Marathon Checklist: Essentials, Upgrades, and a Splash of Luxury

'Twas the night before the Chicago Marathon.

Our race day checklist consists of all the essentials, a few upgrades, and a splash of luxury. Whatever your race day goals, this list has everything you will need to pack in preparation for a successful race day. Remember, you should use nothing new on race day.

Lyndsey Baum, one of our Product Manager's, favorite nugget of advice is this: "pack your race day gear 2-3 days ahead of time. This allows for you to realize what you are missing, make additions or subtractions based on weather, and not totally freak out the night before if you forgot to buy four of your favorite gels."

When participating in a race, double-check directions to the start line and race time, and plan a spot to meet up with your supporters. 

Another pro tip: leave Post-It notes on the counter just to ensure you don't forget any essentials.

Pre Race

• Anti-chafe lotion (e.g. BodyGlide)
• Running hat
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF 

Race

• Race bib
• Sports bra (e.g. Brooks)
• Running watch (e.g. Garmin)
• Running shoes
• Running top (singlet, short-sleeve or long-sleeve)
• Running bottom (shorts or tights)
• Running socks (e.g. Balega or Darn Tough)
• Energy gels or chews (e.g. Gu Energy, Maurten, or CLIF)
• Hydration belt or handheld (e.g. NATHAN or Amphipod)
• Running Sunglasses (e.g. goodr)
• Band-Aids
• NipGuards
• Throwaway clothes (a shirt you can throw away if you get hot)

Post Race

• Towel
• Recovery tool (e.g. Theragun, Hypervolt, TriggerPoint)
• Recovery sandals (e.g. Oofos)
• Electrolyte drink (e.g. nuun)
• Gear check bag
• Change of clothes
• Compression socks (e.g. CEP)