OCR Race Gear Guide - what should you wear?
An OCR race demands more than just your fitness and strength – it also requires the right equipment. Your clothing and footwear must be able to withstand mud, water, wear and tear, and sudden movements, without hindering you.
1. Functional running apparel
The most important thing is that your clothing is tight-fitting, breathable, and quick-drying. Loose-fitting cotton clothes become heavy and irritating when wet. Instead, choose technical training apparel designed for movement and high intensity.
- See the full running apparel collection
- Training tops – perfect for mud and sweat
- Training shorts with maximum mobility
2. Tights for men
OCR involves a lot of crawling and climbing, and this is where tights really shine. They protect your legs from scrapes and make it easier to glide through obstacles. Wear them alone or under shorts.
3. Layer-on-layer if it's cold
If you're running OCR in cold weather, add a light base layer or a long-sleeved training top. Always choose materials that are sweat-wicking and quick-drying – even closest to your skin.
Here, sweatshirts can be a good idea.
4. Trail and grip shoes
OCR shoes should give you good grip on muddy, slippery, and uneven surfaces. Many use trail shoes with deep lugs and quick-drying material. Heavy boots are not necessary – flexibility and grip are most important.
5. Gloves (optional)
Some OCR participants choose to wear gloves for better grip on obstacles. Others prefer the raw contact with the rope, as it provides better feel. Test it out during training before the race.
6. Avoid cotton – always
Cotton absorbs water and becomes heavy. It dries slowly and makes you cold, especially if you have to crawl in water or mud. Always go for synthetic or technical materials.
Find your OCR outfit at Barsk
At Barsk, you'll find a wide selection of clothing for functional training and OCR races. Whether you prefer tight-fitting tights, flexible shorts, or technical training tops, you'll find it here:
Want to get started with OCR?
Then read our other guides and get prepared – both mentally and physically:
Conclusion
The right clothing makes a huge difference when going through an OCR race. Prioritize freedom of movement, quick-drying materials, and good comfort – and you'll be well on your way through the mud!
