HOW TO PULL A FAST ONE

Three key considerations for a successful fastpacking adventure

SAFETY FIRST

Outdoor know-how is key in fastpacking. On multi-day run trips it’s critical to have the experience and knowledge to keep yourself safe in the terrain you’re traversing. This gives hill walkers and runners an advantage over road runners. If you’re not skilled enough to hike a route, don’t fastpack it, since running increases accident risks. That said, some argue that going lighter and faster allows you to remove yourself from risk – such as poor mountain weather – more quickly. This depends on experience and you should never compromise on safety when making kit choices.

WEIGH TO GO

The weight of your pack is the most crucial factor for enjoyable fastpacking. Aim for a total pack weight of 3-8kg. Anything above 10kg will be difficult to run with, compromise your experience and increase your injury risk. Modern ultra-light gear helps here, but you must also be ruthless about what you take with you – and what you decide you can do without. Some even cut the straps off their packs and the handles off their toothbrushes to reduce weight. Always balance shedding weight with ensuring you have the right gear for the terrain and the predicted weather.

A WORD ABOUT WALKING…

Fastpacking is like ultrarunning in that you’ll do a lot more walking than on a typical long run. This is due to the extra weight on your back and the fact that you’re on the go for several days. Most fastpackers walk the hills and run the flats and downhills (unless the terrain is very technical). This allows you to go further, or perhaps finish earlier in the day when compared to hikers. Like ultrarunners, fastpackers often use running poles, which are generally lighter than trekking poles and designed to be easily folded away and carried.