
Desafío Ultra El Cainejo 2026
Mandatory gear
The Desafío Ultra El Cainejo 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.
The emergency kit for Desafío Ultra El Cainejo: 3 pieces and done
These 3 pieces cover the race safety gear. Together they cost €140.37 and take a minute to buy; the rest of the list is explained below.
Prices may vary. Check the store for the current price.
Mandatory gear — Desafío Ultra El Cainejo
| Item | Notes | Qty | Distances |
|---|---|---|---|
✓ Waterproof jacket Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab) | Mandatory for all distances. Weather in Picos changes in minutes. | 1 | All distances |
✓ Headlamp Petzl Actik Core View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab) | Mandatory for Ultra and Cainejo (6:00 AM start). | 1 | All distances |
✓ Emergency whistle Fox 40 Classic View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab) | Mandatory. To call for help in an emergency. | 1 | All distances |
✓ Emergency blanket Lifesystems Thermal Blanket View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab) | Mandatory for all distances. | 1 | All distances |
✓ medical certificate | Mandatory. Must be uploaded to the registration platform before the race. | 1 | All distances |
✓ Charged mobile phone Running Waist Pack with Phone Pocket View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab) | Mandatory with charged battery, although there is no coverage on most of the course. | 1 | All distances |
Which vest do you need for Desafío Ultra El Cainejo?
With 52 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

Gore Wear
MandatoryGore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Ultralight Gore-Tex Shakedry waterproof jacket (110 g). Full waterproofing without an inner membrane, highly breathable. The benchmark for mountain runners.
View on Amazon(opens in a new tab)
Petzl
MandatoryPetzl Actik Core
Rechargeable 600-lumen headlamp with the Core battery included. Compatible with AAA batteries. Red mode to preserve night vision. Ideal for ultras with night sections.
View on Amazon(opens in a new tab)
Fox 40
MandatoryFox 40 Classic
Emergency whistle with no internal part; works when wet and muddy. 115 dB sound audible from far away. The standard in mountain races.
View on Amazon(opens in a new tab)
Lifesystems
MandatoryLifesystems Thermal Blanket
Reflective emergency thermal blanket. Retains 90% of body heat. Ultralight (60 g) and compact, it fits in any trail pack.
View on Amazon(opens in a new tab)
Generic
MandatoryRunning Waist Pack with Phone Pocket
Lightweight running belt with phone compartment and transparent touchscreen window. Quick access to GPS and track without stopping. Adjustable, breathable and bounce-free. Ideal for trail running and hiking.
View on Amazon(opens in a new tab)
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
Strengths
- +Exceptional grip in mud and technical terrain
- +Reinforced toe protection
- +Comfortable and quick Quicklace system
- +Efficient water drainage
Watch out for
- −Average durability on pavement
- −Somewhat narrow fit for wide feet

Leki
Leki Ultratrail FX.One
Foldable trail running poles in 3 sections (110-130 cm). Ultralight carbon (175 g per pole), compact 38 cm folded. Speed Lock 2 locking system.
View on Amazon(opens in a new tab)Buying guides to choose well
Want to know more? Read our complete guide to mandatory gear for ultra trail.
Similar races

GTPE Picos de Europa
Benia de Onís
5 distances (70K to 10K) through the western massif of Picos de Europa from Benia de Onís

Travesera Picos de Europa
Arenas de Cabrales
74K and +6,560 m from El Repelao to Arenas de Cabrales, June 2027

Riaño Trail Run
Riaño, León
Multi-stage trail in the Riaño Mountains — 3xTrail 84K / 2xTrail 47K / Open 42K across Picos de Europa, Montaña Palentina and Mampodre


