Thinking About Running with Poles? UTMB Week Is the Perfect Time to Try Them
If you’re heading to UTMB Week in Chamonix, chances are you’ll spend some time exploring the famous expo. With dozens of brands showcasing the latest innovations in trail running, it’s one of the best places in the world to discover new gear.
If you’ve ever wondered whether trail running poles could improve your mountain running, this is also the perfect opportunity to try them before making a decision.
Why More Trail Runners Are Using Poles
A few years ago, poles were mainly associated with the longest mountain ultras.
Today, they’re becoming increasingly common across a wide range of trail races.
When used correctly, poles can offer several advantages:
- Reduce fatigue on long climbs by sharing the effort between your legs and upper body.
- Improve stability on steep or technical terrain.
- Help maintain a consistent rhythm during long ascents.
- Preserve your legs for the later stages of an ultra.
Of course, poles aren’t necessary for every race. On flatter or faster courses, they may add unnecessary weight and complexity. But for mountainous events with significant elevation gain, many experienced runners now consider them an essential part of their equipment.
Why More Trail Runners Are Using Poles
A few years ago, poles were mainly associated with the longest mountain ultras.
Today, they’re becoming increasingly common across a wide range of trail races.
When used correctly, poles can offer several advantages:
- Reduce fatigue on long climbs by sharing the effort between your legs and upper body.
- Improve stability on steep or technical terrain.
- Help maintain a consistent rhythm during long ascents.
- Preserve your legs for the later stages of an ultra.
Of course, poles aren’t necessary for every race. On flatter or faster courses, they may add unnecessary weight and complexity. But for mountainous events with significant elevation gain, many experienced runners now consider them an essential part of their equipment.
Why UTMB Week Is the Best Place to Test Trail Running Poles
Buying poles online can be difficult.
Should you choose carbon or aluminium? Fixed length or foldable? Cork or foam grips? How light is too light?
UTMB Week offers a rare opportunity to compare different brands in person, handle the equipment, ask questions and learn from the people who design and use it.
Rather than relying solely on online reviews, you can experience the differences for yourself and find the model that best suits your running style.
Meet Zenone at UTMB Week
Among the brands present in Chamonix this year is Zenone, a specialist in lightweight carbon trail running poles.
If you’re curious about incorporating poles into your training or racing, visiting the Zenone stand is a great opportunity to:
- Discover their latest range of carbon poles.
- Compare different models and features.
- Learn how to fold, carry and deploy poles efficiently.
- Speak directly with the team about choosing the right poles for your next adventure.
Whether you’re preparing for your first mountain ultra or looking to upgrade your current equipment, trying the poles in person can make all the difference.
Which Runners Benefit Most from Poles?
While every runner has different preferences, poles are particularly useful for:
- Mountain ultras with long, sustained climbs.
- Technical races where extra stability is an advantage.
- Multi-day stage races.
- Runners aiming to reduce muscular fatigue over long distances.
Many elite athletes now rely on poles for major mountain races, but they’re just as valuable for recreational runners looking to enjoy the mountains more comfortably and efficiently.
Still Unsure? Learn More Before You Buy
If you’re planning to visit UTMB Week, take the opportunity to test different models and ask questions directly to the manufacturers.
And if you’d like to do a little research beforehand, we’ve created a dedicated guide to the Zenone trail running poles available through our partner. It includes an overview of the different models, their key features and who they’re best suited for.
👉 Explore our Zenone trail running poles guide and affiliate page here:
See You in Chamonix!
UTMB Week is much more than a series of races—it’s the perfect place to discover new equipment, meet the people behind the brands and learn from fellow trail runners.
If trail running poles have been on your “maybe” list, this could be the week that helps you decide.
Will you be visiting the expo? If you stop by the Zenone stand, let us know what you think of their poles—and whether they've earned a place in your kit for your next trail adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are trail running poles useful for mountain races?
Yes. Trail running poles can help reduce fatigue on long climbs, improve stability on steep or technical terrain and help runners maintain a consistent rhythm during long ascents.
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Are running poles necessary for every trail race?
No. Poles may be less useful on flatter or faster courses, where they can add unnecessary weight and complexity. They are generally more beneficial on mountainous courses with significant elevation gain.
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Why is UTMB Week a good place to test trail running poles?
UTMB Week gives runners the opportunity to compare different brands and models in person, handle the equipment, ask manufacturers questions and find the poles that best suit their running style.
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Which runners can benefit most from using poles?
Poles can be particularly useful for runners taking part in mountain ultras, technical races and multi-day stage races, as well as runners looking to reduce muscular fatigue over long distances.
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Can I test Zenone trail running poles during UTMB Week?
Visitors to the Zenone stand can discover their range of carbon poles, compare different models and features, learn how to carry and deploy them and speak directly with the team about choosing the right poles.
