When building your clothing kit for the UTMB®, the waterproof layer is paramount: it must meet race regulations while delivering essential protection in the mountains.
What do the race regulations require?
UTMB® regulations require every runner to carry a hooded jacket made with a waterproof and breathable membrane, capable of withstanding severe mountain weather. A minimum of 10,000 Schmerber is required for waterproofness, with a breathability RET of less than 13. The hood must be integrated or factory-fitted to the jacket, and seams must be taped. For the lower body, regulations require long running trousers or tights combined with waterproof overtrousers, or fully waterproof long running trousers. This gear is subject to inspection at bib pick-up: without the correct specifications, you may be denied entry to the start.
By comparison, the Diagonale des Fous specifies the same requirement differently: it mandates a hooded waterproof jacket with heat-sealed seams, and explicitly bans windproof jackets as inadequate for mountain protection.
Which jacket to choose?
At Cimalp, the Storm Pro far exceeds these requirements thanks to its 3-layer Ultrashell® membrane: 20,000 Schmerber waterproof rating, 80,000 g/m²/24h breathability, 60 to 90 km/h wind resistance, and a lifetime repair guarantee. It is available in a men's version (Storm Pro 4H, 290 g in size M) and a women's version (Storm Pro F, 260 g in size S).
Choose an athletic fit that is not too tight, ensuring full freedom of movement, especially through the arms.
Which trousers for the UTMB®?
For the lower body, the Storm Pro Pant overtrousers deliver the same high performance as the jacket: 20,000 Schmerber waterproof rating, 80,000 g/m²/24h breathability, 60 to 90 km/h wind resistance, and a lifetime repair guarantee, weighing just 300 g in size M. They can be worn alone or over thermal tights in cold conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum waterproof rating for the UTMB®?
Regulations require at least 10,000 Schmerber for both the jacket and waterproof trousers or overtrousers, along with an RET of less than 13 for breathability.
Can a windproof jacket replace a waterproof jacket?
No. The regulations require a waterproof and breathable membrane with taped seams, which a windproof jacket does not provide. Gear is checked at bib pick-up.
Are overtrousers mandatory even if no rain is forecast?
Yes. They are part of the mandatory kit inspected at bib pick-up, regardless of the forecast, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
