Running Tips
The Ultimate Runner's Guide to the UTMB Race
UTMB Mandatory Gear List
By Grace
Last Updated Sep 17, 2025
• 7 min read
Considered one of the most difficult foot races in the world, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is an ultra-marathon race that circumnavigates Mont Blanc, starting and ending in Chamonix, France. This unbelievable test of will and determination covers 106 miles (170 km) and climbs over 32,000 feet of total elevation gain as runners circle the highest peak in Western Europe. With unpredictable elements and demanding terrain, the standard drop-out rate for contestants during the race is around 30-40%.
Not only do runners need the courage and physical ability to race in the infamous Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, but participants also need to follow a very extensive and mandatory gear list that all contestants must follow. The competition's strict regulations require that all contestants receive an obligatory gear check before the race. Additionally, runners can be stopped at any time during the race to verify that they are carrying the required items on the mandatory equipment list.
Basic Apparel Requirements
When push comes to shove, a runner's apparel is as important as a football player's helmet when up against the unforgiving Mont-Blanc trails. With a wide range of weather conditions that runners can experience during the race, from freezing temps to extreme heat, it is vital that runners carry the required equipment below to stay safe throughout the arduous course and avoid life-threatening conditions such as hypothermia or heat stroke.
Waterproof Jacket and Waterproof Pants
Given the dramatic elevation changes and overall variable weather one can encounter throughout the UTMB, runners must carry a jacket. Specifically, this jacket must have a waterproof, breathable membrane with sealed seams and a hood. Runners are also required to have waterproof pants. These garments are crucially important for keeping runners dry and, more importantly, warm throughout the entire race and can be the difference between finishing or needing to drop out early.
Long Pant or Racing Tight
To reiterate, possessing apparel that can protect runners from cold conditions is extremely important. For further protection from unforgiving conditions, the rules state that the runner's legs must be able to be covered completely. In meeting this requirement, many runners wear long race tights, though long socks with capri-length tights are also a permitted apparel combination for the UTMB.
Additional Warm Layer
Since the UTMB course exposes runners to over 32,000 feet of elevation change and many runners race through the night, officials require runners to have an additional warm layer of protection from the cruel conditions. At the runner's discretion, this warm layer may be a second layer, a long-sleeved top with a minimum of 180 g, or a long-sleeved baselayer (minimum weight 110 g) with a windbreaker on top. All cotton fabrics hold onto moisture and are forbidden.
Basic Clothing Accessory Requirements
Along with basic apparel requirements, there are a few accessories that runners are required to carry to help them complete the UTMB. These additions may seem small, but they can have a big impact on the success of your race.
Hats or Beanie
At the UTMB, a good hat or beanie isn’t just a style choice — it’s essential gear. Whether you’re out in the sun or pushing through colder conditions, headwear helps regulate your body temperature and keeps you comfortable. A beanie is great for when the weather turns out to be colder, and a dedicated hat keeps your head protected from harsh UV rays and helps wick away sweat from your head! Think of it as a small item that makes a big impact on your performance and overall experience.
Bandana or Neck Gaiters
When you need more coverage for your neck and face, grab a bandana, balaclava, or neck gaiter! These running accessories help shield your face from the sun or provide warmth for your face to help keep you focused on the course. In addition, they can even double as a quick sweat wipe. Lightweight but super useful, it’s a small accessory that pulls big duty in keeping you comfortable and prepared.
Gloves
Cold hands can be an early sign of dropping internal body temperatures, not to mention an uncomfortable distraction while running for extended durations. For this reason, runners are required to carry warm, waterproof gloves or mittens with them.
Essential Equipment and Gear
In addition to apparel items, there is required gear and equipment that all runners must carry to run the UTMB. Race officials may mandate these pieces of hardware, and runners will undoubtedly appreciate having these essentials on hand.
Lighting
Each runner must carry two different headlamps or flashlights at all times and must have spare batteries for each. The race officials recommend that the primary light has a brightness of 200 lumens or more, providing enhanced visibility during nighttime sections of the course.
Packs
UTMB participants are required to use a pack or belt to hold all of their mandatory equipment. It is important to choose a pack that fits properly and will be comfortable while traversing long distances. Again, this pack must be able to hold all other required gear, so test things out before race day, ensuring optimal functionality and convenience throughout the event.
Hydration and Nutrition
It is important that you stay hydrated and fueled on the course. Runners are required to carry 1 liter minimum of water. This can be stored in whatever vessel the runner chooses, whether bladder or bottle. Aslo each runner must bring their own cup to use at aid stations for additional water or other needs. This cup must be at least 150 ml in volume and cannot have a lid. In case of emergency, it is recommended that runners carry at least 800 kcal worth of nutrition which would be about two gels plus two bars.
Safety Items
If you are an avid trail runner, you know how unpredictable and potentially dangerous grueling weather conditions can be, especially in geographically remote locations. To help ensure safety throughout the race, all runners are required to carry a few essential accessories on their person. For injuries, you will need a self-adhesive elasticated bandage (minimum size 100 cm x 6 cm) and a survival blanket measuring at least 1.4 m by 2 m. If emergency services need to find you, it's required that you have an emergency whistle, valid identification (passport or ID card), and a mobile phone that remains switched on at all times with international roaming enabled.
Weather-Related Gear Requirements
The basic apparel requirements listed above must be adhered to at all times, but there are also weather-dependent requirements that all race participants must be ready and equipped for. To further prepare runners for any weather that the Alps can throw at them, these additional gear can be in response to hot or cold weather.
Hot-Weather Gear
When the weather is hot, race officials may deem any of these items as required:
- Sunglasses (can also double as protective eyewear in cold weather)
- Sun hats or neck gaiters, any combination which completely covers the head and nape of the neck.
- Sunscreen - recommended minimum 50 SPF
- Supply of water - 2 liters minimum
Cold-Weather Gear
On the other side of the spectrum, in cold weather conditions, race officials may deem any of these items as required.
- Protective eyewear like goggles or sunglasses
- Third warm layer - This is a jacket or fleece to go between the second layer and the waterproof jacket.
- Robust and closed trail-running shoes (minimalist or ultralight shoes excluded)
- Recommended - Fleece or compressible down jacket
Get Yourself Ready
After purchasing all your gear and clothing, it is important to get your body ready for the race! Building a strong running base with gradually increasing weekly mileage and back-to-back long runs will help you establish a firm foundation. Training specifically for trail terrain, hills, and technical descents, you can be sure to find during the race. Get to know how your body reacts to your race-day nutrition and hydration. Train your mind and get proper sleep to be at your sharpest. At the end of the day, no matter how much gear you have, the final factor comes down to you! Take care of your body before and after the race, and remember to have fun.
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