Sports Kit Guides

£200 might feel expensive for a hobby that requires mostly
physical energy however, this includes a race entry fee of anywhere between
£24-75.

1. Race Entry Fee (£25-£75)

Budget: £25-£75 

Set aside £25-£75 for the race entry fee. Local races are

often more affordable and a great way to start.

Remaining Budget after Entry Fee: £125-£175 

2. Running Shoes (£60-£80)

Cost: £60-£80 

Good running shoes are the most essential part of your kit.

Look for beginner-friendly models that offer cushioning and support without

breaking the bank.

Recommended beginner models:

• Asics
  Gel-Contend 7 - £50-£70
• Asics
  Patriot - £40-£60
• Nike
  Revolution 7 - £50-£60

3. Running Apparel (£30-£40)

Running Shirt – £10-£20

• Nike
  Running Dri-FIT - £15-20
• TCA
  Actomic kit (Decathon) £15-20
• Puma
  Run Kit - £10-£15

Decathlon might not be the first choice for runners but it’s
you looking to budget, it’s certainly a good place to look as their equipment
is a moisture-wicking shirt which keeps you dry and comfortable on

runs.

Running Shorts or Leggings – £15-£20 

• ASOS
  4505 - £15-£20
• Nike
  Running Challenger Dri-FIT - £10-£20

Look for lightweight, quick-dry materials that prevent chafing and provide comfort.

4. Hydration and Accessories (£20-£30)

Water Bottle or Basic Hydration Belt – £10-£15 

• Under Armour Playmaker - £8-£10
• Nike Refuel Squeeze - £8-£12
• Karrimor Running Water Bottle - £3-£4 (this bottle is a handheld
  and some might find it easier to run with rather then your standard bottle)

For longer training runs, having a way to stay hydrated is
essential and hydrations vests can help with this however, they can become
fairly expensive so for the purpose of this budget they are not included.

Running Cap or Headband (Optional) – £5-£10 

• adidas Aeroready Mesh Runner Cap - £10-£12
• Running AEROREADY Four-Panel Mesh Cap - £20 (if you’re looking
  to splash out a little extra)

A cap or headband can help with sun protection and keep
sweat out of your eyes.

 

5. Basic Running Tracker or App (Free to £10)

Cost: Free to £10 

Tracking your pace and distance helps with motivation and
monitoring progress. Many free apps are available, or you can invest in a basic
running app upgrade if desired.

Recommended free options:

• Inspo Training Programmes – Free Download
• Strava or MapMyRun (basic tracking and training features) – Free
  - £11.99 per month
• Nike Run Club (free, with guided runs and community
  challenges)

Budget Breakdown

| Item                          | Estimated Cost   |

|-------------------------------|------------------|

| Race Entry Fee                | £25-£75          |

| Running Shoes                 | 60-£80         |

| Running Apparel               | £30-£40         |

| Hydration and Accessories     | £20-£30         |

| Running Tracker/App           | Free-£10         |

| Total                    
| £135-£235   |

Additional Tips for Staying Within Budget

1. Look for Sales and Last Season’s Models: Running shoes
and apparel are often discounted when new models are released.

2. Prioritise Comfort Over Brand: Affordable brands like
Decathlon or entry-level options from Asics, Nike, and Kalenji are often
suitable for beginners.

3. Focus on Essentials: For your first race, only invest in
what’s necessary, and build up your kit as you gain more experience and insight
into your preferences.

This kit will provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience
for both training and race day, keeping you within the £200 budget as a
beginner runner. Let us know how your training goes and your first race!

With a budget of £295-700 for a 60-mile ultra
marathon, including an entry fee of £75-£100, it’s important to prioritise
durable, comfort-oriented gear, as you’ll be spending long hours on the trail.
Here’s a breakdown to help you cover the essentials within your budget:

1. Race Entry Fee (£75-£100)

Budget: £75-£100 

Set this aside first. Ultra race fees can vary widely, so
look for early-bird rates or discounts if possible.

Some good race organisers are:

Remaining Budget after Entry Fee: £400-£425 

2. Running Shoes (£100-£150)

Cost: £100-£150 

For ultra marathons, supporting, durable trail running shoe
is essential, as it will help reduce fatigue and withstand rough terrain. Aim
for comfort and support, especially for long distances. Consideration needs to
be taken with regards to what race you might be running as the weather conditions
and ground conditions will affect your choice.

Suggested brands and models for ultra-running: 

• Hoka Speedgoat 5 - £140
• Merrall Agility - £140
• Salomon (wide range) - £110 - £140
• Invo8 Trailtalon - £130
• Asics - Trabuco Max - £110

3. Backpacks and Running Vests (£30 - £150)

Cost: £30 - £150

A hydration pack or vest is essential for ultra distances,
allowing you to carry water, food, and essentials comfortably. Look for a
lightweight option with pockets for easy access to snacks and other supplies.

Different races require different pieces of list. If you
have entered a race already, consult the kit list and assess the size bag you
may needs as they range from 3L-65L (Litre)(Its unlikely you will need anything
above 20L but do check:

It is also worth considering what type of bag you want to
run with as some people prefer a hiking backpack over a running vest.

Good running vest are everywhere but some of the most
recommended are:

• Salomon Adv Hydra - £60
• ASICS Fujitrail - £130 (if you want to splash out)
• And for backpacks:
• Berghaus Freeflow 25L- £150
• Mountain Warehouse 30L - £35

4. Running Apparel (£50-£200)

It is wise here to consult the kit list if you have already
entered a race.

If not, running apparel is subject to the individual. You need
to ensure it does not rub or feel uncomfortable as its likely you will be wearing
it for many hours during your ultramarathon.

Total Apparel Cost: £50-£200

6. Accessories (£30-£90)

Headlamp (Top race brand is SILVA or Petzl) - £25 (300 Lumens)

If your race begins early or ends after dark, a headlamp is
essential for visibility and safety.

Running Cap or Visor - A cap or visor helps with sun protection and sweat management - Various rangers (£10-20)

Anti-Chafe Balm/Vasoline - £5

Total Accessories Cost:  £30 – £90

Item with estimated Cost

Race Entry Fee - £75-£100

Running Shoes - £100-£150

Hydration Pack - £30 - 150

Running Apparel - £50-£200

Accessories - £30-£90

Total - £295 - £700

Additional Tips to Maximize Budget

1. Consider Sales and Last Season Models: Look for discounts on shoes and apparel from last season to save money.

2. Use Multi-Purpose Gear: For example, a hydration pack can be used for both training and race day.

3. Seek Group Discounts: Some races and stores offer discounts for group registrations or training clubs.

4. DIY Fuel: Its tricky to put a price of fuel as everybody eats different things during a race. The best practice is to try different type of foods whilst training.

 

With this setup, you’ll have all the necessary gear for training and race day within you choosen budget, while ensuring comfort, safety, and durability for the long distance. Good luck with your ultra marathon preparation!