As part of preparing your race pack for the UTMB®, your choice of shoes will be crucial. It's arguably the most important piece of kit in your trail running arsenal — and you absolutely need to be comfortable in the model you'll be wearing on race day. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect trail shoes for your race.
A lightweight trail shoe
The UTMB is a long-distance event, and the weight of your shoes will make a real difference over the kilometres. No secret here: unnecessary grams add up and create fatigue. So the first piece of advice is to go for a lighter shoe when tackling long distances.
A dedicated trail running shoe
It may seem obvious, but you should never toe the start line of an event like this in a pair of standard sports shoes. Manufacturers have made huge strides, and today offer shoes specifically designed for trail running. They typically combine comfort, lightness and durability to handle the kilometres and the terrain. Don't underestimate the investment you can make a few months before the event by choosing a proper trail shoe — technical, purpose-built for your performance and your comfort over long distances. Break your shoes in over the months leading up to race day, and you'll feel the difference when it counts.
A spare pair of shoes
Don't forget to pack a spare pair of shoes in case something goes wrong with your main pair (you never know). It's also worth having a comfortable pair at the start area for the time spent waiting before the gun goes off. The same applies at the finish line — you'll be glad to slip into a pair of recovery shoes or simple sandals to air your feet and start recovering. Pack these pairs in the bag that stays behind and doesn't follow you on the course. Find out more:
