This week I react to the recently announced White Mountains Bounty by Run the Whites. $10,000 annually to be allocated to five of the most competitive mountain running routes in the Northeast.
The Presidential Traverse - 18mi 8.5k ft vert
Pemi Loop - 29mi 9kft vert
Hut Traverse - 45mi 16k ft vert
White Mountains 100 - 95mi 34k ft vert
Mahoosuc Traverse 28mi 11k ft vert
Each route has either $1,000 or $2,000 if you set the new mens or womens FKT. If you crack the top 10, you will also be paid out amounts varying from $50 - $200. People know that the Northeast has some of the most difficult and technical terrain in the country, but not many pros stick around and put emphasis on the region. This will no doubt bring out more elite mountain runners to give a crack at these routes and help legitimize the routes and the athletes in the region.
Over the years I have refined my ideal kit and gear for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite pieces of running and hiking gear. By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏
⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:
GPS Watch: https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq
In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.
Summer Running Vest: https://amzn.to/4feeEzr
Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L because I am usually bringing less gear.
Lightweight Water Filter: https://amzn.to/4vErYTK
A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream.
Winter Running Vest: https://amzn.to/4aVAoP7
Solomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Solomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the winter, I use a 12L because I am bringing extra gear and it all fits fine.
👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:
Hoka Speedgoat 7: https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS
The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. It's a higher stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi
My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack is pretty stable but also has some cushion to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5
One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed.
🎤PODCAST & CAMERA EQUIPMENT:
RodeCaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/4wCO0XR
Initially I recorded the podcasts through my laptop and a mixer box but it was a nightmare. I fully suggest anyone looking for podcast equipment to get an all-in-one audio production studio that handles mixing, processing, and internal multi-track recording.
Shure SM58 Mic: https://amzn.to/4fdhEvQ
The gold standard in microphones.
Insta360 Go 3S: https://amzn.to/3RdE344
I recorded my first handful of videos using this. Super tiny 4k camera that you can clip to your hat and get really cool POV videos.