Kaxtrail 2026
Mandatory gear
The Kaxtrail 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 — Kaxtrail
| Item | Notes | Qty | Distances |
|---|---|---|---|
✓ windproof jacket | Check the official rules: in October in the Baztan you should always carry a windproof or waterproof layer | 1 | All distances |
✓ visible bib | The bib must be worn visibly throughout the race | 1 | All distances |
Which vest do you need for Kaxtrail?
With 45 km on the longest distance and this mandatory gear list, you need a 8-10 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 Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
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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
- +Agarre excepcional en barro y terreno técnico
- +Protección de puntera reforzada
- +Sistema Quicklace cómodo y rápido
- +Drenaje de agua eficiente
Watch out for
- −Durabilidad media en asfalto
- −Horma algo estrecha para pies anchos
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
Scarpa
Scarpa Ribelle Run 2
The skyrunning shoe with mountaineering DNA: precise, stable and highly protective for steep slopes, ridgelines and rocky terrain. 6 mm lugs for rock and a firm midsole that builds confidence on technical ground. Narrow fit and rigid arch: for runners who put control ahead of ultra comfort.
Strengths
- +6 mm lugs: very high grip on rock and steep ground
- +Firm, stable midsole that builds confidence on ridges and scree
- +High foot protection against impacts and rock
- +Scarpa's mountaineering heritage: built for real mountain terrain
Watch out for
- −Narrow fit, not suited to wide feet
- −Rigid arch and midsole tire you on long distances and runnable terrain
- −Little bounce: not a shoe for fast running on smooth trails
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.
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Salomon
Salomon ADV Skin 12
Chaleco de hidratación de 12 litros con sistema SensiFit. Dos soft flasks frontales de 500 ml incluidas. Bolsillos de fácil acceso y ajuste ceñido sin rebotes.
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NNormal
NNormal Race Vest
NNormal's race vest (Kilian Jornet's brand): around 5 litres, a mono-stretch fabric that wraps the torso like a second skin with no chest straps: it fits through the fabric's own stretch. Two soft flasks included. Minimalist philosophy for vertical kilometre races, short races and runners who want to feel nothing on their back. Available in several chest sizes, with a women's-adapted cut option.
Strengths
- +Strap-free stretch-fabric fit: no chest chafing points
- +One of the lightest, least bulky race vests available
- +Sized by chest circumference, with a women's cut option
- +Two soft flasks included and a front pole holder
Watch out for
- −~5 litres: not enough for ultras with full mandatory gear
- −Sizing is critical: with no straps, a wrong size can't be corrected
- −Premium price for very limited capacity
Salomon
Salomon 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
Buying guides to choose well
Want to know more? Read our complete guide to mandatory gear for ultra trail.
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