Gear Up for a Mud Run

Preparing for the mud run is more than just gearing up for the physical aspect of it, but it is also, about what type of clothing you should be wearing. Even though you want to look cool while on the run, you need to make sure you are comfortable at the same time. You can rest assured that you are going to get dirty and extremely muddy. Within the first few hundred yards, you will be soaked in mud and you won’t be looking as cool as you once thought you would. 

Boots and Socks are Critical

You will be crawling, operating and climbing in water and mud that may eventually reach your waist. Anything less than a boot will probably end up uncomfortable, soaked and potentially stuck inside of the mud pit. Boots are going to make a substantial difference in your mud run performance. Make sure the boots are higher than your ankles. If you purchase boots that are of exceptional quality, you will be able to hose them down after the race and use them for other things. Jungle boots are great for drainage and cost effectiveness. Tactical boots clean up nice, but they also run similar to regular sneakers.

Socks are critical. Merino wool serves to be one of the best choices when embarking on a mud run. Not only do they feel great, but also they help keep your feet nice and dry even upon becoming soaked. Friction is not an issue with these socks. If you purchase an inexpensive pair of socks that are cheap, you will probably end up with a load of blisters to follow. Synthetic wool is not the same thing as Merino wool, so make sure to choose wisely.

Pants

Since you will be crawling on the ground, you will probably want to make sure you are wearing longer pants to protect your legs. Certain areas of the course will require climbing up walls, so shorts can prove to be quite uncomfortable. Army pants are great because they are made for the rough and tumble type of obstacles in the mud run. Avoid tucking them into your boots or else they could get flooded with water. 

Belt

Since your pants are going to get wet, you will want to make sure you have a good belt to hold them up. Nylon belts are the best choice, but a cotton one will work okay as well.

Shirt

Avoid wearing a shirt that has a pocket. There is an excellent chance that mud will get into that pocket and weigh you down. Try to wear a shirt composed of something other than cotton. Cotton tends to hold in the water and mud, so something that dries quickly and is lightweight will be much better for you in the end. if possible, try to wear something that is not loose fitting or flows because that will only help to weigh you down with excess weight.