Gear guide for racing in Lanzarote

Racing in Lanzarote does not mean carrying more gear than usual, but it does mean choosing it carefully. The island combines strong sun, shifting wind, exposed roads, lava fields, dry trails and open water that can feel very different from one day to the next.

This guide is for athletes racing triathlon, trail running, cycling or open-water swimming who want a useful, realistic kit list without unnecessary extras.

First priority: sun and wind protection

The common mistake is to think only about temperature. In Lanzarote, exposure is often the real load. For long races or events lasting several hours, pack:

• Sports sunglasses with a secure fit.
• Cap, visor or light headband for the run.
• Sweat-resistant and water-resistant sunscreen.
• Lip balm with protection.
• Light arm sleeves or coverage if you are sensitive to sun.

Wind also matters. On the bike, avoid racing deep wheels for the first time if you have not tested how you handle crosswinds. On trail, a very light wind layer can be more useful than a heavy thermal layer.

Triathlon: do not improvise the essentials

For races such as IRONMAN Lanzarote, Volcano Triathlon or Ocean Lava, your gear should be tested before travelling. Pay special attention to:

• Wetsuit if allowed or required by water temperature.
• Main goggles and a spare pair.
• A tri suit that remains comfortable for several hours.
• Race belt.
• Basic bike repair kit.
• Enough bottles and a nutrition setup you have used before.
• Running shoes that work after the bike.

Do not race with a new saddle, new shoes, new extensions or a new nutrition plan. In Lanzarote, small mistakes can grow quickly because of wind and time exposed.

Trail and running: grip before aggression

Events such as Tinajo You Trail, Vertical Montaña Blanca, Wine Run or Haría Extreme can mix track, dry trail, loose stone and volcanic ground. Your shoe should give stability and confidence.

Look for:

• Enough grip for dry dirt and rock.
• Durable upper if there is contact with lava or gravel.
• Technical socks to reduce blister risk.
• A light belt or vest if the distance requires it.
• Reusable cup if required by the rules.

For short races, do not carry a full mountain kit unless the organiser asks for it. For longer distances, prioritise water, salts, sun protection and a light wind layer.

Open water: comfort and safety

For events such as Sailfish Lanzarote Open Water, the goal is to arrive with equipment that does not create doubt:

• Goggles suitable for bright light.
• Official race cap if provided, plus your own cap for warm-up.
• Tested wetsuit if you choose to wear one.
• Anti-chafe product.
• Towel and dry clothes for afterwards.

If you are not used to the Atlantic, practise sighting, bilateral breathing and beach starts or exits. Gear helps, but calm in open water is built before race day.

What to leave out

Avoid packing accessories just because they might help if you have not tested them. A simple, familiar setup beats a bag full of new solutions. Be especially careful with:

• Gels or salts you have never used.
• Brand-new shoes.
• Untested wetsuit.
• Wheels or gearing you do not control in wind.
• Oversized packs for short races.

Final checklist

One week before race day, separate your gear by discipline and check it against the event regulations. Three days out, stop changing important items. The day before, keep the setup simple and familiar.

In Lanzarote, racing well begins with respecting the island: sun, wind, terrain and sea. The best gear is the gear that lets you think less about what you are carrying and more about how you manage the race.