UTMB Mandatory Gear List

Not only do runners need the courage and physical ability to race in the infamous Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, but participants also need a long list of required equipment. Read on to learn about all the mandatory running clothing and gear needed for this "course géniale folle" (French for "crazy awesome race").

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%.

Due to the extreme nature of the race, the UTMB comes with 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Due to the increased sun exposure at higher altitudes, race contestants must bring their preferred form of head protection. Runners can carry a hat, bandanas, or neck gaiters to meet this requirement.

In addition to a cap, bandana, or neck gaiter, a beanie is another requirement to provide crucial warmth and protection against the potentially harsh and unpredictable weather conditions in the mountainous terrain. Ensuring each participant carries a beanie aims to enhance the runner's safety and comfort throughout the challenging event.

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.

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.

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.

Supply of Water

Runners are required to carry 1 liter minimum of water. This can be stored in whatever vessel the runner chooses, whether bladder or bottle.

Personal Cup

Each runner must bring their own cup to use at aid stations. This cup must be at least 150 ml in volume and cannot have a lid.

Food Reserve

In case of emergency, it is recommended that runners carry at least 800 kcal worth of nutrition (about two gels plus two bars)

If you are an avid trail runner, you are already aware of how unpredictable and potentially dangerous it can be to run in grueling weather conditions while being in geographically remote locations. Because of this, all runners are required to carry a few additional accessories to help keep them safe throughout the race, including:

• Self-adhesive elasticated bandages with a minimum size of 100 cm x 6 cm
• A whistle
• Identification (Passport or ID card)
• A survival blanket with a 1.4 m by 2 m minimum size
• A mobile phone that must be turned on at all times and can roam internationally

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.

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)
• Saharan cap or any combination which completely covers the head and nape of the neck.
• Sunscreen - recommended minimum 50 SPF
• Supply of water - 2 liters minimum

On the other side of the spectrum, in cold weather conditions, race officials may deem any of these items as required.

• Protective eyewear (can double as hot-weather eyewear)
• 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

For more information on the race and its requirements, runners can go to: https://utmbmontblanc.com/en/home