April 2026

I’ve updated the gear section on our website. Since the Bhutan Ultra is designed for experienced mountain ultra runners, the equipment guidelines shouldn’t come as a surprise.

As with any mountain ultra, effective layer management is key. Mornings can be cold, climbs are physically demanding, and higher up it can get cold again due to altitude and exposure to wind. Later in the day, fatigue sets in and temperatures tend to drop once more. For all of these conditions, having the right layers – and adjusting them as needed – is essential. The “gear talk” reflects this approach.

That said, I hope you still find the information useful as an athlete. At the very least, it should confirm much of what you were already expecting. And perhaps you’ll come across a few tips you hadn’t considered that could help in your preparation.

Needless to say, there’s no such thing as perfect equipment that works for everyone. We all respond differently to temperature, our fitness levels vary, and so do our race strategies. Preferences also differ when it comes to fabrics, grip, cushioning, and drop in footwear and much more.

If you have any questions about your kit – whether you’re already signed up or just considering it  – please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m always happy to help.

Ultra running is, in most cases, a solitary pursuit. Bhutan, however, is such a special destination that friends or family might say, “… I wish I could join you.” Well – they can. If you’d like to bring a friend or partner to the Bhutan Ultra, it’s absolutely possible. The stage race format makes it ideal.

Before the race, your companion simply joins the group. If they prefer to take it easy and skip an activity, that’s perfectly fine too. During the race, friends and family can watch each start before heading off on their own adventures. They’ll be transferred to the daily finish lines and, along the way, discover stunning landmarks and historic sites. Where accessible, we’ll also include visits to selected checkpoints. The cost is the same as for our athletes and depends on the length of the stay and the booking timeline.

If you’re interested in the friends and family program, just let us know when you sign up for the race.