Columbia Ravenous II Outdry runners
Eoin Keith, an Irish ultra runner, wore these when he won the Art O’Neill 55km race in January. Adventure racers and runners like them because they are versatile, light and dry quickly. They have a reinforced toe, a strong upper and a nice grippy sole to help you stay on your feet in the trickiest of terrain.
€130, 53degreesnorth.ie
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The North Face Better Than Naked jacket
This is so light, you’ll forget you’re wearing it. It’s perfect for longer runs and adventure races because it is breathable and will protect you from wind and light showers. If you do happen to get too hot while wearingit, simply tie it around your waist.
€110, irishfit.eu
Salomon XA 20
You’ll be required to carry a pack on adventure races over longer distances. The key considerations when buying a suitable one should be weight, fit, pockets and water storage. The Salomon XA 20 is a super-light, 20-litre pack that ticks all these boxes. There are pockets for storage, including a bladder compartment to hold fluids, plus a pole holder and even a whistle for attracting attention in emergencies. The Salomon Airvent Agility system allows for a comfortable, stable and secure fit on the shoulders and around the waist.
€54, chainreactioncycles.com
Helly Hansen Pace long-sleeve top
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Cotton T-shirts get cold and heavy when wet, but this one is breathable because it’s made from a “wicking” material that draws sweat from the skin.
Long-sleeve tops can be wornall year round, saving you from rain in winter and sun in summer.
€66, greatoutdoors.ie, hellyhansen.com
ADRENALINE FIX
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Your guide to forthcoming races
Wicklow is hosting four races. On Saturday, there is the Wicklow Way Ultra 51km mountain race. Entry is €25. The Wicklow Way Trail and a separate 25.5km event, €20 entry, start at noon in the lower Ballinastoe car park. On Sunday, the Wicklow Gaol Break half-marathon (€40) and 10k road race (€25) start and finish at Wicklow Gaol. Elsewhere, Harlequin Adventure Duathlon takes place outside Castlebar in Co Mayo on Saturday with a 3km run, 6.5km cycle, 8.5km mountain run, 14km cycle and 3km run. Entry is €50. The final Trax Brasserie Naas Duathlon Series race is at Punchestown Race Course in Co Kildare on Sunday, with two 3.5km runs and a 20km bike ride. Entry is €25.
More details: irishtriathlon.com, sportsireland.ie, www.imra.ie, runireland.com, wicklowhalfmarathonand10km.com