Gear Guide: What I Used to Train for and Finish My First 50K

At The Yellow Post, we don’t just sell outdoor gear—we live it.

When we opened our brick-and-mortar store in Big Bear, our mission was simple: curate the best brands and gear we actually use on the trails, in training, and during race day. This guide isn’t filled with random recommendations or sponsored placements. Every product listed below helped me train for and finish my first ultramarathon: a 50K trail race that demanded reliable, high-performance gear.

These are the real-world-tested products that got me to the finish line.

🥾 Trail Running Shoes

Topo MTN Racer

Did 90% of my training in these. Super stable and responsive on technical terrain. The latest version (MTN Racer 4) keeps everything I loved and adds even more comfort.

Hoka Mafate X

What I wore on race day. Cushioned but aggressive enough to bomb steep descents and pass other racers. The plated super shoe feel made me feel like Superman. Mafate 4 is also a great option.

⌚ GPS Watch

Tracking training, racing, and sharing workouts was essential.

Suunto Vertical Solar

My training and race watch. Full-featured and great-looking for daily wear.

Suunto Run

If you want a dedicated, lighter and more affordable running watch.

Coros Apex 2 Pro

Another solid option, also available at The Yellow Post.

🧦 Socks

Feetures

Ergonomic left/right fit. Thin version is my go-to. They are such high quality that I can wear then a few times without washing them. Here’s my favorite crew length, lightweight pick:

Injinji Trail Midweight

Most popular sock on the PCT. Big Bear hikers swear by them. These are the “toe socks” you’ve heard so much about.

💧 Hydration Pack

Ultraspire Spry 3.0

Light, breathable, and carried everything I needed. Essential on longer training runs and race day.

Accessories

🧢 Apparel & Hats

Sprints

Fun running hats and apparel.

🕶️ Sunglasses

Tifosi Swick

Affordable, everyday sunglasses with a snug but comfy fit.

Method Seven

Premium, ultra-light trail sunglasses with aviation roots. Use code TYP10 for a discount.

🍔 Nutrition

Tailwind Endurance Fuel

"All you really need, really." My 50K fuel. This simplifies training and racing fuel soooo much!

Tailwind Recovery

For post-run recovery.

Untapped Nutrition

Maple-based real food.

Primus Fuel

Raw honey + solar salt = cleanest energy. (Not affiliate, but a friend.)

Friendly Note About Affiliate Links

If you don’t live in or visit Big Bear, CA, we created this page for you. These affiliate links allow you to support a local outdoor store committed to bringing you the best gear we use ourselves. Some links on this page may earn us a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting The Yellow Post and our mission to fuel your mountain adventures.

Need help picking gear? Come visit us at The Yellow Post in Big Bear or reach out directly. We’re always happy to share our experiences and help you find what works for your next adventure.