The support of some incredible companies allows me to continue pushing my limits and pursuing my passions in ultrarunning. These aren’t just companies that give me a discount or some free gear; these are companies that I’ve come to count on for their high quality products and outstanding service. Honestly, none of them compensate me enough to use something that I don’t think is the best option for me.
I do get a small commission if you use the Ultimate Direction or La Sportiva links, so if you’re looking for something from either of them I’d really appreciate if you could use the links. It might at least help cover some of the hosting costs of the blog.
Main Partners
 After having other shoes literally fall apart on me at Barkley, I decided to give La Sportiva a try in 2017. They’re now all I use for any off-road running. The durability, grip, and comfort are incredible, and their lineup has something to meet the unique demands of any of the variety of conditions I run in. |  I’ve relied on Ultimate Direction packs since my first Barkley Marathons in 2015. They’re lightweight and comfortable, even for 60 hours of running, and have convenient, easily accessible storage for food, hydration, and anything else I need. |
 Real, solid food is necessary for most things I do, but that can’t be at the expense of getting the fast-burning calories and electrolytes I need. Tailwind ensures I get a nice steady stream of both, in the right amount, at the right rate, and without any extra stuff or unknowns that could cause GI problems for me. |  I first tried XOSKIN when they were just getting started, and couldn’t have been happier I did: no chafing, blisters, or things coming out of place, and comfortable in a pretty incredible range of temperatures. Use promo code ‘jkelly’ for 20% off on their site. |
Other Support
 Alright, so Envelop Risk isn’t really a sponsor, but my job has been extremely supportive of my athletic endeavors. The schedule flexibility and opportunity to run commute and work remotely at times has been a tremendous contribution towards my goals. |  I tried Petzl because of the great things I heard about the effectiveness of their lights. Then I was sold by the light weight and the rechargeable batteries (saving money and the environment = win). |
 The longer my adventures have become, the more that I’ve needed real food to fuel them. Supernatural Fuel creates pouches with whole food blends geared towards endurance sports, a reliable foundation for the food I take in on a multiday challenge. And they recycle the pouches. |  I was originally intrigued by COROS due to their extremely long battery life. They also have a great interface with just the right set of features for the kind of multi-day adventures I go on, and take athlete feedback seriously. |
 The environmental cost of making a t-shirt is surprisingly huge. Some race t-shirts are prized possessions. Others, we never wear. Trees Not Tees allows race participants to choose to plant trees instead, or individuals can plant a tree or give one as a gift for just £5. Use code Randomforest10 for 10% off (or don’t, because it’s for a good cause anyway 😉). |  The Green Runners is a “A running community making changes for a fitter planet.” I joined in 2024 to support and bring about collective action for a better future. |
Previous relationships that are mentioned in earlier posts include Hammer Nutrition, Georgetown Sports Massage, Chopt, and The Bicycle Place in Silver Spring, MD. I was also on Team Every Man Jack, a triathlon team with sponsors that included Felt, ENVE, Garmin, Roka, Lululemon, and Louis Garneau (and of course, Every Man Jack).