I’m a list person. I’ve even been know to finish a task, add it to my list, then cross it out. It makes me feel good. Don’t judge.
In addition to satisfying some innate neurotic tendencies, this gear checklist helps me relax mentally the week of the race and prevents me from forgetting important things come race day. Like a stand up paddleboard. Don’t ask. And again, don’t judge. It could happen to anybody.
This list applies to most race distances you’ll encounter these days — ultra-distance SUP races like Chattajack and extreme events (like cold weather races) will require additional items we’ll cover in separate gear lists in the future.
The Essential Stuff
Paddleboard. It’s important.
Race paddle
PFD
Leash
Fin
Fin key/allen wrench
Hydration pack/water bottle
Race clothes – shirt, shorts
In-race nutrition, like GU, Hammer Gel, etc. Use only stuff you’ve tested, okay?
Nearly Essential Stuff (or Stuff You Could Race Without But Really Shouldn’t)
Sunglasses. And hopefully some way to retain them (like Croakies)
Sunscreen
Lip balm. We like Carmex. It smells good.
Cap or visor
Extra hydration
Board bag
SUP rack cables/locks
SUP rack keys
Back Up Gear
Spare paddle
Spare leash
Spare fins, or alternative fins to match unexpected conditions
Spare PFD
Spare car key. Seriously. Don’t ask. Just have a plan.
Spare tie-down straps.
Miscellaneous Stuff to Make Life Easier
Spare tools. Screwdrivers always seem to come in handy.
Pocketknife or multitool. For some reason, I always seem to need one of these.
Gloves?
Jacket?
Footwear?
Magic marker (sometimes it’s easier to mark your own race number — just make sure you do it right)
Athletic tape
Ding repair kit
Rain gear?
First aid kit
Safety pins
Race confirmation
Eyeglasses/contacts. Don’t forget defogger, if your glasses tend to fog up.
Race belt for number?
Zip ties. Yes, you need them. You’d be surprised.
550 paracord
Electronics
We normally don’t use much in the way of electronics on race day, but here you go, just in case.
Speedcoach
Heart rate monitor
Watch
GPS
Suction cups, etc.
Spare batteries and/or chargers.
Post Race Gear
Towel
Small towel
Dry post-race clothes. Don’t forget headgear.
Footwear
Recovery drink/food?
Anti-perspirant. Yes. Please.
