Running the Ultra-Trail du Mont-White on one of the most demanding courses in the world—what trail runner hasn't dreamed of that? To keep your mind clear and focused on training, CIMALP equips you from head to toe. Follow this guide to take on the UTMB® in the best possible conditions!
UTMB® races for every level
Chamonix is the trail running capital of the world! Every year in late August, passionate runners and the global elite gather at the foot of legendary Mont White. The goal? To live their passion for mountain running to the fullest. The flagship event, the UTMB®—with its 174 km and 9,900 m of positive elevation gain—is every trail runner's dream.
Seven other timed events take place during the week, with something for runners of every level. Experienced runners can take on the PTL®, a team event of around 300 km, or the TDS® and CCC®. At the other end of the spectrum, the MCC® is a 40 km marathon-trail event reserved for volunteers, partners and residents of the Mont Blanc area, while the ETC covers 15 km. Younger runners have the YCC, and there’s also the Mini UTMB for children. Everyone can enjoy the event and the mountain air!
If you dream of taking on one of the UTMB Group’s renowned races, thorough preparation and the right kit are essential.
Take on the UTMB with the right kit!
The legendary mountain race UTMB® is demanding, with rugged terrain and high-altitude Alpine sections. That’s why, alongside your fitness on race day, your trail clothing and the kit you carry will play a crucial part in your success.
The race organisers provide a mandatory kit list, which may change with the weather, including hot-weather, cold-weather and bad-weather kits. An important change for 2026: one of your two head torches must have a red-light mode, as required in the Contamines-Montjoie nature reserve. Find the full, up-to-date list in our article Mandatory kit for the UTMB® 2026. To help you get equipped, CIMALP has selected trail clothing and accessories.
Waterproof and breathable clothing
First, it’s essential to protect yourself from rain and wind! Waterproof clothing, including a jacket and trousers, shields you from the elements and helps retain body heat. UTMB® rules set minimum requirements for the jacket: a waterproof membrane with a rating of at least 10,000 Schmerber and breathability with a RET below 13. Find the full requirements and exact specifications of our models in our article Mandatory waterproof clothing for the UTMB®.
At Cimalp, our men’s and women’s STORM jackets meet the ultra-trail race requirements: they’re lightweight, stretchy and highly breathable.
For those who demand more, explore the men’s and women’s STORM PRO. Its 3-layer ULTRASHELL® membrane delivers 20,000 Schmerber waterproofing and 80,000 g/m²/24h breathability—well above the minimum required—for maximum protection.
For trousers, the STORM PRO PANT will keep you dry while giving you considerable freedom of movement.
Lightweight, stretchy running clothes
You may only need waterproof clothing in certain conditions, but the right running kit is essential on every run.
Running shorts or leggings?
First, choose trail shorts such as the men’s LAVAREDO or women’s RESTONICA. Both are lightweight, with built-in fitted shorts to help prevent chafing and a practical multi-pocket waistband.
For runners who prefer leggings, our lightweight, stretchy MUNHOA women’s model has a practical multi-pocket waistband that prevents your kit from bouncing as you run and provides extra storage for gear or food.
Short or long sleeves
Next, consider t-shirts designed for trail running. Their technical features play a key role in keeping you moving and helping your body regulate its temperature. Our favourites are the men’s BAUGES and women’s BORÉON, both with a natural anti-odour and antibacterial treatment.
For the warmer 2nd layer, runners need a versatile, effective garment such as the men’s or women’s BLIZZARD jacket. It’s suited to the night and cooler high-altitude sections, with reinforced areas at the shoulders and back where your pack rests. The rules require the mandatory second layer to have long sleeves and weigh at least 180 g in a men’s size M; cotton is excluded. Check this before you choose.
What about foot comfort?
Last but not least, choose shoes specifically designed for trail running. For detailed selection criteria, including flexibility, weight, suppleness and drop, read our article Choosing your shoes for the UTMB®.
Explore the French Mountaineer collection for a 100% French look
Accessories: essentials to help you keep moving!
As well as suitable socks, a head torch and other accessories, you’ll need a trail backpack. For the full list of essentials, including a water supply, emergency blanket and waterproof gloves, read our article Essential accessories to bring for the UTMB®.
At Cimalp, you’ll find neck warmers, arm warmers and different types of beanie.
If you like running with trail poles, bear in mind that you must carry them throughout the race if you start with them. You cannot pick them up along the route.
Now that your kit list is ready, keep training! The UTMB® is a demanding race, and physical preparation matters. Read our short guide to preparing for the UTMB®.
Need one last piece of kit or some last-minute race advice? Visit Cimalp at the Ultra-Trail® Village 2026 in Chamonix!
