When packing for the UTMB®, your choice of clothing is crucial: it needs to protect you from changing weather while keeping you comfortable over long distances. Plan your UTMB® kit well ahead of the event, ideally several months in advance, so you can test it in real conditions and get used to wearing it.
Mandatory waterproof clothing
UTMB® rules require you to carry a waterproof jacket and trousers in your race pack to protect you in bad weather (rain or snow). They must meet specific standards: a waterproof rating of at least 10,000 Schmerber and a breathability RET below 13. Your kit may be checked before the start, and you may not be allowed to race without the required waterproof clothing. Choose carefully: quality matters if the race takes place in poor weather.
Explore our range of waterproof trail jackets.
Other clothing required by the rules
The waterproof jacket isn’t the only mandatory item of clothing, and forgetting the others is a common mistake at kit checks. The rules also require:
- A warm, long-sleeved second layer made from technical fabric, not cotton, weighing at least 180 g in a men’s size M.
- Full-length running trousers or tights, in addition to waterproof overtrousers.
- Warm, waterproof gloves.
- A beanie.
- A cap or neck gaiter for sun protection.
Pay attention to the 180 g threshold: many lightweight mid-layers sold for trail weigh less and are rejected at kit checks. Check the manufacturer's stated weight before buying. View our men's and women's trail mid-layers.
The warm jacket
To cope with changing temperatures, a warm jacket needs to be breathable. Otherwise, sweat cannot escape and you’ll feel uncomfortably hot and clammy. Choose a close fit that still lets you move freely, particularly around the arms.
Explore our range of trail and running jackets.
The technical t-shirt
Choose a technical t-shirt designed for long efforts: lightweight fabric that wicks sweat and dries quickly, so you don’t feel damp as the hours pass. Good breathability also helps prevent overheating and odours over several hours of running — essential on an ultra like the UTMB®.
Explore our range of trail running t-shirts. Find men's fits in our men's running t-shirts range.
Trail shorts and trousers
For shorts or trousers, choose a stretch fabric that moves with every stride without restricting you, from start to finish. Breathable, quick-drying fabric helps prevent the discomfort of damp clothing over time, while a lightweight design stays out of your way even after hours of effort. A well-designed waistband or pockets let you carry the essentials without interfering with your stride.
Explore our range of trail shorts and trousers.
Frequently asked questions
What clothing is mandatory for the UTMB®?
A hooded waterproof jacket rated at least 10,000 Schmerber, waterproof overtrousers, full-length trousers or tights, a warm long-sleeved second layer weighing at least 180 g, warm waterproof gloves, a beanie and a cap or neck gaiter.
Is cotton allowed for the second layer?
No. The rules expressly exclude cotton: it retains moisture and chills the runner as soon as they stop exercising.
Find out more
- Mandatory kit for the UTMB®
- Choosing your shoes for the UTMB®
- Essential accessories for the UTMB®
- Nutrition and hydration for the UTMB®
Photo credits: Clément Dumas, Delphine Daniélou.
