HYROX gear

The right gear makes a noticeable difference in HYROX, because running and functional stations place different demands on shoes and clothing. This page gives guidance on shoes, clothing, gloves and your race-day packing list.

Shoes

HYROX alternates between running and strength stations such as sled push or wall balls. A classic, heavily cushioned running shoe is usually not ideal for this, as it loses stability during lateral movements and while pushing the sled. A flat, stable hybrid or training shoe with good ground contact and sufficient grip works better. Well-known models in this category include Nike Metcon, Reebok Nano and NOBULL Trainer, for example. Which model suits you best depends on individual foot shape and personal preference, so a test run before race day is always worthwhile.

Clothing

Close-fitting, sweat-wicking performance clothing that does not restrict or shift during movements such as lunges, sled push or burpees is recommended. Loose, baggy clothing can get in the way at stations such as sled pull or farmers carry. Many participants choose short, fitted running shorts or tights along with a close-fitting performance shirt or top.

Gloves

Whether and which gloves are allowed in HYROX can change from season to season and depends on the current rulebook. If you want to use gloves at stations such as sled pull or farmers carry, for example to protect your hands, check the official rulebook on hyrox.com before the race to see what is allowed for the current season.

What else is allowed

Beyond shoes and clothing, there are further equipment details, for example around wrist wraps, compression clothing or personal water bottles, which may be permitted or restricted depending on the rulebook. The same applies here: correct for season 2025/26, check the official rulebook on hyrox.com, since rules can change.

Race day packing list

• Suitable hybrid or training shoes, ideally already broken in
• Close-fitting performance clothing for running and the stations
• A change of clothes for after the race
• Towel
• Food and drink for before and after the race
• Gloves or wrist wraps if permitted under the current rulebook
• Registration documents or bib number, if sent in advance

Gear for training at home

If you are preparing for HYROX at home or in your own gym, some extra training equipment helps, such as resistance bands for the hip hinge on the SkiErg or grip trainers for farmers carry and sled pull. Owning your own rowing machine or SkiErg is useful but not essential, since many gyms and boxes are now well equipped with HYROX-relevant equipment.

Compression clothing

Some participants also use compression socks or sleeves, on the assumption that they support circulation or reduce injury risk. There is no solid evidence of a performance benefit, but many find compression clothing comfortable and stabilising during longer efforts. If you want to experiment with it, test it in training first rather than trying it for the first time on race day.

Gear you do not need

Not every piece of gear marketed for HYROX is necessary. Specialised sled gloves, expensive training suits or elaborate accessories can be nice to have, but are not decisive for a successful race. More important than owning lots of gear is that your shoes and clothing fit well, have already been tested in training, and do not cause unpleasant surprises on race day.

Getting used to your gear in training

Any new piece of gear, whether a new pair of shoes or new performance leggings, should be tested repeatedly in training before race day. Unfamiliar material can chafe, pinch or fit differently than expected, and such problems often only show up after sustained effort. Wearing new gear for the first time on race day is an unnecessary risk that is easily avoided with a bit of lead time.

Gear linked to your training

Which gear matters most at which station, for example grippy shoes for sled push or stable gloves for sled pull, is covered in detail on our page about the 8 HYROX stations. If you want to prepare specifically for your first race with the right gear, our 12-week training plan offers additional support.

Once your gear is sorted, check our race calendar for the right HYROX race for your first or next start.