Photo: Panoramio / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0) (opens in a new tab)Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig
GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
Saturday, 22 May 2027
Supermarathon 73,9K
73.9km D+ 1874m
Marathon 42K
42.2km D+ 800m
Half Marathon 21K
21.1km D+ 400m
Race data
Terrain
Ultra Trail
Difficulty
Advanced
Distance
3 modalities
Supermarathon 73,9K
- Distance
- 73.9 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 1874m
- Max Time
- -
Marathon 42K
- Distance
- 42.2 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 800m
- Max Time
- -
Half Marathon 21K
- Distance
- 21.1 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 400m
- Max Time
- -
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supermarathon 73,9K | 73.9 km | D+ 1874m | - | - |
| Marathon 42K | 42.2 km | D+ 800m | - | - |
| Half Marathon 21K | 21.1 km | D+ 400m | - | - |
Will your watch battery last the ~14 h of GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf?Worked out for the longest course (73.9 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchYour checklist for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 6 ready
GPS watch
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)Garmin Forerunner 165
Sharp AMOLED display at an entry-level price
Downside: No multi-band GPS (less accurate in canyons and dense forest)
Gear
Fast forest tracks and some mud: a cushioned shoe for long mileage, no need for aggressive lugs
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
Salomon Speedcross 6
Agarre excepcional en barro y terreno técnico
Downside: Durabilidad media en asfalto
Nutrition
Eat before you feel hungry: every 30-40 minutes
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
Maurten Gel 100
Tecnología de hidrogel: excelente tolerancia gástrica
Downside: Precio elevado respecto a otros geles
Sun Protection
Apply 20 minutes before the start and reapply at aid stations
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin
Downside: Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras
Body Care
Anti-chafe on armpits, groin and feet before the start
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
Julbo Aerospeed
Photochromic lenses: adapt from forest to summits
Downside: Higher price compared to non-photochromic glasses
Car Rental
Book early: local supply runs out on race weekends
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
Trip logistics
Registration, travel and insurance: what you should have sorted before race day.
Affiliate links: if you buy, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
Swipe to see all 4 comparisons
Historical weather
What to wear at 15 °C: guide and kit →
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
9°C – 17°C
Average 13°C
Rain
40%
3.4 mm avg
Wind
18 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
11h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (40% chance of rain)
Asics
Asics Gel-Trabuco 14 GTX
A best-selling beginner trail shoe: GEL cushioning, good stability and a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane. Versatile and reliable for training on mixed terrain in any weather.
Berghaus
Berghaus Paclite 2.0 GTX
Waterproof jacket with a Gore-Tex Paclite membrane (around 330 g). Fully waterproof with taped seams, fixed adjustable hood, storm flap behind the zip and cuff adjustment. Packs down small in a vest. Heavier than a pure running hardshell, but it meets the waterproof-breathable membrane requirement in race rules and is the affordable route into Gore-Tex.
Brooks
Brooks Cascadia 20 GTX
The Cascadia 20 with a GORE-TEX membrane: stability and protection for rocky mountain terrain, keeping the foot dry on cold, rainy days.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Glove
Glove with a fully waterproof, windproof GORE-TEX membrane and light insulation. The pick for running in snow, sleet or heavy rain while keeping your hand dry.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear M GORE-TEX Thermo Glove
Warmer variant of the Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX: the same fully waterproof, windproof membrane, with extra thermal lining for intense cold on top of snow or rain. The pick when the problem isn't just water, but water AND hard cold at once.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Chubasquero Gore-Tex Shakedry ultraligero (110 g). Impermeabilidad total sin membrana interior, altamente transpirable. El referente para corredores de montaña.
Nike
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
The best-selling gateway trail shoe: comfortable, cushioned and versatile for moving from road to trail. Waterproof GORE-TEX version, perfect for beginners and easy runs on mixed terrain.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti Pro Waterproof Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove built for running, not just standing still in the snow: a waterproof membrane with more dexterity and less bulk than a thick membrane glove, for sustained rain without giving up handling gels or poles.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX
The Speedcross 6 with a GORE-TEX membrane: the same aggressive 5 mm lugs for mud and soft ground, now waterproof for winter, rain and snow.
Sealskinz
Sealskinz Waterproof Lightweight Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove from a brand that specializes in outdoor sport waterproofing. A solid middle ground between a thin windproof glove and a thick membrane glove: genuinely waterproof without the bulk or price of the Gore C5.
TRIWONDER
TRIWONDER Polainas Impermeables Trail
Waterproof, breathable low gaiters for trail running, hiking and mountain use. Under-shoe strap and adjustable elastic band. A budget-friendly alternative to premium technical brand gaiters.
Bring thermal layers (low of 9°C)
Buff
Buff Thermonet
Buff tubular térmico con tecnología Primaloft. Retiene el calor corporal, ultraligero y polivalente: gorro, braga, cinta. Ideal para alta montaña.
Craft
Craft Pro Hypervent LS Wind Top
Thermal top with a windproof ripstop panel on the chest and a highly ventilated soft jersey back. Built for high-intensity sessions in cold, windy conditions, with long cuffs and thumb loops.
HANKER
HANKER Braga de Cuello Térmica
Unisex thermal seamless neck gaiter in Soft Air Plus fabric (97% polyester). Seamless fit designed for trail running, cycling, motorcycling and outdoor sports. A budget alternative to Buff for moderate cold.
Icebreaker
Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis LS Crewe
Long-sleeve thermal top in 100% merino wool (200g). Natural temperature regulation, genuine multi-day odor resistance and a soft, non-itch handfeel from the fine merino yarn.
Odlo
Odlo Active Warm Eco
Camiseta térmica de manga larga con tejido reciclado y tratamiento antiolor. Regulación térmica activa, ideal como capa base en montaña.
Odlo
Odlo I-Thermic Longsleeve Mujer
Women's long-sleeve thermal top with insulating panels placed over cold-sensitive areas (lower back and kidneys). A mid-layer built for genuinely cold winter conditions, mountain outings or cross-country-style trail sessions.
ROCKBROS
ROCKBROS Pasamontañas Térmico y Cortaviento
Thermal windproof balaclava covering head, ears, cheeks and neck. Designed for cycling and motorcycling, it works just as well on windy, freezing trail runs.
Salomon
Salomon Agile LS Tee
Lightweight quick-dry polyester long-sleeve tee with underarm mesh, a side pocket and reflective details. Works as a standalone layer in mild cold or as a base layer under a windbreaker on colder days.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Run Tight
Mallas largas de trail con tejido elástico y transpirable. Cintura ajustable, bolsillo trasero con cremallera. Protección contra el frío y la vegetación.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Guantes térmicos de running con palma antideslizante y puntas táctiles. Ligeros, cálidos y compatibles con bastones.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock
Compression thermal top with a dual-layer fabric: ultra-warm brushed interior and quick-dry exterior. Second-skin compression fit with stretch mesh panels at the back and underarms for ventilation without losing warmth.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock Hombre
Men's high-neck thermal compression top: brushed interior that holds heat and a quick-dry outer. Base layer for cold-weather runs.
Forecast for 22 May
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
The Rennsteiglauf is much more than a race: it is Germany’s great running festival. Since 1973 it has followed the Rennsteig, the country’s most famous ridge trail, crossing the Thuringian Forest from north-west to south-east. Its 73.9 km Supermarathon is the ultra with the most finishers in Germany — almost 2,500 every year — and all distances finish in Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig amid music, beer and the traditional oat soup.
A course along the Rennsteig ridge
- Supermarathon 73.9K: starts in Eisenach, below Wartburg Castle, with 1,874 m of climbing and a high point on the Großer Beerberg (974 m).
- Marathon 42.2K: from Neuhaus am Rennweg.
- Half marathon 21.1K: from Oberhof, the winter sports mecca.
The terrain is very runnable: forest tracks, spruce-forest trails and upland meadows. The challenge is not technical but managing your pace over almost 74 km.
May in Thuringia
In late May temperatures range from 8 °C at the start to 20 °C at midday, with a risk of afternoon storms. The atmosphere at the aid stations, with volunteers and brass bands, is legendary.
Thuringia beyond the race
Eisenach, with the Wartburg where Luther translated the Bible, and Erfurt or Weimar less than an hour away turn the trip into a cultural getaway. Find more races in Thuringia, the rest of Germany and plan your season with the race planner.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Recommended for the aid stations, famous for their oat soup and beer
360Complete Pack
GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf 2027 registration
RegistrationWith over 15,000 participants across all events, Supermarathon places sell out months ahead. Registration usually opens in autumn.
Tips
- •Register as soon as entries open in autumn
- •Also book the bus to the start in Eisenach
Where to stay for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
AccommodationSchmiedefeld is a small village: most runners stay in Eisenach (Supermarathon start), Suhl, Ilmenau or Oberhof. There are camping areas near the finish.
Tips
- •Eisenach is ideal: walk to the start and visit Wartburg Castle
- •Book months ahead: the weekend fills up
Gear for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
GearA long ultra: cushioned shoes for the mileage, a vest with room for layers and food, poles for the accumulated climbing and a headlamp if you run into the night.
Tips
- •Fast forest tracks and some mud: a cushioned shoe for long mileage, no need for aggressive lugs
- •Test the loaded vest on your long runs
- •Pack spare socks in your drop bag if the organisers allow one
Which shoes for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
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Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Best trail running hydration vests 2026: 12 vests and packs compared. How many litres you need by distance, soft flasks vs reservoir, and fit.
Strength Training Gear for Trail Running at Home 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Comparison of the best strength training gear for trail runners at home: dumbbells, resistance bands, kettlebell, TRX, weight bench and foam roller, with a 3-day-a-week routine.
Nutrition for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
NutritionLong distance: plan 60-90 g of carbs per hour mixing gels, bars and real food, and replace salts from the start.
Tips
- •Eat before you feel hungry: every 30-40 minutes
- •Alternate sweet and savoury to keep your stomach happy
How to get to Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig
TransportEisenach has an ICE station on the Frankfurt–Erfurt–Berlin line. The organisers run return buses from Schmiedefeld to the starts and train stations. Airports: Erfurt (ERF), Frankfurt (FRA) or Leipzig (LEJ).
Tips
- •Take the train to Eisenach the day before
- •Buy the return bus ticket with your entry
Car rental in the Thuringian Forest
Car RentalA rental car gives you freedom to get around the Thuringian Forest, reach the start early and combine the race with some sightseeing.
Tips
- •Book early: local supply runs out on race weekends
- •Pick the car up at your arrival airport to save transfers
Sports insurance for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
InsuranceGermany has no mandatory racing licence, but the organisers do not cover your medical costs or a rescue. Sports or travel insurance covering competitions is essential if you travel from abroad.
Tips
- •Carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC/GHIC)
- •Check that your policy covers mountain rescue and competitions
Sun protection for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
Sun ProtectionHours of exposure on ridges and forest clearings: sweat-resistant SPF50 sport sunscreen, a face stick and lip balm.
Tips
- •Apply 20 minutes before the start and reapply at aid stations
- •Ears, neck and lips are the spots that burn most
Best Sunscreen for Runners 2026: 7 Sweat-Proof SPF 50 Picks
Which sunscreen survives a sweaty long run? We tested 7 SPF 50 sweat-proof picks — creams, sticks and a lip balm — against heat, altitude UV and hours of sweat. See the winner.
Body care for GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf
Body CareChafing, blisters and heavy legs are what ruin a race or the days after. Anti-chafe balm, blister plasters, sunglasses and a solid recovery plan.
Tips
- •Anti-chafe on armpits, groin and feet before the start
- •Foam roller or massage gun during the following 48 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Rennsteiglauf 2027?
- On Saturday 22 May 2027. All distances finish in Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig (Thuringia).
- What distances are there?
- The 73.9 km Supermarathon from Eisenach, the marathon from Neuhaus am Rennweg and the half marathon from Oberhof, plus Nordic walking and hiking.
- Is it technical?
- No. It is a very runnable ultra on forest tracks and trails; the challenge is the distance and the 1,874 m of total climbing.
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