Why are clothing items crucial in trail running?
In trail running, your equipment is not an accessory. It is your ally against the elements. A freezing downpour at 2500m, a climb under a blazing sun: your clothes can make the difference between finishing and quitting.
At Raidlight, we know these challenges. Since 1999, we have been designing clothing to protect you without weighing you down, to ventilate you without cooling you off. Trail running forgives nothing. Neither does your equipment.
What do you need?
The 5 criteria that make the difference
1. Lightness
In ultra-trail, every gram counts.
Over 100 km, carrying an extra 200 g is like lifting several tons of cumulative weight with every step.
This is why Raidlight designs equipment where weight is controlled from the start. Jackets begin at 150g and shirts from 45g, to limit unnecessary fatigue and stay efficient from start to finish.
2. Breathability
Breathe, even when the effort intensifies.
You sweat, your clothing breathes. This requirement applies to our jackets and jerseys, designed to dry quickly and remain comfortable over time.
The MP+® membranes reach up to 50,000 MVTR to effectively evacuate sweat.
The Ultra Dry Light technology uses lightweight, quick-drying fabrics to promote air circulation and limit moisture against the skin.
3. Suitable protection
In trail running as in ultra-distance, protection is not limited to a single item.
It is built through targeted choices, depending on the ground, the weather, and the effort’s intensity. Windbreaker, water resistance, abrasion resistance, or sun protection: each garment plays a specific role, without ever weighing down the whole.
4. Freedom of movement
Clothing must support movement, never restrict it.
With 12 to 24% elastane depending on the pieces, the fabrics naturally follow your movements, stay in place, and prevent any unwanted resistance, even during long hours of effort.
5. Durability
Designing lightweight does not mean designing disposable.
A large part of Raidlight clothing is made from 100% recycled polyester and polyamide, in order to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance and durability.
Raidlight also chooses local production, with one in five products made in France.
the 3-layer system
Whether it is cold or raining, the principle remains the same: cleverly layer your garments to adjust in real time to the conditions.
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Layer 1: Breathability
Wicks away sweat, dries quickly. R-LIGHT jerseys (130g), ACTIV RUN (100g), SEAMLESS long sleeves (155g). Prefers recycled polyester that dries 3x faster.
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Layer 2: Insulation
Retain your body heat. WINTERTRAIL long sleeves (350g) with Thermofleece, high collar, integrated mittens. Always worn over the base layer.
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Layer 3: Protection
Windproof, rain, snow. ULTRALIGHT 2.0 MP+ (150g, 25,000 Schmerber), TOP EXTREME MP+ (170g, 20,000 Schmerber). All ITRA certified.
Our waterproof jackets
We offer three levels of waterproof jackets: ULTRALIGHT 3.0, TOP EXTREME MP+®, and TOP EXTREME ULTRA. All are equipped with the MP+® membrane and meet the same demands for lightness, performance, and reliability in running.
The ULTRALIGHT 3.0 favors minimalism and weight optimization, while the TOP EXTREME provide more features and versatility.
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| Weight | 175 g | 225 g | 180 g | 340 g |
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Sale price
€279,90 EUR
Regular price
€319,90
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€219,90 EUR
Regular price
€249,90
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Regular price
€219,90 EUR
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€159,90 EUR
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€189,90
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New collection
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TOP EXTREME ULTRA MP+® 20K/20K
Women's waterproof jacket
205 g
Sale price €219,90 EUR Regular price €249,90Unit price /Unavailable -
TOP EXTREME ULTRA MP+® 20K/20K
Men's waterproof jacket
225 g
Sale price €219,90 EUR Regular price €249,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Men's short-sleeve trail running shirt
50 g
Regular price €69,90 EURUnit price /Unavailable -
Women's short-sleeve trail shirt
40 g
Regular price €69,90 EURUnit price /Unavailable -
Chaussures de trail unisexes
Sale price €149,90 EUR Regular price €169,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Women's waterproof jacket
180 g
Regular price €219,90 EURUnit price /Unavailable -
Men's waterproof jacket
200 g
Sale price €179,90 EUR Regular price €219,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Men's short-sleeve trail running shirt
0.125 kg
Sale price €59,90 EUR Regular price €69,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Women's short-sleeve trail shirt
100 g
Sale price €59,90 EUR Regular price €69,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Men's short-sleeve trail running shirt
0.125 kg
Sale price €59,90 EUR Regular price €69,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Maillot de trail manches courtes femme
100 g
Sale price €59,90 EUR Regular price €69,90Unit price /Unavailable -
Chaussures de trail unisexes
Sale price €179,90 EUR Regular price €199,90Unit price /Unavailable
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ULTRALIGHT 3.0 and TOP EXTREME?
What is the difference between ULTRALIGHT 3.0 and TOP EXTREME?
The ULTRALIGHT 3.0 and TOP EXTREME jackets serve different purposes, even though they share a common demand for lightness and performance.
The ULTRALIGHT 3.0 (25K/50K) is designed for efforts where weight and waterproofness/breathability are priorities. Weighing from 175g, it is barely noticeable during a run and is aimed at runners seeking minimalist waterproof protection, focused on performance and weight optimization. Its cut promotes freedom of movement, and the model includes a back gusset allowing coverage of a backpack up to 12 litres, making it perfectly suited for ultra-trail.
The TOP EXTREME jackets (20K/20K) are more for those who want more functionality in their jackets. The TOP EXTREME MP+® model has 2 waterproof zipped pockets, and the ULTRA version has a zipped gusset compatible with a pack up to 18 L and front openings for quick access to hydration.
The TOP EXTREME jackets are designed for runners seeking more features and versatility. The TOP EXTREME MP+® model has two waterproof zipped pockets for quick and secure access to gear. The TOP EXTREME ULTRA version includes a zipped gusset compatible with a pack up to 18 litres as well as front openings allowing direct access to hydration without removing the jacket.
All Raidlight waterproof jackets share common elements such as compactness, with storage possible in a pocket or in the hood, a watch window, thumb loops, and the use of fabrics free of PFCs.
Do the clothes run small or large?
Do the clothes run small or large?
Raidlight clothing fits true to size. The cuts are specifically designed for trail and ultra-trail running, with a close fit that allows good freedom of movement and the possible wearing of mid-layers, without any tightness or looseness.
We recommend choosing your usual size for an optimal fit. If you are unsure between two sizes, the choice mainly depends on the intended use: a closer fit will favour performance and breathability, while a slightly looser size will make layering easier and provide more comfort. The size guide available on each product page remains the most reliable reference to make the right choice.
Can an MP+® jacket be washed in a washing machine?
Can an MP+® jacket be washed in a washing machine?
Yes, a jacket equipped with the MP+® membrane can be machine washed, provided that suitable care instructions are followed. A gentle wash at a low temperature helps to preserve the waterproof and breathable qualities of the membrane over time.
It is recommended to use a delicate cycle at a maximum of 30 °C, with liquid detergent and no fabric softener. The spin cycle should be set to the minimum to reduce mechanical strain. Tumble drying at a low temperature is possible. To reactivate the water-repellent treatment, ironing at a low temperature without steam and using a protective cloth is advised. Dry cleaning is not recommended.
When washing with other clothes, it is important to ensure that zippers, hook-and-loop fasteners, or hard parts do not damage the fabric. Using a mesh laundry bag with the jacket fully zipped is strongly recommended.
Proper care is essential to maintain the waterproofness, breathability, and durability of the garment over time, as well as the effectiveness of the water-repellent treatment.
Is the WINTERTRAIL jersey enough on its own in very cold weather?
Is the WINTERTRAIL jersey enough on its own in very cold weather?
The WINTERTRAIL shirt is designed as a technical base or middle layer, providing warmth and breathability during winter outings. In moderately cold conditions and at steady effort, it can suffice on its own.
However, in very cold weather, strong wind, or wet conditions, it is recommended to pair it with a windproof or waterproof layer. Layering remains the most effective way to adapt to exertion and outdoor conditions.
What is the lifespan of an MP+ membrane?
What is the lifespan of an MP+ membrane?
The lifespan of an MP+® membrane depends on several factors, including how often it is used, the conditions encountered, and the care of the garment. When used under normal conditions and properly cared for, an MP+ membrane retains its waterproof and breathable qualities over several seasons.
Proper washing, avoiding fabric softener, and occasional renewal of the water-repellent treatment help maintain its performance over time. Like all technical gear, a membrane is made to last, but its effectiveness directly depends on how it is used and cared for.
