Your Marathon Check-List
So which marathon have you been gearing up for all summer? Twin Cities Marathon? Maybe Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon? How about the big one – The Chicago Marathon?
Either way, start thinking about what you need NOW. Plan ahead – that way you ensure you won’t miss anything! Gather everything up a few days before and get it ready for the big day!
Shoes, Socks & Superfeet
We hope you’ve found your magic combination of shoes, Superfeet and socks with one of our fitters. These are your MOST IMPORTANT items for race day – that is why they are first on our list.
Shirt, Shorts (& Sports Bra)
Our favorite suggestions this season include items from our friends at Brooks. Find the shorts, top and sports bra combo that works for you. Remember – don’t try anything new on race day! Don’t forget warm-up clothes – like a jacket and a loose fitting pant!
Brooks Women’s Go-To Tank, Racey 7″ Short and Moving Comfort Rebound Racer Bra.
Brooks Men’s Distance Short Sleeve & Sherpa 7″ Short.
Running Watch
Though running through downtown Chicago can sometimes cause GPS devices to go awry, they can still help you keep track of your time and mileage throughout your marathon. We are loving the new Garmin 25.
Sunglasses
Tifosi Sunglasses are on the top of our list for eye protection for race day. Though you may have shade while running through the buildings, when the sun comes out here in Chicago it will reflect off the lake and buildings and can be blinding! Be prepared!
Nutrition
What have you been training with all season? Use that for race day.
Don’t make any changes on race day. Do what you’ve done the entire time.
Hydration System
Though there are aid stations approximately every 1.5 miles on the Chicago Marathon course, there may be times when you want water ASAP. Carry a handheld waterbottle or hydration belt if you want. This is especially helpful when you want to mix in your own Nuun or SKRATCH.
Hat or Visor
Depending on the forecast for your race, it isn’t a bad idea to pack a hat or visor in your race bag. Hats and Visors are great to protect your face from sun, but rain, too!
Anti-Chafe Balm
Don’t forget it. Seriously. Put this balm ANYWHERE you think you may chafe: legs, feet, waistband, bra, arms – wherever! Just don’t chafe – you’ll be so sad when it starts!
Compression Socks or KT Tape
Some of us may have a nagging injury or just want to increase circulation during our marathon. We recommend compression socks or even KT tape, depending on the injury. See at FIT expert at any of our stores to see what would be the best choice for you. Also, our CEP Compression Line is Buy 2, Get 1 Free this month – SOCKTOBER!
FlipBelt
If you don’t own one…buy one. Both men and women that have discovered the amazing-ness of the FlipBelt won’t go back to anything else. This belt will carry phone, keys and enough nutrition for 26.2. Nine colors available. ProTip: Pin your race bib to the FlipBelt = no holes in your shirt!
Sweaty Bands
Is a hat or visor not your thing? We love Sweaty Bands – invest in a Chicago flag version for the big day!
Post-Race Outfit & Footwear
We recommend lifestyle wear for after the race – something from Lucy for the ladies and something from Nike’s lifestyle collection works well on the guys’ side! For your feet? Slide on a pair of Oofos sandals – your feet will thank you as you walk your way to brunch.
Medal Engraving
Get your Chicago Marathon medal engraved at one of our stores on Recovery Monday (10am – 7pm) or Recovery Tuesday (10am-7pm):
Fleet Feet Sports – Lincoln Square (4762 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625)
Fleet Feet Sports – South Loop (1145 S Delano Ct East, Chicago, IL 60605)
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