Casquette Verte's equipment advice

Last year, I gave you 3 tips to follow during the EcoTrail Paris. I focused on the physical and mental aspects of the race. This year, I'm taking the opportunity to share with you the trail equipment you should have during the EcoTrail Paris. You'll see... having the right gear can really make a difference.

The most important factor: the pair of running shoes!

Before choosing your pair, I strongly advise you to keep an eye on the weather the week before the race and, of course, on the big day! What's the point? Quite simply because the weather will have a major impact on the condition of the course, and therefore on your choice of running shoes.

Last year, I told you that the EcoTrail Paris was a fairly rolling course. The race can therefore be run with a pair of running shoes or a pair of SPEEDCROSS (Salomon trail shoes designed for grip on all terrains). The course is about 80% trail, so when it rains, you're glad you've got SPEEDCROSS. In 2018, I looked at the weather forecast the day before and adapted. That year, I remember there were a lot of withdrawals because of the snow and mud.

So I'd say you need 3 types of shoes:

• A pair of classic running shoes if the weather is fine.
• A trail pair, fairly new, with cushioning and grip if it rains. Something versatile.
• A downright trail-ready pair that gets through mud without a hitch.

You need to choose the pair you're going to use carefully, because you won't have time to change during the race.

For my part, I can choose between the SENSE RIDE 4 (and 5) for versatility, the ULTRA GLIDE (and 2) for cushioning and the SPEEDCROSS range for grip.

Bottom

It's very personal, but I always recommend shorts because you warm up quickly in action. The EcoTrail Paris takes place in March, so I don't really recommend tights (even if it's raining or snowing). Well, it's true that I'm not very sticky... (laughs)

The top

A hydration vest to carry everything, but no more than 5L in my opinion. You can go light on this kind of race, so an S/LAB or ADV SKIN 5 jacket is more than enough.

And on top of that, a good jacket to protect you from either the wind or the rain. A word of advice: always test it before the big day to avoid unpleasant surprises.

I also recommend Salomon waterproof over-gloves. I usually take mittens. If I know I'm going to get cold hands during the race, I take them straight away because they're easy to put on, they're not ice cubes because they're not made of fabric and, above all, they don't take up any space. They're worth more than gloves! And they're great for people with cold hands.

Accessories

As far as food and accessories are concerned, I'd also advise going light. Just take what is compulsory and recommended by EcoTrail Paris. You're always less than 500m from a road, there are people everywhere, so the risk is limited.

Sunglasses are not compulsory, as the race takes place mainly in undergrowth. If the sun doesn't shine too hard, that's fine!

And then a little personal touch: a green cap, for example. But that's more for style... ;)

Conclusion

That's all for this year. I hope you find this little list useful. Have a good run and above all... don't forget to keep an eye on the weather. It's the key!

PS: I'll be on the EcoTrail Paris again this year for a short round trip between Paris and Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (160km). So if you see me there, let me know. It'll be a pleasure to chat with you!

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