Kepler Challenge kit list.
Sixty kilometres around the Kepler Track, with a 1,000m climb to Luxmore Hut and an exposed alpine ridge at 1,400m. This is Fiordland, an alpine environment only a stone's throw from the west coast. Expect four seasons in one day, with sideways winds, snowy mountain tops and beautiful sunshine at the end. Some years it's sunshine the whole way round, some years it's anything but. You just never know, and that's exactly why the mandatory kit is absolutely necessary. Here's everything you need, and what we'd pack.
What you must carry.
This is the Kepler Challenge list, and you carry all of it the whole way. On a fine day it feels like a lot. When the weather turns on the tops, you'll be glad of every layer.
Running the Luxmore Grunt?
The 27km out to Luxmore Hut and back. You need a seam-sealed waterproof jacket, a thermal hat, gloves, and your race number and transponder. The organisers recommend a thermal top and long johns too.
Bring a cup.
There are no disposable cups at the checkpoints. A soft cup weighs next to nothing and lives in your vest.
Our picks.
The list is compulsory. These make the day better.
A vest that fits it allTwo thermals, long johns and full waterproofs need room. 10 to 15 litres does it without bouncing.
Train with course fuelCheckpoints serve Pure electrolytes, with Clif Bars at five. We stock both.
Shoes for the descentThe drop to Iris Burn is long and steep. Come in for a fitting.
A soft cupNo disposable cups on course.
Pack it, then check it with us.
Bring your race kit into the shop in Wānaka and we'll go through it against the list with you, free, before you head to Te Anau for Friday registration. Ordering online? Orders before 1pm leave the same day, and NZ shipping is free over $200.
Compulsory gear as listed by the race organisers. Always check the official Kepler Challenge gear page before race day. Race photos of Luke: Photos4Sale.