The choice of outfit for a trail depends on several factors, including weather conditions, terrain and the duration of the effort. It's essential to dress in a way that guarantees comfort, performance and safety. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose the right outfit and stay comfortable throughout your trail, whatever the type of race.
The golden rule: avoid cotton
The golden rule in trail is to absolutely avoid cotton clothing. Although comfortable in the short term, cotton has poor breathability. It has the unfortunate tendency to absorb sweat, creating a damp and unpleasant environment.
This phenomenon can quickly lead to your body cooling down, particularly in cold conditions or after exertion. To avoid this kind of situation, it's best to opt for technical, breathable fabrics, such as polyester, which wick moisture away and allow your skin to stay dry.
The three-layer system
Whatever the season, one of the best strategies for dressing in trail is to adopt the multi-layer system. This system allows you to adapt your running kit to changing temperatures and weather conditions, while optimising your comfort during physical exertion.
- Layer 1 The breathable layer: The first layer is essential for wicking away sweat and keeping your skin dry. It includes garments such as trail t-shirts or base layers in lightweight, breathable materials. This layer should sit close to the body to maximise its effectiveness.
- Layer 2 The insulating layer: The second layer's role is to retain body heat while allowing moisture to escape. It can take the form of lightweight jackets, fleeces or thermo-regulating mid-layers. This is an essential layer when temperatures drop or the wind picks up.
- Layer 3 The protective layer: The outer layer protects you from the elements in the mountains — wind, rain or snow. It must be both waterproof and breathable to prevent internal condensation while keeping you dry. Opt for a lightweight trail jacket, easy to put on or take off as needed.
The must-haves, whatever the weather and terrain
Feet: They are one of the most heavily worked parts of the body in trail, so it's vital to choose quality socks. Opt for seamless ones or those with flat seams. This helps limit the friction that causes blisters. Models with reinforced heels and toes are also an excellent choice.
Underwear: Choose technical, breathable and seamless underwear. For women, a sports bra or crop top suited to trail is essential, with crossed and wide straps for better support.
Dressing for a trail run in hot weather
When temperatures rise, the goal is to stay as light and airy as possible, while ensuring good ventilation of the skin.
- Top: A short-sleeved t-shirt or a vest top in a quick-drying technical fabric is ideal. The fitted cut allows greater freedom of movement while reducing chafing.
- Bottoms: Shorts are the obvious choice during the summer months. However, make sure they are well cut to reduce chafing between the thighs.
- Accessories: A breathable cap is a must to shield your eyes from the sun, along with sunglasses to protect your vision.
Dressing for a trail run in wet weather
Even in the rain, it's possible to stay comfortable and dry.
- Top: Wear a technical t-shirt with long or short sleeves depending on the temperature, followed by a lightweight waterproof jacket to protect you from the rain. Choose a water-repellent jacket for light rain or a more waterproof one for heavy downpours. Lightweight and compact, this jacket can be easily packed into your bag when the weather improves.
- Bottoms: In rainy conditions, a waterproof trail trouser or overtrousers is an option for staying dry. It's also possible to stick with shorts depending on your preference!
- Accessories: A cap can be useful for protecting your hair and eyes from the rain. If you wear glasses, you'll appreciate a pair with an anti-fog treatment.
Dressing to run in cold weather
In extreme cold, the three-layer system really comes into its own. It's essential to maintain your core body temperature while managing moisture.
- Top: The first layer must also be breathable, such as a technical t-shirt. Opt for long sleeves. For the second layer, add an insulating fleece to retain warmth. Finally, the third layer should be a windproof and waterproof jacket, protecting you from the elements.
- Bottoms: Long tights are highly recommended in winter to prevent muscular heat loss.
- Accessories: A beanie to cover your head is very useful, as body heat escapes primarily through the extremities. If you don't like being too covered up, an ear warmer headband may be enough. A lightweight scarf or neck warmer is also a useful accessory for protecting your neck.
- Hands: A pair of trail running gloves is essential for retaining body heat, especially when the temperature drops. Choose a breathable material to ensure good moisture management.
Quality kit for an optimal trail
When choosing your trail clothing, opt for technical, breathable fabrics, such as those offered by Cimalp, which incorporate materials like 3D-Flex for a better fitted feel and optimal muscle compression. The jackets on offer are packable, folding easily into a small pocket for simplified transport.
By choosing the right kit, you'll be able to enjoy your runs in all conditions, staying comfortable and performing at your best whatever the weather. Also check out our guide on preparation and kit for ultra trail.
