Best sun protection for Ultra Trail Torla-Ordesa

June in the Pyrenees: long days with many hours of sun exposure at altitude.

Topical sun protection products specific to trail running: SPF 50+ sport sunscreen resistant to water and sweat, SPF lip balm and after-sun for recovery. At altitude, UV radiation increases by 10-12% per 1,000 metres, making sun protection not an extra but mandatory gear.

Recommended products

ISDIN

Race pick

ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+

★★★★½ 4.7

Ultralight water-phase facial sunscreen with SPF 50+. Fluid texture that absorbs instantly with no greasy residue, ideal for applying during a race. Water and sweat resistant.

Strengths

+ Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin
+ Sweat and water resistant
+ Instant absorption, ideal for mid-race reapplication
+ SPF 50+ with UVA/UVB protection

Watch out for

− Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras
− Higher price than conventional sunscreens

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Piz Buin

Race pick

Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+

★★★★☆ 4.4

Mountain sunscreen with SPF 50+ formulated for extreme altitude conditions. Extra protection against intensified UV radiation and cold wind. Rich texture that protects skin from dehydration.

Strengths

+ Specifically formulated for altitude and cold
+ Protects against wind, snow and sun simultaneously
+ Good value for money
+ Available in compact 20 ml format for backpack

Watch out for

− Thicker texture, takes longer to absorb
− May leave white residue on darker skin

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Sun Bum

Race pick

Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30

★★★★½ 4.5

Lip balm with SPF 30 sun protection in stick format. Moisturises and protects lips from sunburn, a spot many runners forget. Coconut flavour, paraben-free.

Strengths