Textile trail during Black Friday

The waterproof jacket in the mandatory gear

On mountain ultras, the waterproof jacket is almost always part of the mandatory gear, and the requirements are specific. The UTMB, for instance, requires an integrated hood, sealed seams, and a membrane of at least ten thousand Schmerber, the unit that measures in millimeters the column of water supported by the fabric. The waterproof jacket Lhotse, lightweight, fits into a pocket of the bag, and the windbreaker adidas Climaproof Terrex Xperior protects against gusts on the ridges. Before signing up, one should compare the specs of their jacket with the race regulations: a simple water-repellent windbreaker won’t pass the check at the start.

Footwear

Trail at Black Friday is also available:

• Shoes for all terrains.

All trail gear can be found on the trail page.

Trail shorts: pockets, length and integrated compression shorts

A trail short must carry the essentials when running without a bag: gel, phone, rolled-up windbreaker. The Joma R-Combi adds a rear pocket, the Patagonia Strider Pro features pockets around its elastic waistband, and the two-in-one versions of the Brooks Cascadia and Dynafit Alpine Pro integrate compression shorts that eliminate chafing between the thighs over long distances. The length affects freedom of movement: the Strider Pro, short and ultralight, clears the knees on steep climbs, while the La Sportiva Pure short, a bit longer, offers more coverage for the thighs.

Breathable tops for climbs and ridges

In trail running, the body moves from overheating on a climb to the cold wind on a ridge in a matter of minutes. The top must quickly wick away moisture to avoid cooling at the summit. The Dynafit Alpine and Sky tops, from a brand specialized in ski touring, use lightweight fabrics and slim cuts that don’t chafe under the straps. The adidas Terrex Xperior t-shirt, made from Climacool fabric, and the Brooks High Point ventilate the back. The tank top Dynafit Sky exposes the shoulders in warm weather, and the Terrex Xperior pants take over from bare legs when the thermometer drops.

Gloves and layering for winter trail

The gloves Leki Ultra Trail Breeze, lightweight and breathable, protect hands from the morning cold and the chafing of the handles. They clip directly onto the handles of Leki poles thanks to the brand’s system, which allows you to let go of the handles without losing your poles. In winter, you layer a long-sleeve top, a windbreaker, and if needed, the waterproof jacket, adjusting the zips according to the climbs and descents. The hooded windbreaker adidas XPR Light, highly compressible, is pulled out at the top of a pass and stored away as soon as the descent begins.

Frequently asked questions

What warm layer should you take on an ultra?

The regulations often require a long-sleeve top or an additional warm layer, in addition to the jacket. A lightweight technical top and a windbreaker layered together are usually sufficient, provided you stay dry under the jacket.

How to avoid chafing under the hydration pack?

Wear a snug top with flat seams that doesn’t create folds under the straps. Adjust the bag so it doesn’t bounce, and apply an anti-chafing cream on the shoulders and lower back before a long outing.

Do you need long trousers to run in the mountains?

In severe cold or on high-altitude ultras, long trousers or tights are often required. A lightweight and flexible model, like the adidas Terrex Xperior pants, protects against the wind without hindering your stride and can be stowed away when temperatures rise.

How to care for a waterproof trail jacket?

Wash it at thirty degrees with a gentle liquid detergent, without fabric softener, which clogs the membrane. When water no longer beads on the surface, a tumble dry on low or a water-repellent spray refreshes the outer treatment.

What size should you choose for trail clothing?

Tops and shorts should fit snugly to prevent the fabric from flapping and chafing: stick to your usual size. A rain jacket, however, should allow for a warm layer underneath without restricting the arms.