6 new running kitsWorn by the coolest runners at Mont Blanc
Between the buzzing atmosphere and impressive distances each runner covered during a week of trail running races in Mont Blanc, these six elites stood out from the crowd for their most stylish and innovative running kits and shoes.
By Nayeun Kim
26 September 2025 · 7 min read
All the love to those still jogging in old sweats and home clothes, but those days are close to being over. Running’s biggest joy will always be about going outside and pushing your limits, but it’s also about how you show up. As the saying goes, “dress the part, get the part.”
It’s not a simple matter of style, either. In the world of running, where function meets fashion, the creative experimentations are pure science. Top brands are expertly combining thoughtful designs with technology that provides balance and movement in the toughest terrains, unlocking new levels, all in vibrant colourways that would make any runner feel like a bulldozer on the trail.
From what we saw during a week of ultra-distance trail running at Mont Blanc, it was apparent running kits and shoes have never been more intelligent or sharp in design. Looking to upgrade? Check out the hottest running kits and shoes we spotted six athletes wearing below.
Spotted: Fernanda Maciel in The North Face Flora Alpina Kit
If we had to narrow down to one kit that really had everyone’s tongues wagging this season, it would be The North Face Flora Alpina drop. Released right in the middle of trail races, male and female athletes of all levels were spotted decked out in a chiaroscuro-esque flora print inspired by nature in the Chamonix Valley. The highly breathable stretch fabrics the High Trail T-Shirt and Pacesetter Short are made of, integrates FlashDry™ technology to regulate body temperature and très flattering. The Run Vest uses the same materials for moisture management and is designed for stability, reducing bounce so you can stay focused on the run.
But looks aren’t everything, as ultra-runner Fernanda told us: the Vectiv Enduris trail running shoe features a dual-stacked carbon-fibre plate system with ultralight, nitrogen-infused DREAM foam to push the pace, and is by far The North Face’s most advanced race-day shoe yet. As for the hard-to-miss Summit Superior FUTURELIGHT™ jacket, it’s engineered with an advanced breathable waterproof membrane that weighs just 71g/m2 for ultralight storm protection that packs down to almost nothing when undeployed.
Recommended for the trail runner that wants to coordinate head-to-toe.
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Spotted: Toni McCann in adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra and Trail Kit
There are shoes — and then there are super shoes. The adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is designed for one intent — speed — making it one of the most hyped running shoes for experienced runners aiming for a podium finish. We spotted ultra-runner Toni McCann in a pair, who is beloved by the trail communities for her strength and impressive race records that are hard to ignore, so naturally, Agravic Speed Ultra is on everyone’s radar.
Meanwhile, the latest Trail Kit embodies a clean look, which speaks to adidas Terrex’s ‘show by doing’ philosophy on trail running. It’s not to say the kit doesn’t have any fun elements; the minimalist design complements the running shoe colourway, leaning into apricot and coral accents that don’t overdo it, but don’t go unnoticed.
Recommended for the serious, experienced runner that’s keen on showing off a bit of their personality.
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Spotted: Essi Tesfom in Hoka Mafate 5 and Trail Kit
Hoka’s reputation as a trail running specialist goes undisputed season after season — and this year was no different. We spotted fellow Berliner Essi Tesfom in the new Mafate 5 and the latest trail running kit. Looking smart on the trail might not seem important, but Essi’s monochrome Skyflow Jacket, Essential Tee, and Novafly Half Tight prove otherwise. Who says inconspicuous, elegant composition can’t stand out?
The Mafate 5 on the other hand, is layered with soft, springy foam to absorb shock from ground impact, designed specifically for technical trails, and the MetaRocker™ technology allows the runner to stay balanced. It’s a stretchable shoe with a warp-knit upper, meaning it’ll shape around your feet without damaging the shoe’s construction, and the electric blue adds a final punch on the trail. You guessed it, it’s flying season.
Recommended for the ultimate mountain-fanatic that spends more time outside than inside.
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Spotted: Lucille Germain in Nnormal Kjerag and Trail Race Kit
Watch yourself before you call Nnormal a young brand because, for just three years old, the kits it’s producing aren't messing around. Spotted on French runner Lucille Germain, Nnormal’s Trail Race Kit was by far the sleekest colourway in muted palettes, which makes mixing items so easy. Where sports apparel is often geared towards the male athlete, this collection is especially attractive for female trail runners who want to express themselves through performance and style.
As for the Kjerag trail running shoe, it has all that a runner could wish for: a VIBRAM® Litebase outsole, Matryx upper, and EExpure foam midsole that helps with propulsion and compression, but more importantly, unwanted blisters. The brand releases only a small collection per season, which means that each item is meticulously thought out — just take note of the bands at the back of the Race Shorts for trail running poles or high-performance fabrics used on jackets that can withstand 20,000 mm water pressure, ensuring you’re dry in torrential rain. But when the brand is co-founded by one of the best in the sport, Kílian Jornet, are we really surprised?
Recommended for the conscious runner looking for utmost essentials with recognisable design.
Spotted: Ugo Ferrari in Altra Mont Blanc Carbon
Maybe you’re new to Altra, but don’t overlook its reputation. A serious competitor in the world of trail running, the new Mont Blanc Carbon trail running shoe is a beast — much like the ultra-runner we saw them on, Ugo Ferrari. It takes the original Mont Blanc and dials it up with a full-length Carbitex™ Monoflex plate. This isn't your average, rigid carbon plate: it’s flexible on uneven trail terrains while keeping your feet protected, and on hard surfaces, it provides a propulsive boost.
It kept Altra’s signature features too, such as the 0mm drop platform and FootShape™ toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally, enhancing stability, reducing fatigue, and delivering unmatched comfort — especially on long distances. Cheers to no more cramped toes! Pretty safe to say every component is living up to the brand’s motto, “made to keep you out there.”
Recommended for the runner that likes to go off the beaten path.
Spotted: Leane Ross in Nike Trail Kit
When your influence across major sports is undeniable, why would you stop at trail running? This year, Nike’s getting competitive with Nike ZoomX Zegama Trail 2, which is built with an ultralight foam, engineered mesh, and rugged outsole to stabilise the runner through the trail whether it’s the steep ridges or jagged rocks. We caught junior runner Leane Ross on a run in them, and we have to admit the ZoomX Zegama Trail 2 is one of the best colourways we’re seen on the trails. Ross’ multicolour trail shorts are designed with a built-in storage waistband with minimal bounce, so you can go completely handsfree on a run and a neutral top that keeps it fresh to what is otherwise a rebellious kit.
Recommended for the rebel runner that wants to leave a long-lasting impression on the trail.
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