterproof kit that packed neatly into my race pack".

SHOP ALL MONTANE SPIRIT GORE-TEX WOMEN'S JACKETS NOW

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2. SEALSKINZ WATERPROOF ALL WEATHER ANKLE SOCKS WITH HYDROSTOP 

The original, 100% waterproof, windproof and breathable ankle length sock featuring Hydrostop. Perfect for use in a wide variety of weather conditions.

Developed using a three-layer construction the Sealskinz All Weather Ankle Socks ensure warmth, durability and waterproofing for all-weather wear. Delivering 100% waterproof protection the socks provide the perfect barrier between you and challenging wet weather; so you'll always remain dry and comfortable.

Whilst the waterproof construction works to keep you dry from outside elements, the hydrophilic membrane also works to keep you dry from the inside. The membrane is attracted to moisture meaning it wicks excess sweat away from the skin where it can be easily evaporated so you can remain dry and comfortable in hot conditions. A merino wool lining has also been used within the sock to provide control, insulation and comfort. By being both hydrophobic and hydrophilic the merino wool can release 10 times more moisture than everyday synthetics. It works to absorb up to one-third of its own weight in moisture to ensure you remain warm, dry and comfortable at all times. This version of the all-weather socks also uses Hydrostop which works to reduce water ingress so you can go further for longer. This unique technology provides a secure fit between the top of the sock and your leg meaning there is less chance of water ingress. Hydrostop gives you the confidence to enjoy the outdoors no matter the weather. As well as this, additional footbed padding exists underfoot to reduce pressure and absorb shocks so you can go further for longer in complete comfort. A close fit sits comfortably against the skin and offers a 4-way stretch so your feet will never feel uncomfortably restricted. To prevent chafing and irritation the socks have been constructed with flat seams to prevent blisters. Completing the Sealskinz Waterproof All Weather Ankle Socks is zonal elastication which increases support for added stability.

SHOP ALL SEALSKINZ WATERPROOF ALL-WEATHER SOCKS WITH HYDROSTOP NOW

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3. SALOMON ADV SKIN CROSS SEASON 15 RUNNING VEST 

Tingling cold and lashing rain are often part of the trail. The ADV Skin Cross Season 15 take the benefits of the bestselling ADV Skin Vest and adds a drybag-inspired main compartment, water-resistant pockets and bigger trims - making it easy to access and store your essentials in all weather conditions.

Supplying you with storage for your future runs, without causing distractions, the ADV Skin Cross Season 15 Running Vest uses efficient storage facilities and protective materials, making it the perfect addition to your running journey. Made from durable, water-resistant materials with a handy roll-top your essentials will be well shielded in changing weather conditions. As well as this, the vest utilises a SensiFit construction, which offers a snug, precise fit, providing you with comfort and stability, also providing great levels of breathability to prevent you from overheating during your run. The main storage compartment of this pack uses a drybag-inspired construction to further ensure that belongings remain dry and safe when you're running tricky trails in poor weather. The vest has multiple pockets to keep you organised, including expandable front pockets that allow you to store items you want to access when you're on the move and are also compatible with 500ml soft flasks. The pack has a sternum strap that's easy to use in cold and wet weather, giving you the ability to make easy, quick adjustments to the fit. The elastic design of the sternum strap also makes it much easier to breathe when picking up the pace. A bungee elastic cord system provides you with easy load management, helping to prevent the pack from becoming bulky. It's important to stay hydrated during intense trail sessions, which is why Salomon has ensured the ADV Skin Cross 15 has an internal reservoir compartment with a hanging strap to hold the reservoir in place. Finally, the product has reflective detailing to enhance your visibility and allow you to be seen when running in low-light conditions.

SHOP THE SALOMON ADV SKIN CROSS SEASON 15 RUNNING VEST NOW

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Want to know more about the Montane Spine Race?

Click here to read all about this year's event.

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Interested in the latest shoes, apparel and technology? Then head over to our Kit & Gear category for more reviews, tips, advice and product releases.