2026 SPINE WINTER RACES KIT REQUIREMENTS

(FULL, CHALLENGER SOUTH, NORTH AND SPRINT NORTH AND SOUTH EVENTS)

SECTION 1: COMPULSORY KIT LIST.
Including examples of kit that will pass and fail and minimum standard requirements.

SECTION 2: KIT CHECKS
Clear procedures for the pre-event and during race kit checks.

SECTION 3: MISSING KIT PENALTIES AND PROCEDURES
Clear procedures and penalties for lost, missing or damaged kit during the event.

COMPULSORY EQUIPMENT (SECTION 1)
All the items must always be worn or carried during the event unless specified. These items are all required for your safety and to ensure you have the correct equipment to enable you to complete the event in all conditions and be as self sufficient as possible. This list is not negotiable and if checked at any point on the course or at a checkpoint any missing items will incur a penalty as described in Section 3.

This list is the minimum mandatory minimum kit required for the race, you may carry any additional kit you require or wish to for your own comfort. We recommend you carry additional warm dry clothing in poor weather and protect items in your backpack with dry bags.

If on reading this, you are unsure if an item of kit passes or you need advice you can email Lindley@thespinerace.com for further info.

STARTING CLOTHING and SPARE items Clarifications

It is expected that you are starting in a full set of clothing appropriate to the conditions at the start of the race or when leaving a Checkpoint Location.
Any item that is listed on the kit list as a SPARE item is in addition to whatever you are wearing to start or leaving a Checkpoint Location and must be in your pack/vest and not worn.

Example. You cannot be wearing your SPARE Insulated Warm Jacket when leaving a CP where your drop bag is accessible, it must be spare
in your pack/vest and in addition to what you are wearing for the current conditions. If you are wearing it you must have another spare in your pack/vest at the point of leaving that location. This is the same for SPARE Baselayer top or bottom layers and socks. You can of course use any SPARE them during that stage.

Further clarification and penalties.
You cannot remove an item you are wearing when about to leave a CP location, just to put it on again outside when away from the CP just to circumvent the rule.
This will result in a time penalty for not having a SPARE item. We see this every year. If seen doing this you will not be allowed to leave without 2 items, one worn and one SPARE carried.

The SPARE items are for safety if you get very wet or cold or need extra layers in an emergency, They are not to make you take more unnecessary kit. If you fall in water, get very wet and cold or even injured you will need all that spare kit.
If we think you do not have enough kit for the conditions we will request you carry more and will not reduce this minimum requirement under any circumstances.

Kit List Explained

The Kit List is detailed and extensive and you must read all the pages relevant to each item on The Kit List.

All the items on the list must be presented at kit check for inspection (including footwear).

Full Kit List:

Item	Specification	Minimum Standard	Clarification Notes	Examples of Banned Items	Recommendations and Additional Checks	Examples of Passing Items
Backpack/Running Vest/Rucksack	Pack/Vest that is capable of holding all the compulsory kit inside and suitable for the event and activity.	Must be in good condition with no tears or rips and all fasteners/zips/buckles are working.	Please ensure you have the ability/space to attach a tracker to one shoulder of the pack, Any padding or items you attach to the shoulder straps may need to be removed to attach the tracker securely. Please note we can not place trackers inside packs or elsewhere on the pack as they need a clear view of the sky to work effectively.	You cannot use a damaged pack with broken straps or poorly repaired items.	We recomend a rucksack, or an addition front bag with water bottle holders for easy hydration.	You can use any running/trekking rucksack that is robust and big enough to fit all the kit. For example: https://montane.com/products/montane-womens-trailblazer-r-30l-backpack
Compass	A baseplate physical magnetic compass capable of being placed on a map and a bearing being taken. (North direction will be checked and a quick Nav check to ensure you know how to use it at registration))	Must be in good condition with numbers and needles easy to see and read with no bubbles affecting performance.	Compasses on Phones, Watches, GPS devices and any electronic compasses are NOT allowed. Compasses with only colours or without Degrees/Mils marked are NOT allowed.	You cannot use orienteering and Thumb/Wrist Compasses with Colour Zones Only.	Nav Check: At kit check you will be asked to orientate your map and read and locate a 6 figure grid reference on a map.	For Example: https://silvasweden.uk/products/expedition-4https://silvasweden.uk/products/expedition-4
Maps	New for 2026 Winter Races will have custom printed Harvey’s North and South Maps. You will be given the required maps for your event at Kit Check, they will have the route and any pre planned diversions highlighted on the maps. They will also have useful info such as CP locations, grid references and emergency race numbers printed on them as well as race cutoffs and timings.	You will be given the required maps for your event at Kit Check.	n/a	n/a	At Kit check you may have your basic map navigation tested, you may be asked to demonstrate your ability to read a grid reference from the map and demonstrate how to orientate the map correctly.	n/a
GPS Navigation Device	GPS navigation device and Spare Batteries/Charging ability	Must be a handheld (recommended) or a GPS watch that complies with the below criteria. Must be able to display colour topographical maps – (Not just a line – this will be checked) Must be able to load the route and follow it – (Must show your location in relation to the route-this will be checked) Must be able to show a UK grid reference – (This will be checked at kit check)	Must meet the above Standards Cycle computers that can display the minimum standards are acceptable – Garmin Edge/Wahoo Elemnt etc If using a watch or rechargeable only handheld you must have a cable and power bank to recharge on the trail, for battery Handhelds at least 1 set of spare batteries on your person.	Garmin InReach devices or Watches/Wrist Mounted devices that do NOT display a colour topographical map or cannot display a British Grid Reference do not meet the required standards. InReach devices such as the Mini, Explorer and Explorer+ can not display UK grid references so are not suitable.		For Example: https://www.garmin.com/en-GB/p/715085/ or https://www.garmin.com/en-GB/p/1701921/pn/010-03198-40/
Emergency Whistle	Must work and be loud enough to hear at a distance – We may ask you to test it at kit check and if not loud enough we may require you to replace it.	Must meet the above Standards, can be plastic or metal and separate or attached to a pack or headtorch.	n/a	You cannot use electronic devices that emit or produce a whistle such as attack alarms as your emergency whistle.
Eye Protection	Eye Protection for wind, rain and debris in bad weather	Must fit securely – (Must have a strap that secures them to the head) Must be clear lenses – (No tint of any kind) Must fit tight to the face with no significant gaps – (So as to not allow wind and debri in) Must have a flexible rubber/foam seal around the eyes – (to be comfortable and seal properly)	Must meet the above Standards, can be goggles or glasses style as long as they meet the above criteria.	Lab/Science class goggles, Regular Glasses, Swimming Goggles, Sunglasses, Any tint including Amber, Photochromic lenses, reflective lenses and insecure fitment or no seal.		For Example: https://www.bolle-safety.com/gb/safety/protective-eyewear/sealed-eyewear/tracker-TRACKERII_INDUSTRIAL.html?srsltid=AfmBOooLqbMLpy0AYuPYZrSd1S1loYB1_Hay0lDtLEBgRLwcHhL1GbOn
Headtorch	Headtorch (or chest torch) of a minimum of 100 lumens and suitable for the event	If the battery is replaceable you must carry a spare battery/batteries. If the battery is not replaceable you must carry a second headtorch as they won’t charge or be wearable while recharging.	Must meet the above Standards and if the headtorch is rechargeable and the battery not replaceable you must carry a second headtorch complying to the same minimum standards. We recommend headtorches that can have batteries replaced as charging at CP locations can be slow or unreliable.	Watch/Phone lights, handheld torches, anything not a minimum of 100 Lumens		For Example: https://silvasweden.uk/products/trail-runner-free-2-hybrid
Waterproof Jacket	Waterproof Jacket with Hood – Minimum 10,000mm HH (Hydrostatic Head)	Must have taped seams – All Seams not just some. Must have a hood – Permanently fixed (not zipped or velcroed on) Must be a minimum of 10,000 HH – We recommend 20,000+ Must have NO open vents/mesh areas where wind and water can get through such as large rear vents.	Must meet the above Standards and be durable enough for the event, Lightweight kit tends to be easily damaged on Spine races.	You cannot use Poncho’s, Paramo Kit, Buffalo kit and any other clothing made from non waterproof materials.	Mountaineering or heavy duty waterproof jackets that will cope well with heavy continued rain and rucksacks.	For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-womens-phase-waterproof-jacket?color=Deep%20Forest
Waterproof Trousers	Waterproof Trousers – Minimum 10,000mm HH (Hydrostatic Head)	Must have Taped Seams- All Seams, not just some Must be a minimum of 10,000 HH – We recommend 20,000+ Must have NO open vents/mesh areas where wind and water can get through. Zips and buttons on the side to allow you to get boots on are acceptable.	Must meet the above Standards and be durable enough for the event, Lightweight kit tends to be easily damaged on Spine races.	You cannot use Poncho’s, Paramo Kit, Buffalo kit and and other clothing made with non waterproof materials	Mountaineering or heavy duty waterproof trousers that will cope well with heavy continued rain and risk of tearing	For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-womens-cetus-waterproof-pants
Warm Insulated Hat	Warm Insulated Hat	Must cover the full head all the way down to your ears and cover the top of the ears Must be warm and insulated, no thin beanies or non insulated items like a buff Must not be a mesh fabric or mesh in it.	Must meet the above Standards Can have a peak as long as the rest of the hat is complying Can be a balaclava/ski mask (If so you can NOT use it as your neck cover also)	You cannot use Baseball caps, buffs, thin beanies or skullcaps	We recommend a well fitting, thermal beanie that will keep your head warm and sit well with a head torch	For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-protium-beanie-hat?color=Black
Gloves	1 Pair of Waterproof Warm Gloves with Fingers	They must be waterproof – not all ski gloves are waterproof so check They must have fingers and thumb – you may need to do tasks with your gloves on like open buckles or use your Compass and Map and will need fingers.	Must meet the above Standards We recommend carrying a spare pair of gloves or mittens in case of loss or damage.	You cannot use anything with Goretex infinium (not waterproof) or anything that is not sold as waterproof or does not have Fingers. Thin non warm gloves will fail. Water resistant or other phrases in advertising that don’t say waterproof are NOT waterproof.		For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-mens-respond-dry-line-insulated-waterproof-gloves
SPARE Socks	SPARE socks suitable for the weather and conditions	Must be a pair Must be your size Must be similar to what you are wearing to start	Must meet the above Standards Must be in addition to what you start or leave a CP location wearing – if you start/leave a CP wearing 2 pairs then you will carry a SPARE set with you so you can change if you get cold/wet.	Childrens socks, trainers socks, ballerina/dance no show socks or tights		For Example: https://www.nike.com/gb/t/trail-running-crew-socks-MwQUw9oy/HF0854-300
Neck Warmer	Neck Warmer as protection from wind and cold.	Must cover the whole neck and be able to cover the lower face if pulled up.	Must meet the above Standards Can be a balaclava but can NOT count as your neck warmer and hat together, each needs to be a separate item.	You cannot use bandana, scarf or other item that does not cover the whole neck around.		For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-protium-fleece-neck-gaiter?color=Black
SPARE Base Layer (Top)	Long sleeved SPARE warm baselayer (top) – To be carried in addition to whatever you are wearing at the start or leaving a CP.	Must be long sleeved Must be for winter use and warm – Not super thin or mesh. Must be your size	Must meet the above Standards Mesh layers like Brynje are not acceptable as they are designed to go under a base layer and not in place of them in cold weather.	You cannot use Brynje and similar mesh underlayers, Childrens sizes or non warm items.		For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-mens-dart-lite-long-sleeve-t-shirt
SPARE Base Layer (Bottom)	Long Legged SPARE warm baselayer (Bottom) – To be carried in addition to whatever you are wearing at the start or leaving a CP.	Must be long legged – No ¾ length items, must reach your ankles Must be for winter use and warm – Not super thin or mesh. Must be your size	Must meet the above Standards Mesh layers like Brynje are not acceptable as they are designed to go under a base layer and not in place of them in cold weather.	You cannot use Brynje and similar mesh underlayers, Childrens sizes or non warm items.		For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-mens-dart-xt-thermal-long-johns
SPARE Insulated Jacket	SPARE insulated jacket that must be carried in addition to whatever you are wearing at the start or leaving a CP location.	Must be a Jacket or Smock with a full Zip or Half Zip Must be an insulated item, very thick pile fleece or down (natural or synthetic (better)). Must be suitable for cold weather use.	Gillet’s or similar jackets without full sleeves are not allowed, jackets must have insulation in the sleeves. Must have a Zip or Half Zip, if no zip it will NOT pass	You cannot use anything without a zip, Items not made of deep pile fleece or down or any base layer top regardless of how warm it is or what it’s made of. Fleece items that are not insulated or deep pile such as a Montane Dart etc. If your item is close to a no item then it’s a no, if its close to a yes item it’s yes. OMM core/Montane DART NO they are too thin – Montane Protium XPD/Rab Original Pile.		For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-womens-anti-freeze-hooded-down-jacket?color=Deep%20Forest
Appropriate Footwear	Footwear suitable for the event, conditions and terrain.	Must be in good condition with good tread – Not worn out Must be in good condition with no holes or rips – if repaired the repair must be robust and durable enough to last the event.	Can be Boots, Walking Shoes, Trainers or any footwear that is suitable for the terrain and conditions.	You cannot use Road shoes, Sandals, Flip Flops or Slippers. No holes or tears and worn out tread will be a fail.		For Example: https://www.lasportiva.com/en/shoes-trail-running-uragano-gtx-man-zfrs028
Traction Aids	Traction Aids – Ice Spikes or Ice Grips for use on icy terrain	Must be either the coil type or spikes type – see pictures to the right Must be in good condition and fit your shoes.	Must be Yaktrax Pro Coils style or Ice Spikes Style such as Kahtoola Microspikes Must provide traction on both the front and rear of the foot Must not be “Nano Spikes”, tiny small dimples or bumps like on the bottom of a walking pole. Must be good quality and not cheap off ebay or amazon budget brands as they will fail.	Yaktrax Run/Walk, Exospikes, Trespass Icegrip or similar that use Nanospikes and/or only cover the front of the foot.		Yaktrax Diamondgrip/Kahtoola Microspikes For Example: https://www.yaktrax.co.uk/product/yaktrax-diamond/
Sleeping Bag	Mummy Style Sleeping Bag with Hood – Oc/32F Rating	Must be EN/ISO Comfort Limit of Oc or colder. Sometimes called Lower Limit, Limit or Transition, Usually the middle rating of the 3 EN/ISO ratings displayed as per the examples to the right. Must be fully enclosed and have a hood – No Quilts or Hoodless Bags	If the sleeping bag does not have an EN/ISO rating then please check by emailing lindley@thespinerace.com for clarification. We accept Rab Sleep Ratings and PHD Typical Operating	You cannot use OMM, Hangar 18, Quilts, Hoodless or any sleeping bag without a reliable rating system. Sleeping Bag Liners can NOT be used to improve the rating. Sleeping bags with no insulation in the Back/Bottom such as the Rab Mythic 120 or Sierra Designs Cloud 800 are a NO Always the middle rating on EN/ISO rated Bags		For Example: https://wildbounds.com/products/hyperion-32-ul-bag-sleeping-bag-black-forest-green?variant=40868480188583&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17178698583&gbraid=0AAAAACpiRyjVQn55ysqw1tL8YxaLk4yXj&gclid=Cj0KCQjw58PGBhCkARIsADbDilw65zHFq6PDxiBr0V5-zmwFRQQG7yK_dCWuBPvUZUnUNBky3AUcmA0aAlzbEALw_wcB
Sleeping Mat	Sleeping Mat for insulating from the ground when Bivvying out.	Must be a minimum of 5mm thick. (we recommend 2cm or more). Must cover from Head to Knees. (minimum 119cm long-¾ length size minimum) Must not be cut or adjusted in anyway from how it is sold. No Homemade Items, no smaller mats taped together.	Must be sold/can be purchased as a Sleeping Mat Can be Closed Cell Foam, Inflatable or Self inflating and no holes or air gaps.	You cannot use a duo Mat, Gram Counter Gear Featherweight, Yoga Mats, Baloonbed, Klymit Inertia or similar mats with air gaps.		For Example: https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/therm-a-rest-neoair-xlite-sleeping-mat-regular-G4HA3D0133.html?colour=151&utm_source=google&utm_medium=ad-set-clearance&utm_campaign=CWO-PPM-UK-CLEARANCE-ASSET-GROUP&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19716304771&gbraid=0AAAAAD7-iQCGMB2cR6gSttB8I2QHFqP0K&gclid=Cj0KCQjw58PGBhCkARIsADbDilxZ5YDYhv5NigQdjoXDYgquy7u5LQYJrnPmNJC69S9TpndQAE83V2AaArDTEALw_wcB
Bivvy Bag	Waterproof Bivvy Bag for Sleeping on the trail or emergencies.	Must be Waterproof – Not just resistant, if the advertising does not say “waterproof” it is not. Must only have an opening at the top, No tarps/or Poncho style Bivvy’s Must not be an emergency style foil/mylar or similar bivvy. (Such as the Sol foil type) Must not be a Survival/Plastic bag type or foil type.	Must meet the above Standards No homemade items or items taped together.	You cannot use Rab Survival Zone Light, MSR e-bivvy, SOL emergency bivvy or any SOL Product, LifeSystems Thermal Bag or Survival Bag. Bin Bags or orange survival sacks.		For Example: https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/bivy-bag-p13634.aspx/
Mug/Cup	Solid Mug/Cup for drinks at CP’s and on the course – The event is Cupless and whatever you carry will be your mug for drinks at CP locations.	A recommendation of 400ml to be able to get a good amount of food or liquid. Must not be a folding or collapsible type or so thin as to risk burning your hands.	Any we think is not a suitable size or too thin, flimsy to to safe we may request you replace with a better one.	You cannot use anything that collapses,or is too flimsy to be safe or is too small.
Spoon or Fork	Spoon or Fork or combination of both for eating food (Spork).	Must be a Spoon or Fork or Spork type of utensil Must be a suitable size for eating, no teaspoon or smaller sized utensils. Can be plastic, wood or metal but must be durable for regular use.	Must meet the above Standards	You cannot use plastic disposable or wooden disposable cutlery, teaspoons, ice cream or sorbet spoons or toy or doll’s spoons.
2ltr Water Carrying Capacity	2ltr Water carrying capacity	You must always have the ability to carry 2ltrs of water on your person. Can be hard or soft bottles or a bladder type water carrier.	Must meet the above Standards. Must be accessible and easy to use, not hidden in the bottom of your pack so they can not be accessed regularly. Must be a minimum total of 2ltrs.	You cannot use Zip lock bags, Tupperware containers or any container not designed for carrying drinks	Purification tablets or Filter bottle for times when there is little on course water.	You can use soft or hard flasks or a bladder. For Example: https://montane.com/products/montane-ultraflask-500ml
Food	A minimum of 1,500 calories of food from the Start and from each CP location. Sprint Participants only need from the start as they have no Full Checkpoint Locations.	Must comply with the following rules. Must not be more than 500Kcal from powdered sources such as Tailwind or similar. Must be a minimum 1000Kcal from ready to eat foods that require no extra water or prep to eat If carrying a stove/cooking equipment then 500Kcal can be from dehydrated foods, freeze dried, pot noodles etc. If you are not carrying a stove then you can not count dehydrated foods	The ready to eat food must not be one single source but a variety, so you can not just carry nuts or chocolate but must have a mix of available foods. It can ALL be ready to eat foods.	You cannot use any single source of foods or foods that require extensive prep to eat.		For Example: https://realmeal.co.uk/collections/all-products/products/pink-himalayan-salted-caramel
Mobile Phone	Working Mobile Phone	Must be working on a UK Network and be able to both send and receive calls in the UK. Must be a regular phone size, no tiny phones. Must be able to read a reasonable length text message and dial a number using a bare finger. Must be fully charged at the start and have over 50% charge leaving any CP	Must have a charging lead carried with you at all times as a minimum, a powerbank is recommended. If the phone is not waterproof it should be in a waterproof case, we would recommend this anyway as phones wont charge if the charging port gets wet.	You cannot use Tiny Phones, Phones with cracked screens and damage that make it difficult to use or read.
Rear Red Light	Rear Red Led Safety Light – To be turned on all the time.	Must be Red, no other colours allowed. Must be worn on the rear of the pack/vest so it is not obscured by hoods or clothing Must have a spare battery and know how to change it if it won’t last the duration of your event	Must meet the above Standards Can be a repurposed bike light Must attach securely to your pack.	You cannot use rear headtorch lights are not suitable as they get hidden by hats or hoods. No multi color lights, Red only as we need to know what to look for in an emergency.		For Example: https://provizsports.com/products/classic-led-flasher?variant=45119108677943&country=GB&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22453312516&gbraid=0AAAAADpxJw0UrXpgQ5vWGfHHzZesChOsR&gclid=Cj0KCQjw58PGBhCkARIsADbDily5VTmxyLxWHHKLlSj2g9jAo4LO9vfi9aW87Raucqg7TQQ5clm8A6waAi3FEALw_wcB
Toilet Kit	Toilet kit to ensure waste can be disposed of responsibly.	Must have a toilet trowel/spade – Can be plastic or Metal Must have a minimum of 1 pack of Tissues – No Baby Wipes Must have a minimum of 3 “Poo Bags” for solids that can’t be buried.	Must meet the above Standards Must be a shovel designed for the purpose and not a kitchen spoon or garden trowel.	You cannot use Builders or Garden Trowel, Wooden Shoe Horn, your Spork or anything homemade. Baby wipes, even the so called biodegradable can’t be buried.		For Example: https://ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk/the-deuce-2-ul-trowel/

Full Med Kit Table

Mandatory Kit
Item	Quantity	Clarifications	Examples	Examples	Examples
Sterile Alcohol-Based Antiseptic Wipes	x2	A sterile alcohol-based wound cleansing wipe is a small cloth with alcohol, used to safely clean skin or wounds and reduce infection risk.	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/medipal-chlorhexidine-skin-wipe-single/	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/pre-injection-wipe-70-isopropyl-alcohol-v-v/
Sterile Hypodermic Needles (21g x 1.5in)	x2	Sterile hypodermic needles are used to pierce the skin for draining blisters, most often on the feet, and should be individually packaged.	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/bd-microlance-3-21g-x-1-5in-needle/	https://medtree.co.uk/products/hypodermic-needles-21ga-x-1-5in
Kinesiology Tape (2m x 5cm)	x1	Kinesiology tape is a stretchy, skin-friendly tape used to cover and protect blisters, reducing friction and supporting healing while staying firmly in place.	https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BJK2V3BG?ref=fed_asin_title&th=1&psc=1	https://sporttape.co.uk/products/kinesiology-tape	https://rocktape.co.uk/products/rocktape-kinesiology-tape-5cm-5m?variant=46678037102809
Small Safety Scissors	x1	Small safety first aid scissors are blunt-ended, easy-to-use scissors designed to safely cut kinesiology tape for blister dressings without harming skin.	https://www.medisave.co.uk/products/scissors-supersnip-s-s-sterile?_pos=2&_sid=2cd90151d&_ss=r	https://www.jaxfirstaid.co.uk/first-aid-scissors-b-b-4-5-11-5cm/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=8712845729&gbraid=0AAAAADPRiSZytDOnsrLx5mOjMMSDWsFkk&gclid=CjwKCAjwisnGBhAXEiwA0zEOR2oPvzYH5c3RFggOIe1rgnlHKy9hnot-9wNunx3suj0j5AYO1CZJyxoC6vQQAvD_BwE
Paracetamol 500mg Tablets	x8	Paracetamol is a common painkiller used to relieve everyday aches and pains. It helps self-manage discomfort when taken safely as directed.	https://www.boots.com/boots-paracetamol-500mg-caplets-16s-10276369
Oral Rehydration Salts	x2	Caffeine-free gastrointestinal sensitive oral rehydration salts are powder mixes added to water, helping replace lost fluids and salts after diarrhoea or vomiting for safe rehydration.	https://www.boots.com/dioralyte-blackcurrent-6-sachets-10020148	https://www.boots.com/boots-rehydration-treatment-6-sachets-10074961?srsltid=AfmBOorq2KUhKUCfCsh8OF5kBQ0wnCyfnbsUuNj_kZsxeaJG9ACNn0To
Foil Emergency Blanket	x1	An emergency foil blanket is a strong, lightweight sheet that reflects body heat, helping you stay warm and self-manage hypothermia in cold conditions.	https://www.blizzardsurvival.com/shop/blizzard-active-range-2-layer-survival-blanket/	https://www.lifesystems.co.uk/products/thermal-blanket	https://www.medisave.co.uk/products/igloo-5-tog-emergency-thermal-blanket-2layer-s-core-orange
Waterproof Plasters	x2	Strong, waterproof plasters are protective coverings that stick to skin, keeping small cuts and grazes clean, dry, and safe while they heal.	https://www.boots.com/elastoplast-extra-tough-waterproof-fabric-plasters-12-plasters-10139306	https://www.jaxfirstaid.co.uk/dependaplast-washproof-plasters-choose-size/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20534784910&gbraid=0AAAAADPRiSaRsJ2Bb68ZRRVWdR4kJlNNu&gclid=CjwKCAjwisnGBhAXEiwA0zEOR8ntq7DadhmxsRnH6iGgMj3TDAuJ4LRkDC7Mg-lwurAk3XhhV4t16hoCFtgQAvD_BwE
Non-Sterile Nitrile Gloves (Pair)	x1	Non-sterile nitrile gloves are individually wrapped, protective gloves worn to keep hands clean and help prevent infection when self-treating small wounds or blisters.	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/pair-of-nitrile-gloves/	https://www.amazon.co.uk/St-John-Ambulance-Medium-Nitrile/dp/B00P84IFRS/ref=sr_1_6?crid=3G9P5NNDRVOA2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.S2gcpMPg-YH_vkJKXAcSv0xYa8WZnsW_AuXxqG1dnoqHjy7FcqpFRKIeBOEqhyKRP9Blf18rH2MJcBr0GikpL3nKq39RKIkY6CZJ68h8dFZ97up58waKPyr7vr8-tbA3Vv3lWpLfa1TAt6LKilBuMpkWYxMuHDw-Vjj-mfaHPLQri-vJcHMD2U6s065C8TRS4A_PqfRBhpfsA75cgVByiJoo6NbiA-StRBjkhlIM5Ju0GJnqGApyRafdyM2Y4WQHsOfs9PLww3swy70joJjt0RQ_U0_soCCRyM8cKUj8rCQ.VDrpbPXsfsMWA-qfOBneNTinQ46IppBqjKIWxtXTUV8&dib_tag=se&keywords=nitrile%2Bgloves%2Bsingle%2Bpack&qid=1758638508&sprefix=Nitrile%2BGloves%2Bsin%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-6&th=1	https://www.amazon.co.uk/DISPOSABLE-NON-STERILE-PROTECTIVE-MULTIPURPOSE-INDIVIDUALLY/dp/B01D52LDZA/ref=sr_1_7?crid=3G9P5NNDRVOA2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.S2gcpMPg-YH_vkJKXAcSv0xYa8WZnsW_AuXxqG1dnoqHjy7FcqpFRKIeBOEqhyKRP9Blf18rH2MJcBr0GikpL3nKq39RKIkY6CZJ68h8dFZ97up58waKPyr7vr8-tbA3Vv3lWpLfa1TAt6LKilBuMpkWYxMuHDw-Vjj-mfaHPLQri-vJcHMD2U6s065C8TRS4A_PqfRBhpfsA75cgVByiJoo6NbiA-StRBjkhlIM5Ju0GJnqGApyRafdyM2Y4WQHsOfs9PLww3swy70joJjt0RQ_U0_soCCRyM8cKUj8rCQ.VDrpbPXsfsMWA-qfOBneNTinQ46IppBqjKIWxtXTUV8&dib_tag=se&keywords=nitrile+gloves+single+pack&qid=1758638508&sprefix=Nitrile+Gloves+sin%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-7
Recommended Drop Bag Kit
Sterile Alcohol-Based Antiseptic Wipes	n/a	A sterile alcohol-based wound cleansing wipe is a small cloth with alcohol, used to safely clean skin or wounds and reduce infection risk.	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/medipal-chlorhexidine-skin-wipe-single/	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/pre-injection-wipe-70-isopropyl-alcohol-v-v/
Sterile Hypodermic Needles (21g x 1.5in)	n/a	Sterile hypodermic needles are used to pierce the skin for draining blisters, most often on the feet, and should be individually packaged.	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/bd-microlance-3-21g-x-1-5in-needle/	https://medtree.co.uk/products/hypodermic-needles-21ga-x-1-5in
Kinesiology Tape (2m x 5cm)	n/a	Kinesiology tape is a stretchy, skin-friendly tape used to cover and protect blisters, reducing friction and supporting healing while staying firmly in place.	https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BJK2V3BG?ref=fed_asin_title&th=1&psc=1	https://sporttape.co.uk/products/kinesiology-tape	https://rocktape.co.uk/products/rocktape-kinesiology-tape-5cm-5m?variant=46678037102809
Fleecy Web	n/a	Fleecy web is a soft, cushioned fabric cut to size and applied to protect blisters, reducing friction and pressure to support healing.	https://www.amazon.co.uk/JFA-Medical-Fleecy-Adhesive-Roll/dp/B0C9758VLK/ref=sr_1_3?crid=36MMWXPGBOFZL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vQ2aGBwRDxPLGkbYYOBR9WMOVr0wTq1SODGkvKATecjJlR3xjLvKBfl5qRUgMIq98b3u6A9Cl702YA9QHojDBQb73lRT4ZICcYTAZh05wTbufJAxjI0EGcYaCaMyNp5bro4S2dte_Mc_Yie7cHLIFrh9H5mLnfXU2S9jx5tGIja26kbjmsjMUY0B-EirFMqpkLqlNzMvwsx_-y2IOIfpavaApq25RL2eCIKCnn0s-8dq2aL78xQ4P3KYf-sRTpEJOo1J8DytXv3VjDhQV89icfRi0mrU-E7doJo0y3g_zhY.IYu9qj0ZP9ixbd6ePHFxwr78e_LLgLLM7wrGb0QPu58&dib_tag=se&keywords=Fleecy+Web&qid=1758638641&sprefix=fleecy+web%2Caps%2C227&sr=8-3
Paracetamol 500mg Tablets	n/a	Paracetamol is a common painkiller used to relieve everyday aches and pains. It helps self-manage discomfort when taken safely as directed.	https://www.boots.com/boots-paracetamol-500mg-caplets-16s-10276369
Oral Rehydration Salts	n/a	Caffeine-free gastrointestinal sensitive oral rehydration salts are powder mixes added to water, helping replace lost fluids and salts after diarrhoea or vomiting for safe rehydration.	https://www.boots.com/dioralyte-blackcurrent-6-sachets-10020148	https://www.boots.com/boots-rehydration-treatment-6-sachets-10074961?srsltid=AfmBOorq2KUhKUCfCsh8OF5kBQ0wnCyfnbsUuNj_kZsxeaJG9ACNn0To
Waterproof Plasters	n/a	Strong, waterproof plasters are protective coverings that stick to skin, keeping small cuts and grazes clean, dry, and safe while they heal.	https://www.boots.com/elastoplast-extra-tough-waterproof-fabric-plasters-12-plasters-10139306	https://www.jaxfirstaid.co.uk/dependaplast-washproof-plasters-choose-size/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20534784910&gbraid=0AAAAADPRiSaRsJ2Bb68ZRRVWdR4kJlNNu&gclid=CjwKCAjwisnGBhAXEiwA0zEOR8ntq7DadhmxsRnH6iGgMj3TDAuJ4LRkDC7Mg-lwurAk3XhhV4t16hoCFtgQAvD_BwE
Non-Sterile Nitrile Gloves (Pair)	n/a	Non-sterile nitrile gloves are individually wrapped, protective gloves worn to keep hands clean and help prevent infection when self-treating small wounds or blisters.	https://reflexmedical.co.uk/product/pair-of-nitrile-gloves/	https://www.amazon.co.uk/St-John-Ambulance-Medium-Nitrile/dp/B00P84IFRS/ref=sr_1_6?crid=3G9P5NNDRVOA2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.S2gcpMPg-YH_vkJKXAcSv0xYa8WZnsW_AuXxqG1dnoqHjy7FcqpFRKIeBOEqhyKRP9Blf18rH2MJcBr0GikpL3nKq39RKIkY6CZJ68h8dFZ97up58waKPyr7vr8-tbA3Vv3lWpLfa1TAt6LKilBuMpkWYxMuHDw-Vjj-mfaHPLQri-vJcHMD2U6s065C8TRS4A_PqfRBhpfsA75cgVByiJoo6NbiA-StRBjkhlIM5Ju0GJnqGApyRafdyM2Y4WQHsOfs9PLww3swy70joJjt0RQ_U0_soCCRyM8cKUj8rCQ.VDrpbPXsfsMWA-qfOBneNTinQ46IppBqjKIWxtXTUV8&dib_tag=se&keywords=nitrile%2Bgloves%2Bsingle%2Bpack&qid=1758638508&sprefix=Nitrile%2BGloves%2Bsin%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-6&th=1	https://www.amazon.co.uk/DISPOSABLE-NON-STERILE-PROTECTIVE-MULTIPURPOSE-INDIVIDUALLY/dp/B01D52LDZA/ref=sr_1_7?crid=3G9P5NNDRVOA2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.S2gcpMPg-YH_vkJKXAcSv0xYa8WZnsW_AuXxqG1dnoqHjy7FcqpFRKIeBOEqhyKRP9Blf18rH2MJcBr0GikpL3nKq39RKIkY6CZJ68h8dFZ97up58waKPyr7vr8-tbA3Vv3lWpLfa1TAt6LKilBuMpkWYxMuHDw-Vjj-mfaHPLQri-vJcHMD2U6s065C8TRS4A_PqfRBhpfsA75cgVByiJoo6NbiA-StRBjkhlIM5Ju0GJnqGApyRafdyM2Y4WQHsOfs9PLww3swy70joJjt0RQ_U0_soCCRyM8cKUj8rCQ.VDrpbPXsfsMWA-qfOBneNTinQ46IppBqjKIWxtXTUV8&dib_tag=se&keywords=nitrile+gloves+single+pack&qid=1758638508&sprefix=Nitrile+Gloves+sin%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-7

Medical Kit Clarification Notes

These notes help clarify the common question about the Medical Kit.

Rehydration Salts: These must be dioralyte or own brand rehydration salts, electrolyte tablets or salt tablets are not the same and will not pass.

Tape: Only K Tape will count and you must carry the correct tape and spares sufficient for the event. Carry and use what you wish but you must carry the mandatory amounts and spares.

Foil Blanket: This must be a foil blanket and not a foil bivvy or survival bag. This is in addition to the bivvy bag in the main kit.

Needles: Must be the correct type. We will supply the correct ones at kit check – (green 21g Hypodermic 25mm) Paracetamol.

You must carry sufficient spares for the whole event duration. If you run out it may not be possible to restock you from the medical teams spares.

Mandatory Drop Bag Kit

These are items you must have in your drop bag.

Lightweight Sleeping Bag: A small 1 season style bag for use in CP’s. You can use your race sleeping bag if you wish but one light spare is usually easier to repack in your drop bag than your race pack.

CP Footwear: Footwear such as Crocs, Slides or Flip Flops to wear in CPs to protect feet.

Towel: Some CP locations have wash/shower facilities and the race does not supply Towels, you will not be able to shower or wash feet without a means to dry them.

These are not checked at Kit Check so do not need to be presented at kit check but if you are found not carrying these items they may be subject to the same penalties as other missing kit.

Recommendations

The above listed items are all Mandatory and the bare minimum we allow you to participate in the event with.

Please consider the items below, especially in poor weather conditions.

Additional warm clothing:

As you progress in the race and become tired or during colder weather you will find it harder to keep warm, especially as you slow.

Think about extra layers above the minimum list.

Sturdier Waterproofs:

There is a trend to wear/carry superlight waterproof layers that meet the HH criteria but the HH rating is only part of the story and heavier duty waterproof layers will perform better in serious weather and give you a better chance of completion.

Spare items in your drop bag for those things easily lost or damaged Gloves, Red lights, Hats, Neck Tubes, Safety Glasses and smaller items as not having these can mean you can’t continue if lost

Spare First Aid Kit Items in your drop bag.:

You need to have spares of medications and foot care and anything you need for minor injuries yourself, if you are at a CP location and you don’t have spare tape, needles or foot care items you can’t rely on the medical team always having enough to treat you.

They are there for emergencies, non minor injuries and support, you should be able to manage minor cuts and scrapes and foot care yourself.

KIT CHECKS (SECTION 2)

KIT CHECK – PRE-RACE

To ensure everyone is carrying the correct kit and to ensure fairness to all racers there will be a kit check at registration, it will follow the below procedure.

You will have your kit checked as the first part of the registration process; the kit checker will check a random set of items from a written list. Some racers will receive full kit checks and some will receive checks on a selection of items.

Who gets what checked will be purely random based on what is on the check sheet for your race number. If you forget any items or any items are not suitable then you may be required to have a full kit check to ensure nothing else is missing. Once all your items are checked satisfactorily you will be allowed to register for the race.

If you fail kit check you will be asked to return ASAP with the correct items and you will be unable to register until you have passed, you cannot collect a number without us confirming you have passed on all items. It is your responsibility to ensure you arrive at Kit Check with all the correct kit ready. If you have any doubt about kit being suitable either bring alternatives or check those items you intend to bring with lindley@thespinerace.com before attending the event. We cannot be held responsible for misunderstandings over kit standards. If you are in any way not sure then email, you will get a quick definitive answer.

Be aware information on social media is not definitive and may be out of date or based on previous years requirements. If in doubt, ask.

We will keep written copies of all kit checks including your signature on the bottom of the sheet to confirm you were checked should any dispute about kit occur at on course kit checks.

Suppose we allow any borderline items to pass, or we fail any contentious items. In that case, we will record those including a description or photo of the item in question for future reference. This will clear up any disputes on the course quickly.

ON COURSE AND CHECKPOINT KIT CHECKS

At any point on the course or at a checkpoint or safety staff can ask for a selection of items from the compulsory list to be shown. These will
usually be requests to ensure you are carrying critical safety equipment during poor weather or on higher risk areas of the course. If you
are missing an item of kit the procedures in section 4 below will be applied.

MISSING KIT PENALTIES AND PROCEDURES (SECTION 4)

The Spine races are self-sufficient adventure races and as such it is strongly emphasised that the competitor is responsible for ensuring they always have the right kit during the event. This includes protection from loss or damage whilst out on the trail.

It would be prudent to carry spares of easily lost or damaged items such as Goggles, Gloves, Hats and other smaller items in your drop bag to cover those possible losses and ensure your kit is sufficiently robust to survive the event.

The event is under no obligation to source, loan or supply in any way any items of lost kit so you can continue your participation in the event.

However, in the spirit and nature of the race we understand fellow competitors, race staff and volunteers will do all they can to help you continue your journey. They do so as an individual arrangement with no obligation or expectation.

If you are found to be missing kit at any point on the course or at a Checkpoint location, you will be subject to the penalties and procedures listed below without exception.

There are 30 items on the compulsory kit list, and they are all compulsory and to be carried at all times.

PENALTIES

All items of kit may incur a 1 hour Time Penalty for each item, at the discretion of Lindley the Equipment Manager.

You will not be allowed to leave a CP location until you have replaced that item regardless of the weather conditions, only the Equipment Manager can exercise any discretion. GPS devices are specifically noted on the next page as they have separate considerations.

Please note all time penalties will be applied when possible, to your time during the race but in some circumstances, this may be post-race, particularly if penalties are incurred in the latter stages of the event. A record of all-time penalties will be kept by HQ and the Kit Manager (Lindley – Lindley@thespinerace.com) and all decisions by the Kit Manager or the HQ team will be final. Time penalties are applied to your race time, you will not be held at any point unless your time penalty means you are now past the cutoff time for that location.

If you receive a time penalty or are held at a location whilst waiting for replacement kit and this means you are now past the cut off time for that CP location you will be considered to be timed out of the race and cannot continue.

Multiple Missing Items
If you are missing multiple items of kit at a kit check or are found to be missing multiple items of kit at checks along the route the race reserves the right to issue a warning or disqualify the competitor depending on the severity or frequency.

GPS DEVICE FAILURE or LOSS
GPS devices are compulsory on the event for safety reasons, in extreme weather conditions such as cold, wind and snow where navigation with map and compass is more challenging and harder to do safely and quickly. The kit list includes both GPS devices and map and compass to offer the best of both worlds and a level of redundancy to the system.

GPS devices are robust and reliable and rarely break or have issues, we have had less than 3 physically broken devices in the last 5 years. The biggest issue is user error with files not being loaded correctly or the user accidentally changing a setting or deleting a file making it no longer work properly.

However, if you have the unfortunate experience of a broken device or manage to drop it into a bottomless bog, we will follow the below procedure.

Lost/broken/failure on course or at a CP location

If the weather is good with good visibility you may be allowed to continue to the next CP location and will be more closely monitored. If you show signs that you are unable to demonstrate the ability to navigate well without the device and continually get lost, you may be stopped and not be allowed to continue for your own safety at the discretion of the Kit Manager/HQ team.

If the weather is poor and map reading would be more challenging, you may be stopped and not be allowed to continue for your own safety at the discretion of the Kit Manager/HQ team.

A missing GPS unit will incur the same 1-Hour time penalty, an obviously broken one will not but the above still applies.

Accidental loss vs deliberate

Over the years some competitors have chosen to leave kit behind or not carry compulsory items, thankfully this is a very rare occasion but it can cause serious safety concerns. The race reserves the right to disqualify any competitor who has been found to be deliberately carrying less than the compulsory kit list.

For any clarification on this kit list document please email lindley@thespinerace.com