The 5 essentials for running the SaintéLyon

The SaintéLyon isn't just a race ; it's a rite of passage for many trail running enthusiasts. A nighttime crossing between Saint-Étienne and Lyon , at the beginning of winter, where cold, fatigue, and darkness put the body to the ultimate test. All this in the night , the cold , the mud , sometimes the snow … In short, a delightful cocktail for hardy trail running fans !
But to shine at the finish line (or at least avoid ending up frozen solid at the aid station), it's best not to start empty-handed. We've prepared a checklist of 5 essential items to tackle the SaintéLyon without turning into a snowman.

1. Trail running shoes for running fast

Forget about road running shoes that squeak on the asphalt as soon as it rains. For the SaintéLyon , you need trail shoes with good grip , capable of handling mud without ending up sliding down the slope. The SaintéLyon constantly alternates between road sections and sometimes slippery trails . Add to that the winter weather (hello rain, slush, melting snow, and slippery fallen leaves), and you'll quickly understand that your choice of shoes can make the difference between finishing the race… or ending up on your backside.

Why they are crucial:

Grip is THE priority. Good traction to stay on course, even when it's slippery like an ice rink.
Effective cushioning to handle the miles on the road without turning your knees into mush.
Reliable foot support to prevent twisting during night descents.

Quick tip from Muule: Opt for versatile shoes like the La Sportiva Prodigio : aggressive enough for technical trails , but not too stiff to avoid discomfort on the runnable sections. And above all, test them before race day because a shoe that hurts at kilometer 10 will hurt even more at kilometer 60.

2. A hydration vest to prevent cramps

Drinking and running don't have to choose. Dehydration is the sneaky trap of winter: you sweat less, so you forget to drink… and then, disaster strikes. A hydration vest is your best friend , with its easy-to-access flasks and practical pockets for storing bars , gels , gloves , a hat , etc.

Things to check before the race:

Capacity : 5L to 12L depending on your autonomy.
Compatibility with soft flasks or water bladders.
The stability of the vest once loaded.

Quick tip from Mule:
Choose a well-fitting vest Make sure it doesn't wobble; test it fully loaded and check that it can hold all the required gear (yes, a survival blanket is essential). Also consider models with a built-in whistle for calling for help or celebrating your arrival with a bang.

Living off trail running and fresh water.

3. A waterproof jacket to brave the rain

The weather for the SaintéLyon? Totally unpredictable. Snow, rain, wind, anything is possible. And often all at once. So, the A waterproof jacket is your best insurance against hypothermia .

Key points:

A high level of waterproofing (and not just water-repellent, mind you).
Breathability to prevent internal condensation.
A lightweight and compact jacket to keep you free to move.
A technical hood that stays securely in place while running.

Quick tip from Muule: Choose a lightweight jacket with certified waterproofing of at least 10,000 Schmerber , an adjustable hood , and ventilation zips . And do a quick test run in the rain: it should protect you without turning you into a sauna.

Running in the rain? Not even a little bit scared.

4. A thermal baselayer to keep you warm

When temperatures hover around zero, the good old A technical t-shirt is no longer enough. You need a thermal base layer , either merino wool (soft and odor-resistant ) or synthetic ( lightweight and quick-drying ), to stay warm while remaining breathable . Good thermal underwear acts as a natural regulator and prevents sudden temperature changes.

Why we recommend it:

Maintain body heat without causing overheating.
Wicks away perspiration to stay dry.
Prevent the sensation of coldness caused by moisture on the skin.
Long-lasting comfort with flat seams and soft fabrics.

Quick tip from Mule:
Opt for merino wool for its self-regulating properties and lack of odor (even after several hours of running), or for synthetic wool if you sweat a lot and aim for lightness at all costs.

The secret to not ending up as an ice cube.

5. A headlamp, because your eyes have their limits

Running in the dark is magical. But running in the dark without a headlamp is just plain dangerous. At the SaintéLyon race , a headlamp is your beacon, your lifeline. It's your best ally for spotting trail hazards, managing your pace, and avoiding ending up in a ditch. Clearly, it's THE piece of gear you absolutely shouldn't neglect.

What you need to look at:

A light output of at least 200-400 lumens to anticipate obstacles, especially when going downhill.
Sufficient battery life to last all night without freaking out (bring batteries, rechargeable batteries or a rechargeable model).
Stability: a headlamp that moves or slips becomes a nightmare.
Lighting modes: variable power, wide beam, concentrated beam… adapt according to the terrain.

Quick tip from Mule:
Test your headlamp in real conditions before the race . A flickering light or a headband that slips after an hour is a sure sign of a difficult race. And double up on precautions: bring spare batteries , or even a second headlamp to avoid panic.

The headlamp, essential equipment for night races.

So, ready to take on the SaintéLyon?

With these 5 essential items (and a bit of courage , admittedly), you're all set to run the famous race . And to be truly prepared to face the night, the cold, and the kilometers, don't forget a few bonus allies: a headband to protect your ears, gloves to prevent your fingers from freezing, and plenty of nutrition to keep you going until the finish line. The SaintéLyon is long, but with good preparation, it becomes an unforgettable adventure .

Go ahead, get your gear ready, run hard, and above all , enjoy your SaintéLyon !

We wish you a great trail run, Muules ;)

Article written by Sarah de Muule on November 25, 2025