Both trousers use an MP+® 20K/20K membrane, but their philosophies are very different. The ULTRALIGHT MP+® prioritizes weight, packability and ultra-trail use. The ADVENTURE MP+® 3X focuses more on 3-layer protection, features and versatility for challenging hiking or adventure.
If you are hesitating between the two, the right choice mainly depends on how you will use them: long-distance racing, mandatory gear, hiking, challenging weather, need for pockets or ease of putting them on with shoes.
Why wear waterproof trousers for trail running?
In the mountains, waterproof trousers protect the legs from rain, wind and cooling. They become particularly useful when your pace slows, the weather deteriorates or you spend several hours outdoors.
In some ultras, they are also part of the mandatory gear or may be required depending on the weather conditions. In this case, weight, packability and compliance become just as important as protection.
ULTRALIGHT MP+® and ADVENTURE MP+® 3X: two 20K/20K trousers, two uses
Both models offer 20,000 Schmerber waterproofing and 20,000 MVTR / MVP breathability. The main differences lie in the construction, weight and features.
| Criterion | ULTRALIGHT MP+® 20K/20K | ADVENTURE MP+® 3X |
|---|---|---|
| Main use | Trail, ultra-trail, mandatory gear | Adventure, challenging hiking, demanding weather |
| Waterproofing | 20,000 Schmerber | 20,000 Schmerber |
| Breathability | 20,000 MVTR / MVP | 20,000 MVTR / MVP |
| Construction | MP+® 2-layer membrane | MP+® 3-layer membrane |
| Weight | 85 g | 330 g |
| Packability | Very high, packs into its waistband | Less focused on packability |
| Putting on with shoes | Put on before your shoes | Yes, thanks to the ankle-to-thigh zips |
| Pockets | No pockets | 2 zipped pockets |
| Waistband | Elasticated, adjustable with elastic cord | Elasticated with drawcord |
| Reflective | Reflective prints | Reflective prints |
| Price | 119,90 € | 149,90 € |
the ULTRALIGHT MP+® is designed to minimize weight and bulk during a race, while the ADVENTURE MP+® 3X prioritizes a 3-layer construction and more features for adventure and challenging hiking.
ULTRALIGHT MP+® 20K/20K: priority given to weight and packability
With its 85 gthe ULTRALIGHT MP+® is clearly designed for trail and ultra-trail. Its main advantage is that it can stay in your pack without taking up much space, while providing 20K/20K waterproof protection when conditions deteriorate.
Its stretch technology preserves good freedom of movement. It packs down easily thanks to an elasticated waistband with a concealed elastic, making it especially practical for races where every gram counts.
It is also certified for UTMB®-type Ultra-Trail events, making it a suitable choice for runners looking for lightweight waterproof overtrousers for their mandatory gear.
The most race-oriented option: ultralight, compact, and designed for long trail races and ultra-trail. It packs easily into your bag and provides 20K/20K protection when the weather deteriorates.
Choose it if your priority is weight, compactness, and trail / ultra-trail use.
View the ULTRALIGHT MP+®
What is the ULTRALIGHT MP+® designed for?
This model is particularly suitable if you take part in a long trail or an ultra and want to limit the weight of your mandatory gear. It is also suitable if you are looking for compact waterproof trousers to keep in your pack as a backup.
However, the opening at the bottom of the leg is partially elasticated, and the trousers must be put on before your shoes. If you want to put them on very quickly over your shoes during an outing, the ADVENTURE MP+® 3X offers a more practical solution.
ADVENTURE MP+® 3X: more protection and features
The ADVENTURE MP+® 3X follows a different approach. With its 3-layer construction, 330 g weight, and numerous features, it is better suited to adventure, demanding hikes, and challenging weather conditions.
Its long zipped openings from the ankles to the thighs allow you to put it on while wearing shoes, which is very practical when rain arrives quickly. It also features two zipped pockets, an elasticated waistband with drawcord, and reflective prints.
A 3-layer waterproof pair of trousers designed for demanding outings. Its more robust construction and long side openings make it easier to use when the weather changes during your run.
Choose it if you prioritize protection, features, and ease of putting it on.
View the ADVENTURE MP+® 3X
What is the ADVENTURE MP+® 3X designed for?
This model makes more sense if you are heading out on a challenging hike, a long adventure or into conditions where you know your waterproof trousers will actually be used, rather than simply carried in your pack.
The thigh-length side zips, zipped pockets and 3-layer construction make them genuinely practical for extended use in the field.
Which Raidlight trousers should you choose for your activity?
For an ultra-trail: ULTRALIGHT MP+®
If you are looking for waterproof trousers for an ultra, with a clear focus on weight and packability, the ULTRALIGHT MP+® is the model most geared towards running. At 85 g and in a compact format, it helps limit bulk in your pack.
For challenging hiking: ADVENTURE MP+® 3X
If you want trousers that you can wear for longer, with more features and a 3-layer construction, the ADVENTURE MP+® 3X is more suitable. Its long side openings also allow you to put them on while wearing shoes.
For travelling light: ULTRALIGHT MP+®
At 85 g compared with 330 g, the ULTRALIGHT MP+® clearly has the advantage if your main goal is to reduce the weight you carry.
For greater practicality: ADVENTURE MP+® 3X
The two zipped pockets, ankle-to-thigh openings, adjustable waistband and reflective prints give the ADVENTURE MP+® 3X more features in the field.
You run trail or ultra races, want to limit weight and are looking for compact waterproof trousers to keep in your pack.
You do challenging hiking or adventure activities and want a 3-layer construction with more features.
In summary: ULTRALIGHT MP+® or ADVENTURE MP+® 3X?
The ULTRALIGHT MP+® 20K/20K is the model most geared towards trail and ultra-trail running. At 85 g, with its packability and Ultra Trail certification, it is a suitable choice if you want lightweight waterproof protection that is easy to carry.
The ADVENTURE MP+® 3X is heavier, but offers a 3-layer construction and more features: zipped pockets, long side openings, an adjustable waistband and reflective prints.
Both offer the same stated level of waterproofing and breathability at 20K/20K. The real difference therefore comes down to use: running and packability for ULTRALIGHT, adventure and features for ADVENTURE 3X.
