Wild&Co Updates Race Rules and Mandatory Gear to Reflect Australian Conditions, Modern Equipment, and Team-Based Racing

Wild&Co has announced updates to its Race Rules and Mandatory Gear requirements ahead of the upcoming season, aligning safety standards with uniquely Australian conditions, the evolution of modern outdoor equipment, and the team-based spirit of adventure racing.

From remote bushland to exposed waterways, Wild&Co events are shaped by the realities of racing in Australia — and the updated requirements reflect that.

“These changes are about staying current with both the environment we race in and the way people actually experience our events,” said the Wild&Co team. “We want races to be safe, competitive, and genuinely enjoyable as a team experience.”

What’s changed

  • Strobe lights now required on kayak legs
    Ensuring an instantly accessible emergency light in low visibility or incident scenarios on water.

  • Snake bite bandages added to the mandatory gear list
    Reflecting real risks in Australian bush environments.

  • Gear expectations updated to reflect modern equipment
    Advances in lightweight performance gear — including technical insulation systems and lighter emergency shelters — have informed more practical and relevant requirements.

  • Refined rules to better support team-based racing
    Updates are designed to reduce friction for teams and keep racers engaged, even when plans change.

    For example, if a teammate withdraws and a racer joins another team, that team can still remain ranked — helping keep individuals involved and teams on the start line.

Why it matters

Adventure racing continues to evolve — not just in speed and performance, but in how people participate.

These updates ensure:

  • Safety standards match Australian conditions

  • Gear requirements reflect current technology

  • The racing experience remains accessible, enjoyable, and team-focused

  • Competitive teams can still race hard at the front

The result is a race environment that balances performance with participation — where first-time teams and experienced racers can line up on the same start line and have a great experience.

What racers should do next

All teams should review the updated Race Rules and Mandatory Gear lists before their next event here:

With entries open across the Wild&Co calendar, now is the time to prepare, commit, and build your team for the season ahead.

For full details and event entries, visit the Wild&Co website: