Cheese rolling does not need much equipment. The main item is a real cheese wheel, and the rest is about safety and comfort. Organizers and participants both use specific gear to keep the event safe and fun.
Essential Equipment for Cheese Rolling Participants
What Type of Cheese Is Used in the Race
The race uses a traditional Double Gloucester cheese wheel. It’s made from hard cow’s milk cheese and weighs about 7 to 9 pounds. The wheel is often wrapped in wood or plastic to keep it from breaking as it rolls down the hill.
Clothing and Footwear Recommended for Runners
Participants wear comfortable sportswear and strong running shoes with good grip. Since the hill is steep and muddy, shoes with studs or cleats help maintain balance and prevent slipping.
Protective Gear to Reduce the Risk of Injury
Safety gear like knee pads, elbow pads, and helmets are useful. Some runners also wear padded clothing to protect their body from hard falls on Cooper’s Hill.
Safety Equipment for Cheese Rolling Events
Barriers and Fencing for Crowd Protection
Organizers set up temporary barriers and ropes to control the crowd. These prevent spectators from standing too close to the race path.
Medical and First Aid Supplies for Emergencies
Medical teams have first aid kits, stretchers, and ambulances ready. These ensure that any injured runner receives immediate care.
Communication Tools Used by Event Organizers
Event staff use radios and walkie-talkies to stay connected. This helps them manage the race and respond quickly to any issue.
Equipment Used by Organizers and Volunteers
Tools for Preparing and Inspecting Cooper’s Hill
Before the event, organizers check the hill with shovels, rakes, and stakes to smooth uneven ground and mark the start and finish points.
Markers and Flags to Define Race Boundaries
Flags and cones help define safe zones for runners and spectators. They also guide participants during the race.
Cheese Measuring and Launching Equipment
The cheese is checked for weight and size before the race. Sometimes a ramp or holder is used to release the cheese evenly down the hill.
Optional Gear for Participants and Spectators
Sports Gloves, Knee Pads, and Helmets for Extra Safety
Many runners prefer sports gloves for better grip and helmets for head protection. These reduce the chance of cuts or bruises during the fall.
Cameras and Recording Gear to Capture the Event
Spectators often bring cameras and phones to record the exciting moments. The rolling cheese and falling racers make great action shots.
Outdoor Clothing and Footwear for Spectators
Visitors wear warm jackets, waterproof boots, and hats to stay comfortable while watching in muddy or rainy weather.
Maintenance and Preparation of Cheese Rolling Equipment
How the Cheese Wheel Is Made and Maintained
Each wheel of Double Gloucester cheese is handmade. It’s checked before the race to ensure it’s strong and smooth enough to roll well without breaking apart.
Pre-Race Inspection of the Hill and Safety Gear
Organizers inspect the hill surface, barriers, and gear before the event starts. This ensures safety for runners and the audience.
Organizers’ Checklist Before the Race Begins
Before the countdown, staff confirm the cheese wheel, communication tools, medical support, and crowd barriers are ready. Once everything is clear, the race begins with excitement and cheers.
