In February, Team Injinji Athlete and ultrarunner Mike Wardian broke the world record for the fastest time in a race series of back-to-back 50ks via the World Marathon Challenge. 7 Races. 7 Days. And 7 Continents.
“I feel like I am meant to move through the world under my own power, challenging what I think is possible for myself. In the process, I hope to inspire people to do more than they think they can, and to test their limits and expectations of what is possible for them. Together, we can change the world.”
Mike has been running in Injinji toesocks for over 20 years, and he isn’t slowing down anytime soon. In 2026, Mike is setting his sights on the 2,650+ mile Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) - planning to “move fast” while still making time for side quests and soaking up time outside, doing what he feels is his calling. He is also planning to row across the Atlantic Ocean in 2027.
Mike is relying on his trusted gear to get him through every mile of what could be his biggest year yet. Here’s a look at his must-have trail running and ultrarunning gear, plus discover which books and music are inspiring him now.
Mike Wardian’s Trail and Ultrarunning Gear Recommendations
Written by Team Injinji Athlete Mike Wardian
Mike’s Go-To Running Socks: Injinji Ultra Run Mini-Crew
I have run in Injinji toesocks for over 20 years and have been an Injinji athlete for a majority of that time. Injinji toesocks make life better and easier. They limit friction, which means no blisters, and they promote individual toe space, which I believe helps me feel the roads and trails better, allowing me to be confident in each footfall.
Mike’s Go-To Running Shoes: Teva Aventrail R2T
I love the freedom of the Teva Aventrail R2t sandal; they allow me to run free, fast and without heat buildup or toe pressure.
Mike’s Go-To Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Z Trekking Poles
I am a huge believer in poles if the race or event allows them and is suitable for poles. Poles are a blessing for tired legs and are an amazing tool for helping you cover huge distances and reduce impact on your legs on the downhills and climb faster on the uphills. I also use poles for extra balance as they act as a safety net on wet or technical terrain.
Mike’s Go-To Running Vest: Nathan Pinnacle Pro 6L Vest
Snug but roomie, designed to carry but not limit you. I like this vest for big days out in the mountains and running around town with my dogs. It works and doesn't over-complicate things.
Mike’s Go-To Running Clothing: Bakline
I use all their products but here are the ones I can't live without:
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Ultra 5" Shorts V2 – cozy, but fast and functional.
Mike’s Go-To Nutrition: TBD!
I was a GU athlete for over 25 years so I am [now] getting more familiar with all the products out there. I am loving Tailwind, Skratch, Maurten Gels, Never Second, SIS, LMNT. I think I need a sponsorship with the Feed as I am finding some awesome products and they all work and a bit differently, so really fun to mess around with this part of my diet. I also have been trying to make my own sports drink. I recently did a solo 50K on my homemade sports drink and it didn't work and I bonked so hard at 23 miles....it was fun to claw my way out of that and I learned a lot...
Mike’s Go-To Headphones: Apple Airpods Pro
Some runners don't want the noise canceling feature, and you can turn it off, but I want to be super deep into whatever book, podcast or music I am listening to. These just work. I love stuff that is simple but effective. Airpods just do the thing they are supposed to do and do it well, and I appreciate that.
Mike’s Favorite Running Song: Thunderstruck by AC/DC
Always, once a day.
Mike’s Go-To Running Watch: Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro
I think this is a great watch; it does what it is supposed to do, is accurate, uploads well and has great battery life.
Mike’s Go-To First-Aid Kit:
I usually carry with me: KT Tape (works for everything and always sticks), emergency blanket, medicine, band-aids, small e-lyte for light, alcohol wipes and lube.
Mike’s Favorite Aid Station Snack:
Avocado and hummus but if it’s an old-school aid station, then peanut butter and jelly. As a vegan you get what you get, and you don't get upset...Wink...
Mike’s Go-To Accessories: Squirrels Nut Butter
Works every time, in all conditions.
Mike's Favorite Inspirational Book(s):
I have so many books I love but here are a few that I love and find inspiring, I love to read and each year, I read over 50 books..some years way more and other years less but I am always trying to gain knowledge and learn.
- Open by Andre Agassi. As an athlete it feels so authentic to my experience just in a different sport
- Enough: True Measures of Money, Business, and Life by John C. Bogle. Helps you figure out what enough is for you
- Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts. One of the best books I have ever read.
Mike's Trail Running Predictions for 2026:
More adventures, and less focus on races. I think people are enjoying having their own adventures. I love to race and line up with a group of like-minded athletes, but I also so enjoy just going out and doing cool things for the heck of it. I think more people are finding that, and I hope I can inspire them to continue to see just what they are capable of and to test their boundaries.
More Ultrarunner Gear Recommendations:
Wondering what must-have gear pieces other Team Injinji Athletes are relying on to power them through big miles and gritty races?
- Discover Courtney Dauwalter’s Must-Have Trail Running Gear Here
- Learn What Gear Ultrarunner Tara Dower Can’t Live Without
Whether you’re training for your first ultra or are a seasoned pro, Team Injinji hopes you’ll give Injinji running socks a try to prevent blisters and log long, healthy miles on your feet.
