Which waterproof over-trousers for trail and ultra running?
Written by Victor Michel — history enthusiast and passionate alpinist based in Chamonix. Published August 1, 2026
Waterproof over-trousers are part of the mandatory gear on most semi-autonomous races (UTMB, CCC, TDS, Mont-Blanc Marathon), with no officially rated Schmerber threshold unlike the jacket. The criterion that really makes the difference in a race: being able to put them on without removing your shoes.
Side zips: the criterion that changes everything
Unlike hiking trousers, trail over-trousers need to go on or come off without removing your shoes, mid-race, often in the rain. Models with full-length side zips (down to the ankle) go on noticeably faster than models that must be stepped into — a real time saver when a storm hits mid-climb.
No official Schmerber threshold, but a consistent logic
The UTMB mandatory-gear list marks over-trousers as 'mandatory' without rating a minimum waterproofing, unlike the jacket (10,000 Schmerber regulatory minimum, 20,000 recommended). In practice, aiming for a level equivalent to the jacket remains the safest logic for uniform protection during prolonged bad weather.
| Criterion | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofing | 20,000 Schmerber recommended (no official rated threshold, unlike the jacket) | Protection consistent with the rest of the mandatory gear |
| Side zips | Full-length zips or 3/4-leg zips | Put on or take off without removing shoes, mid-race |
| Packability | Must fit into a trail vest pocket | Quick access in a sudden storm |
| Weight | 100 to 180 g | Doesn't add extra load to the pack over a long format |
| Elastics | Adjustable waist and ankles | Fit without a rigid belt under the vest |
Editorial selection
Top 5 recommended waterproof over-trousers for trail and ultra running
Five models with side zips, designed to go on quickly without removing your shoes.
Salomon — Bonatti Pro Pant
A benchmark in French trail running, full-length side zips, good packability into a vest pocket.
Raidlight — Top Extreme MP+ Pant
French brand specialising in ultra-distance, designed for quick on-the-move donning.
Montane — Minimus
Ultralight, 3/4-leg zips, designed for runners who prioritise weight.
OMM — Kamleika
British specialist in fell running and mountain marathons, very packable.
Inov-8 — Stormshell
English trail-specialist brand, lightweight membrane geared toward competition.
Independent editorial selection, with no commercial link or partnership.
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FAQ
Are waterproof over-trousers mandatory at the UTMB?
Yes, on semi-autonomous races (UTMB, CCC, TDS, and OCC depending on weather). The rules require them without rating a minimum Schmerber threshold, unlike the jacket.
Do you need full-length side zips?
It's not a regulatory requirement, but it's strongly recommended: it lets you put on or remove the over-trousers without taking off your shoes, a real time saver mid-race in the rain.
What weight should you aim for on trail over-trousers?
100 to 180 g depending on size and protection level. Beyond that, over-trousers become a burden when carried folded in a trail vest for several hours.
Can you put over-trousers on over your shoes?
On models without side zips, yes, but it's slower and harder on unstable terrain. Models with full-length zips avoid this problem.
What's the difference with softshell hiking trousers?
Softshell is water-repellent but not fully waterproof and generally heavier. Trail over-trousers aim for full waterproofing at minimal weight, even at the cost of breathability and comfort while resting.