Kit and Equipment 

To take part in Canicross there is a need for some Kit and Equipment, below you can read about some of the Kit and Equipment that the Canicross Trailrunners have used and can recomend, alongwith contact details of the suppliers.

Waistbelts. 

To take the strain of the dog on your body, you will need a belt to spread the load that the dog can apply to you whilst running.  There are several designs that you can utilise and these are essentially, a waistbelt and a waist/hip belt.  Both designs will have cushioning and a system of straps that will connect to the lead and distribute the load onto either the waist or hips.  Here comes the personal choice time, try different types of waistbelt to ensure that you find the one that is most comfortable for you.  Most of the waistbelts will have an element of elastic in the straps to absorb shock loads from the dogs. 

Lines/Leads - Bungee/Elastic.

An essential part of your canicrossing kit, without it your dog will be running free and your partner will be off in the distance.  Again many different designs and its finding the right design for your and your dog.  This Line should not be longer than 2 Metres, to comply with European Championship rules.  All lines will incorporate a bungee/Elastic section to ensure that neither you or your dog experience shock loads.

Harnesses

After recently consulting a Veterinarian, they stated that the cross or X-back harness was not suitable for canicross. Due to the higher attachment point on a runner compared to a sled, the stress induced by the lead was directly on to the dogs intercostal muscles in the stomach. The use of the cross back harness is suited to the dogs running with sleds as the pull is in line with the top-line of the dog.

Suppliers.

The list below is not an exhaustive list of suppliers, but it does cover the companies that we have used and they also provide an excellent service with straight forward advice.

KISI Canine Accessories - http://www.kisi.co.uk/

Custom made harnesses, waistbelts, lines, collars and dog gifts. Sindy, who owns Kisi, is happy to make canicross kit to your individual requirements. We have proudly developed all the trailrunners equipment in conjunction with Sindy, who has a wealth of experience and knowledge which she is happy to share. The Custom made belt, illustrated to the left, include a large pouch for keys, poo bags, etc, and also a water bottle pouch and bottle and collapsible water bowl.

The Snowpaw Store - High quality activity gear for the sled dog and pet dog market. Snowpaw Store brings you some of the best equipment from around the world to let you make the most of exercising and having fun with your dog. From Dog Scootering and Sledding, to Backpacking and Canicross

Culpeppers - http://www.culpeppers.co.uk/

Manufacturers of high quality dog wear for working, sled dog racing, special medical needs and pet dogs