What I Packed to Run 80 Miles Across the Italian Apennine Mountains
As summer approaches, adventurers are gearing up for their next challenge. For one writer, that meant running 80 miles across the Italian Apennine Mountains with a carefully curated pack.
As summer approaches, we're itching to hit the trails and test our limits. For me, that meant tackling the Via Degli Day, an 80-mile trail run across the Italian Apennine Mountains from Florence to Bologna. It's a journey that requires meticulous planning, and I'm always on the lookout for the right gear to get me from point A to point B.
My experience with long-distance running isn't new; in 2015, I completed the Marathon Des Sables, a grueling race across the Sahara Desert where competitors wear everything they need to survive on their backs. Since then, I've taken on numerous running adventures, including a 100-mile lap around Italy's Lake Garda and a 184-mile run along the length of the River Thames. My most recent feat was running Europe's Danube River from sea to source, covering 1,830 miles across eight countries in 67 days.
When it comes to packing for a long run, I've learned to prioritize the essentials. For the Via Degli Day, I relied on the Diadora Nucleo 2 GR gravel running shoes ($170). These shoes proved to be a great all-around choice, handling everything from road to light off-road trails.
The soft cushioning, shallower lugs, and wider base worked well on harder-packed terrain, while the roomy toe box provided blister-free comfort. Although they struggled with precision and stability on technical descents, the grip was surprisingly effective. In addition to my trusty shoes, I also put several sports watches through their paces.
The Garmin Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Fenix 8 Pro 51 mm AMOLED were all tested, with the Fenix 8 Pro standing out as the top performer. Its GPS staying power, reliable mapping, and best-in-class routing made it an invaluable tool for multi-day adventures. While it's expensive, the Fenix 8 Pro offers peace of mind with its back-up satellite safety tools, including SOS Emergency and live tracking.
Music and communication can be a huge morale boost during long runs. That's why I always pack workout headphones, such as the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 ($140) bone conduction headphones or open-ear styles like the Shokz OpenDots ($160). These headphones allow me to stay connected with the world around me while also enjoying my favorite tunes or catching up with loved ones.
As I look back on my experience running across the Italian Apennine Mountains, I'm reminded that it's the little things – a good pair of shoes, a reliable watch, and some great music – that can make all the difference in pushing through the tough moments.
Source: Wired