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.

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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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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 2

Posted on November 15, 2025 by talkultra

BRUTAL BEAUTY AND RELENTLESS CLIMBING

Stage 2 of the Everest Trail Race doesn’t waste time. The gun goes off, and it hits hard, right into a beast of a climb that defines the day. The route is 26.6 kilometers with 1,483 meters of vertical gain, but ask anyone who ran it: it feels like double that.

The stage opens with arguably the most iconic stretch of the entire race, a 4km climb straight out of the start gate, topping out at the summit of Pike Peak at 4,046 meters. There’s no easing into it. You’re immediately lunging skyward, legs burning, lungs gasping, every step on loose rock and narrow trail.

But what a reward. The views from Pike Peak are the kind you earn. Everest, Thamserku, and the distant giants of the Himalayas tower on the horizon.

There’s a strange serenity up there—above the tree line, above the chaos, if only your quads weren’t screaming so loudly.

From the summit, runners are thrown into a tricky descent, technical, steep, and demanding full attention. This is no cruise; it’s controlled aggression. The terrain underfoot is a mix of loose stone and rutted trail, constantly shifting. Jase Bhanjyang appears below like a mirage, a short-lived reprieve at 3,510m before the next test.

After a quick breath, it’s back uphill, another climb, this time to 3,800m. It’s less brutal than the first, but by now the fatigue is setting in. The altitude, the sun, the effort, they add up. This section wears on you slowly, sapping strength before delivering a massive release:

This is the stage’s exhale. A long, fast descent winds down to Jumbesi, where Checkpoint 2 awaits. The descent is runnable FOR SOME but relentless. It’s a test of patience, footwork, and knowing how much to push without blowing up. At CP2, some collapse into chairs, others refuel and move quickly, no time to waste.

From Jumbesi, the route shifts gears. A more gradual climb takes runners to Phurteng at 3,000m, a steady push that gnaws at tired legs. Then, a rolling descent gives a hint of relief, but it’s a trap.

Because this stage has a final sting: the kick to Ringmo. Just when you think you’ve made it, the trail juts upward again before finally dropping into the finish at 2,740m. It’s psychological warfare. You can see Ringmo before you reach it – but the trail makes you fight for it.

Stage 2 is a monster. On paper, it doesn’t look like the toughest, less gain than Stage 1, more downhill, but the terrain, altitude, and sequence of climbs make it punishing. The raw elevation loss (2,203m) sounds helpful, but it hammers your legs in a different way. Many finish looking shell-shocked. Others, oddly exhilarated.

This is the Everest Trail Race offers up some of the most staggering views you’ll ever see on a race course, and today, in the shadow of Pike Peak, the price of admission was steep but worth it.

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MDS TREK MOROCCO 2025 – Stage 4 – A Victory Loop Through the Sahara

Posted on October 27, 2025 by talkultra

The fourth and final stage of MDS Trek Morocco is complete. What began as a journey into the vast, unforgiving desert has ended in a loop of triumph, every step earned, every moment remembered.

Today’s stage started in darkness. Head torches cut thin beams through the pre-dawn silence, the soft crunch of footsteps the only sound as the group moved out into the unknown once more. The air was cool, but everyone knew what was coming. The early warmth was already hinting at another scorcher in the making.

There were two distances again today, different paths, same glory. Whether you chose the longer route or a shorter challenge, the destination was the same: the finish line, and the medal that waited beyond it.

The route offered a final taste of everything the Sahara had thrown at participants over the past days, rolling ridges of sand, winding gorges, and a long, flat, rocky push to the finish. Hard, hot, and humbling. But also deeply rewarding.

Trek has been a shared adventure.

A test of resilience, not speed. MDS Trek Morocco made space for everyone, young and old, first-timers and seasoned explorers, fast hikers and slow-but-steady souls. There were no clocks to beat, only limits to expand.

It was also safe. Every step of the way, the organisation was tight, the logistics seamless, the support unwavering. Even in this remote, elemental landscape, the structure and security allowed people to push themselves without fear.

More than anything, MDS Trek was about togetherness. There were moments of solitude, yes, but also laughter, encouragement, teamwork. Bonds were built under starlit skies and blistering suns.

This trek wasn’t just through the Sahara, it was into a deeper understanding of what we’re capable of when we move with purpose, and when we move together.

The Sahara gave everything. So did the people who crossed it.

This was MDS Trek Morocco: a final stage, a victory loop, and an unforgettable finish.

Interested in a MARATHON DES SABLES EVENT?

More Info HERE

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MDS TREK MOROCCO 2025 – Stage 3 – A Journey Through Sand, Stars, and Spirit

Posted on October 25, 2025 by talkultra

There are stages that challenge you, stages that move you, and then there are stages like Stage 3 of MDS TREK Morocco, the kind that embeds itself deep in your memory and never lets go.

This wasn’t just another section of the trek. It was the spiritual centre of the entire experience. A 48-hour symphony of sweat, sand, starlight and self-discovery, this was the Sahara in its rawest, most breathtaking form.

Part One – Into the Desert Before Dawn

It began in the dark, well before sunrise. Head torches flickered to life across the bivouac like constellations on the move. The air was still, cool with the promise of what was to come. This was no ordinary start. There was a choice, two routes: the shorter 17.3km or the longer 30.6km. Two paths leading into the vast unknown, with each step breaking the silence of the Moroccan morning.

And then came the sand, golden even in the first light. There’s nothing quite like descending those soft sandy giants as the world slowly glows around you.

Laughter echoed, legs burned, hearts raced. The sand gave way to rocky outcrops, and then again to long stretches of sunlit solitude.

It was terrain that demanded focus: shifting sands, jagged stones, climbs that tested lungs, and descents that punished quads. And moments of pure magic, a Camel with a calf just days old.

As the sun climbed, so did the temperature, creeping past 40°C, pushing toward the high 40s by midday. Every kilometre was earned. The trek moved through narrow mountain passes, broad empty plains, and wind-rippled dunes that swallowed sound and offered only the rhythm of your own breath in return.

This wasn’t just physical endurance. It was mental stamina. This was the Sahara asking, “How much do you want this?” And the answer was in every footstep forward.

Star Night – A Sahara Festival Beneath the Milky Way

Then came the magic.

As the heat softened and the sky turned amber, the group reached the remote desert bivouac, a temporary outpost far from civilisation, wrapped in silence, surrounded by dunes like a protective embrace.

Tents were set up quickly, offering some shelter from the still-warm evening, but it was clear that tonight, few would sleep indoors.

Dinner was served under open skies, a catered desert banquet with the kind of flavour that only comes after a day like that.

Music played. Conversations sparked. Laughter carried on the breeze. And as the sun finally slipped away, the desert lit up in a way that defied belief.

This was no ordinary night.

This was Star Night.

The sky ignited with stars, sharp, bright, infinite. The Milky Way stretched across the sky like a brushstroke of light. It was cinematic. Surreal. And yet, utterly real. Most didn’t even bother with sleeping bags; the night air was warm, comfortable, and inviting. Mats were laid out in the sand, and people lay back, letting the stillness of the Sahara soak in.

This wasn’t just a rest stop. It was a memory being etched in real time. A Saharan festival of connection, nature, and awe. And despite the fatigue, few slept early. Why would you? Nights like that are rare, even in dreams.

Day Two – Sunrise, Sand, and the Final Push

As dawn crept in, the desert glowed again. Another split route awaited, this time 17.5km or 22.5km. But legs were lighter. Spirits were high. The starlit night had done its work. The air still held a bit of cool, and the sun rose gently, casting long shadows over the rippling sands.

The trail wound through more epic Saharan landscapes, twisting through low valleys, across ancient dry riverbeds, and up onto ridges with views that stole the breath before the heat could.

By late morning the thermometer climbed past 48°C. Brutal, yes. But somehow also beautiful. Because every drop of sweat, every pause in the shade, every step forward became part of something larger.

There was camaraderie. People encouraging one another. Sharing sips of water. Pointing out landmarks. Moving as individuals, yes, but always part of a bigger whole.

And then, after hours of pushing through shimmering heat and relentless terrain, the finish line of Stage 3 appeared, home bivouac, familiar now, yet somehow different. Changed. Just like every person who crossed into it.

Why Stage 3 Can’t Be Missed

Stage 3 isn’t just a segment of MDS TREK Morocco. It’s a story within the story. It captures everything the trek stands for: resilience, beauty, challenge, community, and wonder.

This was the essence of the MDS spirit : raw, bold, unforgettable. It tested bodies, ignited minds, and opened hearts. Trekkers will not just remember Stage 3, it will forever be that stage.

Interested in a MARATHON DES SABLES EVENT?

More Info HERE

Follow Ian Corless

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Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS 120 MOROCCO 2025 – STAGE 3

Posted on October 17, 2025 by talkultra

There are moments in life that will etch themselves into your memory with brutal clarity, the sting of the sun, the whip of the wind, the bite of fatigue. And then there are moments that transcend all that. Moments that shine because of what it took to get there. Today, that moment came. MDS 120 Morocco 2025 is complete. But this finish line didn’t come easy.

The Rest Day That Wasn’t

After the double blow of Stage 1 and 2 under an unforgiving sun, participants staggered into the bivouac with blistered feet and salt-crusted skin, ready for a day of rest.

But the Sahara had other plans. Instead of recovery, they got afternoon chaos: a wild sandstorm that tore across camp like a runaway train. The sky turned thick and orange. Tents collapsed. Gear went flying. People huddled in whatever shelter they could find, eyes wrapped in buffs, trying to breathe through the dust. It lasted for hours. When it finally passed, silence hung in the air, but it wasn’t peace. It was exhaustion.

This was not the rest day anyone hoped for. But there were plenty of moment of relaxation before the chaos – lots of sleeping, adding entries in journals.

and towards the end of the day, as the wind calmed, MDS organisation offered a treat – no longer a cold can of Coke – today, fresh fruit and ice.

At 0400, camp began to stir. Bleary-eyed runners rose in darkness, fumbling with head torches and gear. The temperature hadn’t dropped. The air felt thick and warm, like the desert was still holding onto yesterday’s rage.

By 0530, the first runners were off. Headlamps cut through the pitch, bobbing along as the desert slowly took shape in the dim light. At 0630, the top-10 runners launched like arrows, chasing the dark down.

Then, something no one expected happened. It started softly. A few drops. Then more. Rain. Actual rain falling from a sky that hadn’t offered a single kindness in days. No one ducked. No one cursed. No one complained. Smiles broke out, quiet and stunned at first, then wide and wild. Some raised their faces to the sky. This was a blessing. A strange, surreal gift. The desert, finally, exhaled.

Stage 3 unfolded under gentler skies. The sun eventually returned, but not with the same vengeance. The course was still brutal – sand, rocks, one climbs that never seemed to end, but the worst of the heat was gone. Spirits rose with every kilometre. Runners, ragged but relentless, began to believe the finish was real.

One by one, they crossed the line. Some ran with everything left in their legs. Some limped, leaning on poles. Some clutched hands with teammates or strangers who’d become family over theirshared suffering. And when that medal was placed around their necks, the tears came freely. No shame in them, only pride, release, and the overwhelming relief of completion.

There were cheers. Applause. Laughter. People hugging like they never wanted to let go. Cameras flashed. Medals clinked. Bodies that had been pushed to the limit stood a little taller.

Behind every finish was an army in blue and orange.

The MDS team, the volunteers, medics, logistics crew, water distributors, checkpoint staff, tent builders, camp runners, sweepers, and everyone else in between—made this journey possible.

They were the quiet hands who carried everyone forward. The steady voices in the storm. The ones who handed out water in 47°C heat, packed and re-packed tents, tended to blisters, and kept this chaotic caravan moving across an unforgiving land. Their work wasn’t glamorous. It was relentless. And it matters more than words can say.

MDS 120 Morocco is more than numbers. More than distance. It’s more than the desert.

It’s about finding out what lives under your skin when the comfort is stripped away. It’s about running into the teeth of the wind and not turning back. It’s about community, people who arrive as strangers and leave as family. It’s about believing you can, even when everything hurts, and then proving it.

No one who stood on that start line is the same at the finish. And that’s the point.

So to every runner who dared to take this on: you are fierce, you are strong, and you’ve earned every second of this glory. This medal means more because you fought for it.