UTMB Week Reveals Trail Running's Growth and Gaps

A week at the UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix, France, is overwhelming, inspiring, and thought-provoking. The author, attending with HOKA, experienced the event's multiple facets, from elite racing and shoe development to its immense scale and visible shortcomings.

The Spotlight on Women's Racing

The women's race was the most exciting part of the competition. Crowds were larger and more invested than ever, with the streets packed for winner Blandine L’Hirondel. However, the event also highlighted persistent issues for women in the sport. Caitlin Fielder had her finish-line moment interrupted by a random man, and Rachel Entrekin dealt with a creepy male stranger talking incessantly during her race.

Inside HOKA's Shoe Development

A visit to HOKA's FlyLab offered a detailed look at how shoes are created. The process involves tweaking prototypes based on athlete feedback, focusing on factors like foam, plates, shape, and construction. Testing the new Tecton X 4 trail shoe afterward demonstrated the results, with the author praising its flexibility, fun feel, and the propulsive effect of its dual carbon plates. The shoe's grip handled a sudden rainstorm effectively.

The Event's Immense Scale

UTMB's online presence is huge, but its true scale is only apparent in person. Chamonix was packed with people of all ages, some sleeping on the ground to see the first runners. The constant noise of cowbells and crowds became normal. This atmosphere amplified the emotional finish-line scenes, featuring everything from hard sprints to exhausted staggers, with many tears and hugs shared with family, partners, and even dogs.

Trail Running's Unfinished Work

As a large, international event, UTMB's shortcomings are highly visible. Trail running still has far to go in achieving diversity among both men and women. Writer and activist Alison Mariella Désir noted on Instagram that increased visibility and sponsorship for women have disproportionately benefited white women. She argues for representation that goes beyond those with traditional access. Environmental concerns were also prominent this year, given the tens of thousands of people descending on a small alpine valley. The author observed that UTMB organizers and brands like HOKA seem eager to support positive changes and set an example for other races.

The week was awe-inspiring, educational, and thought-provoking, leaving the author eager to return.