Raidlight, Desert Expert for 25 years
The desert, we didn’t just discover it yesterday.
In 1999, Raidlight created its first ultra-light backpack for the Marathon des Sables.
Since then, we’ve kept innovating: sand-proof gaiters made in France, backpacks designed for self-sufficiency, clothes tested under 50°C.
In 2023, we launched the Raidlight Desert Trophy, a 100% Raidlight race to embody our values: pushing limits, sharing, respecting the terrain. Because we don’t just equip the finishers. We run with them.
The 4 challenges of the desert
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The Sun and the Heat
50°C at zenith. No shade. Your body loses up to 2 liters of water per hour.
The Raidlight solution: UPF 50+ certified fabrics to limit UV impact, maximum ventilation, rapid sweat wicking.
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The Sand and the Wind
A pebble in your shoe at km 10. A blister at km 30. A dropout at km 80.
The Raidlight solution: ultra-light Desert Protect gaiters, with a velcro system for a secure fit.
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Self-sufficiency
Food, hydration, safety, sleeping gear: everything must fit in your trail running pack. And remain accessible while running.
The Raidlight solution: Ultra-light race vest (from 12L/190g), intuitive organization, perfect stabilization even under full load.
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The Day and the Night
Temperature differences of 40°C between day (50°C) and night (5°C). Your body must adapt within a few hours.
The Raidlight solution: 2 IN 1 sleeping bag that transforms into a down jacket in seconds thanks to its ingenious system
How to dress for the desert: prioritize weight
The desert imposes extreme temperature variations. To stay efficient from sunrise to sunset, one rule: lightness.
1. Rely on ultra-light and breathable fabrics
Raidlight offers you the ULTRA DRYLIGHT LONG SLEEVES jersey for maximum breathability and sun protection for the upper body.
2. Manage temperature drops and wind
In the desert, temperature breaks can be sudden, our ULTRALIGHT WINDPROOF windbreaker (75g) is forgotten in the trail running pack but creates an effective barrier against wind and the cold evening air.
3. Dedicated accessories for the desert
In desert conditions, certain accessories are essential to manage heat and fatigue over time. We recommend the UPF50 certified saharan cap and the R-LIGHT SUN sunglasses.
The desert finishers' gear set
Running in the desert demands heat, sun, wind, and sand. The Raidlight desert kit is designed to meet these challenges with lightweight, breathable, and practical gear, suited for self-supported efforts.
Each item is crafted to stay effective day after day, in tough conditions, without sacrificing freedom of movement.
Don't leave without your desert checklist
25 years of experience packed into a practical guide to prepare your next adventure.
WHAT YOU'LL FIND IN THIS GUIDE:
✅ Complete checklist: clothes, trail running pack, shoes, accessories
✅ Nutrition & hydration guide: self-sufficiency strategy
✅ Expert advice: how to choose your gear based on your distance
✅ Physical preparation: the 3 key workouts before departure
✅ Last-minute tips: avoid beginner mistakes
Desert essentials
View all
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RAID LEGEND 24L (formerly OLMO)
Unisex trail backpack
680 g
Sale price €169,90 EUR Regular price €199,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Chaussures de trail unisexes
330 g
Sale price €179,90 EUR Regular price €199,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Ultra Lightweight Long Sleeves
Unisex long-sleeve trail shirt
100 g
Sale price €84,90 EUR Regular price €99,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Unisex trail hydration pack
330 g
Regular price €219,90 EURUnit price /Unavailable -
Unisex bivouac jacket
90 g
Sale price €39,90 EUR Regular price €49,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Women's short-sleeve trail shirt
40 g
Regular price €69,90 EURUnit price /Unavailable -
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Unisex cap
80 g
Sale price €29,90 EUR Regular price €34,90Unit price /Unavailable
FAQ
All our answers to your questions about desert equipment:
How do I choose my pack for a self-supported race?
How do I choose my pack for a self-supported race?
For a multi-day race in the desert, go for a pack between 20L and 24L. It must be light (under 700g empty), with good weight distribution and pockets accessible while running. The Raid Legend 24L (680g) is designed for that.
Are gaiters really essential?
Are gaiters really essential?
Yes. A grain of sand in your shoe at km 10 = a blister at km 30 = dropping out at km 80. The Desert Protect gaiters block 100% of sand thanks to their Kevlar-reinforced mesh. It's the most worthwhile investment for the desert.
Which fabric should you choose to withstand the heat?
Which fabric should you choose to withstand the heat?
Technical fabrics certified UPF 50+ that quickly wick away sweat and dry fast. The Ecodry fabric of our R-Light jerseys is perfect: ultra-breathable, lightweight (80g), and designed for long distances in intense heat.
Do you need a waterproof jacket in the desert?
Do you need a waterproof jacket in the desert?
Yes, because storms (rare but severe) and sand winds can occur. Opt for an ultra-lightweight (175g) and packable jacket like the Ultralight 3.0. It takes up no space in your trail running pack and saves you in tough situations.
Does Raidlight offer a personalized advice service?
Does Raidlight offer a personalized advice service?
Yes! Contact our team via the contact form or by email. We'll help you put together your gear based on your race, your profile, and your experience.
