Trainer Rotation
Having a different trainer for different running workouts is key for quality training sessions and for the life cycle of them. Here’s my current rotation…
New Balance Rebel V4
Used as an everyday trainer, from easy long runs to tempo work.
HOKA Arahi 6
A more supportive shoe, used for recovery runs. Gives me a little more support when the muscles and joints are feeling a little tender.
Nike Pegasus Trail 2
Used for trail running and hill work. Great trainer for the trails. I normally need a bit more in the mountains.
Nike ZoomX Zegama 2
Used for trail running and hill work. Similar to the Pegasus, I don’t get the performance I need in the mountains.
New Balance Hierro v9
A comfortable, but supportive trail shoe with excellent outsole for a variety of trail terrain. Used for the 2025 Chester 100.
New Balance Fresh Foam More Trail v3
Used for long runs. Probably my go to trainer currently. On my 3rd pair.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11
Used for treadmill runs. Light and very comfortable.
HOKA Speedgoat 5
Used for longer, faster training sessions on the trails and race day for ultramarathon distance.
Saucony Peregrine 11
Used for running in the snow & ice. Superb lugs for great stability and grip in all weathers.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
A specialist race day shoe with a full length, S-curved carbon plate. Used for the 2025 Manchester Marathon.
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next % 2
Used for faster runs, intervals and speed work outs. The trainer I use for speed work on the track at the moment.
Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next %
Used for faster runs, intervals and speed work outs. My race show for HM and below.
Salomon Ultra Glide 2
Used for training in the mountains. A good all round trainer for mountain trails.
361 Lynx
A comfortable trail shoe with a deep lug. Used for the trails, especially wet and slippery ones. And for the longer run.
361 Futura 2
A trail shoe which is more responsive but still has a deep enough lug for good traction. Used for faster running on the trails.
Running Gear
I’ve tried and tested 100’s of products over the years, here are some of my recommended items that I use when I’m running.
Salomon Avd Skin 12
Racing Pack
Comfortable, light weight and fit’s everything in on race day. Used for my recent Race Across Scotland and did the job perfectly.
Black Diamond Z Poles
Running Poles
Used on some mountain ultras with a lot of elevation gain and sometimes on the longest ultramarathons. Great for additional stability later in races.
Compressport
Running Belt
Ideal for long training runs and race day if minimal mandatory kit is required. Easily fit s my run essentials in for the longer runs.
Garmin Fenix 8
51mm AMOLED Fitness Watch
A recent upgrade from the Fenix 6 and used for or my training metrics and for race day.
OMM Jacket
Waterproof Jacket
Light weight and well ventilated, stows away into a small pocket.
Trucker Cap
Running Cap
Keeps the direct sun off the head and out of the eyes on the long days in the mountains.
Ledlenser MH10
Head Lamp
A very long battery life, very bright and rechargeable. Performance is outstanding. But a compromise is that it is a little on the heavy side.
Ultimate Direction Fast Pack 20
20L Fast Pack
Ideal for multi day races or being self sufficient and carrying a lot of mandatory gear. I used this for my Pennine Way 268 miles in 100 hours attempt.
Enduring the Miles, One Step at a Time
Welcome to ultradubz! I am an endurance athlete based in the UK. As an ultra runner competing in ultra marathons, I test and review running gear. Dive into my blog for insights on running, training, race day and nutrition.
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