My gear is all set, all ready to tackle the 2023 Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB). I’ve considered hydration, my warm clothing, comfort and trying to cut down on the weight to keep things manageable. 

The only problem is, I haven’t yet qualified.

So, here is the list of clothing and equipment that I WOULD be using if I had qualified and been accepted into the UTMB.

A few things to note. This list is a combination of gear that I already own PLUS some items that I would need to purchase. In some instances, I have listed a couple of alternatives that I have used or would use based on friends recommendations or other research. 

Running Pack – Salomon Adv Skin 12 Set Hydration Pack

I have this pack. Love the Salomon Packs. Wouldn’t buy anything else. Moving on.

Smartphone – iPhone 13

My current phone. I’d just make sure it’s on international roaming and ensure the LiveRun app is downloaded and in use.

Personal Beaker – Sea to Summit X-Mug

This one looks like a good option. I might even have a look to see if there’s a slightly bigger pack down option as well. I’d also take along the Sea to Summit Alpha Light Spork to make sure I could get all that soup and pasta in!

Water Supply – Salomon Soft Flask | 42 mm Cap | 500ml x 4

The flasks that go with the Salomon Running pack. I would also consider the XA filter cap although I would also feel comfortable drinking the water straight out of the streams in the Alps. 

Torches – Petzl Swift RL (Reactive Lighting) Primary + 2nd Petzl Swift RL OR Petzl Tikkina Hybrid Headlamp

I love my Petzl Swift RL. I use it most mornings (the only time I can get a run in!). I’ve heard so many stories about people not having a good enough head torch or running out of batteries so I’d be very keen to get a second one. However, they are crazy expensive so I would also consider the Tikkina which I already own. I have gone away from Petzl e+LITE or similar which would only provide minimal lighting. I think the extra weight would be worth it just to know for sure that I had a quality (and backup) lighting supply. 

Survival blanket – SOL Emergency Bivvy

I don’t think the standard Survival blankets are that great. They would be fine for a little while but for a night, I’d prefer an Emergency Bivvy. It could save your (or someone else’s) life. Worth it.

Whistle – Lifesystems Survival Whistle

I’d upgrade the whistle that comes with my running pack. Don’t know if that would cut it.

Elastic Bandage – Standard bandage

No real preference on this one. As long as it satisfies the specs, I’d be happy.

Jacket with Hood – Salomon Bonatti WP Jacket

I’ve owned this jacket for some time and like it. There’s plenty that satisfy the requirements around – just make sure that yours does!

Long-legged trousers or race leggings – Dunno!

I’ve never owned leggings to run in before, partly due to living in Australia and not really needing them! I’ve also never really liked running in long compression tights either. I’d probably go with the Rabbit Pocket Tightz OR the Patagonia Endless Run Tights. The ones by Rabbit look better for cooler weather so that could be the way to go.

Cap or bandana or Buff – Ciele GOCap and a Buff 

I love the Ciele GOCaps and I run with them every single time I run. I also don’t mind wrapping a Buff tube around my wrist to wipe away all the sweat, blood and tears. 

Additional Warm Second Layer – Icebreaker Merino 260 Tech LS Half Zip

I’d want something good for this bit of kit as I’d likely need to use it when I get into trouble! This one looks like great quality, will keep you warm, Merino Wool and makes a good baselayer. Other considerations could also be the Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody or if you’re wanting to keep your pack as light as possible, you could go with the UTMB Mont Blanc Compressport Mens Ultra Trail 180G Racing Hoody.

Beanie – Icebreaker Merino Pocket Beanie

I doubt I’d use this (I’d likely just use my cap with a head torch over it at night) but it’s important to have something. It’s light and would pack down. Tick!

Warm and Water-proof gloves – Ahhhh I’m not sure

I’ve found it hard doing research on these ones as most of the warm ones I’ve found aren’t waterproof. The ones I usually use in my everyday running on cold mornings are from Decathlon and not suitable for really cold temperatures. If I had to choose some right now, I’d go with either the Ultimate Direction Ultra Flip Glove OR the Outdoor Research Versaliner Gloves.

Waterproof overpants – Salomon Bonatti WP Pants

Hopefully I wouldn’t need to use this either. I’ve got a pair of these from a few years ago. Although they might be slightly on the heavier side, I wouldn’t upgrade due to lack of use. They’re alright though.

GPS Watch – Garmin Fenix 6X

I’ve got this watch and I love it. Huge battery life which will last the entirety of the UTMB – a claim not many others can make. 

Poles – Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles

Although I have these poles, I’ve never actually used them yet! In my research, these are the most common type of running pole that is used at the UTMB. The one close behind is the Leki Ultratrail Fx.One Superlite – these have a glove type attachment that can avoid the pole slipping. This isn’t everyone’s cuppa tea but a lot of runners will go with this option.

Trail Running Shoes – Hoka Speedgoat 5s

I’d go with one of the most popular trail shoes in UTMB and trail running history! I’ve recently added these to my collection and I love them. I think they have the right amount and style of tread for all the different types of terrain. I think they’re a solid choice. 

Sunglasses – Goodr OG Sunglasses

They may be cheap and nasty but they hold up. I have a few pairs that I keep in the car, in the house and I’m never too precious with them. They do have some of the lens coating rub off after a while, but for only $50, they’re a good choice. I like ‘em.

3rd Warm Layer – Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket/Hoody OR Houdini Jacket

I’m probably unlikely to carry the Micro Puff Hoody unless it is particularly bad weather which should be fine in any conditions along with the others I’d take. The Houdini Jacket would be a good 3rd layer to add a little more warmth if you’re already struggling for space in your pack. Might only decide whether to carry this one very shortly before the event begins. 

I won’t go into detail on the remaining smaller items but just make sure you know that this list is not exhaustive and further analysis and detail will be required for everyone that is putting their own list together.

You should also confirm that all items are in line with the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc Mandatory Gear List – I’m sure like all other UTMB requirements, it’ll change soon!