Long-distance hikes and the Kennedymars

Long-distance hikes appeal to more and more people who want to push their physical and mental limits. However, worldwide there are only a few walking events where participants cover more than 80 kilometers per day. These kinds of extreme performances fall under what is often called an endurance walk or ultra walk. They are challenges mainly suitable for experienced walkers with good preparation and perseverance.

What is a Kennedymars?

One of the best-known forms of long-distance walking is the Kennedymars. This is a walk of 80 kilometers (50 miles) that must be completed within 20 hours. The origin of this challenge dates back to 1963, when John F. Kennedy wondered if American marines were capable of walking 50 miles. This idea grew into a worldwide phenomenon, and especially in the Netherlands, the Kennedymars has become a beloved tradition.

Participants can even earn honorary titles by repeated participation, such as:

• Kennedy Walker
• Super Kennedy Walker (after 10 marches)
• Master Kennedy Walker (after 15 marches)

However, the core of a Kennedymars always remains the same: a significant physical challenge where perseverance is central. Good preparation is essential. Walkers often train weeks or even months in advance by walking increasingly longer distances.

Famous long-distance walking events:

Kennedymars Sittard

This event, taking place on Saturday, April 4, 2026, is the oldest Kennedymars in the Netherlands. On April 20, 1963, a group of students from the Bisschoppelijk College in Sittard walked the first edition. This marked the birth of the Dutch Kennedymars.

Kennedymars Someren

Scheduled for July 4 and 5, 2026, this march is known as one of the most sociable and best-organized walking events in the Benelux. The event is accessible to young and old, with shorter distances alongside the 80 km, such as a family walk with children of 8 kilometers.

Dodentocht

The Dodentocht in Bornem (Belgium) is an impressive 100-kilometer walk within 24 hours. Since the first edition in 1970, with only 65 participants, the event has grown into one of the largest walking events in Europe. Thousands of walkers participate annually, thanks in part to the unique atmosphere and excellent care along the route.

Omloop van Goeree-Overflakkee

Better known as “the Flakkee walking tour,” this is one of the toughest walking events in the Netherlands. The walk starts at 7:00 PM and continues all night. Walkers move from village to village, through dunes and nature reserves, while also having to navigate in the dark.

The distance of 110 kilometers is rightly called the monster walk. The combination of long distance, fatigue, and disrupted sleep rhythm makes this walk very challenging both physically and mentally.

Whether it is a Kennedymars of 80 kilometers or an extreme walk of more than 100 kilometers: long-distance walks require discipline, preparation, and perseverance.

Kennedymars and Ultrawalks require good socks!

For long-distance walks, such as a Kennedymars, good footwear is essential. Many walkers use Lowa, Meindl, or Hanwag hiking boots for long-distance walks.  These hiking boot brands offer good support. Equally important are the right socks. Wrightsock is known as an excellent choice for walkers covering long distances.

What makes Wrightsock special is the double-layer system. This construction reduces friction between the skin and the shoe because the layers move against each other. This significantly reduces the chance of blisters, which makes a big difference especially at distances of 80 kilometers or more.

Besides blister prevention, moisture regulation plays a crucial role. During long walks, your feet produce a lot of sweat. Wrightsocks are designed to effectively wick away this moisture, keeping your feet drier. Dry feet are not only more comfortable but also less prone to irritation and skin problems.

Additionally, the breathable materials ensure a stable foot climate regardless of conditions. Whether you walk at night, in rainy weather, or in warm temperatures. Good ventilation helps prevent overheating and skin maceration.

For walkers participating in long-distance events or Kennedymars, Wrightsocks offer a combination of comfort, protection, and durability. This makes them a reliable partner for every serious walking challenge.

Walkers with lighter hiking or trail shoes

We recommend the Merino Coolmesh II Crew or the Merino Coolmesh II Quarter for walkers using lighter hiking or trail shoes. These socks are thinner and ventilate extremely well, making them very suitable for higher temperatures. 

Ultra walkers who wear sturdy shoes

For the Ultra walker who wears sturdy shoes, Wrightsock recommends the Escape Crew or Merino Escape Crew: These are often category A or A/B and breathe less than a trail shoe. Therefore, it is better to use a slightly thicker sock. One for comfort, two to gradually wick away sweat.

Military personnel who walk Kennedymarsen

For the military among us who walk Kennedymarsen, we recommend the Adventure Crew. Specifically because military boots are often made of thicker cowhide leather for stability. Wrightsock’s Adventure socks are slightly thicker and longer.