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There are many things to consider when prepping for a marathon. Whats the weather going to be like? Do I need new shoes? I hope I did the right amount of training.

Many of those things dont matter much only a week out but there are some things that you should make sure to take into consideration.

SHOES

Although you dont want to be switching shoes the day before or day of your marathon, you want to make sure your shoes are ready to take you 26.2 miles. Pay attention to the wear upon the rubber and bottom of your shoe. If the rubber is gone or almost gone then you should look at finding a new pair of shoes for you and your feets sake.

There is also the option of having a specific shoe just for race day. Many brands have their respective carbon plated super shoe but how to find which one will work the best for you. The best way is to try them on first. The better the shoe fits, the less likely youll have black and blue toenails when all is said and done. See our latest blog article What even is a super shoe? to learn more.

And once you are done, be sure to have a comfortable shoe, usually a sandal, you can simply slide on afterwards. Youre feet will appreciate the relief.

SOCKS

I know, I know, its just a pair of socks. Theyre not going to make much of a difference to my performance or how I feel afterwards.

Well, I dont feel like hesitating to say this so I wont, but youre wrong. Im going to list a few things here and I want you to raise your hand if any have ever happened to you, ahem: heel of sock falling down, rubbing of the shoe around ankle, blisters on foot, blisters between toes, bruised toenails, losing toenails, sore spots, hot feet, itchy feet, floppy toes in socks, sock bunching. I could go on but I wont because I know for certain that everyone has raised their hands by now.

Why do these things happen? Well for starters, there is a high chance that its your socks to blame.

Many sock brands that sell athletic socks dont take into account the vast differences between sports and what individuals in those sports actually need. For example, runners will be on their feet for hours most of the time pounding on hard surfaces and working up a lot of sweat. So there are specific qualities in socks you should look for such as: moisture wicking, foot shaped socks (left to right specific), thickness preference, sock material, running specific socks, and size range differences.

NUTRITION/HYDRATION

Nutrition and hydration are key to getting you across the finish line. If you want to follow any of these suggestions, follow this one. Nutrition is energy supplements you can take before, during, or after a workout or race. When doing longer races like a marathon you should take nutrition with you to keep your energy up for the whole of the race. There are many different brands of nutrition and different forms. There are gels, gummies, wafers, bars, and drink mixes. The most important part of nutrition is finding which works best for you. You dont want gut rot 15 miles in just because the nutrition doesnt work for you. Instead, test multiple brands and types out before race day. That way youll be more than ready.

Hydration is also important. Be sure to either take a bottle or pack with you or stop at water stops when needed throughout the race to keep yourself hydrated.

APPAREL

Wait! But what will I wear?!

Apparel is a tough one. Many night-befores have runners been stuck on what to wear. The weather has a lot to play into it. For heat, you will want apparel with the most moisture wicking and anti-chafing qualities possible. In cooler weather, you want to stay warm and dry. Since its still summer, lets focus on warm weather apparel.

When it comes to clothing for a race, keep it light. As for styles, a lot of that depends on the person. Some people have no problem with running in short-shorts. Others need or prefer more protection with longer inseams, such as longer shorts or short tights, the best way to dissuade chafing. For tops, again, fabric that is smooth and lightweight will give you the best comfort. And pockets! The more pockets you have for your marathon the better. Theres lots of options out there for apparel, just find what is comfortable for you and be sure to try it out beforehand.

BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS

Whatever you choose to do for race day, dont go into it without knowing that your shoes, socks, nutrition, and apparel work. Test them out before race day so that you can step up to that start line knowing success is at your finger tips, or more like feet tips.