SachsenTrail 2027
Mandatory gear
The SachsenTrail organisation requires you to carry this gear during the race. Non-compliance may result in time penalties or disqualification. Always check the official rules before the race, as the list may change between editions.
Mandatory gear — SachsenTrail
| Item | Notes | Qty | Distances |
|---|---|---|---|
✓ vaso reutilizable | Mandatory own cup: no disposable cups at aid stations | 1 | All distances |
Which vest do you need for SachsenTrail?
With 74 km on the longest distance and this mandatory gear list, you need a 10-12 L vest. These are our picks:
💡Tip: check your gear several days before the race. Never use anything new on race day.
Recommended products to meet mandatory gear requirements
Salomon
MandatorySalomon Soft Flask 250 ml
Collapsible 250 ml soft flask with a high-flow valve and a wide 42 mm mouth for fast refills at aid stations. It shrinks as you drink, fits the front pocket of any vest and weighs just a few grams empty.
Strengths
- +High-flow valve: quick sips without hard biting
- +42 mm mouth, easy to refill and to drop in ice or tablets
- +Folds down to almost nothing when empty
Watch out for
- −Pricier than generic Amazon flasks
- −The valve can drip slightly if not fully closed
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
Strengths
- +Max Hoka cushioning: protects your legs over long distances
- +Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs: reliable grip in mud and rock
- +Snug, lightweight Matryx upper
- +The most battle-tested model in ultra trail running worldwide
Watch out for
- −High stack: less stable for those who want more ground feel
- −Toe box a bit narrow for wide feet
Saucony
Saucony Peregrine 16
The all-round trail shoe par excellence, with excellent reviews across every type of runner. PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip on mixed and technical terrain, balanced PWRRUN cushioning, and rock-plate protection depending on the version. The perfect middle ground between responsiveness and protection.
Strengths
- +Extremely versatile: suits almost any terrain and distance
- +PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs: reliable grip on technical ground and mud
- +Balanced cushioning, neither too soft nor too firm
- +Excellent reviews from the trail community across all runner types
Watch out for
- −Not a specialist in anything specific: if you want an extreme (barefoot or maximalist) look elsewhere
- −Average outsole durability on very abrasive rock
Brooks
Brooks Cascadia 18
An all-terrain trail classic: stable, protective and reliable on any ground thanks to its pivot system that adapts the foot to the terrain. Balanced cushioning for medium and long distances.
Strengths
- +Excellent stability and protection on uneven terrain
- +Robust, durable build
- +Versatile for medium and long distances
Watch out for
- −Slightly heavy versus more dynamic models
- −Firm ride, less cushioned than some rivals
Hoka
Hoka Challenger 8
Road-to-trail with Hoka's signature max cushioning and 4 mm lugs: comfortable from the first kilometre and perfect for beginners or long runs on easy, mixed terrain.
Strengths
- +Generous, very comfortable cushioning
- +Versatile: works on asphalt and easy trails
- +Excellent for beginners and long easy runs
Watch out for
- −Low lugs: insufficient in mud and technical rock
- −Limited stability on very uneven terrain
Salomon
Salomon Active Skin 8
Salomon's entry-level hydration vest: 8-litre capacity, body-hugging Sensifit-style fit and two 500 ml soft flasks included. Simpler than the ADV Skin (fewer pockets, fixed webbing instead of elastic), but with the same non-bouncing pattern. Built for training and mid-distance races without extensive mandatory gear.
Strengths
- +Two 500 ml soft flasks included: ready to run out of the box
- +Salomon's Sensifit pattern: zero bounce with the right size
- +8 litres, plenty for long training runs and mid-distance races
- +Much cheaper than the ADV Skin while keeping the brand's fit
Watch out for
- −Fewer accessible front pockets than the ADV Skin 12
- −Fixed adjustment webbing, not elastic: less tolerance for changing load
- −8 litres fall short for ultras with full mandatory gear
Montane
Montane Featherlite Hooded
Ultralight hooded wind jacket (120 g in size M). Pertex Quantum Air 12-denier stretch nylon: blocks wind while venting heat and moisture better than almost any rain shell. PIVOT hood, elasticated cuffs, YKK zipped pockets. Pure windproof, not waterproof.
Strengths
- +120 g: one of the lightest hooded wind shells available
- +Exceptional Pertex Quantum Air breathability on climbs
- +PIVOT hood and cuffs that seal without pinching
Watch out for
- −Not waterproof: sheds only very light rain
- −12-denier fabric is delicate against rock and branch abrasion
Compressport
Compressport Pro Racing Socks V3.0 Trail
Non-toe trail sock, Compressport's all-rounder reference. Reinforced instep fabric and ankle-specific mesh for stability on rocky terrain, cushioned sole with 3D dots that boost circulation and absorb impact, plus 360° arch support to prevent blisters and irritation over long distances.
Strengths
- +Seamless construction: reduces friction and unwanted pressure points
- +Ankle-specific mesh for stability on rocky terrain
- +Cushioned sole with 3D dots that absorb impact
- +360° arch support that prevents blisters over long distances
Watch out for
- −Lower rating than other options in the comparison
- −Pricier than a basic trail sock
Buying guides to choose well
Want to know more? Read our complete guide to mandatory gear for ultra trail.
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