For those who love adventures in the cold

Last updated 29.12.2023

This gear list is meant to help anybody who signed up for the Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra, the Montane Lapland Arctic Ultra or is interested in participating. It will help you getting an idea of what is needed. Products that have been tried, tested and really work well in the Yukon winter get 6 stars (******). Obviously, the list can also be useful if you participte in other cold weather events or in case you are planning a tour you do yourself.

Prices often change with every season. So, my apologies if the recommended retail prices sometimes are not up to date.

Please keep in mind that a list or other input can never cater to the needs of every racer. What may work wonders for one athlete may be absolutely useless for the next. If you go into an extreme environment you should always test your clothing and gear. 

Last but not least, the below list is not complete. There will be kit, clothing or other items you need/want that are not on this list.

 

Gear list Arctic Ultra

Clothing - 1st layer

Montane Primino 140 Zip Neck	50% merino wool yarns, 25% PrimaLoft® and 25% Polyester warm, highly wicking, fast drying and a soft handle combines advantages of merino with those of synthetic fibres also available as a women’s version	68 g (size M)	SALE: € 64.95	******
Montane Dart XT Thermal Zip Neck Long Sleeve	Apex Thermo Eco 160 g/m² (88% recycled Polyester) combined with 12% Elastane warm, highly wicking, fast drying and a soft handle also available as a women’s version	200 g (size M)	€ 79.95
Montane Primino 220 Zip Neck	50% merino wool yarns, 25% PrimaLoft® and 25% Polyester warm, highly wicking, fast drying and have a soft handle combines advantes of merino with those of synthetic fabrics also available as a women's version	280 g (size M)	€ 99.95	******
Woolpower Crewneck 200	an absolute classic from Sweden mixture of 60% merino with synthetic fibres circular knit fabric long back also available with zip neck	202 g (size M)	€ 104.99	******
Woolpower Long Johns 200	same as above (also available as a version with fly)	178 g (size M)	€ 84.95	******

Advice on clothing 1st layer:

You have plenty of options for your first layer. It needs to be comfortable and should not restrict you in your movements. You will try not to sweat but sometimes it will be difficult to avoid. In those cases it is interesting if your underwear transports moisture away from your skin and dries quickly.

There are very thin and also thicker first layers. Obviously, the right choice depends on the temperatures, the impact cold temperatures have on you and your overall layering system. If you have a decent percentage of merino in your underwear it will help against odor and you won't need to change as often.

Not listed above are winter running tights. These can work well as a first layer, too. And if you are lucky and temperatures are not too low during the day it may be all you need for your legs. But be careful with cold winds. You may not feel it as much on your legs but cold wind on a non-windproof tight can easily cause frostbite.

Other things to consider are: Does the shirt have a colar with a zip? If so, does it touch skin? Does my first layer work well in conjunction with my other layers? How will I make use of the drop bags, i.e. what layers do I have with me and what will be deposited further down the trail.

Clothing - 2nd layer

Montane Power Up Pull-On	very breathable POLARTEC® Power Stretch® super comfortable	270 g (size M)	SALE: € 69.95	******
Montane Power Up Pro Tights	great next to skin insulation very comfortable gets moisture away from your skin like no other fabric	252 g (size M)	SALE: € 69.95	******
Montane Protium XPD Hooded Fleece Jacket	super warm, technical fleece for high output adventures front and back panel fabric Thermo Grid brushed with stretch side and under arm panels 69% recycled Polartec Thermal Pro® Hi-Loft super comfortable great warmth to weight ratio	474 g (size M)	€ 194.95
Montane Prism Ultra Pull-On	100% Nylon (Barrier Lite RS nylon rip-stop outer and lining with a DWR) outer and lining insulation from 100% Polyester - of which 70% recycled (PrimaLoft® Silver) incredibly light close-fitting collar two-way front zip with internal storm flap adjustable hem with cinchable drawcord stuffs into chest pocket	200 g (size M)	SALE: € 119.95
Montane Alpine Equaliser Jacket	windproof outer superior wicking of moisture	456 g (size M)	SALE: € 149.95	******
Montane Extreme Smock	PERTEX® Quantum (outer), POLARDRI® Mini-Rip (reinforcements), DRYAKTIV 3000® (inside) 3 layers in 1 THE best winter expedition smock very robust many interesting featues also available as a jacket	1,050 g (size M)	SALE: € 189.95	******
Montane Flux Jacket	all materials 100% recycled! Jacket with PrimaLoft®-fill Same advantages as Fireball Verso Pull-On, just more fill and thus warmer, plus a great hood	594 g (size M)	€ 159.95	******

Advice on clothing 2nd layer:

Again, there are many options. You can of course also use a rather thin fleece (e.g. Montane Power Up Pull-On). So, some of the above like the Montane Flux Jacket may then actually be turned into a third layer.

The main focus of your second layer will likely be additional warmth. Windproofness may not be relevant, yet. However, there are plenty of second layers which already keep the wind out, like the Montane Fireball Verso Pull-On.

Breathability is still very important and you want something that transports moisture on to the next layer. Synthetic fills like PrimaLoft® are becoming more and more popular as they are warm, pack down well, are light, robust and easy to handle (there is no down that can clump) and no pilling of any surfaces. Fills like the POLARTEC® Alpha are more breathable than PrimaLoft®. Montane has quite a few jackets with this type of insulation, e.g. Halogen Alpha Jacket. It really depends on how easily you sweat if these jackets are an intersting alternative.

Thin down jackets are an option for those who have an absolute focus on ligth weight. No synthetic fill can beat down on warmth to weight ratio. And now many down products feature treated down which can handle moisture a lot better. The Montane Featherlite Down Jacket is a great example.

If you like natural fibres, merino is an option, too. Woolpower's 400 and 600 g ranges are pretty amazing. Just pack size and weight are not as good.

Clothing - 3rd layer

Montane Minimus Lite Jacket	extremely light shell jacket great fit and great hood if you prefer something more robust, you could go for the Montane Fleet Jacket, or the Pac Plus Jacket (but check if this jacket allows for enough layers underneath)	215 g (size M)	€ 224.95	******
Montane Minimus Pants	wind and waterproof very light zip on the side is short - so it depends on your shoe type and size if you can put the pants on and off without taking your shoes off	145 g (size M)	SALE: € 99.95	******
Montane Windjammer Jacket	fully featured GORE WINDSTOPPER® jacket robust, windproof and very breathable	518 g (size M)	SALE: € 149.95	******

Advice on 3rd layer

The third layer has to protect you in the harshest of conditions when you are still on the move and your body generates heat. Normally this means you are looking for something that keeps the wind and snow out.

The more breathable the layer, the better. Some people may say that GORE-TEX® is not the right "stuff". It really depends. eVent® breathes better and so does Polartec® NeoShell. However, membranes like NeoShell may be so efficient that as soon as you stop, it gets cold very quickly. Whilst jackets with less breathability usually feature pit zips that help with temperature regulation. And really, you can work up a sweat in any kind of shell jacket. So, you need to decide what works best for you. And whatever you get, try to avoid sweating in your shell.

If you can put on and take off your third layer pants without taking your shoes off it will be a lot more convenient for you.

As always keep in mind how your layers work together and think about the options you have. Sometimes your third layer can of course also be used above your first layer, e.g. you are perfectly fine with your first layer (winter running tight and thin fleece) but on a lake crossing it gets a bit windy and cold. Here you may just opt for putting on your windproof pants and jacket.

The lighter you go, the less robust your clothing will be. And lightweight may result in better breathability but it may also be the total opposite. Check out the water column und breathability (so called MVTR) if the manufacturer states these values.

Never forget: no matter how many layers you wear, try to avoid sweating! This is even more so important if you don't carry any more spare clohting in your sled or on your bike.

Clothing - Extra insulation

Montane Prism Pants	warm pants with a windproof PERTEX® Microlight Rip-stop outer and PrimaLoft® Silver Eco 40 g fill super small pack size and very light	302 g (size M)	SALE: € 139.95	******
Cumulus Basic Down Pants	very light down pants as an alternative we have got the Rab Photon Pants	185 g  (size M)	€ 229.95
Rab Prosar Short	great for quick extra warmth the Pajak Ghost Short is an interesting and even lighter (156 g) alternative another alternative is the Warmpeace Rond Short which has got a very attractive price point	266 g	€ 149,95
Rab Cirrus Flex 2.0 Vest	insulation for the important core light and small in pack size for when another jacket would be too warm	259 g	€ 139,95
Montane Apex 8000 Down Jacket	fully featured expedition down jacket waterresistant down 500 g (size M) down fill the Rab Expedition 7000 is an interesting alternative	1,380 g (size M)	€ 699.95	******

Advice on extra insulation

Extra Insulation you will need when you stop to melt snow, prepare a meal, need to repair something, etc. You are not moving, your body does not generate heat and you need this clothing to stay warm. This also means that there is potential trouble if you are moving and you already are wearing your warmest jacket and pants.

When chosing your warmest clothing please also keep in mind that with fatigue and exhaustion your body will need more insulation than it normally would.

You may also need this equipment when temperatures go down to extremes in order to get a bit more insulation in your sleeping system.

Do not underestimate emergencies. You may plan to avoid staying out in the cold without moving. However, circumstances may force you to do it. You may encounter another athlete you need to help, you may not find the trail due to fresh snow or may have a problem yourself.

Clothing - Gloves

Montane Alpine 850 Down Mitt	the warmest Mitt from Montane very functional mix of down an PrimaLoft®	236 g size M)	€ 124.95	******
Montane Extreme Mitt (not in stock)	same principle as the Extreme Jacket/Smock: a lot of warmth, great wicking and a good price also available as a glove	115 g (size M)	SALE: € 44.95	******
Montane Prism Glove	extremely light emergency/back-up glove also works as a layer available as with waterproof liner	59 g (size M)	€ 69.95	******
Marmot Midweight Baselayer Glove	made out of the very breathable and fast drying Midweight Polartec® Power Dry® with Cocona® Keeps your hands dry when you are working out hard Comfortable against the skin Odor resistant	25 g (size L)	SALE: € 14.95	******

Advice on gloves

In order to survive in extremely cold conditions you need warm, functioning hands. This goes especially for emergencies. If you need to build a fire and or light your stove and your fingers are frozen your chances to get through the situation without major problems are very slim.

Rather one glove or mitt too many than not enough!

Even with really good mitts it may happen that your fingers get cold. Chemical heat pads, which many places in Whitehorse sell, may help. But be careful if too hot these heat pads may cause other problems.

Always know where your gloves are. Secure your warmest mitts with a string to your jacket. After a bivouac or other breaks, make sure you do not leave behind your gloves.

If you bivvy take the gloves with you inside the sleeping bag.

Clothing - Gaiters

Sea to Summit eVent® Alpine Gaiters	wind- and waterproof, very breathable eVent® gaiter with a great fit	272 g / pair (size M)	€ 44.95	******
Kahtoola LEVAgaiter Tall GTX	very light and breathable gaiters with GORE-TEX®	120 g / pair (size M)	€ 79.95	******

Advice on gaiters

Gaiters are not a must as the MYAU should never get massive amounts of fresh snow. But even with a bit of fresh snow and drifting snow on lakes or rivers it can be nice to keep the snow out of your shoes that way. Or maybe you want to bivvy off the trail and the snow is deeper there.

In extreme conditions gaiters also bring a bit of insulation.

Breathability is useful and make sure you test the gaiters with your (trail running) shoes. Maybe your gaiters work great on boots but they do not really work with the shoes you use in the Yukon. In that case you could use trail running gaiters.

Clothing - Headwear

Montane Featherlite Mountain Cap	windproof, incredibly light, super smal pack size and thanks to the PrimaLoft® fill still really warm	42 g	€ 39.95	******
Montane Windjammer Halo Beanie	blended knit fabric that is 50% Merino wool and 50% Acrylic internal Gore INFINIUM™ fleece headband	74 g (one size)	€ 39.95	******
Montane Punk Balaclava	great combination of fabrics	60 g (one size)	€ 39.95	******

Advice on headwear

What's missing here are sun glasses and ski goggles. The latter you will need if the weather is so cold/bad that all of you facial skin needs to be covered.

The head is important for the temperature regulation of your body. So, be careful not to lose your hat(s).

You need a functioning solution for the worst conditions and the real cold. Which is a challenge because as soon as you cover your mouth and nose with fabric you will start creating an ice mask. Even if there are holes for breathing in the fabric. And there is not much you can do against it apart from taking the ice off, or in case you use a neck gaiter to keep turning it.

If you wear glasses things become even more difficult. They fog up really easily when using a neck gaiter or balaclava. Day lenses may be a solution.

Problem areas are nose and cheek. You may not feel too cold but your nose and cheek already have a frostbite. And frostbite may mean your race is over even though you otherwise feel great. We offer Frost Tape and some people even just use duct tape.

ColdAvenger masks also seem to work quite well.

Clothing - Socks

injinji Performance Liner Crew NuWool	very breathable liner socks with merino help prevent blisters		€ 18.95	******
Woolpower Socks 200	socks with merino wool - very warm and comfortable there is an even warmer 400-version available, too		€ 18.95	******
Compressport Pro Racing Socks Winter Trail V2.1	very technical winter running socks	66 g/pair (size T4)	Sale: € 24.95
SealSkinz Extreme Cold Weather Mid Length	waterproof 3-layer socks with merino inside please note that breathability is limited - which is great if it is extremely cold as your feet do not get cold. But when it warms up your feet may start sweating, eventually causing bad blisters. Therefore, only use when you otherwise can't keep your feet warm different levels of insulation available (see all SealSkinz socks we have in stock) as an interesting alternative we also have the waterproof Dexshell socks in stock	93 g/sock (size L)	€ 54.95	******

Advice on socks

No matter what socks you go for, make sure you test as much as possible.

While moving and in "normal" temperatures a warm running sock (no examples above) may be all you need.

When it gets really cold or when you stop moving you will likely need more warmth.

The waterproof SealSkinz are not a must but these sure have worked well for a lot of participants. If you get some, test as much as you can. The fit is good but not comparable to that of a regular sports sock. So, you may want to wear running or liner socks underneath. In any case it's a thick layer and may even influence your choice of shoe size.

First Aid

Lifesystems Light & Dry Pro First Aid Kit (currently not in stock)	light and still comprehensive kit	156 g	SALE: € 19.95
Spenco Blister Kit (currently not in stock)	for blister prevention and treatment	20 g	€ 14.95	******
ACME Pfeife Tornado 2000	probably the world's loudest whistle	10 g	€ 8.50	******

Advice on first aid

Instead of buying a complete first aid kit which contains things you do not want you can of course also go by your experience and get what you really need.

You should spend some time and think about what it is you really need or how the cold impacts the contents. Maybe certain things need to be close to your body heat or warmed up to work? If in doubt ask your doctor or a pharmacist.

Like in most ultras blisters are a problem at the MYAU. Ideally you do something about it before it gets bad. If you do not know it already, find out how to prevent and treat blisters.

There is a medical team at the MYAU and they are happy to help. But they may be busy dealing with an emergency and have no time to treat every little blister. So, be prepared to deal with less compliated medical problems (and blisters are in that category) yourself. That goes even more so for when you are between checkpoints.

It makes sense to have your first aid kit in a waterproof bag.

First aid may also mean that you need to build a wood fire really quickly. Therefore, you should have different fire starters and means to light a fire with you. And it makes sense to pack these in different places.

Skin care

Bodyglide Anti Chafing Stick	easy to use skin protection (will of course only work if not frozen solid ...)	69 g	€ 18.95	******
mawaii Winter FaceCare SPF 30 (currently not in stock)	especially developed for outdoor activities protects your skin from wind, cold and sun	95 g	€ 11.95
mawaii Winter LipCare SPF 20 (currently not in stock)	your lips are sufferign in the cold. This product will help	15 g	€ 5.95
Care Plus Foot Powder	absorbs moisture and dries feet	66 g	€ 6.95

Advice on skin care

If you have the right clothing you have already done a lot for your skin care. But as is the case with any ultra, there are bound to be problems, e.g. with your feet or the harness of your sled. No matter what skin problem it's good if you have what it takes to prevent or solve it. Or at least control it.

Lotions can help but beware that if you leave it in your sled it will freeze on you.

Cooking

MSR XGK EX (currently not in stock)	best mulit-fuel stove for the absolute extreme conditions of the Yukon	384 g (minimum weight)	€ 209.95	******
SOTO Stormbreaker Stove	great for the more moderate temperatures of Scandinavia expedition type multi-fuel stove innovative and super high quality	448 g	€ 229.95
Evernew Ti Alcohol Stove	they don't get much lighter alcohol stoves are very reliable in the cold if you want a full set (you will need a pot, etc. anyway) Trangia makes great sets, too However, according to the MYAU rules alcohol stoves are only allowed as a back-up	34 g	SALE: € 44.95
SOTO New River Pot	1 litre volume great quality	141 g	€ 36.95
Evernew Ultralight Ti Mug Double Wall (currently not in stock)	the double wall will keep your drinks hot for longer	97 g	€ 54.95
Sea to Summit Alpha Light long Spoon	perfect for eating out of expedition meal type bags	12 g	€ 12.95	******

Advice on cooking

Some try to avoid using a stove whilst others really enjoy the break and getting something hot to drink in between. But even if you do not plan on using your stove you need to know how to handle and possibly repair it.

If you have not used your liquid fuel stove in a while please test it before you leave for the Yukon. It may need some cleaning or maintenance.

Keep in mind that ideally you can keep on a thin glove while lighting your stove. If you can't have a glove on, you have to be super quick when it's really cold out.

While gas stoves are easier to handle these are not recommended at below - 20° degrees they are just not reliable. That is why these are not allowed at the MYAU.

Alcohol stoves are the easiest to light and the most reliable. Also, depending on what product you get they may be pretty inexpensive. They are just not as efficient. And that is why at the MYAU an alcohol stove is only allowed as back-up.

It's hard to say if transporting a multi-fuel stove will get you in trouble at the airport. Of course you have to clean it really well. The slightest smell of gasoline and they won't let you take it. I have heard so many stories of how it was no problem for some and others were allowed to take the bottle but not the stove and vice versa.

You do not need titanium pots and cups which are the most expensive. I just like them because they are light. But for functionality other materials are just as fine.

At the MYAU we rent out the Primus OmniLite Ti if you don't want to worry about transport or buy a stove.

Pulk sleds

Snowsled Pulka Trail Pulk Shell	plastic sled which has been made for our kind of race robust enough for at least one MYAU, light and still affordable	2.2 kg	€ 189.95	******
Snowsled Waist Harness	special sled harness well cushioned and robust padded and non-padded shoulder straps available as an accessory	470 g (size L)	€ 149.95	******
Snowsled Trail Pulk Hauling Shafts	great for stability light and small in packing size	1.8 kg	€ 239.95	******
Snowsled Trail Pulk Bag	waterproof at the bottom, robust on the upper easy to open and close great for organising your sled and keeping your gear safe	830 g	€ 169.95	******
Snowsled Trail Pulk Transport Bag	perfekt for transporting all your pulk equipment during (air) travel	1.3 kg	€ 209.95	******
Snowsled Trail Pulk Straps	to tighten the bag to the sled	290 g	€ 49.95	******
Snowsled Baseboard	increases the stability if your load weighs more than 20 kg can also be used as a baseboard for cooking	1.75 kg	€ 49.95

Advice on pulk sleds

If you are not on a fatbike the sled is a vital part of your kit. If you want to save some money you can improvise and build your own hauling shafts and harness, use your own duffle bags, etc. Just make sure you really test your set-up back home. It can become a bit stressful having to deal with sled problems last mintute.

Every now and then participants prefer rope for pulling the sled. It's really up to the individual. I personally prefer hauling shafts because of stability and the easier handling on downhills.

Be prepared for repairs. Your sled or parts of it may break or come apart. Think about possible problems and make plans how you would solve them. Do you need special tools? Spare parts? Screws and bolts?

Our rental sleds are mainly from Northern Sledworks. We use these because they are still pretty light but a lot more robust. Siglin sleds of course also can be purchased. I have some here Germany and if you are from outside the EU you can get them right from the manufacturer.

If you take a duffle bag or some other kind of bag to store your equipment on the sled, keep in mind that the snow in your sled may melt and get things wet from underneath. Also, if the bag has a zip it should be a good one as small or bad zips in the cold may not work for long. And of course it were great if the bag is as light as possible.

Organise your sled really well. It can be very frustrating if you always have to look for 10 minutes before you find what you are looking for. Use smaller bags in the big bag. Color code these.

Don't load your sled to high. Keep the heavy stuff at the bottom. If you don't have the snowsled straps, get some other straps to keep your gear in place.

Participants of the Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra can rent sleds and accessories. That saves money and also the trouble of getting the sled to the Yukon and back home again. Check with your airline before booking how much they charge for bulky or sports luggage.

Sleeping system

Pajak Radical 16H	very innovative incredible warmth to weight ratio	1,500 g (regular)	€ 1,219.00
Cumulus Excuistic 1500	incredible value for money very light and small in pack size however, also on the small side, i.e. recommended max. body height of 180 cm; also, not much room to store things inside the bag	2,280 g	€ 1,159.95	******
Sea to Summit Alpine III	available in two sizes high quality, RDS-certified down extra wide to accommodate clothing innovative Free-flow zipper system	1,870 g (regular)  2,100 g (long)	from € 949.95
Exped Dura 8R	THE mat for expeditions into cold regions R-value of 7.8 (rated down to - 40 degrees Celsius) a little bit less warm but with a very interesting solution for repair/replacement: Exped DownMat TT 9	865 g (size M)	from € 259.95	******
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme	available in two lengths R-value of 6.2 Lightweight, quiet and grippy 30/40D Nylon face fabric	720 g (regular) 950 g (long)	from € 269.95
Exped VBL Liner Bag UL (currently not in stock)	vapor barrier liner that will keep moisture out of your sleeping bag's down alternatively we have got the Rab Hooded Vapour Barrier Liner	155 g	€ 69.95
Rab Latok Summit Tent	for those who do like to use a tent a definite MYAU favourite single-wall, ultralight, easy to handle also small in pack size breathable	1,590 g	€ 899.95	******
Rab Ridge Raider	compromise between tent and simple bivy bag easy to set up light and compact breathable alternatively we also stock the Lightwave Stormchaser	890 g	479.95	******
Exped Bivybag VentAir/PU (currently not in stock)	breathable and light bivy bag	600 g	€ 249.95

Advice on the sleeping system

The mat plays a very important role as your body weight will compress the fill of your sleeping bag. So the only thing between you and the cold ground is the mat. There are many different options on the market. The easiest to handle and cheapest are the foam mats. The only problem with those is a large packed size. Not all self inflating mats or hi-tech air mats may work well for the cold. Make sure that you get one that was produced for these kind of conditions. And avoid getting humidity inside.

As for the sleeping bags, synthetic bags are getting better. But I still think for packing size and warmth to weight ratio down is unbeatable. If it were not for the price ...

If you borrow a bag from a friend make sure it still has got its full loft. If the bag was stored in the stuff sack for a long time you will likely not be able to use it.

The MYAU uses the extreme temperature rating to determine what sleeping bag can be used. However, keep in mind that at this temperature you may already have a horrible night. That is why not only your sleeping bag needs to work. And of course you can use your down jacket and other clothing to get some more insulation.

It also matters where you sleep and how you set up the place. How and where you build your fire, etc. Avoid cold spots (like lakes or rivers to rest), stay out of the wind. A fire is a good idea but be careful that your sleeping bag does not get too close to the heat. Flying sparks can also be a problem.

Some people like to have a tent. And it can work fine. However, at - 40 putting up and taking down a tent can be pretty difficult. Not every tent pole can handle these kind of temperatures. So, if you get a tent make sure it's easy to handle and made for such cold temperatures. Should you decide to use your stove inside the tent beware that most manufacturers will tell you not to do so. It can be very dangerous.

Shoes and snow shoes

Topo Athletic Trailventure WP (currently not in stock)	light speed hiking shoe with very breathalbe eVent membrane 5 mm drop and wide toe box	411 g (size EU 42)	€ 199.00
La Sportiva Jackal GTX	innovative Infinitoo™ high energy return technology GORE-TEX® membrane with Invisible fit technology guarantees maximum flexibility, waterproofness and breathability 7 mm drop	315 g (size EU 42)	SALE: € 149.95

Advice on shoes

Athletes have of course already used many different shoes for the MYAU. I would say most shoes have been trail running shoes with a waterproof membrane. Choice of shoe is a very individual thing. If you easily get blisters you may want to try it without a Gore-Tex shoe but take waterproof socks. Also, there has been feedback that if temperature changes dramatically every day (so, e.g. from - 10 degrees C during the day to - 40 at night) membranes can break. Think about how you may repair your shoes. Possibly take a back-up pair into you first drop bag.

One thing is for sure, warm winter hiking boots, like some companies offer them, normally are not the best choice. When walking in them your feet will get so hot that within hours you will have the first blisters.

Whatever shoes you get, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to train in them.

When buying your shoes for the MYAU keep in mind that you may have several layers of socks and/or very thick socks. And as in any ultra your feet will likely swell up (especially during rest periods indoors).

A usefull product, certainly for the 300 and 430 miles are the Neos Overshoes. You can wear these over your running shoes. They are wind- and waterproof and do not breath. So, they also act as a vapor barrier liner keeping back body heat when it gets really cold. And the waterproofness is great when you get to a place with overflow. Overshoes are not easy to get in Europe. You can also ask Coast Mountain Sports in Whitehorse to reserve a pair in your size.

Headlamps

Silva Trail Runner Free 2 Ultra	very light and comfortable headlamp enough power (500 lumen and 80 m) both separate battery pack for regular batteries and rechargeable battery included!	60 g (headlamp) 145 g (incl. battery pack)	€ 124.95	******
Black Diamond Icon	affordable alternative that also has a separate battery pack 500 Lumen and up to 125 m	300 g (incl. batteries)	Sale: € 74.95
Petzl Bindi	emergency headlamp also has a blinking red light  200 lumen needs to be charged via USB interesting alternative but with less power: Petzl e+LITE	35 g	€ 44.95	******

Advice on headlamps

Under normal circumstance you will be spending a lot of time on the trail at night. Especially when you do the 300 and 430 miles. So, really you do not want to compromise too much on your headlamp.

Have a close look at the range of the light and the battery life. You do not need the most powerful headlamps on the market but a certain light range is good as it will help you pick up the reflective tape on the Quest markers. The longer the battery life the less batteries you will have to take along. Thus saving weight.

I would say a very compact back-up headlamp is a must. You never know and the smaller headlamps usually are not that expensive.

Keep in mind that the race organisation wants you to use your headlamp even if the moon would actually allow you to move without light. Dog teams and our guides and other people on ski-doo need to see you. Otherwise there may be accidents.

A separate battery pack definitely makes sense. You can have the batteries close to body heat. Which will give you a much longer battery life.

Lithium batteries will last a lot longer and most headlamps are compatible with them. But do check compatibility.

Trekking poles

Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z	thanks to carbon fibre very light foldable with fixed length - and because of that very reliable extended grip zone	142 g/pole (size 120 cm)	€ 169.95
Leki Ultratrail FX.One	if you prefer a nordic sports grip solution light and robust extended grip zone winter trail running kit available	182 g/pole  (size 120 cm)	€ 164.95	******

Advice on trekking poles

Trekking poles for all those on foot are a great help. Especially up- and downhill but also simply when you get very tired.

They are also useful when signaling the ski-doo crew that you are bivvying next to the trail.

Hydration

Thermos Light & Compact	very light and efficient thermos	510 g (1 litre)	€ 36.95 (1 litre)	******
Esbit Thermoflask Stainless Steel	less expensive alternative (but also less efficient and a bit heavier)	537 g (1 litre)	€ 32.95 (1 litre)
Nalgene Bottle with insulation	light but not as efficient	180 g (bottle) 110 g (insulation)	Sale: € 14.95 (bottle) € 24.95 (insulation)	******

Advice on hydration

If you carry a hydration bladder have it as close to your body heat as possible, e.g. over your 1st layer but under your 2nd layer. Even if the bladder is insulated.

Very often the mouthpiece or tube freeze. So, both should be insulated. Have the tube under your arm. Keep the mouthpiece inside if possible. Blowing the water out of the mouthpiece and tube can help keeping it from freezing.

Nothing beats a thermos when it comes to keeping your water hot/warm.

You can put chemical heatpads on to plastic bottles. Coke can stay liquid for quite a while that way. But it won't last forever.

Do not underestimate your need for hydration in the cold. If you do not drink enough the risk of frostbike and hypothermia increases a lot. Not to mention all other problems that go along with lack of hydration.

If it is part of your strategy to stop and melt snow, keep in mind that this can be pretty time consuming. Melting ice is more efficient but you may not always have ice near you ...

Food

Firepot Expedition Food	expedition food made in the UK excellent tasting also great choice of vegan meals	from 135 g	from around € 9.95 (for main meals)	******
Peronin (currently not in stock)	innovative food powder with added vitamins and minerals specifically developped for expeditions in the Arctic	from 100 g	from € 4.95	******

Advice on food

If possible try your food at home / in training first. You may love the real food and be disappointed from the expedition meal version.

If you know that you need plenty of food during a race, take enough extra food for between checkpoints. MYAU serves good size portions but these can't replace the calories you will burn. And distances between checkpoints are loooong.

Some athletes make the mistake of eating too many energy bars and drinking too many gels. This may cause stomach issues. So plan for a good variation of snacks.

If your food has got a certain size, i.e. you need to take a bite, make sure you pre-cut it or have it close to body heat before you eat it. Otherwise it may be frozen rock solid and challenging to get it into you.

Don't just take sweet stuff. Salty food can be a nice change every now and then.

Other

Energizer Lithium Batteries (currently not in stock)	very light and last a lot longer than regular alkaline batteries if you use them for your headlamp please check if your headlamp is compatible you will also need them for your SPOT		from € 7.95 (pack of two)	******
Silva Ranger S	great compass for MYAU and any other adventure worldwide	58 g	€ 44.95	******
Gerber Bear Grylls Scout (currently not in stock)	light, sharp, reliable	62 g	€ 44.95
Gerber MP 400 Compact Sport	light but with all you should need very good quality remember: this and most multi-tools will be stainless stell, i.e. if stored in your sled very cold. Should you need to repair something keep that in mind if you intend to take your gloves off. Best to leave at least liner gloves on.	191 g	SALE: € 64.95	******
Fiskars Hand Saw Xtract Big Tooth	perfect size and weight for an Arctic adventure (not too small and not too big and excellent quality blade)	130 g	€ 36.95	******
Sea to Summit Airlite Towel	for your drop bag at a checkpoint with a shower (Carmacks) fast drying  tiny pack size	from 12 g	from € 11.95	******
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack	very light waterproof pack sacks for organising yourself (especially if you have a large sled bag)	from 20 g (1 litre)	from € 9.95	******
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Stuff Sack	if your pack sack does not need to be waterproof	from 10 g	from 8.95 €
Kahtoola MICROspikes	very reliable snow chains with spikes easy to put on and off	312 g/pair (size M)	59.95 €	******

Advice on other gear:

As you noticed the focus on the above list is on the athletes on foot. It does not contain info on bike or xc-ski specific gear like bike, bike accessories, xc-ski, etc. But hopefully also MYAU bikers and xc-skiers will find some useful info. For info on the MYAU Fatbike by Maxx Bikes please check out the MYAU website.

Many athletes like listening to music while on the trail. Please keep in mind that you may not hear ski-doos or dog teams approaching. So, if the trail is very winding maybe rather not listen to music or at least keep your eyes open.

Don't get your sled bag too big. Otherwise, you will not improve your organisation. As always, what you want will be at the bottom ...