OMM Ultra Shoe Review

Posted on June 13, 2026 by talkultra

OMM Ultra Shoe Review: A Dependable Long-Distance Companion

The trail running shoe market is crowded. Every brand seems to be chasing super foams, carbon plates, outrageous rocker profiles, and increasingly bold claims about speed and performance. Against that backdrop, OMM enter the shoe market with three new shoes – Ultra, Trail and Fell.

Who are OMM? Read an introduction HERE.

First up, the OMM Ultra. They don’t arrive shouting for attention. They aren’t flashy and they do not promise to transform you into a podium-finishing mountain goat. OMM Ultra gets on with the job it was designed to do: keeping you comfortable, protected, and moving efficiently when the miles start stacking up and fatigue begins to creep in.

A Shoe Designed for the Long Haul

The Ultra is OMM’s most cushioned shoe in their new three shoe offering. Weighing in at 265g for UK8, my UK10 tipped the scales at 336g – with a substantial 30mm heel stack, 22mm forefoot stack, and an 8mm drop, they sit firmly in the category of long-distance comfort cruiser.

From the moment you pick it up, it’s clear what OMM was aiming for. This isn’t a race-day weapon. It’s a shoe built for long training runs, all-day adventures, ultra-distance running, and those occasions when your priority is simply staying comfortable for hour after hour.

As OMM themselves explain, the goal was to create a shoe that “keeps working deep into longer efforts, where comfort and durability become ever more important.”

Two Widths – A Brilliant Decision

One of the smartest decisions OMM made with the Ultra is offering the shoe in two widths – regular and regular+.

It’s a surprisingly simple feature that many brands still overlook, yet it can make the difference between a shoe becoming a favourite or gathering dust on a shelf.

I tested the regular width version and was pleasantly surprised by the amount of room available in the forefoot. There was enough space for natural toe splay without feeling sloppy or oversized.

For runners blessed, or cursed, with what could politely be described as Hobbit feet – the wider Regular+ option is likely to be a huge selling point.

This is one of those consumer-focused decisions that demonstrates genuine thoughtfulness in the design process. Not every foot is built the same, and OMM deserves credit for recognizing that.

First Impressions and Fit

Sizing feels true to size overall.

However, my first run revealed one small issue. About a kilometer into the outing I found myself stopping to adjust the lacing. I was experiencing heel lift when running on the flat.

Now, I should admit that I am notoriously fussy about shoe fit. I like a locked-down, secure feeling. I want the shoe attached to my foot, not accompanying it.

Fortunately, the solution was simple. A quick switch to lock lacing immediately solved the problem and transformed the fit. But the tongue is very thin, arguably too thin, and this can allow some pressure pain when lock laced. OMM’s X-Lacing system, holds the foot, designed to distribute tension across the foot more evenly and is supposed to reduce pressure points during longer runs. However, I found the longer I ran, this became an issue – pressure started to increase, so, you definitely need a few runs to find how tight to lace this area. I found initially, I overtightened my laces and began to feel pressure. Once I adjusted the tension, the fit settled nicely and remained comfortable. Interestingly, underneath the 4 blue eyelets of the X are conventional eyelet holes – so I assume you can lace this way as an option?

Comfort Without the Marshmallow Effect

Perhaps my favourite aspect of the Ultra is its cushioning.

Modern trail shoes often seem to fall into one of two camps. They are either rock hard and unforgiving or so soft that every step feels like running through wet sponge cake.

Neither appeals to me.

The OMM Ultra lands beautifully in the middle.

The thick EVA midsole provides plenty of protection and comfort without becoming overly soft or unstable. Ground feel is surprisingly good for a cushioned shoe. They offer enough cushioning to absorb the cumulative impact of long hours on your feet while still retaining a responsive feel.

There is also a pleasant level of energy return in the propulsive phase. The shoe never feels particularly fast, or nimble, but there is a noticeable forward roll and a gentle kick that encourages momentum. There is no rock-plate and I think this is a mistake.

Built Like a Tank

Protection is another area where the Ultra shines.

The combination of a durable two-layer upper, reinforced TPU protection zones, substantial cushioning, and a secure platform creates what can only be described as a bulletproof feeling underfoot.

Your feet feel protected from uneven ground, trail debris, and the general punishment that comes with spending long days in the mountains.

The toe protection is particularly reassuring without becoming bulky or intrusive.

During testing, I moved across gravel roads, flowing single-track, rocky paths, rutted trails, and mountain terrain. Throughout all of it, the Ultra maintained its composed and reassuring character.

This is not a delicate shoe, on the contrary, they feel like a shoe designed to survive abuse. Given OMM’s heritage in mountain running and adventure racing, that doesn’t come as a surprise.

The Vibram Package

The outsole incorporates three Vibram technologies:

Vibram MegaGrip for traction
Vibram Traction Lugs for increased surface contact
Vibram Litebase for reduced weight

READ ABOUT SHOE GRIP HERE

The outsole uses 4mm lugs, placing it firmly in the versatile all-rounder category. This is not a mud specialist. Nor is it intended to be.

The tread pattern works particularly well on gravel, dry trails, mixed terrain, and even road sections. Transitions between surfaces feel smooth and natural.

For runners who regularly combine road, gravel, trail, and mountain terrain in a single outing, this versatility is a genuine strength.

Predictably, however, the limitations of a 4mm lug become apparent once conditions become truly muddy. Deep mud demands deeper studs, and there is only so much any 4mm lug can do.

That isn’t a criticism; it’s simply physics.

After all, OMM offers the Fell Shoe with aggressive 8mm lugs for exactly those conditions.

Where Things Get Complicated

Sadly, for me, the Vibram outsole was always going to be a contentious point and I had wondered had OMM liaised with Vibram to come up with something different?

Sadly not.

I am a Brit living in Norway. Before moving, much of my running took place in Wales, the Lake District, Scotland, and countless other wonderfully wet corners of the UK. I now have those conditions in Norway.

In those environments, one question always dominated my shoe choice:

How does my shoe grip when everything is wet?

Dry grip is easy.

Wet grip is where great trail shoes separate themselves from merely good ones.

On dry terrain, the Ultra performs exactly as expected. Grip is dependable and confidence-inspiring. On dry mountain trails, gravel tracks, and hard-packed paths, the Vibram outsole performs admirably.

However, once wet rock, slick roots, polished stone, or greasy trail surfaces enter the equation, confidence fades very, very quickly.

The grip isn’t terrible, but it’s not good.

For a brand with such strong mountain credentials, this feels like a missed opportunity for OMM. I had hoped for something very special.

If, your playground involves rain-soaked British mountains or constantly damp Scandinavian forests – you will find yourself wishing for more reassurance and confidence underfoot.

But, If your adventures primarily involve the dry trails and single-track, you’ll likely be delighted. In those conditions, the Ultra makes perfect sense.

The Family Saloon of Trail Running

Throughout testing, I kept returning to one comparison. The OMM Ultra is the trail running equivalent of a dependable family saloon car.

It isn’t flashy.

It won’t win fast races.

It isn’t designed to set lap records.

But it starts every morning, carries everything you need, remains comfortable all day, and quietly does its job exceptionally well.

That’s the Ultra – dependable, reliable, comfortable and maybe even a little mundane.

Final Thoughts

The OMM Ultra may not be the most exciting shoe of the year, but for many it will be an extremely sensible choice.

Thoughtful fit options, balanced cushioning, secure platform, excellent protection, and apparent durability combine to create a highly versatile package that will appeal to a broad range of runners over many varied surfaces.

Road, gravel, trail, mountains – this shoe handles all of them with confidence and comfort. Its biggest strength is consistency. They never feel spectacular, but they are trustworthy and reliable.

The caveat remains the wet-weather grip – especially on wet rock and tree roots. For some runners and locations, that may be a deal breaker. For others, it will simply be a compromise accepted in exchange for the shoe’s impressive versatility.

The heel area is an issue, lock-lacing helps but the tongue needs more padding to ensure 100% comfort. X-lacing requires tweaking and playing around with to find the right tension – but once you find it, it works well.

Overall, the OMM Ultra succeeds in what it set out to achieve – comfortable, durable, a long-distance trail shoe designed to keep performing as fatigue builds and the hours accumulate. For many, if you can only have one pair of shoes – the OMM Ultra would not be a bad choice.

Competition:

This area of the shoe market is one where choice is everywhere, especially with a Vibram Megagrip outsole. If Vibram is your thing, the Hoka Speedgoat and Mafate 5 are worth a look. Also the Nnormal Tomir which is very popular.

La Sportiva make the Prodigio Pro with it’s own outsole – a bouncy and comfy ride.

Icebug make Jarv with the RB9X outsole.

Asics make the Trabuco Max with their own outsole.

Ultimately, the VJ Ultra 3 would be my choice – great foot hold, great comfort with their new cushioning and the outsole is superb – the best there is.

Follow Ian Corless

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Web – www.iancorless.com

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Running Shoe Grip: Why “Good Grip” Is Far More Complicated Than Most People Think

Posted on June 10, 2026 by talkultra

“The grip is excellent.” One of the most common phrases used in running shoe reviews.

But excellent where?

On dry forest trails? Wet rocks? Muddy hillsides? Gravel tracks? Mountain ridges? Roads?

The reality is that grip is one of the most misunderstood aspects of running shoes. Much like tyres on a Formula 1 car, the best outsoles are often designed to excel in very specific conditions. The more specialised the outsole, the better it tends to perform in its intended environment. The challenge comes when runners expect one shoe to perform equally well everywhere.

The Formula 1 Tyre Comparison

Formula 1 teams do not use one tyre for every condition. They have slick tyres for dry weather, intermediate tyres for damp conditions and wet tyres for heavy rain. Each tyre is designed with a specific purpose in mind.

Image copyright Pirelli – a wonderful example of how we should look at run shoe outsoles.

Trail running shoes are no different.

An outsole designed for muddy fell running will almost certainly perform poorly on road sections. Likewise, an outsole designed for mixed road-to-trail use will struggle when faced with steep, wet mountain terrain.

The key point is that grip is always a compromise between different surfaces, conditions and requirements. There is no universal outsole. There are only outsoles that are better suited to certain environments than others.

Grip Is Actually Two Different Things

When runners talk about grip, they are often describing two separate characteristics.

The first is friction.

This is the ability of the rubber compound to adhere to a surface. Friction is what gives confidence on wet rock, slick roots, hard-packed trails and tarmac. It is primarily influenced by the rubber compound itself.

The second is mechanical traction.

This is the ability of the outsole to bite into a surface. Mechanical traction becomes important on mud, loose gravel, soft ground, snow and wet grass. It is primarily influenced by lug design.

Understanding this distinction explains why some shoes perform brilliantly in one environment but poorly in another.

A shoe with soft, sticky rubber may feel exceptional on wet rock but struggle in deep mud if the lugs are too shallow.

Conversely, a mud-specific shoe may offer tremendous traction on a steep hillside while feeling insecure on wet slabs because the rubber compound prioritises penetration into soft ground rather than adhesion to hard surfaces.

When someone says a shoe has “great grip”, it is worth asking whether they mean friction, traction or both.

Rubber Compound: The Foundation of Grip

The first factor that determines how well an outsole performs is the rubber compound itself.

Different brands use different compounds, each balancing grip, durability and performance in varying conditions.

Generally speaking, harder rubber compounds offer:

Greater durability
Better longevity
Increased resistance to wear on road surfaces
Reduced grip on wet rocks, roots and technical terrain

Softer rubber compounds offer:

Superior traction on wet rock
Better adhesion on slick roots
Increased confidence on technical terrain
Reduced lifespan due to faster wear

This trade-off is unavoidable.

A rubber compound that delivers exceptional grip on wet mountain rock is usually sacrificing durability somewhere else.

This is why shoes that feel incredible on technical terrain may show noticeable outsole wear after extensive road use, while harder compounds may last for hundreds of miles but feel less reassuring when conditions become wet and technical.

Lug Design: More Than Just Lug Depth

When discussing grip, many runners focus solely on lug depth.

While lug depth is important, it is only one part of a much larger picture.

The following factors all influence performance:

Lug depth
Lug shape
Lug spacing
Lug orientation
Lug density
Surface area of the lug

A road-to-trail shoe may use lugs around 2-3mm deep. These provide smooth transitions onto tarmac, maintain comfort on hard surfaces and offer sufficient traction on light trails and gravel paths.

A dedicated trail shoe might use 4-5mm lugs, creating a balance between versatility and off-road performance.

Meanwhile, a fell running or mud-specific shoe may feature aggressive 6-8mm lugs designed specifically to penetrate soft ground and provide maximum traction.

However, deeper is not always better.

Large, aggressive lugs can feel unstable on road surfaces, wear more quickly and reduce overall efficiency when running on hard-packed terrain.

Directional Grip: Climbing, Descending and Cornering

Grip is not simply about moving forwards. A good outsole must provide traction in multiple directions.

When climbing, lugs need to generate forward propulsion.
When descending, they need to provide braking traction.
When traversing slopes or cornering, they need to resist lateral movement.

This is where lug orientation becomes particularly important.

Forward-facing lugs often improve climbing traction by helping the shoe bite into the ground.
Rear-facing lugs can improve braking performance on descents.
Side lugs can enhance stability when cornering or running across off-camber terrain.

Two shoes may have similar lug depths but feel completely different on technical trails because of how those lugs are positioned and oriented.

Lug Quantity: When More Isn’t Better

Another overlooked aspect of outsole design is the number of lugs used. At first glance, more lugs might seem like a positive feature. More contact points should equal more grip.

Not necessarily.

A higher number of closely packed lugs can increase surface contact on firmer terrain and improve stability. However, in muddy conditions they can become a disadvantage.

Mud needs somewhere to go.

If lugs are packed too closely together, mud can accumulate between them and effectively create a smooth layer underneath the shoe. Once this happens, traction decreases significantly.

This is why many fell-running shoes feature widely spaced lugs. The larger gaps allow mud to be shed more effectively with each stride, keeping the outsole functioning as intended.

The best mud shoes are often those that clear mud efficiently rather than simply those with the deepest lugs.

Different Surfaces Require Different Types of Grip

One reason grip is so difficult to evaluate is that every surface places different demands on an outsole.

Salomon offer a good example of grip options for specific terrain – see how the road outsole is almost flat whereas the mud outsole is aggressive and spaced out – by contrast, the water outsole has large flat lugs.

Wet Rock

Soft, sticky rubber is often the priority.
Friction and size matters more than lug depth.

Dry Rock

Most modern trail shoes perform reasonably well.
Stability and confidence become more important than outright grip.

Mud

Deep, widely spaced lugs are critical.
Mechanical traction is the dominant factor.

Loose Gravel

Lug penetration and a stable platform help prevent slipping.

Forest Trails

A balanced outsole usually performs best.
Extreme lug depth is rarely necessary.

Road and Hardpack

Surface contact, comfort and durability become increasingly important.
Aggressive mud lugs can feel inefficient and unstable.

Understanding the terrain is often more useful than understanding the shoe.

Specialist Outsoles and Why They Matter

This is where specialist outsole compounds begin to separate themselves from the competition.

Many brands have invested heavily in developing their own proprietary technologies designed for specific environments.

Examples include:

adidas Continental (yes, the tyre compnay)
Scarpa Presa TRN series
Inov-8 Graphene/ STICKYGRIP and TRI-C
VJ Sport Superior Contact Butyl Rubber
La Sportiva FriXion – whites/red/blue/black and eco
Salomon Contagrip – road, all terrain, mud, winter and water

Some compounds prioritise wet-rock adhesion. Others focus on durability. Others seek a balance between the two.

Perhaps the best example is VJ Sport’s Butyl rubber. Among experienced mountain runners and orienteers, it has developed an outstanding reputation for wet-rock performance. In challenging mountain environments where confidence on slick surfaces is critical, specialised compounds such as this can provide a genuine advantage.

The key point is that these outsoles are often designed with a very specific purpose in mind rather than trying to satisfy every possible use case.

Outsole Flexibility and Ground Contact

Another often overlooked factor is how effectively a shoe maintains contact with the ground. Even the most aggressive outsole can only generate traction if it is actually in contact with the surface beneath it.

On uneven trails, rocky terrain and technical mountain ground, some shoes are able to conform more effectively to irregular surfaces, allowing more of the outsole to engage with the terrain.

OMM Wave Geometry increases surface contact area with irregular ground.

However, flexibility is not always the answer.

A stiffer shoe may provide greater precision, protection and confidence on rocky terrain. Many mountain-running and approach-style shoes deliberately use stiffer platforms because they allow runners to edge more effectively on uneven surfaces.

Ultimately, grip improves when the shoe maintains effective contact with the terrain, whether through flexibility, torsional compliance or structural stability.

As with every aspect of outsole design, the optimal balance depends on the environment for which the shoe was intended.

The Rise of Vibram Megagrip

In recent years, one outsole has become increasingly dominant across the industry: Vibram Megagrip.

There is no doubt that Megagrip is an excellent compound. It offers an impressive balance of durability, traction and all-round performance with a pay-off on grip in wet rock conditions. It has become the default choice for many premium trail shoes for good reason.

However, the presence of Megagrip alone does not guarantee exceptional grip. Two shoes may use exactly the same rubber compound yet perform very differently in the real world.

Lug geometry, lug spacing, outsole layout, shoe flexibility and overall design remain hugely important.

As more brands adopt the same compound, the differences between shoes increasingly come down to how that compound is implemented rather than the compound itself.

Megagrip remains one of the most versatile options available, but it is only one piece of the overall grip equation.

Why “Good Grip” Depends Entirely on Where You Run

Consider two runners.

The first runs exclusively on dry woodland trails, gravel tracks and flowing singletrack.

For this runner, almost any modern trail shoe with a standard rubber compound and moderate lugs may provide perfectly adequate grip. They may genuinely believe their shoe offers excellent traction because it performs well in their environment.

The second runner starts on roads, moves onto forest trails, then climbs into steep mountain terrain featuring wet rocks, exposed roots and slippery technical sections.

Suddenly, grip becomes a much more demanding requirement.

What felt excellent in dry woodland conditions may feel completely inadequate when the terrain becomes steep, wet and technical.

This is why context matters.

A shoe that provides outstanding grip in one environment may be average in another.

The Search for the Perfect Outsole

The uncomfortable truth is that there is no perfect outsole.

The best grip comes when a runner can be highly specific about their needs and select a shoe built for those exact conditions.

If your running consists primarily of muddy fell races, choose a mud-specific outsole.
If your focus is technical mountain running, prioritise compounds that excel on wet rock.
If your routes combine road, gravel and moderate trails, a less aggressive and more versatile outsole may be the better solution.

The closer the outsole is matched to its intended environment, the better it will perform.

Conclusion

Grip is not a simple yes-or-no characteristic.

It is a complex interaction between rubber compound, friction, traction, lug design, lug spacing, lug depth, terrain, weather and running style.

The most specialised outsoles often provide the highest levels of performance, but only within the conditions they were designed for. Like Formula 1 tyres, they excel when used exactly as intended.

The more a shoe attempts to become a “jack of all trades”, the more compromises inevitably appear.

That said, budget must also be considered.

Running shoes have become increasingly expensive, and for many runners owning multiple pairs for different conditions is simply unrealistic. In these cases, the search for a versatile “one shoe does all” option is entirely sensible.

While such shoes may never be the absolute best in every environment, they often represent the most practical and economical choice.

Ultimately, the question is not whether a shoe has good grip.

The question is whether it has the right grip for the terrain you’re asking it to handle.

Follow Ian Corless

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VJ FZN Aerofly Review – The Ultimate Door-to-Trail Companion?

Posted on June 8, 2026 by talkultra

For decades, VJ Sport has built its reputation around one thing: grip. Born in the forests of Finland and forged through the demanding world of orienteering, the brand has become synonymous with shoes capable of handling some of the toughest and slipperiest terrain imaginable. With the FZN Aerofly, however, VJ takes a slightly different approach, entering the rapidly growing “door-to-trail” category with a shoe designed to seamlessly connect road, gravel, and trail running.

First Impressions

The Aerofly immediately brings back memories of the VJ Ultra 3, but it also feels surprisingly similar to a road-running shoe. The design philosophy is clear from the first run: create a highly comfortable, versatile shoe that performs equally well on asphalt, gravel roads, hard-packed trails, and mixed-surface adventures.

The upper features VJ’s Multizone Engineered Mesh, delivering excellent breathability while maintaining a secure and supportive fit. Combined with the brand’s proven Fitlock system,

The shoe wraps confidently around the midfoot, providing stability without feeling restrictive. I have siad this many times before, and I will say it again, Fitlock really does give the best foothold!

The heel is well cushioned and supportive, contributing significantly to the shoe’s long-distance comfort and there are no irritation points – early MAXx2 and Ultra 3 had this.

The toe box is generously sized, allowing the toes to spread naturally during longer runs, while reinforced protection around the front of the shoe guards against accidental encounters with rocks and roots.

Ride and Performance

VJ’s SuperFOAMance™ midsole – a nitrogen-infused foam delivers a highly cushioned yet energetic ride that feels remarkably smooth and lively underfoot. This has appeared in the MAXx2 and the Ultra 3 and it has been a game changer.

Aerofly isn’t designed as a race-day weapon or interval specialist, that role belongs to the more performance-focused sister shoe, the VJ Fuzion Tempo. However, despite its comfort-oriented design, the Aerofly never feels sluggish, the opposite. The foam provides excellent energy return, making it enjoyable on everything from easy recovery runs to steady long-distance efforts – even great when walking!

Enough softness to absorb impact during long runs and still responsiveness to keep transitions smooth and efficient. It could easily be a road shoe.

Rock Plate Done Right

Beneath the SuperFOAMance layer sits a full-length rock plate, a feature typically reserved for more rugged trail shoes.

Its implementation here is particularly effective because it achieves three important goals:

Protects the foot from sharp stones and trail debris
Improves stability by reducing excessive midfoot torsion
Creates smoother transitions across uneven surfaces

VJ has integrated the plate in a way that complements the soft midsole, unlike some rock plates that make a shoe feel stiff or harsh, protection without sacrificing flexibility or comfort.

Outsole and Grip

VJ’s legendary reputation is built largely on its Superior Contact outsole and butyl rubber compound, often regarded as among the best trail-running grips available.

Instead of butyl rubber, VJ uses a lighter and significantly more durable Lightrubber outsole with dense 3 mm lugs. This choice reflects the shoe’s hybrid nature and while the outsole performs very well on asphalt, gravel, hard-packed trails, grass, and dry terrain the compromise becomes noticeable in wet and highly technical conditions.

During mixed-surface adventures, the Aerofly feels confident and predictable, on slick rocks and wet technical trail, the grip is not what one would expect from a typical VJ shoe – they feel much more like a Vibram.

Real-World Versatility

Whether running on city pavement, gravel roads, sandy beaches, forest paths, or moderate technical trails, the shoe feels at home. It excels in exactly the type of running many athletes actually do on a daily basis – start from the front door, covering a few kilometers of road, transitioning onto gravel or forest trails, and returning home via pavement. For runners living in urban environments who need to connect road miles with trail miles, the Aerofly may be one of the most practical options in VJ’s lineup.

Aerofly prioritizes comfort, cushioning, and versatility over outright technical performance.

Specifications

Weight: 256 g (EU 42)
Stack Height: 38 mm / 30 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Lug Depth: 3 mm

Pros

Highly breathable upper
Excellent midfoot lockdown
Nitrogen-infused SuperFOAMance™ midsole
Strong energy return
Full-length rock plate
Stable platform
Lightweight construction
Secure fit with gusseted tongue
Removable insole
Outstanding versatility across mixed terrain

Cons

Grip falls short of VJ’s best trail-specific outsoles
Less confidence on wet rocks and slippery technical terrain

Verdict

The VJ FZN Aerofly successfully bridges the gap between road and trail running. It combines road-shoe comfort with trail-shoe protection, creating a highly versatile package that excels on mixed terrain.

While it won’t replace a dedicated mountain or technical trail shoe, that’s not its purpose. Instead, the Aerofly delivers exceptional comfort, reliable protection, and enough traction to tackle most surfaces runners encounter in everyday training.

Outside of very technical and wet terrain, the Aerofly comes across as a highly versatile, comfort-focused hybrid that stays true to VJ’s performance heritage while appealing to a much broader audience of runners.

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WHAT SLEEPING BAG FOR A MDS EVENT?

Posted on May 5, 2026 by talkultra

Choosing the right sleeping bag can make or break an adventure. Whether you’re heading into the mountains, camping under the stars, or tackling a multi-day trek, your sleep system plays a crucial role in comfort, recovery, and overall experience. But with so many options available, making the right choice isn’t always straightforward.

How to choose?

Decide the temperature rating you need.
In most scenarios, a comfort of 0 to 5 deg will be ideal.
Importantly, do you sleep cold or warm? This will influence your choice.
Think about layers to add warmth – wearing vase layers top and bottom and adding a beanie increase warmth considerably.
Some brands offer sleeping bags in different sizes and widths and also, male or female options exist. You can therefore be specific and get a size/ width suitable for you.
Down or synthetic? Down is lighter, packs smaller and if treated, also can resist wet conditions – In most scenarios, down is the best choice.
Construction and features are important – Ripstop fabric, DWR coatings, sewn through construction, and box wall construction are all features that improve a sleeping bag. Choose wisely.
Zips add weight, so, decide if you need a zip, if you do, maybe a half-zip will be preferable to a full zip.
Baffles and hood – key features that ensure comfort and warmth when needed.
Sleeping mat – a good sleeping mat with applicable R rating makes a sleeping bag more efficient and warmer – an essential piece of kit.

Recommended sleeping mats

Rab Ultrasphere 345g HERE and Sea to Summit Ultralight Air 345g HERE

Sleeping Bags to consider:

Light Warmth

MDS (Wilsa) Ultra Light Bag – 440g – 10 deg HERE

Sea to Summit Spark 7C – 363g – 7 deg HERE

Mid Warmth

PHD also make the Desert X – 375g – 4 deg HERE

Western Mountaineering Flylite Down – 408g – 2 deg

Mont Adventure Equipment Zero Superlight – 425g – 2 deg HERE

Rab Mythic Ultra 180 – 450g – 2 deg HERE (This product is now discontinued but still available)

Cumulus X-Lite 300 – 465g – 2 deg HERE

Western Mountaineering Highlite – 455g – 2 deg HERE

Warm

Thermarest Hyperion 32 UL Down – 462g – 0 deg HERE

Pajak Radical 1Z Down – 466g – 0 deg HERE

Extra Warm

Sea to Summit Spark -1C – 498g – 1 deg HERE

Rab Mythic 0C – 519g – 0 deg HERE

Custom Made

UK brand, PHD, custom make sleeping bags. They offer different sizes, different widths, zip or no zip and so on.

Personally, I use the Desert Race Halfbag – 240g – 3 deg combined with a PHD Ultra Down K series jacket at 200g. It’s the perfect option that also provides a down jacket for when in bivouac. HERE and Ultra Down Jacket HERE

By thinking through these factors carefully, you can choose a sleeping bag that not only suits your adventure but helps you rest well and wake ready for whatever comes next.

Follow Ian Corless

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Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 4

Posted on February 11, 2026 by talkultra

The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica pulled runners away from the coastline and into the high farmlands of the country’s interior. It was a bruising day, 37.7 kilometers with 2,613 meters of climbing for the Expedition category.

No hiding from it. The terrain rolled relentlessly, climbing and plunging through rough rural tracks and exposed hillsides before dropping toward the finish in Palma Norte. It was a stage built to test already tired legs, and it did exactly that.

Men’s Race

Erick Aguirre ran smart. With a solid overall lead, there was no need to take risks. He spent the day alongside Jesus Cerdas, the pair moving steadily across the harsh terrain. They crossed together in 6:05:43, controlled and composed.

Behind them, the real battle unfolded.

Jon Shield fought all day. For much of the stage he sat in fourth, but he never let the gap grow. Gradually he reeled in Martin Alonso Mena. The two arrived at the line almost inseparable after more than six and a half hours of racing. Shield edged it by just three seconds, 6:38:26 to 6:38:29. A long day decided by the smallest of margins.

Women’s Race

Denise Zelaya continues to run her own race. Calm, consistent, and completely dominant, she finished in 7:29, well clear of the field.

Janina Beck followed in 8:27, with Floribeth Perez completing the podium in 8:59. On a day that punished everyone, Zelaya once again showed control and strength.

Adventure Category

The Adventure course was shorter at 12 kilometers, but still far from easy. Sammy Francis ran solo again, crossing in 3:39:22 with another composed performance. In the women’s race, Laura Zuniga finished in 4:13:45, gaining more time on Toni Clark and steadily building her advantage.

*Please note – Adventure times need to deduct 1:49 from the times

With four stages complete, fatigue is real. The coastal humidity has been replaced by exposed climbs and rolling farmland. Every step now carries the weight of the days before.

The Boruca region of southern Costa Rica feels different from the postcard version of the country. This is not manicured resort coastline or dense jungle trails pressed flat by tourists. It is rural, working land, shaped as much by history as by weather.

The Boruca people, one of Costa Rica’s remaining Indigenous communities, have lived here for generations, known for their hand-carved masks and fiercely preserved traditions.

Around their villages the land rolls outward into open pasture and patchwork farmland, where cattle graze on steep green hills and small family plots cling to uneven slopes. The terrain is restless. Long climbs rise without rhythm, dirt roads bake under the sun, and sharp descents cut down into river crossings and humid low pockets before rising again.

It is a landscape that looks soft from a distance, all green folds and misty ridgelines, but up close it is rugged and unforgiving. The soil can be loose, the heat heavy, and the gradients relentless. In the high farmlands near Palma Norte, you move through open exposure rather than forest cover, feeling the scale of the land around you. It is beautiful, but it demands respect.

Race results https://www.webscorer.com/

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The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 3

Posted on February 10, 2026 by talkultra

Stage 3 of The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica is always circled in red. The Queen Stage. The day that defines the race. The stage that strips things back to effort, patience, and decision-making. On paper it is long and brutal. On the ground, it is something else entirely.

The morning stars with the coast, in the quiet half-light where the jungle still holds the night. Runners gathered with headlamps flickering, shoes already damp from the humidity. The air was heavy but mercifully cooler than previous days. Low cloud sat over the hills. It would prove to be a gift.

Almost immediately, the course dropped into a wide riverbed. This opening section is deceptive. It looks runnable, even friendly. Pale stones, shallow flowing water, open sky above. But riverbed running is never free speed. Every step shifts. Ankles work overtime. Shoes fill with water within minutes. The rhythm becomes uneven, a constant negotiation between pace and balance. Some runners hopped rock to rock, trying to keep their feet dry. Others accepted the soak and drove straight through, splashing forward with purpose.

The sound here was distinctive. Footsteps slapping water. Heavy breathing echoing off the valley walls. Occasional shouts as someone slipped or laughed at the futility of staying clean. This was Costa Rica announcing itself early.

As the river narrowed, the trail began to rise. Jungle closed in. Thick green walls pressed close, vines hanging low, the smell of wet earth and vegetation everywhere. Heat built quickly once the climbing started, but the cloud cover held. No direct sun. No baking. For this stage, that mattered more than almost anything.

Then came Nauyaca Waterfalls.

Few race courses pass somewhere this iconic. The roar of the falls could be heard long before they were seen, a deep, constant thunder. Mist hung in the air. The trail twisted along the edge, offering brief, almost cinematic glimpses of white water crashing down into turquoise pools far below. Volunteers stood grinning, clapping runners through, knowing exactly how cruel it is to pass somewhere so beautiful with no time to stop.

The climbs around the waterfalls were short but sharp. Legs were already feeling the cost of the riverbed. Breathing became laboured. Sweat mixed with spray from the falls. It felt primal. Raw. A reminder that this race is as much about environment as distance.

After Nauyaca, the stage changed character again. The trail rolled relentlessly. Up. Down. Some long climbs you can settle into. No extended descents to recover. Just constant undulation through jungle, farmland, and rough tracks. This is where the Queen Stage earns its reputation.

The terrain was hard and punishing. Exposed dirt roads baked under thinning cloud. Narrow singletrack where roots and rocks waited to catch tired feet. Every rise felt unnecessary. Every dip stole momentum. It was a section that demanded discipline. Go too hard, and the coast would destroy you later. Hold back too much, and you’d bleed time you’d never get back.

At the front, Erick Aguero was putting on another master class.

Aguero’s racing here is never flashy. No surges for the crowd. No dramatic moves. Just relentless forward motion. Smooth cadence. Perfect pack management. He ran like someone who knows this land, understands the humidity, respects the distance. While others visibly fought the course, Aguero flowed with it. By the time the terrain began to open and the air shifted, his advantage was already established.

Eventually, after hours inland, something changed. The breeze arrived first. Salty. Cool. Then the light brightened. And suddenly, unmistakably, the coast appeared.

This transition is one of the great moments of the race. Jungle gives way to open sky. The sound of waves replaces insects. The vastness of the Pacific stretches out ahead. Runners hit the sands near the start of the Adventure course, knowing the end is closer now, but also knowing that beaches come with their own price.

The sand was soft in places, compact in others. Feet sank, calves screamed. The trail wove along the coastline, ducking in and out of shaded sections, then back onto open beach. Offshore, the famous Whale Tail formation of Marino Ballena National Park stood out clearly, a natural landmark that feels almost surreal when you’re deep into a long race.

There was beauty here, but also vulnerability. The sun broke through the cloud intermittently. Reflections off the water were harsh. Runners could smell salt on their skin. Aid stations felt like lifelines. Ice, cola, encouragement in multiple languages.

The final kilometres into Ballena Village were a test of stubbornness. Legs heavy. Feet blistered. Packs lighter but shoulders sore. The finish line came slowly, deliberately, making runners earn every step.

Aguero crossed first in 6:26:41, calm, composed, as if he had expected nothing else. Behind him, Jon Shield fought hard to secure second in 6:54:50, holding off a strong late push from Joe Matheson, who finished just over a minute later in 6:56:02. All three looked spent. All three knew they had survived the hardest day.

In the women’s Expedition race, the story was familiar. A repeat of the previous stage with a dominant Denise Zelaya in control from the front. No drama. Just execution. On a day like this, consistency matters more than heroics. Janina Beck finished 2nd 8:57:19 with Vanessa Duran 3rd in 9:34:11.

Results at webscorer.com

In the Adventure category Laura Zuñiga crossed in 5:40:27 with Toni Clarke close behind 5:45:42, it’s a battle between the two, and Kristel polet 5:46:04 in 3rd. For the men, once again Sammy Francis lead Alberto Gil, 5:20:23 and 5:22:28 respectively. Roberto Solano was 3rd in 5:40:20.

Stage 3 didn’t just shuffle the leaderboard. It revealed it. It exposed weaknesses, rewarded patience, and reminded everyone why The Coastal Challenge is respected worldwide. Long after the finish line buzz faded and runners collapsed into shade with food and cold drinks, the Queen Stage lingered

It always does.

Race results https://www.webscorer.com/

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The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 2

Posted on February 9, 2026 by talkultra

Stage 2 of The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica delivered exactly what this race is known for: raw nature, relentless conditions, and a course that asks runners to adapt again and again. Starting deep in the rainforest at Rafiki Lodge, the day unfolded as a true Coastal Challenge classic, blending river crossings, technical trails, jungle heat, and a dramatic run to the sea.

From the first steps out of camp, it was clear this would not be a straightforward stage. The route followed the Savegre River, widely regarded as one of the cleanest and most biologically pristine rivers in Central America. Flowing from the highlands of the Talamanca Mountains down to the Pacific Ocean, the Savegre is internationally recognised for its exceptional water quality and rich biodiversity. Crossing it once would be memorable. Crossing it twice turned Stage 2 into something special.

The river crossings were more than just obstacles. They were moments that forced runners to slow down, focus, and respect the environment around them. Water rose around calves and knees, current tugged at tired legs, and the contrast between cool river water and the heavy jungle air was striking. It was a reminder that this race is as much about managing nature as it is about racing the clock.

After the river, the course tightened and twisted through rainforest trails. Roots, mud, and uneven ground demanded constant attention. The humidity settled in early and stayed all day. Even experienced runners felt the energy drain as the sun climbed higher. This is where The Coastal Challenge often reshuffles the deck, and Stage 2 was no exception.

For the Adventure race, the day began at CP2, roughly the midpoint of the Expedition route. While the distance was shorter, the challenge remained very real. Adventure runners faced the same heat, the same technical terrain, and the same unforgiving humidity. Starting later on the course offered no easy miles, only a condensed dose of everything Costa Rica can throw at a runner.

As both races pushed westward, the landscape began to change. Dense jungle gradually opened up, trails widened, and the distant sound of the ocean hinted at what was to come. Crossing road 34 marked a psychological shift. From there, runners entered the estuaries and beaches that lead toward Dominical. Soft sand replaced dirt, and the open coastline exposed runners to full sun with no shelter. Legs already fatigued now had to adapt once more.

This final section summed up Stage 2 perfectly. After jungle, rivers, and trails, the beach demanded a different kind of strength. Running on sand punished tired calves and slowed even the strongest athletes. Heat radiated from above and below. Yet the sight of the Pacific Ocean and the energy around the finish made it unforgettable.

At the front of the Expedition race, the men’s competition came alive. After a controlled and measured Stage 1, Erick Aguero delivered what many have come to recognise as a classic ‘Aguero’ performance. He pushed early, established himself at the front, and gradually opened a gap that no one could close. His strength through the technical sections and consistency in the heat paid off, as he crossed the line in a commanding 4:49:04 – al this despite receiving a dog bite during the race.

Behind him, the battle for the remaining podium places was hard-fought. Jesus Cerdas Padilla ran a strong and steady race to claim second in 5:11:54. Stage 1 winner Ramon Rosello Pons followed in third with a time of 5:24:03. With this result, Aguero moved into the overall lead, setting up an intriguing dynamic for the stages ahead.

In the women’s Expedition race, Denise Zelaya was in a class of her own. From early on, she looked composed and controlled, handling the heat and terrain with confidence. Her dominance was clear as the stage wore on, and she crossed the finish line in 5:59:12, underlining her strength and experience in these conditions. It was a decisive performance on a demanding day.

Janina Beck and Pamela Muñoz placed 2nd and 3rd, 7:05:12 and 7:11:12 respectively.

The Adventure race delivered its own drama. Sammy Francis led the way, crossing first in 3:40:51 after a determined run through the heat and sand. The fight for second was tight and exciting. Toni Clarke, the Stage 1 leader, finished second, just over 30 seconds behind Laura Zuniga Alcazar, who crossed in 3:59:28. The close times reflected the intensity of the race and the way Stage 2 squeezed every bit of effort from the field.

Beyond results and times, Stage 2 captured the essence of The Coastal Challenge. It was tough, unpredictable, and deeply connected to the landscape. Runners were forced to think, adapt, and endure. The Savegre River crossings stood out as defining moments, but the entire course demanded respect.

By the end of the day, fatigue was written on every face. Salt streaked skin, mud-caked legs, and tired smiles told the story better than words. It was a hard day, but an exciting one. Stage 2 reminded everyone why this race holds such a special place in the world of stage racing, it has a little of everything, and it never gives anything away easily. Let’s not forget, Dominical is also an awesome place for camp.

Race results https://www.webscorer.com/

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MDS 120 ATLANTIC COAST 2026 – STAGE 2

Posted on January 31, 2026 by talkultra

Stage 2 of the MDS 120 Atlantic Coast 2026 arrived with options and consequences. Twenty kilometres, forty, or the full sixty. Three distances, one shared truth: today would ask more than legs. It would ask for patience, judgement, and honesty. The course did not care which option was chosen. It simply waited, stretching out along the Atlantic edge, ready to test everyone who stepped onto it.

The morning hinted at uncertainty. Low cloud rolled in from the ocean, cool air brushing faces that had already been scoured by salt and sand. There was a little rain, just enough to darken the ground and sharpen the smell of wet earth. Then the sun broke through, sudden and bright, as if to remind the field that comfort would be temporary and effort unavoidable. It was a day of changeable weather in every sense, and the tone was set early. Adjust. Adapt. Keep moving.

From the first kilometres, the terrain refused to settle into anything predictable. Soft sand swallowed shoes and rhythm, turning simple forward motion into work. Each step demanded attention. Ankles wobbled, calves burned, and breathing grew louder. Then the sand gave way to rocky plateau, hard and uneven underfoot.

The pace changed again, this time to caution. Eyes stayed down, scanning for safe placement. The plateau opened wide, exposing runners to the elements and to themselves. There was nowhere to hide from the wind, the sun, or the thoughts that arrive when the body starts to ask hard questions.

Flooded gorges brought a different challenge. Water pooled where it was least expected, cool and deceptively deep. Shoes filled, socks soaked, and the familiar squelch followed each step on the exit. Some laughed at the absurdity of it. Others grimaced, knowing wet feet mean blisters later. But everyone crossed, because stopping was never really an option. This race does not negotiate.

Beyond the gorges, the course stretched into wide open terrain. The Atlantic Ocean appeared and disappeared, sometimes a distant shimmer, sometimes close enough to hear. The scale of the landscape made individuals feel small, but also free. Lines of colour moved slowly across the land as runners spread out, each locked into their own effort. This was where time began to behave strangely. Minutes felt long. Hours blurred. The distance chosen mattered less than the simple act of continuing.

The final stretch ran flat and true, parallel to the ocean. It should have felt easier. On paper, it was. In reality, it was where fatigue spoke loudest. The body was already empty. The mind had been negotiating for kilometres. Yet the finish lay ahead, invisible at first, then slowly, mercifully, real. The ocean rolled on, indifferent and steady, while the race reached its quiet climax.

The finish line became a gathering point for everything this day had taken and given. It was a welcome sight, one that drew out raw emotion without apology. Tears fell freely, sometimes before the line, sometimes after. Laughter broke out in short bursts, the kind that comes when tension finally releases. There was joy, genuine and earned, mixed with exhaustion that sat deep in the bones. Some crossed upright and strong. Others bent double, hands on knees, searching for breath. All were changed.

The day stretched long into the night. Headlamps flickered in the distance as darkness closed in. Volunteers stayed wrapped in layers, voices steady, encouragement unwavering. The clock kept moving. And then, close to 2300 hours, the final finisher crossed the line. There was no rush. No hurry to be anywhere else. Just a moment held for someone who refused to stop. Applause cut through the night, not loud, but meaningful. This, too, mattered.

Stage 2 was not about speed. It was about choice and consequence, about learning the difference between discomfort and danger, about discovering how much is left when you think there is nothing. Today, participants found out who they are and why they are here. Some answers were quiet. Others arrived with force. But they arrived all the same.

There were moments of doubt, of frustration, of anger at the sand, the stones, the weather, the distance. There were also moments of clarity, when effort narrowed the world down to the essentials. Step. Breathe. Drink. Keep going. In those moments, the noise of everyday life fell away. What remained was simple and honest.

As the camp settles and the body begins to cool, tomorrow offers something rare in this environment. A day of rest. A pause. Time to recharge and recover. Muscles will stiffen, feet will tell their stories, and minds will replay the day in fragments. There will be care, conversation, and quiet pride. Because Stage 2 demanded respect, and those who met it earned that rest.

The Atlantic continues to roll in the dark. The course waits. And the field, changed by today, will rise again when it is time.

MDS Tour and MDS Clubs for 2026

Join the MDS Clubs on HEYLO HERE.

The MDS Tour starts in January and moves from location to location, Register HERE

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EVEREST TRAIL RACE 2025 – STAGE 6

Posted on November 19, 2025 by talkultra

The Final Push to Glory in Lukla

The end is in sight. After five brutal, beautiful days in the high Himalayas, Stage 6 of the 2025 Everest Trail Race delivers the final blow and the final reward. It’s 28.5 kilometres fo Lukla, a day marked by more descent than ascent: 2612 meters down, 1578 meters up, and every single step earned.

An early start, the arrival of the sun and soon, the heat will come – not only in the sky but with the bodies of each participant.

The day kicks off with iconic trails that weave from Stupa to Stupa to Namche Bazaar, the buzzing Sherpa hub perched on the mountainside like a fortress.

The backdrop behind, stunning, but the participants don’t get a chance to see it…

Namche brings checkpoint 1, it’s welcome, the early kilometres had worked the body hard with a steep descent, followed by a gentle climb and then an ‘easy’ run to the refreshment.

The early kilometers retrace some familiar ground – Sanasa, Phunki Tenga, and trails edged with mani stones and prayer flags, twisting through pine forests and clinging to cliffs. But don’t call it a repeat. The fatigue, the altitude, and the stakes make every step feel different.

This stage is less about vertical brutality and more about holding form, keeping control as the trail drops fast and hard. Quads burn, knees scream, but momentum is everything.

Soon, the trail funnels runners toward the legendary new Hillary Bridge – a sweeping, high-tension crossing that swings over the Dudh Kosi with views that could stop you in your tracks, if the clock wasn’t ticking.

Past the bridge, it’s Jorsale, where the race starts to feel like it’s dragging runners home. The Phakding checkpoint (CP2) marks another milestone, each bib scanned there is one step closer to Everest Trail Race glory.

By the time runners hit Cheplung, it’s all on the table. Here, a sharp left turn signals the endgame: the final climb to Lukla and oce again, Nepal and the Porters remind us, how lucky we are!

It’s not long, but it bites. After the day’s long descent, this uphill kick demands whatever strength is left in the tank. Runners grit teeth, dig deep, and push toward the town that marks the start of most Everest dreams, and now, the finish of this one.

Crossing into Lukla is like breaking through into another world. Crowds, bells, cheers, and tears—this is where it all ends. For some, it’s a triumphant sprint. For others, a silent, emotional walk over the line. But for everyone, it’s the culmination of six days of relentless racing through some of the world’s toughest terrain.

The 2025 Everest Trail Race is done, everyone earned more than a medal, they earned the mountain’s respect.

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EVEREST TRAIL RACE 2025 – STAGE 5

Posted on November 18, 2025 by talkultra

Into the Heart of the Himalayas

Stage 5 of the Everest Trail Race pulls no punches. At 24km with a punishing 2,483 meters of ascent, this is the stage that earns its reputation as the toughest of them all. The numbers alone are intimidating, but it’s the relentless terrain and shifting altitude that test runners on every level – physical, mental, emotional.

This year’s route sees a change from previous editions, adding new layers of challenge and beauty. Starting in the shadow of Sagarmatha National Park’s giants, the trail weaves through the quiet village of Chumoa before rising into the bustling trails of Namche Bazaar, where the first checkpoint offers a brief reprieve. But this is only the beginning.

From Namche, the course climbs to Syangboche, skirting airstrips and yak paths, before pressing on to Kumjung, a Sherpa village set high beneath the peaks. Then comes Mong La – Checkpoint 2 – perched like a balcony above the valleys below. From there, it’s a steep descent to Phortse Tenga, followed by a lung-busting climb to Phortse, a village known for its mountaineering legacy.

But the final ascent is where Stage 5 seals its legacy. The climb to Tyangboche Monastery, sitting at 3,860m, is a final test of grit. Legs scream, lungs burn, but the reward is immense. As runners crest the trail, they’re greeted by one of the world’s most iconic alpine views: Ama Dablam, Everest, Nuptse, and a horizon lined with Himalayan giants. Arguably, one of THE greatest finish lines in the world.

The pain is real, but so is the pride. After this brutal day, there’s relief in knowing only one stage remains. For those who made it to Tyangboche, it’s not just another finish line – it’s a summit of spirit, dedication, tenacity and perseverance.