An OCR race stands for Obstacles, Course and Race. This means you will need to be wearing something flexible to manoeuvre obstacles, something that is equally lightweight that you don’t get bogged down in mud and water throughout the course and something that you can comfortably run in as you race to the finish. Whether you are running Tough Mudder or Spartan, you’re on your first or 30th race, or just competing with a group of friends for charity, it helps to be extra prepared! You may be thinking, is it worth investing in specialised OCR gear when it’s only my first race? Well once you’ve given it a go, we can guarantee you’ll get the bug and keep coming back for more! If you are wearing the right kit and come with the correct gear you will find the course easier, more enjoyable and more comfortable to complete, giving your that extra edge over competitors. That is why at Kitbrix we have created the ultimate guide on what to wear to an OCR race and any extra gear you didn’t know you needed…

Arguably the most important bit of kit you can invest in is Obstacle Course Specific Trail Shoes, after all, it will be your feet that carry you to the finish line. Unfortunately there isn’t a one-size-fits all, literally and metaphorically. Trail shoes can vary on everything from aesthetics, the drop, depth of the tread, dry weight and wet weight. Ultimately it comes down to trial and error and finding what works best for you and your feet. 

Whilst some competitors choose to run topless, if you are sensitive to temperature change and get cold easily, this is not recommended! Conversely, warm thick layers are not recommended either as these can weigh you down when you come into contact with mud and water, making it harder for you to move. The middle ground is Compression Gear; lightweight, form-fitting and fast drying. This will help you stay warm and won’t drag you down, helping you perform at your best. Tight fitting clothing also minimizes the chances of it snagging on a barbed wire, rope or other obstacle. There is also evidence to support Compression Gear easing cramping!

One of the most important rules when it comes to OCR racing is you should always stay clear of wearing anything cotton. Wearing compression tops and leggings is a great place to start, but it is also important to avoid cotton socks and underwear even! Cotton is known to hold onto water and weigh you down, the last thing you need. Before your next OCR race consider investing in some undergarments made from alternative material such as wicking sports underwear, or foregoing underwear altogether!

Whilst you won’t be carrying your bag during the race, you’ll need something durable and waterproof to store your kit in pre and post race. A Kitbrix bag has a waterproof base so no matter how muddy the location, your dry post-race clothes will stay clean and dry ready for when you have finished. We also know that post race your kit will be muddy and wet to say the least! A Kitbrix bag has customisable wet and dry zip compartments to keep your worn muddy kit away from your dry clothes and technology. 

‘What to wear to an OCR race?’ isn’t the only question you should be asking, you should also be asking ‘what to wear after an OCR race?’. After finishing you will feel an overwhelming sense of achievement, but as the adrenaline starts to wear off so does your body heat. That is why it is important to get warm and dry as soon as you can. A Post-race Robe can be anything loose and warm, even a dressing gown will do. This will not only get you warm quickly, but will provide a bit of privacy when changing into your dry comfies. Don’t forget to bring extra dry socks and underwear, this is often a rookie error!

• Waterproof sun cream for sunny race days

• Gloves to protect from rocks and roots during race

• Headband to keep mud and water from running into eyes

• Elbow/Knee Pads or Sleeves to protect from rocks and roots

• Towel to dry off after the race

• Full changes of clothes for after the race- include a woolly hat and gloves!

• Water bottle for hydration before and after the race

• Nutritional snacks to fuel up before the race and replenish energy after

• Plasters

• Blanket 

• Photo ID and event paperwork

• Forget anything that can be lost! (hats, sunglasses, ipods etc.)

Don’t forget to check what to bring and wear for your specific OCR race, these may vary! This should be printed on the waiver or emailed to you prior to the race day.